os n:: e es

IJI I In
o e

e Volume 1
Based on the 2007 CRe and 2006 IBC

2008 City of Los Angeles Building Code - Volume 1

(Based on the 2007 CBC and the 2006 IBC)
First Printing
ISBN-13: 978-1-58001-644-5
Publication Date: January 2008
COPYRIGHT 2008
by
INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL, INC.
and
CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS COMMISSION
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. This publication by the International Code Council, Inc (ICC) and the California Building Standar_
Commission (CBSC) is ajointly copyrighted work. The California Building Standards Commission has copyright ownership of
California Building Standards Commission modifications to the Uniform Codes and ICC has copyright ownership of the Intern
tional Codes. Without advance written permission from the copyright owner, no part of this book may be reproduced, distributed or
transmitted in any form or by any means, including, without limitation, electronic, optical or mechanical means (by way of example
and not limitation, photocopying, or"recording by or in an information storage retrieval system). For information on permission to
copy material exceeding fair use, please contact: Publications, 4051 West Flossmoor Road, Country Club Hills, IL 60478. Phone
1-888-ICC-SAFE (422-7233). _
Trademarks: "International Code Council," the "International Code Council" logo and the "International Building Code" are t r a ~
marks of the International Code Council, Inc.

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

REVISION RECORD FOR THE
CITY OF LOS ANGELES
Effective Date January, 2008
By starting with a loose-leaf copy of the 2007 California Building Code, Volume 1, and substituting the Los
Angeles pages (yellow), the user will hae a complete 2008 City of Los Angeles Bu{lding Code, Volume 1, in cor-
.rect numerical sequence. It is suggested that original 2007 CBC pages that have been removed and replaced by Los
Angeles pages be retained in a separate file for possible future reference.
VOLUMEl
Remove 2007 California Pages .
. Title page and Copyright Page
iii through xxxiv
3 through 20
29 through 46
279 through 280
549 through 552
611 through 612
615 through 618
627 through 628
631 through 632
637 through 640
Insert 2008 Los Angeles Pages
Title page and Copyright Page
xx through xxvi
3R through 20lR
29R through 46R
279R through 280R
549 through 552R
611R through 612
615 through 618bR
627R through 628
631R through 632
637 through 640R
e

DBS
DEPARTMENT OF BUfLDING AND SAFETY
CITY OF LOS ANGELES
ANTONIO R. VILLARAIGOSA, Mayor
'v'

lOS ANGELES CITY COUNCIL

PLANNING AND LAND USE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
ED REYES, Chair
JOSE HUIZAR, Member
JACK WEISS, Member
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND SAFETY
ANDREW A. ADELMAN, P.E. - General Manager
BOARD OF BUILDING AND SAFETY COMMISSIONERS
MARSHA L. BROWN, President
PEDRO BIRBA, Vice-President
VAN AMBATIELOS, P.E.
HELENA JUBANY
ELENORE A. WILLIAMS
MAIN OFFICE:
201 North Figueroa Street, Los Angeles 90012
Telephone: 1-888-LA4-BUILD
1-888-524-2845 (for inside L.A. County)
1-213-977-6941 (for outside of L.A. County)
internet: httlP://www.ladbs.org
CONSTRUCTION SERVICES COUNTEiRS:
Metro District
San Fernando Valley District
San Pedro District
South Los Angeles District
West Los Angeles District
201 North Figueroa Street, 4th Floor, Los Angeles 90012
6262 Van Nuys Boulevard, 2nd Floor Van Nuys 91401
638 South Beacon Street, 2nd Floor, San Pedro 90731
8475 South Vermont Avenue, 2nd Floor, Los Angeles 90044
1828 Sawtelle Boulevard, 2nd Floor, Los Angeles 90025
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE iii
OF lOS ANGELES
DEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND SAFElY
(c(Odles:
2008 Edition of the City of Los Angeles Building Code, Volumes 1 and 2
2008 Edition of the City of Los Angeles Electrical Code
2008 Edition of the City of Los Angeles Plumbing Code
2008 Edition of the City of Los Angeles Mechanical Code
C(Otd!es alll11td!
City of Los Angeles Municipal Code
City of Los Angeles Planning and Zoning Code
California Building Standards Code, Parts 7,8, and 10

i"
2008 CITY Of LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

DBS
DIEPARTMENT OF BUILDING AND SAFETY
CITY OF LOS ANGELES
DEPARTMENT <DF BUILDING AND SAFETY
The mission of the Department of Building and Safety is to protect the lives and safety of the residents and visitors 'of the City of
Los Angeles, preserve the City's quality of life, and contribute to the City's economic development. This is accomplished through
implementation of the Zoning, Building, Plumbing, Mechanical, and Electrical Codes, as well as, the State Energy and Disabled
Access regulations, and State and local laws for construction and maintenance of commercial, industrial and residential buildings.
The Department of Building and Safety is the largest organization of its kind in the United States with a dedicated staff of more
than 870 employees. The Department provides service to a population of more than 3.8 million people in a metropolitan area of
more than 470 square miles with its 16 offices located throughout the City.
AWARDS AND COMMENDATIONS:
The recent innovations and improvements in the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety have been recognized and
acknowledged by a number of local, state and national organizations. Some of these recent awards and commendations are:
Building Department of the Year: The Department was named "The 1999 Building Department ofthe Year" by the Califor-
nia Building Officials (CALBO) in March 1999. The Department was recognized for demonstrating excellence and achieving
success in innovation, community service, education, code development and customer service.
Innovatiollls.In American Government Award: In May 2002, the Department was awarded the prestigious "Innovations In
American Government Award" from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government for its use of technology
and performance measurements to increase productivity and customer service in a large governmental organization.
Grand PJrize for Productivity and Quality: In September 1999, the Los Angeles County Quality and Productivity Commis-
sion awarded its "Grand Prize for Productivity and Quality" to the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety
and the County ofLos Angeles Building Divisio
l1
for their tremendous innovation in creating and developing the Los Angeles
Regional Uniform Code Program (LARUCP); l'his program creates regional uniformity and reduces the number of local
technical amendments to model codes, including the UniformBuilding Code, UniformPlumbing Code, UniformMechanical
Code and the National Electrical Code, as amended by the State of California, for adoption by jurisdictions in the greater Los
Angeles region. .
Nationan Streamlining Achievement Award: The National Conference of States on Building Codes and Standards, Inc.
(NCSIBCS) in April 1999 announced that City of Los Angeles was the 1999 recipient of the "Streamlining Achievement
Award." The Department was recognized for its innovation in its Case Management Unit, which assists customers by guiding
them through City's regulatory agencies, policies and procedures in a timely and efficient manner. .
BuildingOfficial of the Year: In March 2000, Department General Manager, Andrew A. Adelman was presented with this
award by California Building Officials, which represents all Building Officials in the State of California, for his extraordinary
accomplishments in the City of Los Angeles and in helping others in the building code enforcement profession.
Los Angenes Downtown Breakfast Club's Rose Award: The Department received the Rose Award from the Downtown
Breakfast Club in April of 1999 for its outstanding contribution to the enhancement of the City's business climate and eco-
nomic development, which includes the Department's One Stop Construction Service Center and streamlining the develop-
ment review process.
J L o ~ . a l Gpvernment Official of the Year West Region: This award was given to the Department of Building and Safety
from the Building Industry Association in February 2000 in recognition of the improvement and innovations in development
review and approval that have been implemented by the Department of Building and Safety.
The Westside Prize 2000 and Westside Prize 2002: In June 2000, the General Manager ofthe Department of Building and
Safety, Andrew A. Adelman, received a "Special Award" from the Westside Urban Forum for the outstanding work in creat-
ing a new culture of customer service in the Department. Then, in June 2002, the City of Los Angeles Department of Building
and Safety was recognized again by the Westside Urban Forum for the e-Permit project, which allows the Department of
Building and Safety customers to apply for, pay for and receive express permits via the internet or a fax machine 24 hours a
day, seven days a week.
2008 CITY OF LOS' ANGELES BUILDING CODE v
vi
Treasure of Central City Association: The Los Angeles Central City Association on January 2002 gave an award of "Trea-
sure of Central City Association" to the Department of Building and Safety for outstanding contributions in community ser-
vice and for promoting the health and vitality of the City of Los Angeles.
Public Service Award: In June 2000, the Department of Building and Safety was recognized by the Structural Engineers
Association of Southern California for its efforts in reorganizing and improving the Department
Leadership in Engineering for !Revitalizing Key Municipal Services: This award was given to the Department in February
2000 based on the nominations from Consulting Engineers and Land Surveyors of California in recognition of the Depart-
ment's outstanding contributions to the advancement of the Engineering Profession.
Special Recognition Award: In October 2001, Andrew Adelman, General Manager of the Department of Building and
Safety was given this award by the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and Construction Industry Awards Committee
in honor of the outstanding contribution to local construction in the community.
Award for Dedicated Services to the Los Angeles Regional Uniform Code Program (LARUCP): In June 2003, the
Department of Building and Safety was recognized by the Structural Engineers Association of Southern Califomia for its
efforts in participating with the Engineering Community of Los Angeles with the development of Structural and Seismic
Design standards for the construction of buildings.
Growing With Our Cities and Communities Award: In October 2002, the Andrew Adelman, General Manager of the
Department of Building and Safety, was given this award from the Asian-American Architects/ Engineers Association for
significant achievement in the community.
City of Los Angeles Productivity Improvement Award: The Department has received 24 Productivity Improvement
Awards from the City of Los Angeles Quality and Productivity Improvement Commission from 1997 to 2005. The 24 Pro-
ductivity Improvement Awards are as follows: Building Permit Clearance Handbook, Internet Request for Inspection Sys-
tem, Code Enforcement Information System (CEIS), Inspection Bureau Performance Report, Van Nuys District Office One
Stop Construction Services Center, Streamlining the Residential Property Report Process, Customer Call Center, e-Permits,
Streamlining Over-the-Counter Building Permit Process, Q-Matic Customer Queuing System, Code Enforcement Bureau,
Proactive Code Enforcement Program, Los Angeles Regional Uniform Code Program, LADBS Information Bulletins Pro-
gram, Automated Inspection Request System, Centralized Request for Inspections, Vacant Building Abatement Program,
Citywide Nuisance Abatement Program, Delivering Guaranteed & Responsive Customer Service, Case l\1anagement Unit,
Appointment Plan Check, Automated Certificate of Occupancy System (ACOS), Fire Life Safety Testing Program, and
Alternative Maritime Power (AMP) Program.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE DEPARTMENT

A Few Noteworthy Facts about the Department of Building and Safety:
o Provides services to Los Angeles City residents through 16 different offices located throughout the City
o Serves over 500,000 walk-in customers annually
o Responds to over 822,000 customer phone calls annually
o Issues over 139,000 permits with a total valuation of over $5.3 billion annually
o Conducts over 900,000 inspections annually
o Issues over 16,900 trade licenses for 16 different occupations annually
o Provides information for over 80,000 addresses annually
o Responds to over 43,000 Code Enforcement service requests annually
o Brings back over 36,000 properties to compliance annually
o Abate over 640 nuisance and abandoned buildings annually
o Reviews and approves plans for over 50,000 projects annually
The Responsibilities of the Department of Building and Safety Are Assigned to Four Bureaus:
The Engineering Bureau is primarily responsible for the plan checking, report approval, and permit issuance related to
building projects within privately owned property in the City of Los Angeles. In the course of carrying out these responsibili-
ties, the Engineering Bureau enforces the structural, building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, grading and zoning regula-
tions of the City. In addition, the Engineering Bureau is responsible for reviewing applications for building, plumbing,
mechanical and electrical product approvals through its Electrical and Mechanical Test Laboratories.
The Inspection Bureau is responsible for inspection of all construction activities for new and existing buildings, plumbing;
mechanical, electrical, elevator and pressure vessel systems, the enforcement of applicable State and local laws relating to
existing buildings and property, and the administration of various special programs mandated by the City Council.
The Code Enforcement Bureau was created a ~ a part of a reorganization of code enforcement functions in 1999. This
Bureau is responsible for the enforcement of Municipal Code requirements for all existing buildings in the City of Los
Angeles, except rental multi-family dwellings. The Bureau handles complaints, citations, processing of vacant and nuisance
buildings for repair or demolition, Signs, Vehicle Establishment Inspection Program and Proactive Code Enforcement Pro-
gram among others.
The Reso,urce Management Bureau is responsible for the direction and coordination of administrative and financial pro-:-
jects, systems development, training and acts as the emergency disaster coordinator for all Department operations.
The Board of Building and Safety Commissioners:
The Board of Building and Safety Commissioners is a five-member board of citizens residing in the City and appointed by the
Mayor and confirmed by the City Council. The Commission has the authority to hear and act upon appeals from determinations,
orders, or actions of the Department or the Superintendent of Building, pertaining to enforcement of the codes under the jurisdiction
of the Department. In addition, the Commission conducts public hearings, as needed, regarding procedures, new codes and various
functions of the Department. Finally, the Commission acts in an advisory capacity to the Department and the Superintendent of
Building.
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODe vii
EFFECTIVE USE OF THE
CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
The City ofLos Angeles Building Code was established in 1889 with the appointment of the first superintendent of building. In
1923, the first of 18 volumes of the Los Angeles Annual Builder's Guide was published. This guide is a handbook for architects and
builders and contains a complete cross index of the Los Angeles building ordinances, electrical ordinances and supplementary ml-
ings and the California State Housing Act.
After 1936, the building regulations of Chapter IX of the Los Angeles Municipal Code were established by the passage of Ordi-
nance No. 77,000. But it was 1943 when Ordinance No. 87,000 amended in its entirety Article 1 of Chapter IX of the Los Angeles
Municipal Code and a new Los Angeles City Building Code was published. This edition of the Los Angeles Municipal Code estab-
lished the format of the different divisions and sections relevant to the building regulations in the city.
Through the intervening years, the code has been amended and revised regularly to keep pace with the ever-changing technology
of the constmction industry and new and proven concepts of stmctural design.
The State of California has mandated the City of Los Angeles to enforce the California Building Code (CBC). The City Council
for the City of Los Angeles has passed Ordinance Number 179,324 (operative January 1,2008) to amend Article 1 of Chapter IXof
the Los Angeles Municipal Code and to adopt by reference the 2007 edition of the California Building Code (CBC) and hereinafter
shall be called the 2008 edition of the City ofLos Angeles Building Code.
Chapter 1 is the general administrative provisions of the City of Los Angeles and replaces Chapter 1 of the CBC.
Chapters 2 through 35 are the general provisions of the California Building Code.
Chapters 61 through 72 have been added to the code to provide special requirements of the City of Los Angeles.
Chapters 81 through 91 are the city code requirements of existing buildings and structures.
Chapters 92 through 96 are the city standard for voluntary earthquake hazard reduction standards for existing buildings.
At the end of Volume 2 ofthe Building Code, "Excerpts" has been added for additional reference to the industry. Excerpts are the
accumulation of related Los Angeles City codes and municipal and administrative code sections pertaining to Department of Build-
ing and Safety.
MargDnal Markings
LA
t ~ This symbol indicates that a City of Los Angeles amendment has been added to the 2007 California Building Code.
LA
[For BCD 1] This italicized notation is used to identify. which state agency has amended a section of the IBe.
For a complete listing of state agencies, refer to CBC Section 101.17 et seq.

2008 en" Of lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

"iii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
VOLUME 1
CHAPTlER Jl.
CHAPTER 4
ADMINISTRATION 3R
SPECIAL DETAILED
REQUIREMENTS BASED ON
USE AND OCCUPANCY ........ 71
Section
Section
CHAPTER 3 USE AND OCCUPANCY
CLASSIFICATION 49
CIHIAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS 29R
Section
201 General 29R
202 Definitions 29R
Scope 71 _
Covered Mall Buildings 71
High-rise Buildings 74
Atriums - 76
Underground Buildings 76
Motor-vehicle-related Occupancies 77
Group 1-2 81
Group 1-3 84
Motion Picture Projection Rooms 86
Stages and Platforms 87
Special Amusement Buildings 88
Aircraft-related Occupancies 89
Combustible Storage 91
Hazardous Materials 91
Groups H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 and H-5 95
Application of Flammable Finishes 108
Drying Rooms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Organic Coatings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Group I-I, R-1, R-2, R-3, R-3.1, R-4 109
Hydrogen Cutoff Rooms 109
Reserved : .. 110
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Special Provisions for Licensed
24-Hour Care Facilities in a Group I-I,
R-3.1 or R-4 occupancy [SFM] 110
Group 1-4 [SFM] 113
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Reserved '.' . . . . . . . . . . 114
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Horse Racing Stables [SFM] 114
Pet Kennels [SFM] 114
Combustion Engines and
Gas Turbines [SFM] 114
Fixed Guideway Transit Systems [SFM] 114
Explosives [SFM] 118
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
433
434
435
426
427
428
429
430
431
432
401
402
403
404
405
406
407
408
409
410
411
412
413
414
415
416
417
418
419
420
421
422
423
424
425
Title, Purpose and Scope 3R
Unsafe Buildings or Structures 9R
Violations 9R
Organization and Enforcement. 9R
Appeals lOR
Permits 14R
Fees 20aR
Department of Housing Development 3R
Inspection 20gR
Division of State Architect 4R
Certificate of Occupancy 20iR
Office of Statewide Health Planning
and Development ~ 5R
Responsibility ot Permittee 20jR
Office of the Fire Marshal 6R
Code Revision 20jR
Grading Certificate '.. 20jR
Section
301 General 49
302 Classification 49
303 Assembly Group A 49
304 Business Group B 50
305 Educational Group E ' ' 50
306 Factory Group F 50
307 High-hazard Group H ~ 51
308 Institutional Group I 59
309 Mercantile Group M 60
310 Residential Group R 61
311 Storage Group S 65
312 Utility and Miscellaneous Group U 65
101
102
103
e
104
105
106
107
108
108
109
109
110
110
e
111
111
112
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE ix
TABLIE OF CONTENTS
Section
501 General 133
502 Definitions 133
503 General Height and Area Limitations 133
504 Height. 135
505 Mezzanines 135
506 Area Modifications 136
507 Unlimited Area Buildings 137
508 Mixed Use and Occupancy 139
509 Special Provisions 140
CIHIAPTER 5
CHAPTER 8 INTERIOR FINISHES 241
CHAPTER 7A MATERIALS AND
CONSTRUCTION METHODS
FOR EXTERIOR WILDFIRE
EXPOSURE 235
Penetrations 167 e
Fire-resistant Joint Systems 169
Fire-resistance Rating of
Structural Members 170
Opening Protectives. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171
Ducts and Air Transfer Openings 175 e
Concealed Spaces ' 178
Fire-resistance Requirements for Plaster 180
Thermal- and Sound-insulating Materials 181
Prescriptive Fire Resistance 181 _,
Calculated Fire Resistance 202
712
713
714
715
716
717
718
719
720
721
Section
701A Scope, Purpose and Application 235
702A Definitions 235
703A Standards of Quality 236
704A Materials, Systems and
Methods of Construction 236
GENERAL BUliLDING
HEIGHTS AND AREAS 133
Winery Caves [SFM] 121
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Public Libraries [SL & SFM] 122
Group C [SFM] 123
Reserved '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Group E [SFM] 125
Group L [SFM] 126
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Large-family Day Care Homes [SFM] 129
436
437
438
439
440
441
442
443
444
445
Section
Section
601 General 147
602 Construction Classification 147
603 Combustible Material in Type I and II
Construction 148
CHAPTER 6
CHAPTER 7
e
e
FIRE PROTECTION
SYSTEMS 251
801
802
803
804
805
General 241
Definitions 241
Wall and Ceiling Finishes 241
Interior Floor Finish 243
Combustible Materials in Types I
. and II Construction 244
806 Decorative Materials and Trim 244
CHAPTER 9
Section
901 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 251
902 Definitions 251
903 Automatic Sprinkler Systems 254
904 Alternative Automatic
Fire-extinguishing Systems 260
905 Standpipe Systems 261
906 Portable Fire Extinguishers " 264
907 Fire Alarm and Detection Systems 264
908 Emergency Alarm Systems 278
909 Smoke Control Systems 279R
TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION ... 147
FIRE-RESISTANCE-RATED
CONSTRUCTION 153
General 153
Definitions 153
Fire-resistance Ratings and Fire Tests 154
Exterior Walls 155
Fire Walls 158
Fire Barriers 160
Shaft Enclosures 162
Fire Partitions 164
Smoke Barriers 165
Smoke Partitions 166
Horizontal Assemblies 166
Section
701
702
703
704
705
706
707
708
709
710
711
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

910 Smoke and Heat Vents 285

911 Fire Command Center 287
912 Fire Department Connections 288
CHAPTER 10 MEANS OF EGRESS 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 293
Section
1001 Administration 293
1002 Definitions 293
1003 General Means of Egress 294
1004 OccupantLoad 296
1005 Egress Width 298
1006 Means of Egress Illumination 298
1007 Accessible Means of Egress 299
1008 Doors, Gates and Turnstiles 301
1009 Stairways 306
1010 Ramps 309
1011 Exit Signs : 310
1012 Handrails. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311
1013 Guards 312
1014 Exit Access 313
1015 Exit and Exit Access Doorways 315
1016 Exit Access Travel Distance 316
1017 Corridors 317
1018 Exits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318
1019 Number of Exits and Continuity 318
1020 Vertical Exit Enclosures : 319
1021 Exit Passageways 321
1022 Horizontal Exits 322'
1023 Exterior Exit Ramps and Stairways 322
1024 Exit Discharge 323
1025 Assembly 324
1026 Emergency Escape and Rescue 329
CHAPTER 11 RESERVED 0000000 000.0 331
CHAPTER I\A HOUSING ACCESSIBILITY 0 0 0 335
Section
1101A Application 335
1102A Building Accessibility 335
1103A DesigN and Construction 336
1104A Group R Occupancies 336
1105A Group:.U Occupancies 336
1106A Site and Building Characteristics 337
1107A Definitions 337
2008 CITY OF L0S ANGELES BUILDING CODE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1108A General Requirements for
Accessible Parking and
Exterior Routes of Travel 339
1109A Parking Facilities 340
1110A Exterior Routes of Travel ; 341
1111A Changes in Level on Accessible Routes 342
1112A Curb Ramps on Accessible Routes 342
1113A Walks and Sidewalks on an
Accessible Route 343
1114A Exterior Ramps and
Lanaings on Accessible Routes 343
1115A Exterior Stairways Along'
Accessible Routes 345
1116A Hazards on Accessible Routes : 345
1117A General Requirements fot
Accessible Entrances, Exits,
InteFior Routes of Travel and
Facility Accessibility 346
1118A Egress and Areas of Refuge 346
1119A Interior Routes of Travel. 346
1120A Interior Accessible Routes 347
1121A Changes in Level on Accessible Routes 347
1122A Interior Ramps and Landings on
Accessible Routes 347
1123A Interior Stairways Along
Accessible Routes 348
1124A Elevators and Special Access
(Wheelchair) Lifts 349
1125A Hazards on Accessible Routes 351
1126A Doors 351
1127A Common Use Facilities ~ 352
1128A Covered Dwelling Units 358
1129A Reserved 359
1130A Accessible Route Within
Covered Multifamily Dwelling Units 359
1131A Changes in Level on Accessible Routes 359
1132A Doors 359
1133A Kitchens 360
1134A Bathing and Toilet Facilities 361
1135A Laundry Rooms 364
1136A Electrical Receptacle,
Switch and Control Heights 364
1137A Other Features and Facilities 365
1138A Reserved 365
1139A Accessible Drinking Fountains 365
1140A Accessible Telephones 365
1141A Accessible Swimming Pools 366
xi
TABLE Of CONTENTS
1142A Electrical Receptacle, Switch and
Control Heights 367
1143A Signage ~ 367
1144A Reserved 368
1145A Reserved. '.' 368
1146A Reserved " 3.68
1147A Reserved 368
1148A Reserved 368
1149A Reserved 368
1150A Site Impracticality Tests 368
CHAPTER liB ACCESSIBILITY TO
PUBLIC BUILDINGS,
PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS,
COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS
AND PUBLICLY FUNDED
HOUS[NG 423
Section
1101B Scope '.' 423
1102B Definitions 423
1103B Building Accessibility ; 426
1104B Accessibility for Group A Occupancies 427
1105B Accessibility for Group B Occupancies 430
1106B Accessibility for Group E Occupancies 431
1107B Factories and Warehouses 432
1108B Accessibility for Group H Occupancies 432
1109B Accessibility for Group I Occupancies 432
1110B Accessibility for Group M Occupancies 433
lll1B Accessibility for Group R Occupancies 434
1112B Reserved 437
1113B Reserved. j 437
1114B Facility Accessibility 437
1115B Bathing and Toilet Facilities
(Sanitary Facilities) 438
1116B Elevators and Special Access
(Wheelchair) Lifts 444
1117B Other Building Components 447
1118B Space Allowance and Reach Ranges 454
1119B Special Standards of Accessibility for
Buildings with Historical Significance 454
1120B Floor and Levels 454
1121B Transportation Facilities 454
1122B Fixed or Built-in Seating,
Tables and Counters 458
1123B Access to Employee Areas 458
1124B Ground and Floor Surfaces 459
1125B Storage 459
xii
1126B Vending Machines and Other Equipment 459
1127B Exterior Routes of Travel 460
1128B Pedestrian Grade Separations
(Overpasses and Underpasses) 461
1129B Accessible Parking Required 461
1130B Parking Structures 463
1131B Passenger Drop-off and Loading Zones 463
1132B Outdoor Occupancies 463
1133B 'General Accessibility for
Entrances, Exits and Paths of Travel 465
1134B Accessibility for Existing Buildings 472
1135B Historic Preservation---,
Special Standards of
Accessibility for Buildings with
Historical Significance 473
CHAPTER llC STANDARDS FOR CARD
READERS AT GASOLINE
FUEL-DISPENSING
FACILITIES 541
Section
1101C Card-reader Devices at
Fuel-dispensing Equipment 541
1102C Application 541
1103C Number of Accessible
Card-reading D e v i c e ~ Required 541
1104C Required Features 541
1105C Protection of Dispensers
Mounted at Grade 542
CHAPTER 12 INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT.... 547
Section
1201 General 547
1202 Definitions 547
1203 Ventilation 547
1204 Temperature Control 548
1205 Lighting 549
1206 Yards or Courts 549
1207 Sound Transmission 550R
1208 Interior Space Dimensions 552R
1209 Access to Unoccupied Spaces ".. 553
1210 Surrounding Materials 553
1211 Garage Door Springs 553
1212 Reserved ' 554
1213 Reserved 554
1214 Reserved 554
1215 Reserved 554
1216 Reserved 554
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

1217
1218
1219
1220
1221
1222
1223
1224
1225
1226
1227
1228
1229
1230
1231
1232
1233
1234
_ 1235
1236
1237
1238
1239
1240
1241
1242
1243
1244
_1245
.1246
1247
1248
1249
_.1250
.1251
1252
1253
_1254
Reserved 554
Reserved 554
Reserved 554
Reserved 554
Reserved.' 554
Reserved 554
Reserved 554
Hospitals 555
Skilled Nursing and
Intermediate-care Facilities 581
Clinics 586
Correctional Treatment Centers 589
Reserved 594
Reserved 594
Minimum Standards for
Juvenile Facilities 594
Local Detention ',' 598
Reserved 603
Reserved 603
Reserved 604
Sanitary Control of Shellfish
(Plants and Operations) 604
Laboratory Animal Quarters 604
Wild Animal Quarantine Facilities 604
Reserved 605
Reserved ,605
Meat and Poultry Processing Plants, 605
Collection Centers and Facilities 606
. Renderers 607
Horsemeat and Pet Food Establishments 607
Reserved 608
Reserved 608
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . 608
Reserved ' 608
Reserved 608
Reserved. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608
Pharmacies 608
Veterinary Facilities 608
Barber Colleges and Shops 609
Schools of Cosmetology,
Cosmetological Establishments and
Satellite Classrooms 609
Acupuncture Offices 609
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 13 ENERGY CONSERVATION ... 611R
Section
1300 General 611R
1301 Solar Energy Collectors 611R
CHAPTER 14 EXTERIOR WALLS 615
Section
1401 General 615
1402 Definitions 615
1403 Performance Requirements 615
1404 Materials 616R
1405 Installation of Wall Coverings 616R
1406 Combustible Materials on the
Exterior Side of Exterior Walls '. 620
1407 Metal Composite Materials (MCM) 621
1408 Additional Requirements for
Anchored and Adhered Veneer 622
CHAPTER 15 ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND
ROOFTOP STRUCTURES 625
Section
1501 General 625
1502 Definitions 625
1503 Weather Protection; 625
1504 Performance Requirements 626
1505 Fire Classification 627R
1506 Materials 628
1507 Requirements for Roof Coverings ; 628
1508 Roof Insulation 637
1509 Rooftop Structures 637
1510 ~ e r o o f i n g 638R
1511 Seismic Anchorage of
Slate Shingle, Clay and
Concrete Tile Roof Coverings 639R
INDEX 641
HISTORY NOTE 673
VOLUME 2
CHAPTER 16 STRUCTURAL DESIGN 3
Section
1601 General '. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1602 Definitions and Notations 3
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE xiii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 17A STRUCTURAL TESTS AND
SPECIAL INSPECT][ONS . "..... :D.05
CHAPTER 18 SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS .. :D.25R
Section
1714 Preconstruction Load Tests 102aR
1715 Material and Test Standards 102bR
1716 Certified Licensed Contractors ' 102bR
1717 Certified Security Bar Installer : 102dR
1718 Prefabricated Construction 102eR
CHAPTER 18A SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS .... 157
Section '
1801A General 157
1802A Foundation and Soils Investigations .. ',' 157
1803A Excavation, Grading and Fill 160

General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . 105
Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Approvals ' 106
Special Inspections 107
Statement of Special Inspections 117
Contractor Responsibility 118
Special Inspections for Seismic Resistance 118
Structural Testing for Seismic Resistance 119
Structural Observations 120
r
Design Strengths of Materials 120
Alternative Test Procedure 120
Test. Safe Load 120
In-sItu Load Tests 120
Preconstruction Load Tests 121
Material and Test Standards 122
General 125R
Foundation and Soils Investigations 125R
Excavation, Grading and Fill 128
Allowable Load-bearing Values of S ~ i l s 129R
Footings and Foundations 129R
Retaining Walls 140
Dampproofing and Waterproofing ' 140
Pier and Pile Foundations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141R
Driven Pile Foundations 146
Cast-in-place Concrete Pile Foundations 149.
Composite Piles 153
Pier Foundations 153
Section
1701A
1702A
1703A
1704A
1705A
1706A
1707A
1708A
1709A
1710A
1711A
1712A
1713A
1714A
1715A
1801
1802
1803
1804
1805
1806
1807
1808
1809
1810
1811
1812
1603 Construction Documents 4
1604 General Design Requirements 5
1605 Load Combinations 8
1606 Dead Loads 9
1607 Live Loads 10
1608 Snow Loads 15
1609 Wind Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1610 Soil Lateral Loads 25
1611 Rain Loads 25
1612 Flood Loads 26
1613 Earthquake Loads 28
CHAPTER:D.7 STRUCTURAL TESTS AND
SPECIAL INSPECTIONS.. : .... 87R
CHAPTER :D.6A STRUCTURAL DESIGN 53
Section
1601A General ' 53
1602A Definitions and Notations 53
1603A Construction Documents 55
1604A General Design Requirements 56
1605A Load Combinations 59
1606A Dead Loads 60
1607A Live Loads 60
1608A Snow Loads 66
1609A Wind Loads 66
1610A Soil Lateral Loads 71
1611A Rain Loads ' 71
1612A Flood Loads 72
1613A Earthquake Loads 74
1614A Modifications to ASCE 7 78
Section
1701 General 87R
1702 Definitions 87R
1703 Approvals 88R
1704 Special Inspections 88R
1705 Statement of Special Inspections 98R
1706 Contrac'tor Responsibility 99R
1707 Special Inspections for Seismic Resistance .. 99R
1708 Structural Testing for Seismic Resistance 101R
1709 Structural Observations 102R
1710 Design Strengths of Materials 102R
1711 Alternative Test Procedure 102R
1712 Test Safe Load ' 102R
1713 In-situ Load Tests 102R
xiv 2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
1804A Allowable Load-bearing Values of Soils. ; 161
1805A Footings and Foundations 161
1806A Retaining Walls and Cantilever Walls . ~ 165
1807A Dampproofing and Waterproofing 166
1808A Pier and Pile Foundations 167
1809A Driven Pile Foundations 172
1810A Cast-in-place Concrete Pile Foundations 175
1811A Composite Piles 178
1812A Pier Foundations 179
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1912A Anchorage to Concrete-
Strength Design 209
1913A Shotcrete , 209
1914A Reinforced Gypsum Concrete 211
1915A Concrete-filled Pipe Columns 211
1916A Concrete Testing 211
1917A Existing Concrete Structures 212
CHAPTER 20 ALUMINUM 215
Section
CHAPTER 19 CONCRETE 183
Section
CHAPTER 21 MASONRY 219
Section
2101 General 219
2102 Definitions and Notations 219
2103 Masonry Construction Materials 223
2104 Construction 226
2105 Quality Assurance 229
2106 Seismic Design 230
2107 . Allowable Stress Design 232
2108 Strength Design of Masonry 232
2109 Empirical Design of Masonry 233
2110 Glass Unit Masonry 239
2111 Masonry Fireplaces. ' 241
2112 Masonry Heaters 243R
2113 Masonry Chimneys 243R
1901
1902
1903
1904
1905
1906
1907
e
1908
1909
1910
1911
1912
1913
1914
1915
General 183
Definitions 183
Specifications for Tests and Materials 183
Durability Requirements 183
Concrete Quality, Mixing and Placing 185
Formwork, Embedded Pipes and
Construction Joints " 185
Details of Reinforcement 186
Modifications to ACI 318 186
Structural Plain Concrete 189R
Minimum Slab Provisions 190
Anchorage to Concrete-Allowable
Stress Design 190
Anchorage to Concrete-Strength Design 191
Shotcrete.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 191
Reinforced Gypsum Concrete 192
Concrete-filled Pipe Columns 192
2001
2002.
2003
General 215
Materials ~ 215
Inspection 215
CHAPTER 19A CONCRETE 19i
Section
1902A General................................ 197
1902A Definitions............................. 197
1903A Specifications for Tests and Materials 197
1904A Durability Requirements 198
1905A Concrete Quality, Mixing and Placing 200
1906A Formwork, Embedded Pipes and
Construction Joints 201
1907A Detaiils of Reinforcement 201
1908A Modifications to ACI 318 : 202
1909A Structural Plain Concrete 208
1910A Minimum Slab Provisions 208
1911A Anchorage to Concrete-
Allowable Stress Design 208
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
CHAPTER 21A MASONRy 251
Section
2101A GeneraL 251
2102A Definitions and Notations 251
2103A Masonry Construction Materials 255
2104A Construction 258
2105A Quality Assurance 263
2106A Seismic Design 265
2107A Allowable Stress Design 267
2108A Sttength Design of Masonry ' 268
2109A Empirical Design of Masonry 268
2110A Glass Unit Masonry 268
2111A Masonry Fireplaces 269
2112A Masonry Heaters 271
2113A Masonry Chimneys ~ 271
xv
TAIBLE Of CONTENTS
2114A Nonbearing Walls 275
2115A Masonry Screen Walls 276
2307
2308
Load and Resistance Factor Design 327R e
Conventional Light-frame Construction 327R
CHAPTER 22 STEEL ... 0 0 0 0 0 0 279R
Section
2201
2202
2203
2204
2205
2206
2207
2208
2209
2210
General 279R
Definitions 279R
Identification and Protection of Steel
for Structural Purposes 279R
Connections 279R
Structural Steel 279R
Steel Joists .280R
Steel Cable Structures 280R
Steel. Storage Racks 281
Cold-formed Steel 281
Cold-formed Steel Light-framed
Construction 281
CHAPTER 24 GLASS AND GLAZING 0 373
Section
2401 General 373
2402 Definitions 373
2403 General Requirements for Glass 373
2404 Wind, Snow, Seismic and
Dead Loads on Glass 373
2405 Sloped Glazing and Skylights ' 376
2406 Safety Glazing 377
2407 Glass in Handrails and Guards 379
2408 Glazing in Athletic Facilities 379
2409 Glass in Elevator Hoistway 380
CHAPTER 25 GYPSUM BOARD
AND PLASTER 0 0 0 0 0 383
CHAPTER 22A STEEL 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 285
Section
2201A General 285
2202A Definitions 285
2203A Identification and Protection of
Steel for Structural Purposes 285
2204A Connections 285
2205A Structural Steel 286
2206A Steel Joists 288
2207A Steel Cable Structures 289
2208A Steel Storage Racks 289
2209A Cold-formed Steel 289
2210A Cold-formed Steel Light-framed
Construction 289
2211A Light Modular Steel Moment
Frames for Public Elementary and
Secondary Schools, and
Community Colleges 289
2212A Testing 290
Section
2501 General 383
2502 Definitions 383
2503 Inspection 383
2504 Vertical and Horizontal Assemblies 383
2505 Shear Wall Construction 384
2506 Gypsum Board Materials 384
2507 Lathing and Plastering 384
2508 Gypsum Construction , 385
2509 Gypsum Board in Showers and
Water Closets 386
2510 Lathing and Furring for Cement
Plaster (Stucco) , 386
2511 Interior Plaster , 387
2512 Exterior Plaster " 387
2513 Exposed Aggregate Plaster 388
CHAPTER 26 PLASTIC .. 0 0 0 0 " 0 393
Section

CHAPTER 23 WOOD ..... 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 293R

Section
2301 General 293R
2302 Definitions 293R
2303 Minimum Standards and Quality 295
2304 General Construction Requirements 299
2305 General Design Requirements for
Lateral-force-resisting Systems 309R
2306 Allowable Stress Design 317R
x:vi
2601
2602
2603
2604
2605
2606
2607
2608
2609
General , .. , . , 393
Definitions , 393
Foam Plastic Insulation 393
Interior Finish and Trim 396
Plastic Veneer ~ 397
Light-transmitting Plastics 397
Light-transmitting Plastic Wall Panels 398
Light-transmitting Plastic Glazing 399
Light-transmitting Plastic Roof Panels 399
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BIlJILDING CODE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 29 PLUMBING SYSTEMS 409
CHAPTER 31B PUBLIC SWIMMING POOLS ... 431
CHAPTER 30 ELEVATORS AND
CONVEYING SYSTEMS ..... 413R
Section
2901 General 409
3103B Special Pool Classifications 432
3104B Accessibility to the Physically
Handicapped Person 432
3105B Alternate Equipment, Materials and
Methods of Construction 432
3106B Pool Construction 432
3107B Additional Requirements for a
Temporary Training Pool 433
3108B Pool Geometry 433
3109B Permanent Markings .' .. 433
3110B Steps, Recessed Steps, Ladders and
Recessed Stairs (Treads) 437
3111B Handholds 437
3112B Diving Boards 437
3113B Pool Decks 437
3114B Pool Lighting 438
3115B Bathhouse Dressing,
Shower and Toilet Facilities 438
3116B Drinking Fountains 438
3117B Hose Bibbs 439
3118B Enclosure of Pool Area 439
3119B Signs 439
3120B Indoor Pool Ventilation 441
3l21B Foundations For Pool Equipment. 441
3122B Gas Chlorination Equipment Room 441
3123B General Requirements 441
3124B Turnover Time 442
3125B Recirculation Piping System and
Components 442
3126B Recirculation Pump Capacity 442
3127B "Water Supply Inlets 442
3128B Filters (All Types) 442
3129B Rapid Sand Pressure Filters 443
3130B Diatomaceous Earth Filters 443
3131B High-rate Sand Filters 443
3132B Chemical Feeders 443
3133B Disinfectant Feeders " 444
3134B Pool Fittings " 444
3135B Spa Pool Special Requirements 445
3136B "Cleaning Systems 445
3137B Waste Water Disposal 445
3138B Reserved 446
3139B Reserved 446
3140B Reserved 446
3141B Reserved 446
3142B Reserved 446
General 413R
Hoistway Enclosures 413R
Emergency Operations 414
Hoistway Venting 416
Conveying Systems 416
Machine Rooms 417
Special Requirements for
Elevators in Hospitals 417
CHAPTER 27 ELECTRICAL 403
Section
2701 General 403
2702 Emergency and Standby Power Systems 403
2610 Light-transmitting Plastic Skylight Glazing .. 400
2611 Light-transmitting Plastic Interior Signs ..... 400
CHAPTER 28 MECHANICAL SYSTEMS 407
Section
2801 General 407
2802 Spark Arresters 407
CHAPTER 31 SPECIAL CONSTRUCTION .... 421
Section
3101 General 421
3102 Membrane Structures : 421
3103 Temporary Structures 422
3104 Pedestrian Walkways and Tunnels ; 422
3105 Awnings and Canopies 423
3106 Marquees 424R
3107 Signs .. " 424R
3108 Radio and Television Towers 424R
3109 'Swimming Pool Enclosures and
Safety Devices 424R
3110 Patio Covers 427R
Section
3101B Scope 431
3102B Definitions 431
Section
3001
3002
3003
3004
3005
3006
"3007
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE xvii
TABLE Of CONTIENTS
3143B
3144B
3145B
3146B
3147B
3148B
3149B
3150B
3151B
3152B
3153B
3154B
3155B
3156B
3157B
3158B
3159B
3160B
3161B
Reserved ; ',' 446 ,
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved ' 446
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved .. : 446
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved 446
Reserved '.' 446
Reserved 446
...................................... 446
...................................... 447
3108E Membrane (Air-supported and
Air-inflated) Structures 460
3109E Alternative Means of Protection 460
CHAPTER 31F MARINE'OIlL TERMINAlLS..... 465
Section
3101F Introduction 465
3102F Audit and Inspection 466
3103F Structural Loading Criteria 476
3104F Seismic Analysis and
Structural Performance 488
3105F Mooring and Berthing Analysis and
Design ' 494
3106f Geotechnical Hazards and Foundations 499
3107F Structural Analysis and
Design of Components 502
3108F Fire Prevention, Detection and Suppression .. 514
3109F Piping and Pipelines 518
3110F Mechanical and Electrical Equipment 520
3111F Electrical Systems 523
CHAPTER 33 SITE WORK DEMOlLJITJION AND
CONSTRUCTION 531R
Section
3201 General 527R
3202 Encroachments 527R
CIHIAPTER 31C RADIATION 451
Section
3101C Scope 451 J
3102C Radiation Shielding Barriers 451
3103C Medical Radiographic and
Photofluorographic Installations 451
3104C Medical Therapeutic X-ray Installations 451
CHAPTER 32 PROJECTIONS FROM BUXlLDJINGS
AND CONSTRUCTiON lIN THE
PUBLIC RIGHT-OF,WAY ..... 527R
3309
3310
3311
3312
CIHIAJPTER 31D FOOD ESTABlLISHMENTS .... 455
Section
3101D Scope 455
3102D Definitions 455
3103B Building and Structures ' 455
CIHIAPTER 31E TENTS AND lVIEMBRANE
STRUCTURES 459
Section
3101E General Provisions 459
3102E D e f i n ~ i o n s 459
3103E Tents Having an Occupant of
Load 10 or More 459
3104E Location of Tents 459
3105E Structural Requirements 460
3106E Exit Requirements 460
3107E Heating Equipment 460
xviii
Section
3301 'General 531R
3302 Construction Safeguards 531R
3303 Demolition 531R
3304 Site Work 531R
3305 Toilet Facilities During Construction 531R
3306 Protection of Pedestrians 532R
3307 Protection of Adjoining Property 533R
3308 Temporary Use of Streets, Alleys and
Public Property , 534R
Fire Extinguishers 534R
Exits 534R
Standpipes 534R
Automatic Sprinkler System ~ 534R
CHAPTER 34 EXISTING STRUCTURES..... 537R
Section
3401 General , 537R
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUlllDING COOlE

TABLE OF CONTENTS
3412A
fit 3413A
CHAPTER 34A EXISTING STRUCTURES 565
Section
fit
3402
3403
3404
3405
fit
3406
3407
3408
3409
3410
fit
3411
3412
3413
3414
3415
3416
3417
3418
fit
3419
3420
3421
CHAPTER 35 REFERENCED STANDARDS.... 585
CHAPTER 63 ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS
FOR SPECIFIC USES 617
Section
6101 Impact Hazard Glazing in
Existing Buildings 609
6102 Rubbish Rooms 609
6103 Shafts, Pits and Similar
Excavation-Misdemeanor 609
6104 Fire Districts 609
6105 Separation from Oil Wells 609
6109 Swimming Pools and Other Bodies of
Water-Protective Devices Required 610
CHAPTER 61 SPECIAL HAZARD AREAS..... 609
3414A Peer Review Requirements 582
CHAPTER 62 SIGNS 611
Section
6201 General Provisions 611
6202 Definitions 612
6203 Location ' 612
6204 Identification '.' 612
6205 Design and Construction 612
6206 Electrical 614
6207 Combustible Materials 614
6208 Animated Devices 614
6209 Ground Signs 614
6210 Roof Signs 614
6211 Wall Signs 615
6212 Projecting Signs 615
6213 Marquee Signs 615
6214 Portable Signs 616
6215 Referenced Standards 616
6216 Existing Signs 616
Section
6301 General. 617
6302 Food Establishment 617
6303 Service Stations 618
6304 Residential Uses 618
6305 Parking Garages Serving Residential Uses 618
6306 Antigraffiti Finish to Exterior Walls 618
6307 Shower and Locker Facilities 619
General 565
Definitions 565
Additions, Alterations or Repairs 566
Fire Escapes 567
Glass Replacement 568
Change of Occupancy 568
Historic Buildings 568
Moved Structures 568
Reserved 568
Compliance Alternatives 568
Additions, Alterations, Repairs and
Seismic Retrofit to Existing
Buildings or Structures 577
Earthquake Evaluation and
Design for Retrofit of Existing
Hospital Buildings 578
Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings 579
Defini,tions 537R
Additions, Alterations or Repairs 537R
Fire Escapes 539
Glass Replacement 539
Change of Occupancy 540R
Historic Buildings 540R
Moved Structures 540R.
Reserved 540R
Compliance Alternatives 540R
Existing Group R-1 and
Group R-2 Occupancies 549
Existing High-rise Buildings 552
Existing Group I Occupancies 554
Existing Group L Occupancies 554
Earthquake Evaluation and
Design for Retrofit of
Existing Buildings 555
Definitions 557
Seismic Criteria Selection for
Existing Buildings 557
Method A ~ 560
Method B 560
Peer Review Requirements 561
Additional Requirements for
Public Schools 562
3401A
3402A
3403A
3404A
3405A
3406A
3407A
3408A
3409A
3410A
3411A
fit
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE xix
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 67 SECURITY PROVISIONS 621
Section
CHAPTER 71 METHANE SEEPAGE
REGULATIONS 643
6701 Purpose 621
6702 General 621
6703 Limitations 621
6704 Alternate Security Provisions 621
6705 Definitions 621
6706 Entry Vision 622
6707 Appurtenant Access 622
6708 Doors-General 622
6709 Swinging Doors 622
6710 Sliding Glass Doors 623
6711 Overhead and Sliding Doors 623
6712 Metal Accordion-Grate or
Grill-Type Doors 623
6713 Glazed Opening-General 623
67.14 Glazing 623
6715 Windows 623
6716 Openings Other than Doors or
Glazed Opening 624
6717 Test-General 624
CHAPTER 70 GRADING, EXCAVAT][ONS
AND F][LLS 625
Section
7001 Purpose 625
7002 Scope 625
7003 Definitions 625
7004 Grading Designation 626
7005 General Requirements 626
7006 Conditions Precedent to Issuing a
Grading Permit 627
7007 Safety Precautions During Grading 631
7008 Professions Inspection and Certification
for Engineered Grading 631
7009 Professional Inspection for
Regular Grading 632
7010 Excavations 632
7011 Fills 633
7012 Planting and Irrigation of Cut and Fill
Slopes in Hillside Areas 634
7013 Erosion Control and Drainage Devices 635
7014 Construction Requirements and Limitations .. 636
7015 Buttress Fills 636
7016 Areas Subjected to Slides and
Unstable Soil 642
)Ot
Section
7101 Purpose 643
7102 Definitions 643
7103 General Methane Mitigation Requirements 643
7104 General Methane Requirements 644
7105 Existing 646
7106 Testing, Maintenance and Service of
Gas-detection and Mechanical
Ventilation Systems 646
7107 Emergency Procedures 646
7108 Application of Methane Seepage
Regulations to Locations or Areas
OutsideJhe Methane Zone and
Methane Buffer Zone Boundaries 646
7109 Additional Remedial Measures 646
CHAPTER 72 FIRE DISTRICT
REGULATIONS 649
Section
7200 Purpose 649
7201 General 649
7202 Additions to Buildings 651
7203 General Requirements 651
7204 Special Requirements for
Fire District No.1 651
7205 Provisional Structures 652
7207 Special Requirements for the Very
High Fire Hazard Severity Zone 652
7208 Prohibited Vehicles , 653
CHAPTER 81 EXISTING BUILDINGS AND

REQUIREMENTS 655
Section
8101 General Provisions 655
8102 Enforcement. 655
8103 Existing Building Rights 655
8104 Basic Maintenance and Repair of
Existing Buildings and Premises 655
8105 Illegal Buildings, Construction and Use 656
8106 Fire District Requirements 656
8107 Requirements outside of a Fire District 657
8108 Nuisances, Hazardous Buildings and
Substandard Residential Buildings 657
8109 Relocated Building 658
8110 Unreinforced Masonry Bearing
Wall Buildings 658
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILmNG CODE

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section
CHAPTER 83 RELOCATION PERMIT 665
CHAPTER 82 CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY,
USE AND RATING
CLASSIFICATION 663
e
8111
8112
8113
8114
e
8115
8116
8117
8118
e
8119
CHAPTER 86 SPECIAL PROVISIONS FOR
EXISTING BUILDINGS 675
CHAPTER 88 EARTHQUAKE HAZARD
REDUCTION IN EXISTING
BUILDINGS 685
Section
8601 General 675
8602 Group E Occupancies 675
8603 Fire Protection-Warning System 676
8604 Fire ~ a f e t y Standards 677
8605 Emergency Homeless Shelters 681
8606 Emergency Lighting Standards for
Existing Residential Buildings, Group R,
Division 1 Occupancies 682
8607 Tenant Safety for Apartment Houses,
Except for Residential Condominiums .... 683
CHAPTER 89 ABATEMENT OF BUILDINGS,
STRUCTURES, PREMISES AND
PORTIONS THEREOF WHICH
CONSTITUTE A NUISANCE OR
ARE HAZARDOUS, OR
SUBSTANDARD ' 699
Section
8801 Purpose , : " 685
8802 Scope 685
8803 Definitions 685
8804 Rating Classifications 685
8805 General Requirements '.' 686
8806 Administration 686
8807 Historical Buildings 687
8808 Analysis and Design 687
8809 Materials of Construction 688
8810 Information Required on Plans 690
8811 Design Check-Compatibility of Roof
Diaphragm Stiffness to Unreinforced
Masonry Wall Out-of-plane Stability 691
8812 Violations 692
8813 Special Requirements 692
Section
Residential Heating 658
Residential Plumbing 658
Rod Bracing Systems 658
Parapets and Appendages 658
Sandblasting : 659
Special Provisions for
Light-housekeeping Rooms 659
Fire Watch 660
Pool Water Clarity 660
Historical Buildings and Structures 660
8201 General 663
8202 Change of Rating Classification '.' 663
8203 Change of Occupancy Group or
Group Division 663
8204 Change of Use ' 663
8205 Certificate of Building Compliance 664
General Application 665
Permits Required-General
Considerations 665
Permit Application-Plans and
Specifications ~ 665
Special Conditions under Which a Permit
Will Not Be Issued 666
Guarantee of Completion Required 666
Terms of Permit 667
Default in Performance of Conditions
or Terms of Permits-Failure of
Complete 667
8308 Permit Fee 667
8309 Entry Upon Premises 668
Section
8301
8302
8303
8304
e
8305
8306
8307
e
8501 General 669
8502 Alternative Standards 670
8901
8902
8903
8904
e
CHAPTER 85
Section
ALTERNATIVE BUILDING
STANDARDS FOR JOINT
LIVING AND WORK
QUARTERS 669
General 699
Definitions ; 699
Abatement Procedures 702
Special Provisions for Vacant Property
Graffiti Removal 705
8905 Special Provisions for Vacating,
Barricading, Removing or Demolishing
Buildings or Structures without Notice .... 707
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE xxi
TABLE OF CONTENTS
8906
8907
8908
Payment and Recovery of Repair and
Demolition Funds 707
Abatement of Public Nuisance Conditions
Related to a Declared Local Emergency ... 708
Special Provisions for the Repair
of Welded Steel Moment Frame
Buildings Located in High Earthquake
Damaged Areas 709
9303
9304
9305
9306
9307
Definitions 721
General Requirements for Phased
Construction 722
Analysis and Design 722
Materials of Construction, 724
Required Information on Plans 724
Section
9301 Purpose 721
9302 Scope 721
CHAPTER 92 VOLUNTARY-EARTHQUAKE
IHIAZARD REDUCTION IN
EXISTING WOOD FRAME
RESiDENTIAL BUILDINGS WITH
WEAK CRIPPLIE WAJLLS AND
UNBOLTED SILL PLATES. 0 71S
CHAPTER 93 VOLUNTARY-EARTHQUAKE
HAZARD REDUCTION IN
EXISTlI:NG WOOD FRAME
RESJIDENTTIAL BUILDINGS WITH
SOFT,'WEAK OR OPEN FRONT
WALLS 00000." 0.0000000 0.721
Section
9201 General 715
9202 Definitions 715
9203 Structural Weaknesses , 716
9204 Strengthening Requirements, , 716
9205 Quality Control , 718

VOLUNTARY-EARTHQUAKE
HAZARD REDUCTION IN
EXISTING HILLSIDE
BUILDINGS .. 0 0 000 00727
CHAPTER 94
CHAPTER 95 VOLUNTARY"':""EARTHQUAKE
HAZARD. REDUCTION IN
EXISTING REINFORCED
CONCRETE BUILDINGS AND
CONCRETE FRAME BUILDINGS
WITH MASONRY FILL .. 0 733
Section
Section
9401 Purpose 727
9402 Scope, 727
9403 Definitions 727
9404 General Requirements 727
9405 Pre-design Investigation 727
9406 Analysis and Design 728
9407 Historical Buildings 731
9408 Quality Control ' 731
9409 Information Required on Plans 731
9501 Purpose 733
9502 Scope 733
9503 Definitions 733
9504 Reserved 733
9505 General Requirements 733
9508 Criteria Selection 733
9509 Dynamic Lateral Analysis Procedure 734
9510 Equivalent Lateral Force Procedure 736
9511 Simplified Analysis Procedure 737
9512 Minimum Requirements for a Limited
Structural Analysis 738
9513 Determination of the Stress-strain
Relationship of Existing Unreinforced
Masonry ; 738
9514 Evaluation of Existing Structural Conditions. 739
9515 Materials of Construction 739
9516 Information Required on the Plans 739
EARTHQUAKE HAZARD
REDUCTION IN EXJSTING
TILT-UP CONCRETE WALL
BUILDINGS 711
CHAPTER 91
Section
9101 Purpose 711
9102 Scope 711
9103 Definitions 711
9104 Rating Classifications 711
9105 General Requ.irements 711
9106 Administration 712
9107 Historical Buildings 712
9108 Analysis and Design 712
9109 Materials of Construction 714
9110 Information Required on Plans 714
9111 Required Building Maintenance 714
9112 Violations-Penalties for Disregarding
Department Orders 714
)()(ii 2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXCERPTS FROM RELATED LOS ANGELES CITY
CODES LOS ANGELES MUNICIPAL CODE . ... , , 745
e CHAPTER96
Section
98.0103 Definitions 755
98.0105 Inspections 755
98.0109 Express Permits 756
ARTICLE 8 GENERAL ADMINISTRATIVE
PROVISIONS , 755
Fee for Reports 753
Effective Period of Report 753
Delivery of the Report 753
Exceptions 753
Non-Compliance Not to Invalidate Sale or
Exchange: Exception ' 753
Information Furnished as Ground for
Rescission 754
96.309.1
CHAPTER IX
96.305
96.306
96.307
96.308
96.309
VOLUNTARY-EARTHQUAKE
HAZARD REDUCTION IN
EXISTING REINFORCED
CONCRETE AND REINFORCED
MASONRY WALL BUILDINGS
WITH FLEXIBLE
DIAPHRAGMS 741
Purpose 741
Scope 741
Definitions 741
Analysis and Design 741
Materials of Construction 743
Information Required on Plans 743
Section
9601
9602
9603
9604
9605
9606
Section
Division A
Section
28.10
28.11
Balloon-Use for Advertising 745
Captive Balloons and Similar Devices 745
Miscellaneous 746
Division 4 Appeals and Request for Slight
Modification Appeal Fees-Availability
of Records for Inspection-Board
Related Services-Investigation-
Powers of Department and Board
and Penalties 757
Division. D
Division C
Section
96.02
96.05
92.200
96.201
96.203
96.204
96.205
e
Section
96.300
96.301
96.302
e
96.303
96.304
Excavating, Depositing, Dumping-Earth,
Sand, Gravel, EtC.-Where Prohibited ... 746
Declaring Certain Area Subject to Inundation
and Prohibiting Construction of Certain
Buildings Therein 746
Fabricator Approvals 748
Statement of Purpose 748
Definitions 748
Scope and Effect of Approvals 748
Issuance of Approval-Procedures 748
Suspension and Revocation of Appeals 750
Repost of Residential Property
Records and Pending and
Recorded Liens 751
Intent 751
Definitions 751
Reports Required 751
Application 751
Contents of Reports 752
Section
98.0402 Code Enforcement Costs Incurred:
Investigation Costs, Fees and Fines 757
98.0403.1 Powers of the Department and the B'oard 758
98.0403.2 Procedures for Appeals to the
Department and to the Board 760
98.0404 Extra Territorial Inspections 761
98.0405 Charges for Printed Materials and
Miscellaneous Type Services 761
980.406 Inspection Fees for Off Hours Inspection 762
98.0407 Special Enforcement Procedure Fees 762
98.0408 Issuance of Citations by Designated
Employees 762
98.0410 Surcharge for One-stop Permit Center '762
98.0411 Non-compliance Fees 762
98.0412 Inspection Fees 764
98.0414 Certification Fees 764
98.0415 Clerical, Issuing or Research Fees and
Miscellaneous Fees 764
98.0416 Building and Safety Systems
Development Surcharge 764
98.0417 Processing Fees for Miscellaneous
Certificates of Compliance.' 764
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE xxiii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section
98.051 Alternate Materials, Devices and
Methods of Construction 766
98.0502 Appliances, Fixtures and Equipment. 768
98.0503 Testing Agencies 771
98.0504 Environmental Reports 772
Section
98.0601 Purpose 773
98.0602 Expiration of Permits 773
98.0603 Expiration of Plan Check 773
98.0604 Expiration of Slight Modifications and
Alternatives 773
98.0606 Time Limits of Requests for Extension 774
98.0418 Surcharge for Development of
Automated Systems for the
Department of City Planning 764
98.0420 Refunds of Department Fees 765
98.0421 Inspection Fee for Code Enforcement
Inspection 765
98.0422 Fees for Off Hours Plan Check and
. Other Services '.' 765

NOISE REGULATION 0 0 779

GENERAL NOISE . 0 0 0 0 0 782
SPECIAL NOISE SOURCES .... 781
Declaration of Policy 779
Definitions 779
Radios, Television Sets, and
Similar Devices 781
Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, Heating,
Pumping, Filtering Equipment. 781
Construction Noise 781
Powered Equipment Intended for
Repetitive Use in Residential Areas
and Other Machinery, Equipment, and
Devices 781
Maximum Noise Level of Powered
Equipment or Powered Hand Tools 782
Places of Public Entertainment 782
CHAPTER XI
ARTICLE 1
98.0715 Reinspection Fee 777
98.0716 Vacant Structure Penalty 777
98.0717 Procedures for Barricaded and Vacant
Structure Penalty 777
98.0718 Appeal of Barricaded and Vacant
Structure Penalty 778
98.0719 Administrative Enforcement Hearing 778
98.0720 Failure to Pay Penalties 778
98.07.21 Allocation of Vacant Building Penalty 778
111.00
111.01
111.02
Section
Sound Level Measurement Procedure
and Criteria ; 779
111.03 . Minimum Ambient Noise Level 780
111.04 Violations: Additional Remedies,
Injunctions 781
111.05 Enforcement, Citations 781
112.02
112.01
ARTICLE 2
Section
112.03
112.04
112.06
112.05
ARTICLE 6
Section
116.01 Loud, Unnecessary and Unusual Noise ..... 782
Testing Procedures,
Regulation.s and Administration .. 766
Expiration and Revocation of Permits,
Plan Cllieck and! Slight Modifications
and Alternatives 0 0 773
Abatement of Vacant Buildings ... 775
Divisim115
Division 6
DnvisiolIll 7
Section
98.0701 Declaration of Purpose 775
98.0702 Definitions 775
98.0703 Enforcement Authority 775
98.0704 Enforcement Remedies ; 775
98.0705 Strict Liability Offenses 775
98.0706 Duty to Clean, Fence and Barricade 775
98.0707 Administrative Abatement Procedures for
Vacant and Unsecured Structures 775
98.0708 Standards for Fencing and Barricading
a Vacant Structure 776
98.0709 Entry or Interference with
Notice Prohibited 776
98.0710 Continuous Abatement Authority 776
98.0711 Abatement Cost. 776
98.0712 Continuous Public Nuisances 776
98.0713 Duty to File a Statement of Intent 776
98.0714 Posting Name of Responsible Person 777

DIVISION 19, CHAPTER 10 PROCEDURE ][?OR THE
REMOVAL OF ILLEGAL SIGNS 783 e
19.100 Definitions 783
19.101 Illegal Signs - Nuisance 783
19.102 Entry Upon Vacant Private Property 783
xxiv 2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
e 19.103
19.104
19.105
19.106
Interference Prohibited 783
Notice of Illegal Signs 783
Removal of Illegal Sign 783
Collection of Costs 783
TABLE OF CONTIENTS
e IN][)lEX 785
lB[[STOlRY NOTE... 817
e
2008 CITY Of LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODIE
xxvi 2008 cnv Of lOS ANGELES BUilDING CODE

CHAPTER 1
ADMINISTRATION
-A SECTION 101
_ TI'-lE, PURPOSE AND SCOPE
LA 101.1 Title. This article shall be known as the "Los Angeles
Building Code" or "Building Code" or "LABC," a portion of
LA the Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC), and wherever the
word "Code" is used in this article it shall mean the "Los
LA Angeles Code." The Los Angeles Building Code
adopts by reference portions of the California BuildingCode.
101.2 Purpose. The purpose of this article is to safeguard life,
limb, health, property and public welfare by regulating and
LA controlling the design, construction, quality of materials, use
and occupancy, location and maintenance of all buildings and
LA structures erected or to be erected within the city and by regu-
lating certain grading operations within the city.
101.3 Application. Chapters I through 96 of the Los Angeles
LA Building Code as published by the International Code Council
(hereinafter referred to as the published code), are Chapters 1
through 96, respectively, of Article 1, Chapter IX, of the Los
LA Angeles Municipal Code. For uniformity with the California
Building Code (CBC), only the division and section numbers
_
are stated in the published code. For the complete Los Angeles
Municipal Code section number, each code section number
A specified in Chapters 1 through 96 of the published code shall
be presumed to be preceded by two digits and a decimal point
LA (specifically "91."). For example, this section is Section
91.101.3 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code. Wherever in this
LA code reference is made to the appendix, the provisions in the
appendix shall not apply unless specifically adopted.
LA .
LA NOTE: For clarification purposes, the following sections of
the CBC are repeated.

SECTION 108
DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
108.1 Purpose. The purpose ofthis code is to establishthe min-
imum requirements necessary to protect the health, safety and
general welfare of the occupants and the public by go,verning
accessibility, erection, construction, enlargement, conversion,
alteration, repair, moving, removal, demolition, occupancy,
use, height, court, area, sanitation, ventilation, maintenance,
safety to life mid property from fire and other hazards attrib-
uted to the built environment.
108.2 Authority and abbreviations.
108.2.1 The Department ofHousing and Commu-
nity Development is authorized by law to promulgate and
adopt building standards and regulations for several types
of building applications. These applications are grouped
and identified by abbreviation in the Matrix Adoption
Tables to show which model code sections and amendments
are applicable to each application. The applications under
the authority ofthe Department ofHousing and Community
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
Development are listed in Sections 108.2.1.1 through
108.2.1.3.
108.2.1.1 Housing construction. Application-Hotels,
motels, lodging houses, apartment houses, dwellings,
dormitories, condominiums, shelters for homeless per-
sons, congregate .residences, employee housing, fac-
tory-built housing and other types of dwellings
containing sleeping accommodations with or without
common toilet or cooking facilities including accessory
buildings, facilities, and uses thereto. Sections of this
code which pertain to applications listed in this section
are identified in the Matrix Adoption Table using the
abbreviation "HCD 1."
Enforcing agency-Local building department or
the Department ofHousing and Community Develop-
ment.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Sections
17921, 17922 and 19990.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Sections 17000
through 17060, 17910 through 17990 and 19960
through 19997.
108.2.1.2 Housing accessibility. Application - Covered
multifamily dwelling units as defined in Chapter 11A
including, but not limited to, lodging houses, dormito-
ries, timeshares, condominiums, shelters for homeless
persons, congregate residences, apartment houses,
dwellings, employee housing, factory-built housing and
other types of dwellings containing sleeping accommo-
dations with or without common toilet or cookingfacili-
ties.
Sections ofthis code identified in the Matrix Adoption
Table by the abbreviation "HCD 1-AC" require specific
accommodations for persons with physical disabilities,
as defined in Chapter 11A. The application ofsuch provi-
sions shall be in conjunction with other requirements of
this code and apply only to Group R occupancies which
are newly constructed covered multifamily dwellings as
defined in Chapter 11A ofthe California Building Code.
"HCD l-AC" applications include, but are not limited
to, the following:
1. All newly constructed covered multifamily dwell-
ings as defined in Chapter 11A.
2. New common use areas as defined in Chapter 11A
serving existing covered multifamily dwellings.
3. Additions to existing buildings, where the addition
alone meets the definition ofa "Covered multifam-
ily dwelling" as defined in Chapter 11A.
4. Common use areas serving covered multifamily
dwellings.
3R
ADMINISTRATION
"HCD 1-AC" building standards generally do not
apply to public use areas or public accommodations
such as hotels and motels. Public use areas, public
accommodations and housing which is publicly funded
as defined in Chapters 2, 11A and lIB of this code are
subject to the Division of the State Architect (DSA-AC)
and are referenced in Section 109.1.
Enforcing agency-Local building department or
the Department ofHousing and Community Develop-
ment.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Sections
17921, 17922 and 19990 and Government Code Sec-
tion 12955.1.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Sections 17000
through 17060, 17910 through 17990 and 19960
through 19997 and Government Code Section
12955.1.
108.2.1.3 Permanent buildings in mobilehome parks
and special occupancy parks. Application-Permanent
buildings, and permanent accessory buildings or struc-
tures, constructed within mobilehome parks and special
occupancy parks that are under the control and owner- .
ship ofthe park operator. Sections ofthis code whichper-
tain to applications listed in this section are identified in
the Matrix Adoption Table using the abbreviation "HCD
2."
Enforcing agency-Local building department or
other local agency responsible for the enforcement of
Health and Safety Code Division 13, Part 2.1 com-
mencing with Section 18200 for mobilehome parks
and Health and Safety Code Division 13, Part 2.3
commencing with Section 18860 for special occu-
pancy parks or the Department ofHousing and Com-
munity Development.
SECTION 10Sl
DIVISION OF STATE ARCHITECT
109.1 Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance.
General. The purpose ofthis code is to ensure that barrier-free
design is incorporated in all buildings, facilities, site work and
other improvements to which this code applies in compliance
with state law to ensure that these improvements are accessible
to and usable by persons with disabilities. Additions, alter-
ations andstructural repairs in all buildings andfacilities shall
comply with these provisions for new buildings, except as oth-
erwise provided and specified herein.
Theprovisions ofthese regulations shall apply to any porta-
ble buildings leased or owned by a school district, and shall
also apply to temporary and emergency buildings and facili-
ties. Temporary buildings and facilities are not ofpermanent
construction but are extensively used or are essentialforpublic
use for a period of time. Examples of temporary buildings or
facilities covered include, but are not limited to: reviewing
stands, temporary classrooms, bleacher areas, exhibit areas,
temporary banking facilities, temporary health screening ser-
4R
vices or temporary safe pedestrian passageways around a
construction site.
In addition, to incorporate standards at least as restrictive
as those required by the federal government for barrier-free
design under (1) Title III (Public Accommodations and Com-
mercial Facilities), Subpart D (New Construction and Alter-
ation) and Appendix A (Americans with Disabilities Act
Standardsfor Accessible Design) (see 28 C.P.R., Part 36), and
(2) Title II (Public Entities), Section 35.151 (New Construction
and Alterations) (see 28 C.P.R., Part 35) bothfrom the Ameri-
cans with Disabilities Act of1990, and(3) under the Fair Hous-
ing Amendments Act of1988. Some ofthese regulations may be
more stringent than state law in .order to meet the federal
requirement.
109.1.1 Application. See Government Code commencing
with Section 4450.
Publicly funded buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs
and related facilities shall be accessible to and usable by
persons with disabilities as follows:
109.1.1.1 All buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs and
related facilities constructed in the state by the use of
state, county or municipal funds, or the funds of any
political subdivision of the state.
109.1.1.2 All buildings, structures andfacilities that are
leased, rented, contracted, sublet or hiredby any munici-
pal, county or state division of government, or by a spe-
cial district.
109.1.1.3 All publiclyfunded buildings usedfor congre-
gate residences or for one- or twolamily dwelling unit
purposes shall conform to the provisions applicable to
living accommodations. .
109.1.1.4 All existing publicly funded buildings and
facilities when alterations, structural repairs or addi-
tions are made to such buildings or facilities. For
detailed requirements on existing buildings, see Chapter
11B, Division IV.
109.1.1.5 With respect to buildings, structures, side-
walks, curbs and relatedfacilities not requiring a build-
ing permit, building standards published in the
California Building Standards Code relating to access
for persons with disabilities and other regulations
adopted pursuant to Government Code Section 4450,
and in effect at the time construction is commenced, shall
be applicable.
109.1.2 Application. See Health and Safety Code com-
mencing with Section 19952.
All privately funded public accommodations, as defined
and commercial facilities, as defined, shall be accessible to
persons with disabilities as follows:
Exception: Certain types ofprivately funded multistory
buildings do not require installation of an elevator to
provide access above and belowthefirstfloor. See Chap-
ter lIB.
109.1.2.1 Any building, structure facility, complex or
improvedarea, orportions thereof, which are usedby the
general public.
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
SECTION 110
OFFICE OF STATEWIDE HEALTH
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

110.1 OSHPD 1. Specific scope of application of the agency

responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the spe-
cific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this
code, unless otherwise stated.
Application-General acute care hospitals and acute psychi-
atric hospitals, excluding distinct part units or distinct part

freestanding. buildings providing skilled nursing or intermedi-

ate care services. For structural regulations: Skilled nursing
facilities and/or intermediate care facilities except thoSe
skilled nursingjacilities and intermediate carefacilities ofsin-
gle-story, Type V; wood or light steel-frame construction.

109.1.2.2 Any sanitary facilities which are made avail-

able for the public, clients or employees in such accom-
modations orfacilities.
109.1.2.3 Any curb or sidewalk intended for public use
that is constructed in this state with private funds.
109.1.2.4All existing privatelyfunded public accommo-
dations when alterations, structural repairs or additions
are made to such public accommodations as set forth
under Chapter lIB.
109.1.3 Application-Public housingandprivate housing
available for public use. See Government Code Sections
4450 and 12955.1(d). .
109.1.4 Enforcing agency.
109.1.4.1 The director ofthe Department ofGeneral Ser-
vices where state funds are utilized for any project or
wherefunds ofcounties, municipalities or otherpolitical
subdivisions are utilizedfor the construction ofelemen-
tary, secondary or community college projects.
109.1.4.2 The governing bodies wherefunds ofcounties,
municipalities or otherpolitical subdivisions are utilized
except as otherwise provided above.
109.1.4.3 The building department of every city, county
or city and county within the territorial area of its city,
county or city and county, where private funds are uti-
lized. "Building department" means the department,
bureau or officer charged with the enforcement oflaws or
ordinances regulating the erection or construction, or
both the erection and construction, of buildings.
109.1.5 Special conditions for persons with disabilities
requiring appeals action ratification. Whenever reference
is made in these regulations to this section, the findings and
determinations required to be renderedby the local enforc-
ing agency shall be subject to ratification through an
appeals p r o c ~ s s .
109.1.6Authority cited-Government Code Section 4450.
109.1. 7Reference cited-Government Code Sections 4450
through 4461 and 12955. 1(d) and Health and Safety Code
Sections 18949.1, 1?952 through 19959.
ADMINISTRATION
Enforcing agency-Office of Statewide Health Planning and
Development (OSHPD). The office shall enforce the Division
ofthe State Architect-Access Compliance regulations and the
regulations ofthe Office ofthe State Fire Marshalfor the above
statedfacility types.
110.1.1 Applicable administrative standards.
1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of_Regulations:
Chapters 6 and 7.
2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: Sec-
tions 101 and110ofChapter 1andAppendix Chapter 1.
110.1.2 Applicable building standards. California Build-
ing Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10and 12.
The provisions of Title 24, Part 2, as adopted and
amended by OSHPD, shall apply to the applications listed
in Section 110.1.
OSHPD1adopts thefollowing building standards in Title
24, Part 2:
Chapters 2 through 10, 12, 14, 15, 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A,
20, 21A, 22A, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34A, 35 and
Appendix J.
110.1.3 Identification of amendments. For applications
listed in Section 110.1, amendments appear in this codepre-
ceded with the acronym [OSHPD 1J, unless the entire chap-
ter is applicable. When the entire chapter is adopted without
amendments, all references to International Codes shall be
replaced by equivalent California Codes.
110.1.4 Reference to other chapters. Where reference is
made within this cod: to sections in Chapters 16, 17, 18, 19,
21,22 and 34, the respective sections in Chapters 16A, 17A,
18A, 19A, 21A, 22A and 34A shall apply instead.
Authority-Health.and Safety Code Sections 127010,
127015,1275 and 129850.
References-Health and Safety Code Sections 19958,
127010, 127015, 129680, 1275 and 129675 through
130070.
110.2 OSHPD 2. Specific scope of application of the agency
responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the spe-
cific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this
code, unless otherwise stated.
Application-Skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care
facilities, including distinct part skillednursing and intermedi-
ate care services on a general acute care or acute psychiatric
hospital license, providedeither are in a separate unit or afree-
standing building. For structural regulations: Single-story,
Type V skilled nursing facility and/or intermediate care facili-
ties utilizing wood or light steel-frame construction.
Enforcing agency-Office of Statewide Health Planning and
Development (OSHPD). The office shall also enforce the Divi-
sion of the State Architect-Access Compliance. regulations
and the regulations of the Office of the State Fire Marshal for
the above-statedfacility type.
110.2.1 Applicable administrative standards.
1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations:
Chapter 7.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE SR

ADMINISTRATION
2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: Sec-
tions 101 and110ofChapter 1andAppendix Chapter 1.
110.2.2 Applicable building standards. California Build-
ing Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10 and 12.
The provisions of Title. 24, Part 2, as adopted and
amended by OSHPD, shall apply to the applications listed
in Section 110.2.
OSHPD 2 adopts the following building standards in
Title 24, Part 2:
Chapters 2 through 10,12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21,
22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 and Appendix J.
110.2.3 Identification of amendments. For applications
listed in Section 110.2, amendments appear in this code pre-
ceded with the acronym [OSHPD 2]. When the entire chap-
ter is adopted without amendments, all references to
International Codes shall be replaced by equivalent Cali-
fornia Codes.
Authority-Health and Safety Code Sections 127010,
127015, 1275 and 129850.
References-Health and Safety Code Sections 127010,
127015, 1275 and 129680.
Il().3 OSHPD 3. Specific scope of application of the agency
responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the spe-
cific author.ity to adopt and enforce such provisions of this
code, unless otherwise stated.
Application-Licensed clinics and any freestanding building
under a hospital license where outpatient clinical services are
provided.
Enforcing agency-Local building department.
110.3.1 Applicable administrative standards.
1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations:
Chapter 7.
2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: Sec-
tions 101 and110ofChapter 1 andAppendix Chapter 1.
110.3.2 Applicable building standards. California Build-
ing Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10and 12.
The provisions of Title 24, Part 2, as adopted and
amended by OSHPD, shall apply to the applications listed
in Section 110.3.
OSHPD 3 adopts the following building standards in
Title 24, Part 2:
Chapters 2 through 10,12,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21,
22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35 and Appendix J.
110.3.3 Identification of amendments. For applications
listed in Section 110.3, amendments appear in this code
without the acronym [OSHPD 3]. Adoptions are shown in
the adoption matrix. When the entire chapter is adopted
without amendments, all references to International Codes
shall be replacedby equivalent California Codes.
Authority-Health and Safety Code Sections 127010,
127015 and 1226.
6R
References-Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, _
127015, 129885 and 1226, Government Code Section .,
54350 and State Constitution Article 11, Section 7.
110.4 OSHPD 4. Specific scope of application of the agency
responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the spe-
cific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this
code, unless otherwise stated. e
Application-Correctional treatment centers.
Enforcing agency-Office of Statewide Health Planning and
Development (OSHPD). The office shall also enforce the Divi-
sion of the State Architect-Access Compliance regulations
and the regulations of the Office of the State Fire Marshal for
the above-statedfacility types.
110.4.1 Applicable administrative standards.
1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations:
Chapter 7.
2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code ofRegulations: Sec-
tions 101 and 110 ofChapter 1 andAppendix Chapter
1.
110.4.2 Applicable building standards. California Build-
ing Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2,3,4,5,9, 10and 12.
The provisions of Title 24, Part 2, as adopted and
amended by OSHPD, shall apply to the applications listed
in Section 110.4.
OSHPD 4 adopts thefollowing building standards in Title
24, Part 2':
Chapters 2 through 10, 12, 14, 15, 16A, 17A, 18A, 19A,
20, 21A, 22A, 23, 24, 25, 26, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34A, 35 and
Appendix J.
110.4.3 Identification of amendments. For applications
listed in Section 110.4, amendments appear in this codepre-
cededwith the acronym [OSHPD 4], unless the entire chap-
ter is applicable. When the entire chapter is adoptedwithout
amendments, all references to International Codes shall be
replaced by equivalent California Codes.
110.4.4 Reference to other chapters. Where reference is
made within this code to sections in Chapters 16, 17, 18, 19,
21, 22 and 34, the respective sections in Chapters 16A, 17A,
18A, 19A, 21A, 22A and 34A shnll apply instead. .
Authority-Health and Safety Code Sections 127010,
127015 and 129790.
References-Health and Safety Code Sections 127010,
127015,1275 and 129675 through 130070.
SECTION 111
O F F ~ C E OF THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL
111.1 SFM-Office of the State Fire Marshal.
Any building or structure used or intendedfor use as an asy-
lum, jail, mental hospital, hosp.ital, sanitarium, home for the
. aged, children's nursery, children's home, school or any simi-
lar occupancy of any capacity.
Any theater, dancehall, skating rink, auditorium, assembly
hall, meeting hall, nightclub, fair building or similar place of
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
assemblage where 50 or morepersons may gather together in a
building, room or structure for the purpose of amusement,
entertainment, instruction, deliberation, worship, drinking or
dining, awaiting transportation, or education.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Small family d<zy care homes.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code 'Sections
1597.45,1597.54,13143 and 17921.
Reference - Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Large family day care homes.
Authority cited-Health and Safety' Code Sections
1597.46,1597.54 and 17921.
Reference - Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Residentialfacilities andresidentialfacilities for the elderly.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Section 13133.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Any state institution or other state-owned or state-occupied
building.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Section 13108.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
High-rise structures.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Section 13211.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Motion picture production studios.
A"fthority and Safety Code Section 13143.1.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Organized camps.
Authority cited-Health andSafety Code Section 18897.3.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Residential.
All hotels, motels, lodging houses, apartment houses ay!d
dwellings, including congregate residences and buildings and
structures accessory thereto.
Multiple-story structures existing on January 1, 1975, letfor
human habitation, including and limited to, hotels, motels and
apartment houses, less than 75feet(22 860 mm) above the low-
est floor level having building access, wherein rooms usedfor
sleeping are let above the groundfloor.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Sections 13143.2
and 17921.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
Residential care facilities.
Certifiedfamily care homes, out-of-home placement facili-
ties, halfway houses, drug and/or alcohol rehabilitationfacili-
ties and any building or structure used or intendedfor use as a
home or institution for the housing of any person of any age
when such person is referred to or placed within such home or
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ADMINISTRATION
institution for protective social care and supervision services
by any governmental agency.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.6.
Tents, awnings or otherfabric enclosures used in connection
with any occupancy.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Section 13116.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Section 13143.
EnforCing agency-Pursuant to Section 13146, Health
and Safety Code.
Fire alarm devices, equipment and systems in connection
with any occupancy.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Section 13114.
Hazardous materials.
Authority cited-Health andSafety Code Section 13143.9.
Flammable and combustible liquids.
Authority cited-Health andSafety Code Section 13143.6.
Public School Automatic Fire Detection, Alarm and Sprin-
kler Systems.
Authority cited-Health and Safety Code Section 13143
and California Education Code Article 7.5, Sections
17074.50, 17074.52 and 17074.54.
Reference-Government Code Section 11152.5, Health
and Safety Code Section 13143 and California Education
Code Chapter 12.5, Leroy F. Greene School Facilities Act of
1998, Article 1.
Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area.
Authority cited.......;.Health and Safety Code Sections 13143,
13108.5(a) and 18949.2(b) and (c) and Government Code
Section 51189.
Reference-Health and Safety Code Sections 13143, Gov-
ernment Code Sections 51176, 51177, 51178 and 51179
and Public Resources Code Sections 4201 through 4204.
111.2 Duties andpowers of the enforcing agency.
'111.2.1 Enforcement.
111.2.1.1 the responsibility for enforcement ofbuilding
standards adopted by the State Fire Marshal and pub-
lished in the California Building Standards Code relat-
ing to fire and panic safety and other regulations of the
Office of the State Fire Marshal shall be as follows:
1. The city, county or city and county withjurisdiction
in the area affected by the standard or regulation
shall delegate the enforcement ofthe building stan-
dards relating to fire and panic safety and other
regulations ofthe State Fire Marshal as they relate
to Group R, Division 3 dwellings, as described in
Section 310.1 of Part 2 of the California Building
Standards Code, to either of the following:
1.1. The chief of the fire authority of the city,
county or city and county, or an authorized
representative.
7R
ADMINISTRATION
1.2. The chief building official of the city,
county or city and county, or an authorized
representative.
2. The chiefofany city or countyfire department or of
anyfire protection district, andauthorized represen-
tatives, shall enforce 'within the jurisdiction the
building standards andother regulations ofthe State
Fire Marshal, except those described in Item1 or4.
3. The State Fire Marshal shall have authority to
enforce the building standards and other regula-
tions of the State Fire lvlarshal in areas outside of
corporate cities and districts providing fire pro-
tection services.
4. The State Fire Marshal shall have authority to
enforce the building standards andother regulations
ofthe State Fire Marshal in corporate cities anddis-
tricts providingfire protection services on request of
the chieffire official or the governing body.
5. Any fee charged pursuant to the enforcement
authority of this section shall not exceed the esti-
mated reasonable cost ofproviding the servicefor
which thefee is chargedpursuant to Section 66014
of the Government Code.
LA 101.4 Scope. The provisions of this Code shall apply to the
t ~ construction, alteration, moving, demolition, repair, mainte-
LA nance and use of any building or structure within this jurisdic-
t ~ tion, except work located primarily in a public way, public
LA utility towers and poles, mechanical equipment not specifically
t ~ regulated in this Code and hydraulic flood control structures.
t ~ For additions, alterations, moving and maintenance ofbuild-
t ~ ings and structures, see Chapter 34. For temporary buildings
LA and structures, see Section 3103.
LA .
LA Where, in any specific case, different sections of this Code
t ~ specify different materials, methods of construction or other
LA requirements, the most restrictive shall govern. Where there is
t ~ a conflict between a general requirement and a specific require-
t ~ ment, the specific requirement shall be applicable.
t ~ Wherever, in this Code, a reference is made to an appendix,
LA the provisions in the appendix shall not apply unless specifi-
LA
LA cally adopted. .
t ~ The metric conversions are provided in parenthesis follow-
t ~ ing the English units. Where industry has made metric conver-
LA sions available, the conversions conform to current industry
t ~ standards. Formulas are also provided with metric equivalents.
LA Metric equivalent formulas immediately follow the English
t ~ formula and are denoted by "For S:J[" preceding the metric
LA equivalent. Some formulas do not use dimensions and, thus,
t ~ are not provided with a metric equivalent. Multiplying conver-
LA sion factors have been provided for formulas where metric
t ~ forms were unavailable. Tables are provided with multiplying
t ~ conversion factors in subheadings for each tabulated units mea-
LA surement.
LA
LA 101.5 Work not in scope. The provisions of this Code shall not
~ apply to any of the following:
t ~ 1. A building accessory to a dwelling and not located in
LA Fire District No.1, provided the building is not more
8R
than 64 square feet (5.9 m') in area or 8 feet (2438 mm) _
in height and does not contain any heating, plumbing or LA
electrical installation and is located as permitted by the t ~
Los Angeles Zoning Code. LA
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2. Oil derricks. LA
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3. Towers or poles supporting public utility communica- t_
tion lines, antennas or power transmission lines. L.
LA
4. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in LA
height, measured from the bottom of the footing to the t ~
top of the wall unless supporting a surcharge or sloping LA
earth, or impounding flammable liquids. This exemp- t ~
tion shall not apply to retaining walls of any height built L_
on slopes steeper than I vertical to 5 horizontal t.
(20-percent slope). LA
LA
5. Water tanks supported directly upon grade if the capac- t ~
ity does not exceed 5,000 gallons (18 927 L) and the LA
ratio of the height to diameter or width does not exceed t ~
2 to 1. LA
LA
6. Motion picture sets when not supported by any portion LA
of any building. t ~
7. Pergolas and lath houses, both of which shall be outside t ~
of any fire district, not over 400 square feet in area, and LA
not supported by or attached to any portion of any t ~
building. t ~
8. Work in a public way, dams and drainage structures tAl)
constructed by or under contract with the Board of Pub- L
lic Works, the Department of Water and Power and the tA
County Flood Control District, unless the structure LA
forms a portion of the support for a building or a struc- t ~
ture coming within the jurisdiction of the Department LA
of Building and Safety. t ~
9. Portable amusement devices and structures, including t ~
merry-go-rounds, ferris wheels, rotating conveyances, LA
slides, similar devices and portable accessory structures t ~
whose use is necessary for the operation of such amuse- ~
ment devices and structures; any pm1able accessory LA
structure included in the provisions of this subdivision t ~
shall be limited to a cover or roof over each device, but LA
shall not include any storage building or detached struc- ~
ture that is not an integral part of the device.
10. Isolated buildings not larger in area than 16 square feet L.:
(1.5 m
2
), including roof projections, and not more than t ~
8 feet (2438 mm) in height, if separated by a distance of LA
LA
20 feet (6096 mm) or more. . LA
11. Nothing in this Code shall apply to any excavation, t ~
removal, fill or deposit of any earth or other materials ta
from individual interment sites, underground crypts or ~
burial vaults within a property which is dedicated or t ~
used for cemetery purposes, provided that such work LA
does not affect the' lateral support or increase the t ~
stresses in or pressure upon any adjacent or contiguous LA
property not owned by the cemetery authority. t
a
12. The surface mining of minerals in a "0" Surface Min- t.
ing District as established and provided for in Section LA
13.03 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code, or where t ~
permitted by order of a court ofcompetent jurisdiction. t ~
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
The dewositing ofrubbish or other material at a*y dump
by the City of Los Angeles, orby,anyperson
P
ursuaNt to the provisions of Section 66.15 or 66.25 of
. 'I" '
the Los:,Angeles Municipal Code.
N()thing in this Code shall apply to grading an iso-
lated, sblf-contained area if the DepaJ,'tment fi:nds that
by reason of such isolation ,and no
danger private or public property can now or:thereaf-
ter restIlt from grading operations.
Any portable metal hangar less than 2,000 square feet in
size, on a city-owned airport, used for the ,park-
ing of aircraft only, and bearing evidence of approval by
the of Motor Vehicles of the State' of Cali-
fornia for movement on any highway. Such Structure
shall, as an integral part of its basic" construc;tion, be
equipped with ahitch or coupling device for tbwing. It
shall accommodate, without further major s,truCtural
wheel and axle assemblies that wil!,1 provide
such stthIcture with a safe means of portability. water
or sanitary facilities shall be permitted in such structure,
and it shall be equipped with permanent ventilation as
required for Group S, Division 3 occupancies.
Tents and trailers used for office or shelter f)urposes
accessory to a Christmas tree sales lot during th,e month
of December only, provided the aggregate of all
tents and trailers does not exceed 600 square feet (55.7
m:?) for each sales lot. (Such tents by the
Fire Department under Article 7, Chapter V of the Los
Angeles Municipal Code.)
Tents accessory to a dwelling and not exceeding 450
square feet in area (41.8 m
2
).
Signs not exceeding 20 square feet (1.9 m
2
) in area,
placed upon the s:urface of the ground, no part of which
more than 6 feet 6 inches (1981 mm) above the
underlying ground, which have no mechanical10r mov-
ing paI7tS or to which no electricity or other source of
illumination or power are' attached or made a part
thereof. Such signs shall be separated from each other a
minimum distance of 15 feet (4572 mm).
Boards and signs used exclusively to display official
notices issued by any court or public officer iri the per-
formance of a public duty or by a private person in giv-
ing legal notice.
SECTION 104
ORGANIZATION AND ENFORCEMENT
13.
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S.ECTION 102
LA UNSAFE BUilDINGS OR STRUCTURES
The regulation,s for the abatement of unsafe buildings or struc-
LA tures are enumerated in Chapter 89 of this Code.
LA
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LA SECTION 103
... VIOLATIONS '.
103.1 General. No person shall construct, alter,repair, demol-
., ish, remove, n1bve, use, occupy or maintain, within the city, any
. LA building or structure or any portion thereof, except as provided
by this Code.
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ADMINISTRATION
No person shall grade, excavate or fill any land except as pro-
vided by this Code. LA
, LA
The provisions of this Code shall not be pre- LA
sumed to waive any limitations imposed by other statutes or
ordinances of tfue state or City.
All of the provisions of this Code shall be limitations for
safegu'arding life, limb, health, property and public welfare. LA
LA
If two or mote pertinent limitations are not identical, those
limitations shall prevail which provide the greater safety to life LA
or limb, health,', property or public welfare.
103.2 Violation of a building or grading permit. Every per-
son who knowingly and willfully procures a building and/or LA
grading permit 'without the consent of the owner of record of
the property for which the permit is issued, or such person' s
agent, is guilty 'of a misdemeanor. LA
LA
Exception: This subsection shall not apply to building LA
and/or grading permits obtained pursuant to and in compli-
ance with an order of a court of law or a governmental LA
LA
LA
LA
103.3 Violation of an order. No person shall fail to comply LA
with any 'valid order issued pursuant to any provision or
requirement of :this Code. LA
LA
103.4Making false statements to the Depart"1ent. It shall be
unlawful for an person, authorized by the Department to per- LA
form inspections, to make a false or misleading statement, or
misrepresentati,on in any writing submitted to the Department. LA
, LA
For purposes of this section a "person authorized by the
Department to perform inspections" is any person who is a LA
registered deputy inspector, a structural inspector, a certified
welder or a certified licensed contractor. The term "writing" LA
shall include, but is not limited to, forms, applications, approv-
als, reports or certifications required by the Department. LA
LA
Every violation of this section is punishable as a misde-
meanor' LA
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104.1 Creation of the Department.
104.2 Powers of the Department and duties of the Superin-
. ,tendent of Building.
LA
104.2.1 General. The powers of the Department are enu- LA
merated in Section 98.0403.1 of the Los Angeles Municipal LA
LA
LA
LA
The Superintendent of Building shall have the duty to LA
render interpretations of this Code and to adoptand enforce
rules and supplemental regulations to clarify the application LA
of its provisions. These interpretations, rules and regula-
tions shall be in conformanc.e with the intent and purpose of LA
this Code.
LA
The Superintendent of Building shall classify every LA
building into one of the occupancies set forth in Chapter 3 of
this Code according to its use or the character of its occu- LA
pancy. The Superintendent of Building shall also classify
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AIDMINISTRA
every building into one of the types of construction set forth
in Chapter 6 of this Code.
]1.041.2.2 Autll:lOrity to require exposure of work. When-
ever any work on which called inspections are required, as
specified in Section 108, is covered or concealed by addi-
tional work without first having been inspected, the work
shall be exposed for examination upon written notice by the
Department. The work of exposing and recovering shall not
entail expense to the City.
1041.2.3 IDgltut oft' entry. The authority for right of entry is
enumerated in Section 98.0105 of the Los Angeles Munici-
pal Code.
104.2.41 Autltuority to stop work. Whenever any construc-
tion work is being done contrary to the provisions of any law
or ordinance enforced by the Department, the Department
shall have the authority to issue a written notice to the
responsible party to stop work on that portion ofthe work on
which the violation has occurred. The notice shall state the
nature of the violation and no work shall be done on that
portion until the violation has been rectified and approval
obtained from the Department. '
104.2.5 Authority to stop use or occupancy. Whenever
any portion of a building is loaded in excess for which it was
constructed, or it houses an occupancy other than that for
which it was constructed, or there is an encroachment upon
any required court or yard, the Department shall have the
authority to order by written notice that such violation be
discontinued.
The written notice shall state the nature of the violations
and shall fix a time for the abatement thereof. If the viola-
tions have not been abated by the expiration of the fixed
time, the Certificate of Occupancy shall thereupon be can-
celed.
104.2.6 Antennate materials, alternate design and meth-
ods of constJructiolll. New or alternate materials and meth-
ods of construction may be approved by the Department in
accordance with the provisions of Article 8, Chapter IX of
the Los Angeles Municipal Code.
1041.2.7 Building mateJrnals inspectionrequirelll.
1041.2.7.1 No person shall use or cause to be used, in the
construction of any building or structure for the erection
of which a permit is required by this chapter, any materi-
als which are not specifically permitted by this Code,
without having first secured the approval of said materi-
als by the Department.
104L2.7.2 The Department may require that all materials
to be used in the construction of any building or struc-
ture, or materials already used or fabricated into a build-
ing or structure be submitted for test to a testing agency
approved by the Department.
104.2.7.3 It is unlawful for any person to fail to submit to
an approved testing agency within 5 days after having
received a written notice from the Department a sample,
sufficient for analysis, of any material to be used in the
erection or construction of a building or structure, or
10R
which has been used or fabricated into a building or
structure. L"
LA
104.2.7.41 No material required by the Department to be
submitted to a testing agency for analysis shall be LA
approved by the Department unless the person request-
ing said approval submits a written report of the analysis LA
by such testing agency.
LAW
LA
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SECTION 105 LA
APPEALS
LA
105.1 General. Appeals or requests for slight modifications in LA
individual cases from the requirements of this Code shall be
made in accordance with the procedure established in Section
98.0403.2 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.
105.2 Building advisory appeal board. The Building Advi-
sory Appeal Board is hereby abolished. Any duties assigned to
the Building Advisory Appeal Board by any provision of law LA
shall be performed as determined by the Superintendent of
Building. ' LA
LA
105.3 Engineering geology advisory committee. LA
LA
105.3.1 Function of the committee. It shall be the function
of the Engineering Geology Advisory Committee to advise LA
and counsel the board on appeals involving technical ques-
tions of soils engineering, geology, geology/seismology LA
and related matters. .
105.3.2 Establishment of the committee member list.
The Board of Building and Safety Commissioners shall
establish an Engineering Geology Advisory Committee LA
member list (hereinafter in this section referred to as the
"committee member list") which shall consist of not less LA
than 10 soils engineers and engineering geologists are
available to serve as members of the Engineering Geology LA
Advisory Committee. At least two of the engineering geolo-
gist members and two of the soils engineer members shall LA
have experience in the field of seismic design and safety.
Members of said committee shall be exempt from all civil
service provisions. LA
LA
105.3.3 Procedllllre. When an appeal is made to the board, LA
and the board determines that the subject of the appeal t
A

involves a problem of soils engineering, geology, geol- L

ogy/seismology or a related matter on which it desires fur-
ther technical advice before it renders a decision thereon,
the board may select three or more persons from the Engi- tA
neering Geology Advisory Committee member list to serve
on a committee for the purpose of assisting the board in LA
seeking a solution to said problem, and may refer the matter t_
to such committee members for report and recommenda- LA
tion. At least one designated member of the committee shall
be a soils engineer and one shall be an engineering geolo- LA
gist. The members of the committee meeting shall review
the matter andshall then submit to the board a recommenda- LA
tion. When a matter is referred to the committee as in this
section provided, the board shall consider, but is not bound L
to accept, the recommendation of the committee.
LA
105.3.4 Compensation of members. Each member ofthe LA
committee who is in attendance at a meeting requested by
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUilDING CODE
ADMINISTRATION
1. Where no more than two lots are involved in the
appeal, $150.00;
105.3.6 Fees. When a matter is referred to the committee as
provided in this section, the appellant in said matter shall pay a
referral fee of $50.00 and shall also pay a fee as follows:
the board shall be compensated at the rate of $50.00 for each
four hours or fraction thereof of service. However, in no
case shall the compensation of the committee members
exceed the fee paid by the appellant under Section 105.3.6.
105.4.4 Composition of the committee. The board shall
select five persons from the Sign Advisory Committee mem-
ber list to st<rve on a committee. The committee shall be com-
posed of one member from each of the following interests:
3. Three public members, one each from the following
interests: architecture, sign industry and community LA
LA
groups. LA
, ' LA
105.4.5 Compensation of members. Each member of the LA
committee who is in actual attendance at a meeting requested
by the board shall be compensated at the rate of $50.00for each LA
four hours or'fraction thereof of service. However, in no case
shall the compensation of the committee members exceed the LA
fee paid by the applicant under Section 105.4.7.
LA
105.4.6 Self-insurance by the city for committee members. LA
The provisions of Sections 11.36 through 11.44, inclusive, of
the 0sAngeles shall apply Sign
AdVISOry Co:tnrmttee member while the member IS actmg as LA
such, and committee members sha:ll be deemed to be fully cov-
ered by the provisions of said sections even though each com- LA
mittee member is retained as an independent person and not as
an officer or employee of the city. LA
LA
105.4.7 Fees. When a matter is referred to the committee as
provided in this section, the applicant in said matter shall LA
pay a referral fee of $300.00. '
LA
105.5 Disabled access appeals commission. LA
LA
105.5.1 Creation of the commission. There is hereby
established a commission known as the Disabled Access
Appeals Commission. LA
LA
105.5.2 Membership of the commission. The Disabled
Access Appeals Commission shall be composed of five LA
qualified persons. Two members of the commission shall be
physically disabled persons, and two members shall be per- LA
sons experienced in construction. The fifth member may be
any resident of the City of Los Angeles. Commission mem- LA
bers shall be appointed by the Mayor, subject to Council
approval, and may be removed by the Mayor. In the case of a LA
vacancy during the term of office of any member, the same
shall be filled by appointment by the Mayor for the period of LA
the unexpired term subject to the approval of the council by
a majority vote. The members of the commission shall be
exempt from all civil service provisions. LA
LA
105.5.3 Compensation and term of office. Each member of
the commission shall be paid $50.00 per meeting attended, but LA
not to exceed $250.00 in anyone calendar month.
LA
The termof office of the members of the commission shall LA
be five years beginning with the first day ofJuly ofthe respec-
tive years, except that the terms of office of the original five LA
members of the commission appointed pursuant to this sub-
section shall be such that one term shall expire on the fIrst LA
June 30, one term shall expire on the second June 30, one
termshall expire on the third June 30, one term shall expire on LA
, ' LA
the fourth June 30, and one term shall expire on the fifth June LA
30 next following the effective date of the appointment of the
original five members. Thereafter, the terms of the succeed- LA
ing members shall be so designated that the term of office of
one member shall expire each year. The period of term of LA
each member shall be designated in the appointment.
LA
Each member of the commission shall have the power to LA
administer oaths.
2. Where not less than three or more than 10 lots are
involved in the appeal, $300.00; and
3. Where more than 10 lots are involved in the appeal,
$600.00.
1. One member of or designated by the'Board of Build-
ing a:nd Safety Commissioners;
2. One member of or designated by the City Planning
Commission; and
105.3.5 Self insurance by the city for committee mem- .
bers. l'he provisions of Sections 11.36 through 11.44,
inclusive, City ofLos Angeles Administrative Code, entitled
"Self Insurance by the City for Officers and Employees
of Said! City," shall apply to each Engineering CJeology
Advisory Committee member while the member is acting as
such, and committee members shall be deemed to be fully
covered by the provisions of said sections even though each
committee member is retained as an independent person and
not as an officer or employee of the city.
105.4.3 Procedure. When the board determines that a matter is
significant in nature, the board may refer the matter to a Sign
Advisory Committee for evaluation and recommendation before
it renders a decision thereon. When the matter is referred to a Sign
Advisory Committee, the board shall consider; but is not bound to
accept, the recommendation of the committee.
105.4.2 Establishment of the committee, member list.
,The Board of Building and Safety Commissioners shall
establish a Sign Advisory Committee member list repre-
senting the various required fields of interest ofpersons who
are available to serve as members of a Sign Advisory Com-
mittee. Persons selected for the Sign Advisory Committee
list shall possess experience in the design, fabrication, use
or application of signs, or shall have demonstrated a back-
ground in the social and environment impacts of signs ot the
development of sign regulations. Members of said commit-
tee shall be exempt from all civil service requirements.
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105.4 Sign advisory committee.
105.4.1 Function of the committee. It shall be the function
LA of a Sign Advisory Committee to advise, counsel and pro-
vide recommendations to the Board of Building and Safety
LA Commissioners on matters involving sign regulations.
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ADMINISTRATION
]105.5.4 Authority of the commission. The commission
shall have and exercise the following powers:
1. To hear and determine written appeals brought by any
person from actions taken by the Department of
Building and Safety (Depmtment) in the enforcement
of the requirements of Section 19955, et seq., of the
California Health and Safety Code, the provisions of
state law dealing with access to public accommoda-
tions by physically disabled persons.
2. To hear and determine written appeals brought by any
person from the rulings, decisions and determinations
of the Department granting or denying applications
for exceptions pursuant to Section 19957 of the
Health and Safety Code.
3. To hear and determine written appeals brought by any
persons wherein it is alleged that there is error or
abuse of discretion in any order, requirement, deci-
sion, interpretation or other determination made by
the Department in the enforcement or administration
of Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations,
Section 101.17 et seq., and any other federal, state or
"municipal handicapped access and adaptability
requirements.
All appeals shall be reviewed by the Department.
The Department may reverse or modify the action
appealed from at any time prior to final action by the
commission: Any such new action may then be
appealed to the commission.
4. To respond to the department's request for advice on
any matter within the department's jurisdiction relat-
ing to access to public accommodations and housing
by the physically disabled.
5. To exercise the authority granted in Section 105.6.
105.5.5 Appeals.
105.5.5.1 Procedures. An appeal to the commission
may be filed by any person aggrieved, or by an officer,
board, department or bureau of the city. An appeal" shall
be in writing and shall be filed in the Office of the Board
of Building and Safety Commissioners upon appropriate
forms provided by the Department. An appeal shall set
forth specifically the points at issue, the reasons for the
appeal, and wherein the appellant believes there was an
error or an abuse of discretion by the Department.
When considering an appeal from an action by the
Department, the comrriission shall make its determina-
tion within 30 days from the filing of the appeal. This
time limit may be extended by mutual written consent of
the applicant and the commission. Upon receipt of the
appeal, the commission shall set the matter for hearing
and give notice by mail of the time, place and purpose
thereof to the appellant, to the applicant, to the owner or
owners of the property involved, and to any interested
party who has requested in writing to be so notified. Such
notice shall be in writing and mailed at least 10 days prior
to said hearing. No other notice thereof need be given
except in those. cases hereinafter mentioned.
12R
The commission may grant, conditionally grant, or ~
deny any appeal. All actions of the commission shall be t_
final. Any action within the jurisdiction of the commis- t ~
sion shall be final and conclusive as to the Department in LA
the absence of fraud or abuse of discretion. t ~
LA
A separate appeal shall be filed for each single build- LA_
ing as described in Section 98.0403.2 ofthe Los Angeles t
Municipal Code. Appeals to the Appeals Commission LA:
shall be accompanied by a filing fee as set forth in Table t ~ .
4-A of Chapter 4 of Article 8, Chapter IX, of the Los t ~
Angeles Municipal Code. LA
. LA
If the commission fails to act on any appeal within the teA
time limit specified in this section, then the action of the L
Department C?n the matter shall be final. tA
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105.5.5.2 Decision. The decision upon an appeal shall be LA
concurred in by at least three members of the commis- t ~
sion. The commission may modify or reverse a ruling, LA
decision or determination appealed from only upon mak- t ~
ing written findings setting forth specifically wherein the LA
. fhD . . d LA
actIOn 0 t e epartment was In error or constitute an LA
abuse of discretion. The commission shall make specific LA
written findings supporting any modification or reversal. ~
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Upon making a decision, a copy of the findings and LA
determination shall be furnished the applicant, the appel- t ~
lant and the Department of Building and Safety. t
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105.5.5.3 Special findings. Before granting or affirming t_
the grant of an exception pursuant to Section 19957 of t ~
the Health and Safety Code, the commission must find LA
. that the application involves a case of practical difficulty, t ~
unnecessary hardship, or extreme differences and that it LA
is clearly evident that equivalent facilitation and protec- t ~
tion will be secured. LA
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105.5.5.4 Revocation of approvaBs. The commission t ~
shall revoke or rescind any determination, including the LA
grant of an appeal or exception, if made in error in viola- t ~
tion of any provision of law, or in reliance on any false t ~
statement or misrepresentation as to a material fact. LA
LA
105.5.5.5 Time limits. The rights and privileges granted L_A
by the commission pursuant to any decision, determina-
tion, approval, appeal or exception shall be void "if all t
required building permits are not secured within one year LA
of the effective date of such action, or if the permit t ~
expires under any of the conditions specified in Section LA
98.0602 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code. t ~
LA
However, the commission, and the superintendent L.
acting on behalf of the commission, may grant exten- t
sions of time if the applicant submits in writing substan- LA
tial evidence that unusual conditions or circumstances t ~
either precluded the securing of all required permits t ~
within the allocated time or caused the permit to expire LA
as specified in Section 98.0602 of the Los Angeles t
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Municipal Code. L
LA:
Requests for extensions of time shall be made not later t ~
than 30 days after the expiration times specified in this LA
. LA
sectIOn. LA
2008 CiTY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ADMINISTRATION
3. To request the city attorney, or an assistant or dep-
uty designated by the city attorney to appear at any
hearing before the commission.
4. To adopt rules regarding the filing of the
conduct of its hearings and any other procedural
rules in keeping with the provisions ofthis Chap-
ter.
105.5.5.6 Additional authority. In considering appeals,
the commission may exercise the following powers:
1. To appoint one or more hearing officers to conduct
hearings and make recommendations to the same
extent and in the same manner as the Superinten-
dent of Building acting pursuant to Section
98.0602 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.
2. To request the attendance of witnesses and the pro-
duction of evidence before it.
105.5.5.7 Limitations on jurisdiction. Notwithstand-
ing any other provision of this Code, the commission's
jurisdiction shall not include the right to hear and deter-
mine an appeal from a department determination, order
or action if such appeal is filed:
1. On or after the date a criminal citation is issued,
charging the appellant with a violation of law
based on 'the facts underlying such determination,
order or action; or
2. On or after the date a criminal complaint is filed,
charging the appellant with a violation of state
laws based on such determination, order or action.
Further, the commission's jurisdiction spall not
include the right to heat appeal.s from or otherwise
review any action, order or determination of the Board of
1. The gravity of the violation;
2. The good faith of the violator being charged; and
3. The history ofprevious violations.
writing to the Disabled Access Appeals Commission for a
hearing with respect to the violation alleged, the abatement LA
period, and the amount of the penalty. This request shall be
filed within 15 days after the date of service. LA
LA
If the person does not request a hearing within the pre-
scribed time, then. the notice of proposed penalty shall be
final, and the amount of any penalty included in the notice LA
shall immediately be due and owing to the City of Los
Angeles. The city then shall have the right to bring an action LA
in any court of competent jurisdiction to enforce the order
and collect the amount of the penalty. LA
LA
If the Department determines that there has been compli-
ance with the order of abatement within the time for correc-
tion, then the Department may rescind the notice ofpenalty. LA
LA
105.6.3 Time of hearing; notice. If the person requests a
hearing, the superintendent shall cause the matter to be set LA
for hearing before the Disabled Access Appeals Commis-
sion. The hearing shall be scheduled not later than 30 days LA
after the date of the application for hearing. This time limit
may be extended with the mutual consent of the person and
the commission. It shall be a defense to the affirmation of LA
any penalty that the person complied with the order of
abatement within the time for correction. LA'
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The decision of the commission on the order of abate-
ment and notice of proposed penalty shall be final, and the LA
I amount of any penalty affirmed by the commission shall
immediately be due and owing to the City of Los Angeles. LA
The city then shall have the right to bring an action in any
court of competent jurisdiction to enforce the order and col-
lect the amount of penalty. LA
LA
105.6.4 Civil penalties. Any penalty required to be paid
under the provisions of this section is a debt owed to the City LA
of Los Angeles. Any person owing a penalty due under the
provisions of this section shall be liable in an action brought LA
in the name of the City of Los Angeles in any court of com-
petent jurisdiction for recovery of any such amount.
LA
The conviction of any person for violating any law shall LA
,not relieve the person from the obligation to pay any penalty
that the person may owe the city, nor shall such payment LA
prevent a prosecution under appropriate provisions of law
for any violation of the law. The remedies provided in this LA
section are cumulative. The use of one or more of the reme-
dies prescribed in this section shall not bar the use of any LA
other remedy provided for the enforcement of law.
LA
105.6.5 Fee schedules. The Superintendent shall submit a
schedule for the assessment of civil penalties under this sec- LA
tion to council for the approval by ordinance.
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priateness of the penalty with respect to the following fac- LA
tors:
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105.6.1'Order of abatement and notice of proposed pen-
alty. If the superintendent determines that a person has vio-
lated or failed to comply with any requirement of the law
relating to access to public accommodations and housing by
the physically disabled, then the superintendent may issue
an order of abatement and notice of proposed penalty to that
person.
The order and notice shall be in writing and shall describe
with particularity the nature of the violation, including a ref-
erence to the provision of law that has been violated. The
order shall fix a reasonable time for correction of the viola-
tion, and the notice of proposed penalty shall set forth the
amount of the penalty.
The order of abatement and notice of proposed penalty
shall be served upon the person either personally, or by
deposit in the United States mail in a sealed envelope, post-
age prepaid to the person's last known address. '
The order and notice shall also set forth the, person's right
to a hearing, as described in Section 105.6.2.
105.6.2 Right to hearing. Any person served with an order
of abatemertt or notice of proposed penalty, may apply in
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105.6 Administrative penalties for disabled access viola-
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2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE 13R
liON
tal (50 percent slope). This exception shall not
apply to cut which exceeds 50 cubic yards (38.3 LA
m
3
) or which changes the existing drainage pat-
tern. LA
LA
2. A fill less than one foot (305 mm) in depth and
placed on natural terrain with a slope flatter than L_
one unit vertical in 10 units horizontal (lO-percent
slope). This exception shall not apply when the fill LA
exceeds 50 cubic yards (38.3 m
3
) or when the fill
changes the existing drainage pattern.
3. Excavations, located in hillside areas, for caissons
or piles under buildings or structures authorized by LA_
valid building permits. t
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4. Excavations, not located in hillside areas, for base- LA
ments, footings, caissons, piles, swimming pools
or underground structures which are authorized by LA
valid building permits.
5. Excavations for wells or tunnels or utilities, which
do not provide vertical or lateral support for build-
ings, or adversely impact the safety or stability of LA
private or public properties.
. LA
Grading permits may be waived by the Department for LA
excavations under buildings or structures in hillside areas, if
the applicant can demonstrate that the site is relatively level, LA
or the excavation is entirely for footings and/or grade beams t_
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not exceeding 5 feet (l524 mm) deep. L
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106.1.3 Temporary permits. Before commencing the con-
struction of any work for temporary use, a building permit LA
authorizing such work shall be obtained from the Depart-
ment. Such construction shall be occupied or used only for
the period set forth on the permit application, but shall not LA
exceed 120 days.
LA
Except for tents and bleachers, application for permit LA
shall be filed at least seven days prior to the construction,
erection or operation of any device, structure, or any work LA
regulated by this article for temporary use.
LA
All temporary construction or installations shall' be
demolished or removed within five days after the expiration L_
of the Certificate of Occupancy. Requests for inspection t.
must be received by the Department at least 2 days prior to LA
public use or occupancy.
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106.2 Exceptions. Permit not required for: LA
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1. Where the work regulated by this Code is valued at
$500.00 or less, unless it affects the structural stability L_.
of a building, or public safety, or is done to make a
building conform to the requirements of this Code for a LA
h
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c ange III use or occupancy. LA
2. Flag poles and towers not erected upon a building and
not more than 15 feet (4572 mm) high. Radio and tele-
vision. antennae towers which do not exceed 45 feet (13 La
716 mm) in height or light standards which do nor
exceed 30 feet (9144 mm) in height. LA
LA
3. Construction sheds and sidewalk protection canopies LA
built pursuant to Chapter 33.
106
PERMITS
106.1.1 Bufildnll1lg permnts. No person shall erect, construct,
alter, repair, demolish, remove or move any building or
structure, nor shall any person commence any liquid wash-
ing, compressed air cleaning or steam cleaning of exterior
surfaces of any building unless said person has obtained a
permit from the Department. A separate permit shall be
obtained for each separate building or structure except a
group of temporary structures erected on one site for a lim-
ited period of time be included on one permit..
Where the installation, alteration or repair of ventilation
equipment or ductwork is not included within the scope of a
valid building permit, a separate building permit shall be
obtained for the work.
Sandblasting, liquid washing, compressed air cleaning,
steam cleaning of exterior surfaces of buildings adjacent to
and within 20 feet (6096 mm) of pedestrian walkways in
dedicated streets in the limits of Fire District No.1 shall be
done only between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., or
on Sundays.
Where complete plans for a proposed building are filed
with the Department and where a foundation only permit is
issued with respect thereto in accordance with rules estab-
lished by the Superintendent of Building pursuant to Sec-
tion 22.19 of the Los Angeles Administrative Code, a
building permit may be issued for the remainder of the
building within 1 year after the issuance of the foundation
only permit, provided such plans and specifications comply
with all applicable Los Angeles Building Code provisions in
effect at the time of issuance of such foundation only permit.
106.1.2 Grading permits. No person shall commence or
perform any grading, and no person shall import or export
any earth materials to or from any grading site, without first
having obtained a permit from the Department. No person
shall perform any grading within areas designated "hill-
side" unless a copy of the permit is in the possession of a
responsible person and available at the site for display upon
request.
Any grading project involving more than 100 cubic yards
(76.5 m
3
) of excavation and involving an excavation in
excess of 5 feet (l524 mm) in vertical depth at its deepest
point measured from the original ground surface shall be
done by a State of California licensed contractor who is
licensed to perform the work described herein.
A separate permit shall be required for each grading site.
One permit may include the entire grading operation at that
site, however.
Exception.: All other provisions of the Code shall apply,
but a permit will not be required if the work complies
with anyone of the following conditions:
1. An excavation which (a) is less than 2 feet (610
mm) in depth, or (b) which does not create a cut
slope greater than 5 feet (l524 mm) in height and
steeper than one unit vertical in two units horizon-
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4. Sandblasting, liquid washing, compressed air cleaning,
steamcleaning of buildings outside of Fire Districts No.
1 and also those exterior surfaces of buildings which are
located lllore than 20 feet (6096. mm) from pedestrian
in dedicated streets. Painting, papering and
similar work, provided that the values thereof shall be
as part of the value of any new construttion for
which a permit is required bythis Code, for the purpose
of deteimining the amount of the fee to be paid for such
permit; and provided further that this exceptiondoes not
include operations such as liquid washing, compressed
air cleaning and steam cleaning on the exterior surfaces
of buildings adjacent and within 20 feet (6096 mm) of
pedestrian walkways in dedicated streets where such
operations extend above the first story.
5. Platforms, walks and driveways not more than 30
inches (762 mm) above grade and not over any base-
ment or story below.
6. Exhibits, booths, partitions and display counters for
temporary use not exceeding 30 days in conjunction
with an exhibit or show and not exceeding. 12 feet
(3658 mm) in height above the floor.
7. Outdoor tents or cloth structures for temporary use not
exceeding 30 days and not exceeding 12 feet (3658
mm) in any dimension, provided such tents are acces-
sory to an indoor or outdoor assembly use on the site.
8. Swimming, bathing and wading pools not exceeding
24 inches (610 mm) in depth or having a surface area
not exceeding 250 square feet (23.2 m
2
).
9. Canopies or awnings located outside of Fire District
No.1 extending not more than 4 feet(1219 mm) from
the exterior wall of the building and attached to Group
R Occupancies.
10. Impact hazard glazing pursuant to Section 2406.7 of
this Code.
11. Work performed by Certified Licensed Contractors in
accordance with Section 108.12.1.
12. Any work accomplished under the .auspices of and
owned and controlled by the United States of America,
by the State of California or the Los Angeles County.
13. Masonry or concrete fences not over 3'/2 feet (1067
mm) high, and other fences not over 10 feet (3048 mm)
high.
14. Tanks{or the storage of combustible liquids, if resting
upon the surface of the ground and surrounded by an
impounding basin conforming to the requirements of
Article 7 of Chapter V of the Los Angeles Municipal
Code (Fire Code).
15. Cases, counters and partitions, not over 5 feet 9 inches
high (1753 mm).
16. Waterproof pointing of joints in masonry or veneer,
also cleaning with detergents which are not injurious to
clothing or skin of persons and are not removed by liq-
uid washing, provided work is done from safely
enclosed scaffolding which will collect any dust, debris
or dropped tools and materials in use.
ADMINISTRATION
106.3 Permit applications.
106.3.1 Application. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall
file an application on a form furnished by the Department.
One complete application for each permit shall be filed.
Every such application shall: LA
LA
1. Identify and describe the work to be covered by the LA
permit for which application is made.
2. Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be
done by legal description, street address or similar LA
description that will readily identify and definitely
locate the proposed building or work.
3. Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed
work is intended. LA
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4. Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computations LA
and specifications and other data as required in Sec-
tion 106.3.2. LA
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5. State the valuation of any new building or structure or LA
any addition, remodeling or alteration to an existing
b
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6. Be signed by the permittee or an authorized agent.
7. Give such other data and information as may be
required by the Superintendent of Building. LA
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106.3.2 Plans and specifications.
106.3.2.1 Site plat. A plat of the site shall be filed with
each application for a permit. LA
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Exception: The Superintendent of Building may LA
grant the omission of a site plat when the proposed
work is of such a nature that no information is needed LA
to determine compliance with all laws relating to the
location of buildings or occupancies.
With respect to the site, the plat shall show the bound-
aries, lot lines, existing and proposed buildings and LA
structures, neighboring public ways, and sufficient
dimensions and other data to enable the Department to LA
determine compliance with all laws relating to the loca-
tion of buildings or occupancies. LA
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106.3.2.2 Number of sets of plans. Each application for
a permit shall be accompanied by two sets of plans and LA
specifications for plan checking.
The number of sets of plans and specifications Bubmit-
ted with each application for a building permit may com- LA
ply with the regulations of Sections 107.3.2 and 107.3.3.
Exception: The Superintendent of Building may
waive the requirement for plans and specifications as
required in this article if the superintendent finds that LA
the information on the application is sufficient to
show that the work will conform to the provisions of LA
this Code and other relevant laws. .
106.3.2.3 Official stamp. When the plans and specifica-
tions fully comply with the provisions of Section
106.3.3, the Department shall place an official stamp of LA
approval or an approval perforation on each sheet of each
set and, payment of the permit fee, shall issue one LA
set to the applicant. .
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE 15R
106.4 Permits issu.ance.
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1d}6.3.2.4 VaRJidUy of approvall. The stamping or
approval of any plans or specifications shall not be held
to permit, or to be an approval of, the violation of any
provision of this Code.
1d}6.3.2.5. Alterations to stamped piaJllls. No stamped
or approved plans or specifications shall be altered in any
manner, except when and as approved by the Depart-
ment.
Id}6.3.2.6 Stamped. plans on job. The stamped set of
plans and specifications issued to the applicant shall be
kept at the site of the construction or work and shall be
available to the authorized representative of the Depart-
ment. There shall be no deviation from the stamped or
approved application, plans or specifications without
Department approval.
106.3.3 information and! certification required on plans
and. specifications.
106.3.3.1 General. All plans and specifications submit-
ted to the Department for checking shall be drawn with
ink or indelible pencil, or shall be made by a reproduc-
tion process approved by the Department. The first sheet
of each set ofplans and specifications shall give the street
address of the work and the name and address of the
owner of the building.
The plans and specifications shall be of sufficient clar-
ity to indicate the nature and extent of the proposed work
and to showin detail that it will conformto the provisions
of this Code and ofrelevant laws, ordinances, rules, regu-
lations and orders.
Plans for buildings more than two stories in height of
other than Group R, Division 3 and Group Uoccupancies
shall indicate how required structural and fire resistive
integrity will be maintained where a penetration will be
made for electrical, mechanical, plumbing and commu-
nication conduits, pipes and similar systems.
In lieu of detailed specifications, the Department may
approve reference on the plans to a specific section, sub-
section or paragraph of this Code or other ordinance or
law.
Distances and dimensions on the plans, when required
to show conformity with the provisions of this Code,
shall be done in figures.
When required by Section 1704.1.1 of this Code, a
statement of special inspection prepared by the regis-
tered engineer or licensed architect responsible for the
design of the project shall be included with the set of
plans.
1d}6.3.3.2 WriUen record!s of computations required.
When a structural design is required for the purpose of
obtaining a permit, it shall be justified by a written record
of computations filed with the Department and each
sheet of the drawings and written record of computations
shall be signed by or bear the approved stamp of an engi-
neer or architect licensed by the State of California for
the type of service performed. On structures which do
not require an engineer's or architect's signature accord-
16R
ing to Article 3, Chapter 7, Division 3, of the California
Business and Professions Code, but do require some LA
structural design, the person responsible for the design
shall sign the calculations and the sheets ofthe plans with LA
h
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t e engmeenng etm s. LA
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106.3.3.3 Structural engineering plans. For buildings LA_
exceeding 160 feet (48 768 mm) in height, each sheet of
the structural calculations and structural plans shall be
prepared under the supervision of, and shall bear the sig- LA
nature or approved stamp of, a person authorized to prac-
tice structural engineering by the State of California. In LA
addition, all architectural sheets shall bear the signature
or approved stamp of an architectlicensed by the State of LA
C 1
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a 110rma. LA
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106.3.3.4 Yard restriction. The increase in area and LA
height permitted by Sections 505.1 and 505.2 of this
Code shall not be allowed unless or until the owner of the LA
required yard shall file with the Department an agree-
ment binding such owner, heirs and assignees, to set
aside the required yard as an unobstructed space having LA
no improvements. Such agreement shall be recorded in
the Los Angeles County Recorder's Office. LA
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106.4.1 :J[ssuance. When the Department determines that LA
the information on the appliCation and plans is in confor-
mance with this Code and other relevant codes and ordi- LA
nances, the Department shall issue a permit upon receipt of
the total fees.
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.nc.,xceptnons: LA
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1. The Department shall have the authority to with- LA
hold a permit for any building if public sewers
are not available and the provisions of Plumbing
Code prohibit the use of a private sewage dis- LA
posal system on the lot or premises.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Chapter 7
of the Plumbing Code as adopted in Section LA
94.700.0 of the Plumbing Code to the contrary,
and for any lot or premises located in whole or in LA
part in the San Fernando Valley and certain adja-
cent areas as described in Section 64.26 A.2 of
the Los Angeles Municipal Code. LA
LA
If public sewers are not available and the LA
Plumbing Code does not prohibit the use of a pri-
. vate sewage disposal system, a. building permit
may be issued, provided that: LA
LA
A. The owner or owners shall install a holding LA
tank pursuant to permits from the Depart-
ment of Building and Safety and the Fire LA
LA
Department; and LA
. LA
B. The owner or owners shall submIt a cove- LAe
nant and agreement with the land that a con-
nection will be provided to the public sewer LA
when it becomes available, or the building
will be vacated if no connection is made. LA
This covenant and agreement shall be signed
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by the owner or owners and filed with the
County Recorder; or
C. The permit is for four or fewer dwelling
units in a residential zone, or for a structure
that will not result in the discharge of
wastewater.
2. The Department shall have the authority to with-
hold permits where the proposed development is
located in an area subject to slides or unstable soil
which may have an adverse effect on the pro-
posed development or access thereto, as deter-
mined by the Department. If the apparent safety
of the proposed development can be verified pur-
suant to the provisions of Sections 7016.4.2 and
7016.4.3 of this Code, the Department shall issue
a permit upon receipt of a sworn affidavit which
has been recorded by the County Recorder, stat-
ing that the applicant is fully aware that the pro-
posed development is located in an area subject
to slides or unstable soil which may have an
adverse effect on the proposed development or
access thereto.
3. The Department shall have the authority to with-
hold a building permit where the proposed build-
ing site is an area subject to inundation, as .
determined by the Department. Ifit can be shown
by authentic past records that any possible inun-
dation is not likely to be of such extent as to be an
immediate hazard to occupancy of the proposed
building, the Department shall issue a building
permit upon receipt of a sworn affidavit which
has been recorded by the County Recorder stat-
ing that said applicant is fully aware of the
department's finding that the structure is an area
subject to inundation.
4. The Department shall have the aathority to with-
hold permits on projects located within a Special
(Fault) Studies Zone established under Chapter
7.5, Division 2, of the California Public
Resources Code. Permits may be issued if it can
be denIonstrated through accepted geologic seis-
mic studies that the proposed structure will be
located in a safe manner and not over or astraddle
the trace of an active fault. Acceptable geologic
seismic studies shall meet the criteria as set forth
in rules and regulations established by the Super-
intendent of Building to ensure such studies are
based on sufficient geologic data to determine
the location or nonexistence of the active fault
trace on a site. Prior to approval of a project, a
geologic report defining and delineating any haz-
ard of surface fault rupture shall be required. If
the city finds that no undue hazard of this kind
exists, the geologic report on such hazard may be
waived, with approval of t h ~ state geologist.
5. The Department shall have the authority to with-
h9ld a demolition or relocation permit for a resi-
dential building composed of two or more
ADMINISTRATION
residential rental units, under the following cir- t ~
cumstances: LA
LA
A. When the applicant states that the purpose ~
for demolition or relocation is to construct a LA
condominium, stock cooperative or commu- t ~
nity apartment project, permits shall be LA
withheld until all necessary tentative tract or t ~
preliminary parcel maps for such new subdi- LA
vision have been approved by the city. t ~
B. When the applicant states that the demoli- t ~
tion or relocation is not for the purpose of LA
. . . LA
constructmg a condommlUm, stock cooper- LA
ative or community apartment project, per- t ~
mits shall be withheld until the Department LA
receives a sworn affidavit from the real t ~
property owner, which has been recorded by LA
the county recorder, stating that said owner t ~
waives the right to construct on the subject LA
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ot, a con ommlUm, stoc cooperative or LA
community apartment project for a period of LA
10 years from the date of the demolition or t ~
relocation, and that such waiver will bind LA
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any purc aser, encumbrancer, aSSIgnee, LA
devisee and transferee of said property dur- t ~
ing said 10 year period. LA
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C. This Exception 5 shall not apply if the build- LA
ing is to be demolished and is: t ~
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(1) Constructed of unreinforced masonry LA
construction and built pursuant to a t ~
building permit issued prior to Octo- LA
ber 1, 1933, or t ~
(ii)To be demolished pursuant to a demo- t ~
lition order issued by the Department t ~
under authority set forth in Chapter 89 LA
of this Code. t ~
D. This Exception 5 shall not apply if the appli- t ~
cant demonstrates to the satisfaction of the LA
Department that the site will be developed ~
with housing for low to moderate income LA
households, which housing is to be devel- t ~
oped, constructed or acquired with federal, t ~
state or local government financial assis- LA
t
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ance. LA
E. This Exception 5 shall not apply to two fam- ~
ily .dwellings or to apartment houses and LA
apartment hotels containing three dwelling t ~
units, provided that at least one dwelling unit LA
in each such building is occupied by a record t ~
owner of the property. t ~
6. The Department shall have the authority to with- t ~
hold permits on projects located within a Meth- LA
ane Zone or Methane Buffer Zone established t ~
under Sections 7101 et seq. ofthis Code. Permits LA
may be issued upon submittal of detailed plans t ~
that show adequate protection against flammable t ~
gas incursion by providing the installation of LA
suitable methane mitigation systems. t ~
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE 17R
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ADMINISTRATION
7. The Department shall have the authority to with-
hold permits for public works capital improve-
ment projects until receipt of written certification
from the Cultural Affairs Department that the
board, bureau or department of the city autho-
rized by law to construct the project has fully
complied with the requirements ofthe city's Pub-
lic Works Improvements Arts Program. For pur-
poses of this section, public works capital
improvement project" includes any capital pro-
ject paid for wholly or in part by the City of Los
Angeles or by any board, bureau or department
of the city authorized by the city charter or other
law to construct or remodel any building, struc-
ture, park, utility, street, sidewalk or parking
facility, or any other type of capital project or any
portion thereof, within the geographical limits of
the city.
8. The Department shall have the authority to with-
hold the building permit where, in the opinion of
the Superintendent of Building, the design of a
structure, due to the unusual configuration of the
structure or parts of the structure or assembly of
structural materials therein, does not provide at
least the same safeguard against earthquake as
provided by the applicable portions of this Code
when applied in the design of a similar structure
of customary configuration.
9. Reserved.
10. The Department shall have the authority to with-
hold a building permit or relocation permit for a
site if the Department determines that demolition
or relocation work has been done on the site with-
out the benefit of required demolition or reloca-
tion permits. If the Department, after notice and
hearing, makes this determination, the Depart-
ment shall also have the authority to record an
affidavit with the County Recorder stating that
no permits for any new development shall be
issued on the property for a period of 5 years.
11. The Department shall have the authority to with-
hold a. building permit for a residential building
composed of two or more residential rental units,
under the following circumstances:
A. When the applicant states that the purpose
for a building permit is to construct a condo-
minium, stock cooperative or community
apartment project, permits shall be withheld
until all necessary tentative tract or prelimi-
nary parcel maps for the new subdivision
have been approved by the City.
B. When the applicant states that the purPose
for a building permit is for the construction
of a building other than a condominium,
stock cooperative or community apartment
project, a building permit shall be withheld
until the Department receives a sworn affi-
davit from the real property owner, which
18R
has been recorded by the County Recorder, ~ e
stating that the owner waives the right to LA
construct on the subject lot, a condominium, t ~
stock cooperative or community apartment LA
project for a period of 10 years from the date t ~
of the issuance of the building permit, and LA
that the waiver will bind any purchaser, t_
encumbrancer, assignee, devisee and trans- L'"
feree of the property during that 10 year t ~ .
period. Notwithstanding the above, the t ~
Department shall have the authority to issue LA
a building permit after the Director of Plan- t ~
ning certifies that the p r ~ j e c t conforms to all L_
of the current standards of approval for new t
condominiums. LA
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12. The Department of Building and Safety shall t ~
have the authority to withhold building permits LA
for the construction of hotels until a conditional t ~
use permit allowing the sale of liquor has been LA
granted by the Department of City Planning or ~
until the Department of Building and Safety ~
receives from the property owner a sworn affida- LA
vit, signed by the owner and recorded by the Los t ~
Angeles County Recorder, declaring that the LA
hotel shall not sell or serve liquor on the premises t ~
for a period of not less than 5 years. LA
LA
The Department of Building and Safety shall t-
have the authority to withhold grading permits L.
for developments with disturbed areas of one t ~
acre or more unless the applicant is able to show LA
that a Notice of Intent to comply with the State t ~
Construction Activity Storm Water Permit has LA
been filed with the State Water Resources Con- t ~
trol Board and a Storm Water Pollution Preven- LA
tion Plan has been prepared. For the purpose of t ~
this section, "disturbed area" shall mean an area t ~
altered as a result of cleaning, grading and/or LA
excavation of earth. t ~
The Department of Building and Safety shall t ~
require applicants, as a condition for issuing a t
A
grading or buil.ding permit, to incorporate into La
the plan documents best management practices t.
necessary to control stormwater pollution from LA
sediments, erosion, and construction materials t ~
leaving the construction site. Such requirements LA
shall be in accordance with the provisions con- t ~
tained in the "Development Best Management LA
Practices Handbook, Part A Construction t_
Activities" adopted by the Board ofPublic Works L_
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as aut oflzed by SectIOn 4.72 of the Los LA
Angeles Municipal Code. ~
The Department of Building and Safety shall t ~
have the authority to withhold grading and/or LA
building permits for developments until: ~
A. The applicant incorporates into the develop- t ~
ment to the satisfaction of the Bureau of San- t ~
itation of the Department of Public Works, LA
best management practices necessary to t ~
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control stormwater pollution in accordance
with the "Development Best Management
Practices Handbook, Part B Planning
Activities" adopted by the Board of Public
Works as authorized by Section 64.72 ofthe
Los Angeles Municipal Code; and
B. The Bureau of Sanitation of the Department
of Public Works receives a Covenant and
Agreement, signed by the owner and
recorded with the Los Angeles :County
Recorder, declaring that the best
ment practices necessary to control storm-
water pollution shall be installed and/or
constructed and maintained in proper work-
ing condition at all times; and
C. The applicant submits to the Bureau of Sani-
tation of the Department of Public Works, a
set ofplans and specifications showing com-
pliance with the Standard Urban Stormwater
Mitigation Plan or Site Specific Mitigation
Plan.
106.4.2 Retiention and maintenance of approve(J plans.
106.4.2.1 Retention of plans. The duplicate plans and
specifications of every building or structure shall be
stamped and retained by the Department during the life
of such building.
Exception: Plans for the following need not pe main-
tained, except where required by the Department:
1. Single or multiple dwellings in nonhillside ar-
eas which are not part of a common interest de-
velopment (as defined in Section 1351(c) of the
Civil Code of California), and not more than
two stories and basement in height.
2. Garages and other structures appurtenant to
buildings described in Item 1of this exception.
3. Farm or ranch buildings.
4. Anyone story building where the span between
bearing walls does not exceed 25 feet (7620
mm). This exception does not, however, apply
to a steel frame or concrete building.
5. Alterations to commercial buildings, apart-
ments and hotels which do not require the sig-
nature of a licensed civil or structural engineer
or architect.
106.4.2.2 inspection and! reproduction of retained
plans.
106.4.2.2.1 inspection of plans. The copy of the
approved building plans maintained by the Depart-
ment as provided by Section 106.4.2.1 shall he avail-
able for inspection only on the premises of the
Department.
Exception: Plans or portion of plans for banks,
other financial institutions or public utilities which
are maintained by the Department may not be
inspected without written permission from the
owner of the building.
ADMINISTRATION
106.4.2.2.2 Reproduction of plans. Plans main-
tained by the Department under Subdivision 1 of this LA
subsection may not be duplicated in whole or in part
except with the written permission of the certified, LA
licensed or registered professional or his or her suc-
cessor, if any, who signed the original documents, and LA
the written permission of the original or current owner
of the building, or, if the building is part of a common
interest development, with the written permission of LA
the board of directors or governing body of the associ-
ation established to manage the common interest LA
development; or by order of a proper court. In imple-
menting this provision, the Department shall comply LA
with the requirements of Section 198510f the Health
and Safety Code. LA
LA
The Department shall also furnish the form of an
affidavit to be completed and signed by the person LA
requesting to duplicate the official copy of the plans,
which contains provisions stating all of the following: LA
LA
1. That the copy of the plans shall only be used for
the maintenance, operation, and use of the LA
b
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2. That drawings are instruments of professional
service and are incomplete without the interpre- LA
tation of the certified, licensed, or registered
professional of record.
3. Section 5536.25(a) of the Business and Profes-
sions Code states that a licensed architect who LA
signs plans, specifications, reports, or docu-
ments shall not be responsible for damage LA .
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caused by subsequent changes to, or use of, LA
those plans, specifications, reports, or docu- LA
LA
fllents where the subsequent changes or uses, LA
including changes or uses made by state or local LA
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governmenta agenCIes, are not aut onze or LA
approved by the licensed architect who origi-
nally signed the plans, specifications, reports, LA
or documents, provided that the architectural
service rendered by the architect who signed LA
the plans, specifications, reports, or documents
was not also a proximate cause of the damage. LA
LA
Grading plans which are on file with the Depart- LA
ment are public records and may be duplicated.
LA
The fees specified in the following provisions 1or 2 LA
shall be paid by the person requesting duplication of
plans:
1. Building plans that have not been microfilmed
and are authorized for reproduction, and grad- LA
ing plans that are to be duplicated by other than
City services will be released only to a bonded
duplicating service which has posted a bond for LA
the benefit of the City of Los Angeles in an
amount at least equal to the value of the plans. LA
The cost of duplicating the plans shall be
paid directly to the duplicating service by the
persons requesting duplication. That person LA
shall pay a service fee of $15.00 for each set of
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE 19R
ADMINISTRATION
106.4.3.1 Limit of authorization. The issuance of a permit
is not an approval or an authorization of the work specified
therein. Apermit is merely an application for inspection, the
issuance of which entitles the permittee to inspection of the
work which is described therein.
106.41.3.2 Validity of other laws. Neither the issuance of a
permit nor the approval by the Department of any document
shall constitute an approval of any violation of any provi-
sion of this Code or of any other law or ordinance, and a per- .
mit or other document purporting to give authority to violate
any law shall not be valid with respect thereto.
"The proposed work will not destroy or unreasonably
interfere with any access or utility easement belonging to
others and located on my property, but in the event such
work does destroy or unreasonably interfere with such ease-
ment, a substitute easement(s) satisfactory to the holder(s)
of the easement will be provided."
106.404 Expiration, suspension. or revocation.
plans released to a bonded duplicating service
as herein provided.
2. Building plans that have been microfilmed and
are authorized for reproduction shall be dupli-
cated by City services. The Department shall
collect an initial service fee of$8.00 for each re-
quest for reproduction of plans plus a fee of
$1.00 for each sheet requested to be photocop-
ied.
106.4.4.1 General. The regulations concerning the expi-
ration, suspension and revocation of permits are enumer- LA
ated in Chapter IX Article 8, Division 6, of the Los
Angeles Municipal Code. LA
LA
106.4.4.2 Making false statements to the Delpartment.
Any person who willfully or knowingly, with the intent t:a
to deceive, makes a false statement or representation, or
knowingly fails to disclose a material fact in any docu-
mentation required by the Department to ascertain facts LA
relative tp this section, to the exception in Section
107.2.9 or to Section 112, including any oral or written LA
evidence presented, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
106.4.4.3 Unfinished buildings or When-
ever the Department determines by inspection that work LA
on any building or structure for which a permit has been
issued and the work started thereon has been suspended LA
for a period of 180 days or more, the owner of the prop-
erty upon which such structure is located, or other person LA
or agent in control of said property, upon receipt of notice
in writing from the Department to do so, shall, within 90 LA
days from the date of such written notice, obtain a new
permit to complete the required work and diligently pur- LA
sue the work to completion, or shall remove or demolish
the building or structure within 180 days from the date of
the written notice. LA
LA
106.4.5 Permits !for historical and cuUural buildings. The
Department shall not issue a permit to demolish, alter or
remove a building or structure of historical, archaeological
or architectural consequence if such building or structure LA
has been officially designated, or has been determined by
state or federal action to be eligible for designation, on the LA
National Register of Historic Places, or has been included
on the City of Los Angeles list of historic cultural monu-
ments, without the Department having first determined LA
whether the demolition, alteration or removal may result in
the loss of or serious damage to a significant historical or LA
cultural asset. If the Department determines that such.loss or
damage may occur, the applicant shall file an application LA
and pay all fees for the California Environmental Quality
Act Initial Study and Check List, as specified in Section LA
19.05 ofthe Los Angeles Municipal Code. If the initial study
and check list identifies the historical or cultural asset as sig-
nificant, the permit shall not be issued without the Depart-
ment first finding that specific economic, social or other LA
considerations make infeasible the preservation of the
building or structure.
L_
106.4.6 Notification and posting in a hillside grading area. L
L.AI
106.41.6.1 In any area designated as a hillside grading
area, the Department shall not issue (1) a building permit LA
for construction of a building with over 500 square feet
(46.5 m
2
) of floor area, or (2) a building permit for any LA
addition to an existing building which adds over 500 tA;e
square feet (46.5 m
2
) of floor area, or (3) a grading permit tp;
for the grading of more than 1,000 cubic yards (7650 m
3
) LA
of earth materials without having first clone the following
at least 10 clays prior to issuance of the building or grad- LA
ing permit:
Permits issued under the requirements of this Code shall
not relieve the owner of responsibility for securing required
permits for work to be done which is regulated by any other
Code, department or division of the City of Los Angeles.
All permits are issued subject to the following conditions:
If the work described by a valid permit is prohibited by a
change in the Los Angeles Municipal Code, then such work
may be completed only if the Department determines that
both substantial liabilities have been incurred, and substan-
tial work has been performed on site, in accordance with the
terms of that permit. Work performed and liabilities
incurred pursuant to a demolition or relocation permit shall
not be considered in determining whether an owner may
complete a building or structure for which a building permit
has been issued.
106.4.3.3 Official grades. The applicant shall decide the
correctness of proposed structure elevations and locations
with respect to the official grades of public streets and to the
policy of the Board of Public Works relative to the location
and length of curb depressions for driveways.
106.4.3.41 Easements. Before issuing any permit, the
Department shall require a declaration, under penalty of
perjury, from the owner or agent having the property
owner's consent-stating that:
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106.41.2.3 Compliance. A certified copy of the microfilmed
LA plans shall constitute compliance with the requirement of
LA h" .
LA t IS sectIOn.
106.41.3 Validity of permit.
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20R 2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUilDING CODE
SECTION 107
FEES
ADMINISTRATION
1. Permit for new structures, except signs;
2. Permit for additions to existing buildings;
3. Change of use or occupancy permit;
4. Demolition permit;
5. Relocation permit;
6. Swimming pool permit; or
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1. The Department shall send written notices of the
permit application, by mail, to the owners of all
property abutting the property at which the con-
struction or grading will occur. Notices shall also
be .sent to the owners of all property across the
street or alley when such property is intersected by
a projection of the lot lines of the property at which
the construction or grading will occur; and
2. The Department shall post a notice of the permit
application on the property at which the construc-
tion or grading will occur.
106.4.6.2 The applicant seeking the permit shallprovide
the Department with the names and addresses of all per-
sons entitled to receive notice pursuant to Section
106.4.6.1.
106.4.6.3 The Department shall collect a fee in the
amount of $60.00 when an application for a building or
grading permit described in Section 106.4.6.1 above is
filed with the Department. .
106.4.7 Curb ramps.
106.4.7.1 Condition of permits. Subject to the provi-
sions of Section 106.4.7.2, no building or structure shall
be erected or enlarged, and no building permit issued
therefor, on any lot, any part of which is within 100 feet
(30480 mm) of the straightprojection of the intersection
of the building lines of a corner lot of the block within
. which subject lot fronts, unless the applicant agrees in
writing, and submits the necessary surety in the form of a
bond or cash deposit, to construct a corner curb ramp at
such corner and in addition, if such lot is within 100 feet
(30 480 mm) of two such intersections to construct cor-
ner curb ramps at each of the two adjacent corners at both
intersections, for a total of two ramps. The curb ramp
shall comply with the standards contained in Part 2 of
Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. Such
improvements procedure shall, in all respects, be in com-
pliance with Section l2.37D of the Los Angeles Munici-
pal Code.
Exceptions: This section does not apply to the fol-
lowing:
1. One- or two-family dwelling or addition thereto
located in a tract, parcel map or subdivision re-
corded prior to the effective date of this section.
2. A building or structure or addition thereto of
less than 500 square feet (46.5 m
2
) in gross floor
area or when such building, structure or addi-
tion thereto contains a restaurant or fast food
restaurant ofless than 200 square feet (18.6 m
2
)
in gross floor area.
3. Where sidewalks are neither currently installed
nor required by the city as a condition of devel-
opment, at either the location of the proposed
development or the location of the otherwise
proposed curb ramp.
106.4.7.2 It is hereby determined that the requirements
of Section 106.4.7.1 hereof shall be imposed as a condi-
tion to the erection of any structure or addition thereto t ~
wherein handicapped access is otherwise required. LA
LA
106.4.8 Construction site notice. t ~
106.4.8.1 Contents. Any person who obtains the follow- t ~
ing types of permits shall post a notice, as described LA
bl h
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e ow, at t e constructIOn SIte: LA
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The notice shall be on a form entitled "Construction t ~
Site Notice" provided by the Department and shall LA
include the following information: job site address, per- t ~
mit number, name and phone number of the contractor t ~
and owner or owner's agent, hours of construction LA
allowed by code or any discretionary approval for the t ~
site, and City telephone numbers where violations can be LA
reported. . . . t ~
106.4.8.2 Location. The notice shall be posted and t ~
maintained at the construction site and displayed in a t ~
location that is readily visible to the public and approved LA
by the Department. t ~
106.4.8.3 Maintenance of notice. The notice shall be t ~
displayed after issuance of the permit and prior to the LA
start of construction. The notice shall be displayed con- t ~
tinuously during the process of construction until all the LA
work authorized by the permit is inspected and approved t ~
by the Department. All contact information on the t ~
notice, including telephone numbers, shall be correct and LA
maintained current. Failure to display this notice may t ~
result in withholding of inspections by the Department. LA
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107.1 General..Fees shall be assessed in accordance with the t ~
provisions of this section. LA
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107.2 Permit fees. Before issuing any permit required by this LA
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code, the Department shall collect a fee. LA
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107.2.1 Building permit. Unless otherwise required below, LA
the amount of the permit fee shall be as shown in Table 1 - A t ~
of this code for the total value of all construction work for LA
which the building permit is issued, including all painting, t ~
papering, roofing, electrical work, plumbing, permanent or LA
fixed heating equipment, elevator equipment, fire sprinkler t ~
equipment and any other permanent portions or permanent LA
equipment except as provided in Section 106. ; t ~
No portion of any building, including mechanical, elec- t ~
trical and plumbing work shall be excluded from the valua- t ~
tion for a building permit because of any other permits LA
required by any governing agency. t ~
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ADMINISTRATION
107.2.2 Combined building-mechanical permit. A com-
bined building-mechanical permit shall be issued, provided
a fee is paid; The permit fee shall be as determined by using
Table I-A. 1 of this code. A combined building-mechanical
permit shall entitle the permittee to the. inspection of all
building, electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilating and air
conditioning work in the following systems:
1. A new one- or two-family dwelling.
2. Any work necessary and in conjunction with alter-
ations, additions or demolitions to a one- or two-fam-
ily dwelling. In the event that work in one or more of
the mechanical trades is not required, the applicable
fee(s) shall not be collected.
3. A pool accessory to a one- or two-family dwelling,
except that for pools which are exempt from a build-
ing permit but may require a permit for electrical,
plumbing and heating work, a combined build-
ing-mechanical permit shall be issued, provided a fee
is paid. The fee shall be 75 percent of the fee deter-
mined from Table No. I-A of this Chapter.
4. A complete solar heating and/or cooling system
installation appurtenant to and used exclusively by a
one- or two-family dwelling; or an individual dwell-
ing unit or an efficiency dwelling unit in an apartment
house, apartment-hotel or hotel; or a pool accessory to
a one-family dwelling.
107.2.3 Sign building permit. Before issuing a building
permit for any sign, the Department shall collect a permit
fee. The amount of the permit fee shall be equal to 3.50 per-
cent of the total value of all construction or work, as deter-
mined by the Department, for which the building permit is
issued, but in no event shall the permit fee be less than the
minimum inspection fee as specified in Section 98.0412 (a)
oftheLos Angeles Municipal Code and Note 4 of Table No.
1-Aof this chapter. The sign building permit shall be subject
to the surcharge specified in Note 1 of Table No. I-A ofthis
chapter.
107.2.4 Grading permit. Before issuing any grading per-
mit, the Department shall collect a permit fee, the amount of
which shall be as shown in Table No. I-D of this code.
107.2.5 Earthquake hazard reduction flu existing tilt-up
concrete wall buildings. permit. The permit fee for con-
struction work which the Department determines is neces-
sary to satisfy the requirements contained in Section 9108 of
this code, shall be based on the entire floor area of the build-
ing requiring any strengthening work. The fee shall be equal
to $0.0347 per square foot or fraction thereof of the subject
building.
107.2.6 Permit issuing fee when plan check is not
required. See Section 98.0415 of the Los Angeles Munici-
pal Code.
107.2.7 Certificate of occupancy for use of land permit.
A fee of $150.00 shall be charged for each Certificate of
Occupancy for use of land; however, no fee shall be charged
when a Certificate of Occupancy is being issued pursuant to
Section 109 or when any work which requires a building
permit is done.
20bR
107.2.8 Awning installation permit. Every awning erected tA
and arranged so that temporary shelter may be provided t.
over any portion of a public way shall be subject to an instal- t ~
lation fee of $10.00 per awning, but in no event shall the LA
installation fee per building be less than the minimum t ~
inspection fee specified in Section 98.0412 (a) of theLos LA
Angeles Municipal Code. t1A
107.3 Plan check and preinspection fees. t.
LA
107.3.1 PRan check fees. Before formally accepting a set of t ~
plans and specifications for checking, the Department shall LA
collect a plan check fee. Plan checking shall expire if permit t ~
is not secured within the time limits specified in Section L_A
98.0603 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code. t
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107.3.1.1 Buildings and! structures. Unless otherwise LA
required below, the plan check fee for buildings, struc- t ~
tures or portions thereof shall be equal to 90 percent of t ~
the building permit fee as shown in Table No. I-A of this LA
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Exception: Where the occupancy of a residential LA
building or portion thereof is changed, the plan check- t ~
ing fee shall be based on a valuation equal to 85 per- LA
cent of the replacement value of the building or t ~
portion changed. LA
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107.3.1.2 Signs and sign support structures. The plan t ~
check fee for signs and/or sign support structures shall be La
equal to 50 percent of the building permit fee as indicated t.
in Section 107.2.3. LA
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107.3.1.3 Grading work. The plan check fee for grading t ~
plans shall be 90 percent of the grading permit fee as LA
indicated by Section 107.2.4. The feefor grading work t ~
on two or more contiguous sites may be the amount indi- t ~
cated for the sum of the total cubic yards in all the sepa- LA
. LA
rate SItes. LA
Exception: A grading plan check fee will not be t ~
required for jobs of 50 cubic yards (38.3 m
3
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107.3.1.4 Hourly plan check fee. The Department may LA
collect a plan check fee as specified in Section t ~
98.0415(e) of the Los Angeles Municipal Code for any Lit A
time not included by the original plan check fee and shall t
be in addition to other fees specified in this code. L
LA
107.3.1.5 Tilt-up concrete wail buildings. The plan t ~
check fee for construction pursuant to the requirements LA
of the earthquake hazard reduction in existing tilt-up t ~
concrete wall buildings contained in Chapter 91 of this L.A
code shall be equal to the b u i l d i ~ g permit fee as specified t
in Section 107.2.5. tA
107.3.1.6 Plan check fees for more than one building. t ~
When two or more buildings are to be erected on the LA
same site and the following regulations are complied t ~
with, the plan checking fee, if of a lesser amount, may be t.
A
the fee indicated for the sumof the values of all the sepa- L
rate buildings. tA
. ~
107.3.1.6.1 All of the buildings shall be shown on the LA
one set of plans and specifications. t ~
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107.3.1.6.2 Applications for separate permits for
each building shall be filed prior to the checking ofthe
plans.
107.3.1.6.3 Two sets of plans and specifications shall
be submitted to the Department.
107.3.1.7 Plan check fees for duplicate buildings.
When two or more buildings are to be erected from iden-
tical plans and specifications and the following regula-
tions are complied with, the plan checking fee, if of a
lesser amount, may be the fee indicated for the sumof the
values of all the separate buildings.
107.3.1.7.1 Applications for separate permits for
each building shall be filed prior to the checking of the
plans.
107.3.1.7.2 A site plat shall accompany each applica-
tion for a permit.
107.3.1.7.3 The number of sets ofplans and specifica-
tions submitted to the Department shall be one more
than the number of applications for permits.
107.3.1.7.4 Footings for one or more of the buildings
may deviate from the plans and specifications pro-
vided that, in each instance, separate footing plans are
submitted to the Department.
107.3.1.8 Fees for rechecking plans. No additional fee
shall be charged for verification of the corrections
required by the Department or other Departments. How-
ever, when plans are revised by the applicant for reasons
other than plan check correction and require additional
plan check time to review the plan revisions, the Depart-
ment shall collect a supplemental plan check fee as speci-
fied in Section 107.3.1.4.
When plans are resubmitted for review of changes
made to previously approved plans, an application for a
permit shall be filed.
The plan checking fee in the case of a building permit
shall be based on an hourly rate as specified in Section
107.3.1.4 and the plan check fee for a grading permit
shall be as specified in Section 107.3.1.3 for the number'
of cubic yards replaced, removed or omitted that were
not previously approved.
When a permit expires by limitation and the work is
not completed, the plans shall be resubmitted for check-
ing before the issuance of a new permit. The plan check-
ing fee shall be based on the same valuation as specified
for the permit in Section 106.4.4.
107.3.2 fees. The Department shall collect a
fee of $80.00 for each of the following:
1. Grading preinspection. A grading preinspection fee
shall be collected for any building permit application
involving work in the hillside grading area and for all
grading plans submitted to the Department.
Exception: The grading preinspection fee may be
waived when the Department determines that the
nature of the work does not require preinspection
of the work site.
ADMINISTRATION
2. Sign preinspection. A sign preinspection fee shall be
collected when a permit application is filed for con- LA
struction, replacement, alteration or repair of a sign.
Exception: The sign preinspection fee may be
waived when the Department determines that the
nature of the sign does not require preinspection of LA
the proposed location to determine compliance
with applicable requirements. LA
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3. Demolition preinspection. A demolition LA
preinspection fee shall be collected for all proposed
demolition of buildings (including accessory build-
ings) or structures on a site and shall beconducted LA
before the issuance of a demolition permit.
Exception: The demolition preinspection and
demolition preinspection fee may be waived when LA
the Department determines that previous inspe.c-
tions associated with the Department's abatement
programs have been made. LA
LA
4. Preinspection. Preinspection fee shall be collected LA
whenever the Department determines that due to the
nature of the work involved, an inspection is neces- LA
LA
sary. LA
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107.3.3 Fees,for off-hour plan check. Upon request by an LA
applicant and accepted by the Department, an off-hour plan
check fee per Section 98.0422 of the Los AngelesMunicipal LA
Code may be collected.
107.4 Permit related fees. When applicable, the following
supplemental fees shall be required prior to issuance of a per-
mit. LA
LA
SuppleD:lental building permit fees. A fee for a
supplementary building permit to cover any additional valu- LA
ation to work included in the original permit shall be the dif-
ference between the fee paid for the original permit and the LA
fee which would have been required had the original permit
included the entire evaluation. LA
LA
A fee for a building permit authorizing changes from LA
approved plans or specifications shall be based on a valua-
tion equal to the increase in valuation caused by the change,
but no refund shall be made if the change causes a reduction LA
of valuation.
107.4.2 Supplemental grading permit fees. The fee for a
supplementary grading permit authorizing additional work LA
to that under a valid permit shall be the difference between
the.fee pai.d for the original and the fee shown for the
entIre project. LA
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107.4.3 Plan maintenance fees. Before issuing a building LA
permit, the Department shall collect a fee for maintaining
building plaQ-s which are required to be" retained by Section
106.4.2. ' LA
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The amount of the plan maintenance fee shall be 2 per- LA
cent of the building permit fee, but not less than $10.00 and
not more than $300.00, and shall be collected for each sepa- LA
rate plan to be retained by the Department. .
LA
107.4.4 Fire hydrant fee notice. Before issuing any build- LA
ing permit required by this code, if the total value of all new
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construction or work for which the permit is issued is
$50,000 or greater, as determined by the Department, the
Department shall collect a fire hydrant fee. The amount of
this fee shall be equal to 22/
100
of I percent of the total value
of all construction or work for which the permit is issued. If
the applicant for a building permit subject to the fire hydrant
fee pays such fee under protest or refuses to pay such fee, the
Department may issue the permit, but shall affix to the per-
mit a Fire Hydrant Fee Notice to read as follows:
F][RlE HYDRANT FEE NOTICE:
The City of Los Angeles may amend Fire Hydrant
Fee Ordinance.
The owner of the project designated in this permit shall
be obligated to pay to the Department a fire hydrant fee in
the amount to be calculated pursuant to any amendment
to the fire hydrant fee ordinance. This fee will be used to
provide adequate fire-safety facilities and services for
new development.
lException: A fire hydrant fee shall not apply to any
permit for demolition of a building or structure.
The Department of Building and Safety shall cause all
money collected pursuant to this section to be deposited
into the Fire Hydrant Installation and Main Replacement
Fund described in Section 5.114 of the Los Angeles
Administrative Code for purposes of disbursement as
permitted therein; except that $5.00 from each fire
hydrant fee shall be deposited in the general fund pursu-
ant to Section 5.114 of the Los Angeles Administrative
Code.
Metal bars, gJrinles, grates, security roll-down
shutters and similar devices. The permit fee for the insral-
lation of devices for which a permit is required by Section
6304.3 of this Code shall be $25.00 for each affected dwell-
ing unit, efficiency dwelling unit, light housekeeping room
or guest room in a residential building.
Exceptions:
1. The Department shall issue a permit without col-
lection of a fee if it determines that the following
conditions are met:
A. The metal bars, grilles, grates, security roll
down shutters and similar devices were
installed prior to June 3, 1986, and
B. The dwelling unit is in full compliance with
Section 310.4 when the first inspection is
conducted pursuant to Section 310.4.
2. The Department shall issue a permit without the
collection of a fee for all eligible lower income
households, as defined by Section 50079.5 of the
California Health and Safety Code. The Depart-
ment shall determine whether the applicant meets
the applicable criteria for eligibility.
107A.6 Arts development fee.
Arts fee. The owner of a development project
for a commercial or industrial building shall be required
to pay an arts fee in accordance with the requirements of _
this section. _
LA
107.4.6.2 Fee amount. The Department of Building and
Safety shall collect an arts fee in the following amount: LA
LA
. LA
1. Office or research and development. For an LA
office or research and development building, the _
arts fee shall be $1.57 per square foot. . lW'
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2. Retail. All retail establishments shall pay an arts LA
fee of $1.31 per square foot. .
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3. Manufacturing. For a manufacturing building, LA
the arts fee shall be $0.51 per square foot. t
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4. Warehouse. For a warehouse building, the arts fee Ie
shall be $0.39 per square foot.
5. Roten. For a hotel building, the arts fee shall be
$0.52 per square foot. LA
LA
In no event shall the required arts fee exceed either
$1.57 per gross square foot of any structure authorized LA
by the permit or 1 percent of the valuation of the project
designated on the permit, whichever is lower, as deter- LA
mined by the Department of Building and Safety. Where
there are combined uses within a development project or LA
portion thereof, the arts fee shall be the sum of the fee
requirements of the various uses listed above. The Cul-
tural Affairs Department shall revise the arts fee annually L_A
by an amount equal to the Consumer Price Index for Los
Angeles as published by the United States Department of L
Labor. The revised amount shall be submitted to Council
for adoption by ordinance. . LA
LA
107.4.6.3 Time of collection. Except as provided in Sec-
tion 107.4.6, the Department of Building and Safety LA
shall collect an arts fee before issuance of a building per-
mit for commercial and industrial buildings required by
this code. LA
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107.4.6.4 Exceptions. The arts fee required by Section
107.4.6 shall not be assessed for the following projects or LA
. h f
. portIOns t ereo : LA
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1. Any project for which the' total value of all con- _LA
struction or work for which the permit is issued is
$500,000 or less.
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2. The repair, renovation or rehabilitation of a build-
ing or structure that does not alter the size or occu- LA
pancy load of the building.
3. The repair, re.novation or rehabilitation of a build- .LA
ing or structure for the installation of fire sprin-
klers pursuant to Chapter 9. LA
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4. The repair, renovation or rehabilitation of a build- LA
ing or structure that has been made to comply with
Chapter 88 (Earthquake Hazard Reduction in LA
Existing Buildings) subsequent to a citation of .LA
noncompliance with Chapter 88.
5. The repair, renovation or rehabilitation of a build-
ing or structure for any handicapped facilities pur- LA
suant to this code.
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6. All residential buildings or portion thereof. This
exception does not include hotels.
107.4.6.5 Use of arts fees acquired pursuant to Sec-
tiion107.4.6. Any arts fee collected by the Department of
Building:and Safety shall be deposited in tqe Devel-
opment Fee Trust Fund. Any fee paid into this frind may
be used only for the purpose of providing cultural and
artistic facilities, services and community aIpenities
which will be available to the development project and its
future employees. Any cultural and artistic facilities, ser-
vices and community amenities provided shall:comply
with the principles and standards set forth in the Cultural
Master Plan when adopted.
At or about the time of collection of any fee imposed
by this the Cultural"Affairs Department shall
identify the use to which the arts fee is to be put, and if the
use is financing public facilities, the shall be
identified:
107.4.6.6 Projects covered by Ordinance 164:,243. In
1988, the City enacted Ordinance 164,243 which states
in part:
"This ordinance is an interim measure while the City
of Los Angeles is giving consideration to the enactment
of an Arts Development Fee Ordinance. The owners of a
development project shall be obligated to pay an Arts
Development Fee if such fee is adopted in the future by
the city. The fee will not exceed 1 percent of the total
value of work and construction authorized by tqe build-
ing permit issued to a development project. This fee
would be used to provide adequate cultural and artistic
faciiities, services and community amenities for'the pro-
ject."
By enacting Section 107.4.6, the City has adopted the
Arts Development Fee referred to by Ordinance
164,243. Accordingly, an arts fee shall be paid to the City
of Los Angeles" by owners of development projects
which received building permits between and including
January 15, 1989, and the effective date of this section.
This arts fee described in this section shall be paid within
60 days of receipt of a request for payment of an arts fee.
All exceptions listed in Section 107.4.6.4 shall apply to
owners of development projects subject to Ordinance
164,243.
The Office of Finance shall bill and collect the Arts
Development Fee owed by those persons to whom notice
was given pursuant to this paragraph for the period Janu-
ary 15, 1989, through May 7, 1991. The amount due shall
be paid i:n full within 60 days of the billing date unless an
agreement to pay in installments pursuant to this para-
graph is approved by the Office of Finance. Persons
indebted to the City of Los Angeles for Arts Develop-
ment Fees may, upon approval by the OfficeofFinance,
enter into an agreement with the City of Los Angeles to
pay such fees in installments over a period not to exceed
one year. The Office of Finance shall collect a service fee
of $10.00 on each monthly installment to recover the cost
to the city of processing installment payments. The Cul-
tunil Affairs Department is hereby authorized to negoti-
ADMINISTRATION
ate and accept payment in kind for the Arts Development
" Fee owed by those persons to whom notice was given LA
pursuant to this paragraph for the period January 15,
1989, through May 7,1991. The Cultural Affairs Depart- LA
ment shall provide notice to the Office of Finance of the
name of the person on whose account such in kind pay- LA
. k' d LA
ment was accepted, and whether the m m payment LA
constitutes payment in full or only a specified portion of
the Arts Development Fee owed. LA
LA
The Office of Finance is authorized to record payment
in full, without further notification to the person billed, LA
for cash or in kind Arts Development Fee payments
received that are within $3.00 of the amount owed. LA
LA
107.4.7 Affordable housing mitigation fee notice. Before
issuance of a building permit for any project or structure, the LA
Department of Building and Safety shall affix to the permit
an Affordable Housing Mitigation Fee Notice to read as fol-
lows: LA
LA
Affordable housing fee notice: The City of
Los Angeles is considering the enactment of an Afford- LA
able Housing Mitigation Fee Ordinance. The owner of
the project designated in this permit shall be obligated to LA
comply with an Affordable Housing" Mitigation Fee
Ordinance if such an ordinance is adopted in the future LA
. ' . LA
by the CIty. In no event shall the reqUIred fee exceed LA
either $5.00 per square foot ofthe structure(s) authorized LA
1
fh . LA
by the permit or 3.5 percent of the va uatIOn 0 t e project LA
designated on the permit, as determined by the Depart-
mentofBuilding and Safety, whichever is lower. This fee LA
shall be used to mitigate any affordable housing needs
created by the project. " LA
LA
Exception: The notice required by this section shall
not be affixed to building permits for the following LA
. . h f LA
projects or portIOn t ereo : LA
LA
1. Any project for which a building permit is is- LA
sued with less than 40,000 square feet (3716
m
2
) of new floor area as determined by the De- LA
partment of Building and Safety;
d
f LA
2. Any project located within the boun arIes 0 LA
an enterprise zone designated in Section
12.04 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code; LA
LA
3. Any project developed by nonprofit entities LA
such as hospitals, schools, religious institu-
tions, museums, day care providers and other
similar organizations, where the construction LA
is directly related to nonprofit purpose of
the organization as determined by the Com- LA
" . LA
munity Development Department. ThIS ex- LA
ception shall not apply to nonprofit LA
development of leasable commercial office
space' LA
, LA
4. Any project or portion of a project for indus- "
trial, warehouse development or parking LA
structures as defined by the Los Angeles Mu-
nicipal Code and determined by the Depart- LA
ment of Building and Safety;
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE 20eR
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5. Any project within a current neighborhood
Community Redevelopment Agency project
area as defined in Section 12.04 of the Los An-
geles Municipal Code other than the Bunker
Hill, Central Business District and Little To-
kyo redevelopment areas;
6. Any development project where one or more
of the following discretionary approvals, initi-
ated by application of the property owner or
their representatives, was granted by a gov-
ernment agency between January 1, 1986, and
October 1, 1989, and remains valid: zone
change, conditional use permit, variance,
height district change, zone boundary adjust-
ment, specific plan exception, project permit
pursuant to a moratorium ordinance, develop-
ment agreement, coastal development permit,
commercial comer development pursuant to
Section 12.2718 of the Los Angeles Municipal
Code, project permit pursuant to an interim
control ordinance, parcel map, tract map or
vesting tentative tract map.
In addition, prior to the issuance of any
such building permit, the Department of Plan-
ning shall certify in writing that the necessary
environmental clearances were completed
and that the discretionary approval included a
determination of one or more of the folloW-
ing: building location, height, density, use,
parking and access of the proposed project.
7. Any project for which architectural and struc-
tural plans sufficient for a complete pI::m
check for a building permit have been ac-
cepted by the Department of Building and
Safety and for which plan check fees were
collected on or before the effective date of this
section and for which no subsequent changes
are made to those plans which increase the
height, floor area or occupancy load by more
than 5 percent.
8. Any project for an existing building which
will not result in the addition of over 40,000
square feet (3716 m
2
) of new space as deter-
mined by the Department of Building and
Safety.
9. Residential buildings which contain one or
more dwelling units, efficiency dwelling
units, apartment units or the residential por-
tion of a building that has both residential and
nonresidential uses. This exception shall not
apply to hotels.
10. Any project located within the boundaries of
the Central City West Specific Plan Area, as
defined in Ordinance No. 163,094, if the de-
veloper or project owner agrees by covenant
and agreement or development agreement to
abide by the linkage fee and replacement
housing obligations set forth in the Draft Spe-
20fR
cific Plan for the Central City West Specific t-
Plan Area, dated November 2,1989. L_
LA
11. The repair, renovation or rehabilitation of a LA
building or structure of historical, archaeolog-
ical or architectural consequence, if such
building or structure has been officially desig- LA
nated, or has been determined by state or fed- t1A
eral action to be eligible for designation, on L.
the National Register of Historic Places, ot
has been included on the City of Los Angeles LA
list of Historic Cultural Monuments.
The Department of Building and Safety
shall determine which exceptions apply to any L.
project based on documentation submitted by t
the applicant prior to the issuance of the build-
ing permit. LA
LA
107.5 Additional fees. LA
LA
107.5.1 ][nvestigation fees. In addition, the Department
shall have the authority to collect investigation fees. For
investigation fees of work done without a valid building per- LA
mit, see Section 98.0402 of the Los Angeles Municipal
Code. LA
LA
107.5.2 Other fees. The Department shall have the author-
ity to collect a fee to cover any additional costs incurred by LA
the Department in obtaining code compliance or issuing a
permit for work that was done prior to obtaining the
required permit. This fee shall be in addition to any other t_
fees required by the Los Angeles Municipal Code'. The LA
Superintendent of Building shall prepare a fee schedule for
this purpose for adoption by ordinance. The fee schedule for
inspections shall be those fees referenced in Section LA
98.0412 of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.
LA
107.6 Refund of fees. See Section 98.0420 of the Los Angeles LA
Municipal Code for the procedure.
LA
107.'7 Processing fees for security bar certlifi.cates ofcornpli- LA
anee. The Department of Building and Safety shall charge a
$20.00 fee for the processing of each Security Bar Certificate LA
of Compliance. The Department shall maintain on file Security
Bar Certificates of Compliance. LA
Certified security bar installers shall file Security Bar Certif- t_
kates of Compliance in accordance with provisions of Section
108.12.3.2. LA
LA
107.8 Processing fees for soils engineering, foul!1IdatioJm
investigation, geology and seismology report and for review LA
of division of land requests. . tit
107.8.1 Soils engineering, foundation inllVestigation, geol- LA
ogy and seismology report. A fee shall be charged for the
processing of each soil, foundation investigation, geology, LA
or seismology report and the amount of the fee shall be
determined from Table I-C. t
A
107.8.2 Division ofland. the Department is required t.
to review a division of land request as part of the City Plan-
ning Division of Land procedures, a fee of $300.00, shall be LA
paid prior to the initiation of such review.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUilDING CODE
SECTION 108
INSPECTION
-
LA
LA 108.1 GeneraL All construction or work for which a permit is
required shall be subject to inspection by authorized employ-
LA ees of the Department, and certain types of construction shall
have continuous inspection by Registered Deputy Inspectors as
aLAspecified in Section 1704 of this Code. Prior to the issuance of a
Certificate of Occupancy as specified in Section 109, a final
inspection shall be made by the Department of all construction
LA or work for which a permit has been issued.
LA
LA Exceptions:
LA
LA 1. When a permit is obtained for reroofing incompli-
ance with Section 1510 of this code, the Department
.-cA may waive inspections provided the following per-
sons certify that the materials used comply with Sec-
tion 1510 of this Code and work is performed by:
A. A licensed contractor, or
B. The owner of the property who either did the
LA work or used employees of the owner to do the
work pursuant to Section 7044 of the Business
LA and Professions Code.
LA
LA 2. When a permit is obtained for any work performed by
certified licensed contractors. complying with the
LA requirements of Section 108.12.
LA
LA 108.2 Inspection record card. With each permit issued, the
Department shall furnish a card to the applicant showing the
location nature of the work to be done and the number of
LA the perrmt ..
LA
LA The permit card shall be posted in a place designated by the
Superintendent of Building.
108.3 inspection. requests. It shall be the duty of the person
LA doing the workauthorized by a permit to notify the Superinten-
dent of Building that such work is ready for inspection. The
LA Superintendent of Building may require that every request for
inspection be filed at least one working day before such' inspec-
tion is desired. Such request may be in writing or by telephone
LA at the option of the Superintendent of Building.
LA .
LA It shall be the duty of the person requesting any inspections
required by this Code to provide access to and means for
inspection of such work.
108.4 Approvall required. Work shall not be done beyond the
point indicated in each successive inspection without first
obtaining the approval of the Superintendent of Building. The
LA Superintendent of Building, upon notification, shall make the
requested inspections and shall either indicate that portion of
aLAthe construction is satisfactory as co.mpleted or shal.l notify the
permit holder or an agent of the permit holder wherein the same
LA fails to comply with this Code. Any portions which do not com-
ply shall be corrected and such portion shall not be covered or
LA concealed untili:authorized by the Superintendent of Building.
LA
LA There shall be a final inspection and approval of all buildings
LA
_
LA and structures when completed and ready for occupancy and
LA use.
LA
108.5 Required! inspections. The permittee or his agent shall
LA notify the Department when the building or portion thereof is
ready for each of the following inspections:
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ADMINISTRATION
1. Foundations. When the excavation for footings is com-
plete and footing forms and required reinforcing steel are LA
in place, but before any concrete is place'd.
2. Wood framing, ventilation equipment installation.
When all roof, walls and floor framing, fire stopping and LA
bracing are complete and all pipes, chimneys, vents and
ductworkare in place, but before any of this work is cov- LA
LA
ered. LA
3. Wall covering. When the backing and lath or drywall are
in place ready for plaster, stucco or taping. LA
LA
4. Reinforced concrete. When forms and reinforcing steel LA
are in playe ready for concrete.
5. Reinforced masonry. In grouted masonry when vertical
reinforcing steel is in place and other reinforcing steel LA
dIstributed and ready for placing, but before any units are
I
'd LA
al up. LA
6. Structural steel. When structural steel members are in LA
place and required connections are complete, but before
concealing any members or connection.
7. Finan. the construction or work is completed and
the structure ready for occupancy, but before being occu- LA
. d LA

The permittee or the permittee's agent shall notify the
Department on the day prior to the day on which inspection is LA
d
. d .
eSlfe . LA
The Department shall approve that portion of the work
inspected or notify the responsible person if the work fails to LA
comply" with the law. Any portions which do not comply with
the law shall be corrected and no portion shall be covered or LA
concealed with additional work until approved.
When any of the above required inspections have been made
and that portion of the work approved, the inspector shall so
record on the permit card posted on the job. LA
LA
108.6 Other inspections. In addition to the called inspections LA
specified above, the Department may make any other inspec-
tions of any construction work to ascertain compliance with the LA
provisions of this Code and other laws which the Department
enforces.
108.7 Reinspections. Fees for additional inspections shall be
assessed in accordance with Section 98.0412 of the Los LA
Angeles Municipal Code.
108.8 Surveys. In the absence of any designation of the proper
location of the lot on which a building is to be erected, for LA
which building a permit has been issued, the Department may
require the owner to have the lot surveyed and staked by a regis-
tered land surveyor or registered civil engineer so that the LA
proper location of the building on the lot may be determined.
108.9. Inspection of excavation and fills. The permittee or the
permittee's agent shall notify the Department when the grading LA
operation is ready for each of the following inspections:
1. Initial meeting/inspection. When the permittee is ready
to begin work, but before any gradingoperation or brush- .
ing is started, a meeting shall be held at the project site LA
with the contractor and the inspectors to discuss the ap-
proved plans, soil reports and the sequence of the grading LA
. LA
operatIOns. LA
20gR
AIDMINISTRATION
3. The replacement of defective air-conditioning units
with one of equivalent size and Btu rating.
4. The replacement of plumbing fixtures and solar
panels with equal kind and quality.
1. The replacement of defective water heaters with one
of the equivalent gallonage, Btu rating and vent
capacity when the vent does not require relocation
or replacement.
2. The replacement of defective forced-air units with
one of equivalent size, Btu rating and vent capacity
when the vent does not require relocation or replace-
ment.
5. The replacement of defective domestic water piping t..A
within a dwelling, with piping of equivalent size and
quality when the installation does not exceed 50 feet

LA
6. The replacement of defective metallic water service LA
piping with piping of equivalent size, quality and
conductivity. . L_
7. The removing of existing roofing and the replace- h
ment of roofing materials which is in compliance LA
with Part II of Division 15 (FIX in here and Ordi-
nance) and which does not require any alteration to LA
the roof support system.
8. The replacement of defective smoke detectors. _
9. The replacement of shower pans with the same size
d
. LA
an capacIty. LA
10. The installation or replacement of masonry and con-
crete fences not exceeding 6 feet (1829 mm) in LA
h
'h
eig .t. LA
108.12.2 The employment of a certified licensed contractor
by the owner on any work shall not prohi bit the Department
from performing inspections of any work described in Sec- LA
tion 108.12.1. The called inspections required by Section
108.5 may be delegated to the certified licensed contractor LA
performing the work by the Superintendent of Building.
108.12.3 Department inspection. The may .
allow the use of the certification by a certified licensed COl1- LAA
tractor in lieu of inspections made by employees of the
Department provided there is compliance with all of the fol-
lowing: LA
LA
1. The certified licensed contractor has a valid Certifi- LA
cate of Registration obtained in accordance with Sec-
tion 1705 of this Code. LA
LA
2. The certified licensed contractor has filed with the LA
Department a Certificate of Compliance for each
installation.
The Certificate of Compliance shall be on a form
provided by the Department and shall be signed by LA
the property owner and the certified licensed contrac-
tor. The Department may require that the certified LA
licensed contractor affix a certification label obtained t.
from the Department on certain types of installations LA
to identify the work certified;
The Certificate of Compliance shall describe the
work performed and state that the certified licensed
contractor warrants, from personal knowledge, that L.A.
the materials installed and the work performed are in t
compliance with approved manufacturer's instruc- LA
tions, specifications and applicable requirements of
the Los Angeles Municipal Code. LA
LA
For the work described in Items 1,2 and 3 of Sec-LA
tion 108.12.1, the term "personal knowledge" as
used in the Certificate of Compliance means that the
certified licensed contractor has actual personal
knowledge of the facts certified to, or knowledge
acquired from an employee of the certified licensed LA
contractor, which employee provided continuous
. 2. Toe inspection. After the natural ground is exposed and
prepared to receive fill, but before any fill is placed.
Excavation inspection. After the excavation is started,
but before the vertical depth of the excavation exceeds 10
feet.
4. Film inspection. After the fill emplacement is started, but
before the vertical height of the lifts exceeds 10 feet.
5. DJrainage device inspection. After forms and pipe are in
place, but before any concrete is placed.
6. Rough grading. When all rough grading has been com-
pleted. This inspection may be called for at the comple-
tion of the rough grading without the necessity of the
Department having previously reviewed and approved
the reports.
7. Final. When all work, including installation of all drain-
age structures and other protective devices, has been
completed and the as-graded plan and required reports
have been submitted.
LA
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LA 3.
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LA The Department shall approve the work inspected or notify
the permittee or owner wherein the work fails to comply with
LA the law. Any portion of the work which does not comply with
the law shall be corrected.
LA
LA 108.10 Revised gJrading plan. If the inspector finds that the
soil or other conditions are not as stated in the application for a
LA grading permit, the inspector may refuse to approve furthe.r
work until a revised grading plan is obtained which conforms
LA to the existing conditions.
LA .
108.11 Approved fabJricators. The inspections provided for in
LA this section shall not be required for construction or installation
work done on the premises of a Type II fabricator to whom an
LA approval has been issued pursuant to the provisions of Division
C of Article 6 of Chapter IX of the Los Angeles Municipal
LA Code.
LA
108.12 Inspedions by certified licensed contJractors of work
peJrformed on detached single-family dwellings.
108.12.1 In lieu of the inspections made by employees of
LA the Department, as specified in Section 108, a certified
licensed contractor, employed by the owner, upon notifica-
LA tion to the Department prior to the commencement of work,
may install, inspect and certify the following work as being
performed in compliance with the provisions of the Los
LA Angeles Municipal Code for a detached single-family
dwelling:
LA
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20hR 2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
SECTION 109
CeRTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
The certified licensed contractor shall inspect all materi-
als to be used or concealed within such work.
The licensed contractor has submitted a
report to the Department describing the, workl!the cer-
tjfied .'licensed contractor performed ,and
that the work complies with a,ll pr9vlsions
of the Los Angeles Municipal Code. 'The repprt shall
be made on forms supplied by the Departnient and
shall be filed in the records of the Department.
108.12.4 The certified licensed contractor shall n9tify the
Department of the certified licensed contractor's com-
mencement of work for which the certified licensed con-
tractor has been engaged. This notification shall be made no
later than the last business day preceding the commence-
ment of work.
observation of the work or installation at the site in all
stages' of its progress.
For work set forth in Items 4, 5 and 6 of,!Section
108.12.1, the term knowledge" the
certiHed licensed contractor has actual nersonal
knowledge or knowledge acquired from anoiher cer-
tified licensed contractor or a qualified installer.
3. The c:ertificate of Compliance processing '!fee has
been Waid in accordance with Section 98.0417 of the
L()s Angeles Municipal Code.
4. The certified licensed contractor has filed the applica-
tion for a Certificate of Compliance with thel!Depart-
ment within 15 days after completion! of the
installation.
ADMINISTRATION
and every trailer park shall conformto the construction require-
ments for the sUbgroup occupancy to be housed therein, or for LA
the use to which the building or structure or trailer park is to be
put, as set forth-in this article. LA
LA
No building or structure or portion thereof and notrailer park
or portion thereof shall be used or occupied until a Certificate LA
of Occupancy has been issued thereof.
E t
LA
xcep IOns: LA
1. Unless it is specifically required by other provisions
of this:article, no existing building or portion thereof
shall require a Certificate of Occupancy, provided: LA
LA
A. The occupancy housed therein is the same for LA
which the original building permit was issued;
and LA
LA
B. The use of a building or portion thereof housing LA
a Group A or E occupancy and constructed
prior to 1934 has not been discontinued for a LA
period of more than 6 months.
2. No structure, the architecture of inhibits occu-
pancy, shall require a Certificate of Occupancy.
109.2 Change of occupancy. See Chapter 82.
109.3 Issuance of certificates. When required by Section
109.1, after the receipt and approval of the final inspection LA
report from each of the divisions of the Department, and after
the city engineer has reported that all required public improve-
ments have been completed, the Superintendent of Building LA
shall issue a Certificate of Occupancy" without c,harge, to the
owner of the building. Duplicates of the certificate may be LA
secured upon the payment of the duplication fee required by
ordinance. LA
LA
When a Certificate of Occupancy is issued, jt shall supersede LA
every certificate previously issued for that portion of the build-
ing described thereon.
109.4 Contents of certificate. Each certificate shall contain
the following: LA
LA
1. The building permit numbers.
2. The address of the building. LA
, LA
3. The name and address of the owner. LA
LA
4. A description of that portion of the building for which the LA
certificate is issued.
5. For Group A and E occupancies, the maximum occupant
load allowed. I LA
LA
6. A statement that the described portion of the building LA
complies'with the construction requirements of the Los
Angeles Municipal Code for the group of occupancies in LA
which the proposed occupancy is classified.
7. A statement that establishes relevant requirements of the
Los Angeles Zoning Code.
8. The signature of the Superintendent of Building or an au- LA
thorize representative ofthe Superintendent of Building.
109.5 Temporary certificates. Notwithstanding the provi-
sions of Sectio!) 109.4, if the Superintendent of Building finds
that no substantial hazard will result from the occupancy of any LA
building, or portion thereof, before the same is completed, and
-
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
" LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
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While engaged in the work, the certified licensed contrac-
LA tor shall not undertake or engage in any otQ.er task or occu-
pation which will interfere with the proper of
LA the certified licensed contractor's duties of inspection. The
certified licensed contractor shall report all :Violatiol)s of this
LA Code whichhave occurred relating to the constructibnwork
to the Superintendent of Building, and sucp. other informa-
LA tion reiating to the installation work as requested by the
Superintendent of Building.
LA
LA The Department may refuse to issue a Certificate ofCom-
a
A
pliance i,f it finds that the contractor has failed to, comply
with any of these requirements.
LA '
LA 108.13 Whenever the Department determines by inspection
that construction or grading activities dust
LA emissions the dust remains visible in the atIripsphere
beyond the property line of the emission sourc or a
a
A
nuisance or otqer hazard, the Department may order that such
__ activity ceflse or be controlled through watering practices using
LA reclaimed:water if available, or by other means, to the satisfac-
LA . II '
LA hon of the Department. The Department may order the owner
LA of the prQperty to employ a person, subject to Department
approval, to monitor the watering practices.'
LA

LA
LA
LA
LA 109.1 required. In order to safeguard life and limb,
health, property and public welfare, every building or structure
2008 CiTY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE 20iR
SECTION 111
CODE REVISION
SECTION 112
GRADING CERTIFICATE
SECTION 110
RESPONSIBILITY OF PERMITTEE
ADMINIS1I"RATION
satisfactory evidence is submitted that the work could not have
LA been completed prior to the time such occupancy is desired
because of its magnitude or because of unusual construction
LA difficulties, and the city engineer has reported that all required
public improvements have been completed, the Superintendent
LA of Building may issue a temporary Certificate of Occupancy
for any building or portion thereof. The Superintendent of
LA Building may issue a temporary Certificate of Occupancy not-
withstanding the fact that all required public improvements
have not been completed, if the superintendent finds that the
LA failure to complete the public improvements was due to cir-
cumstances over which the person applying for the Certificate
LA of Occupancy had no control.
LA
LA In addition, the Superintendent of Building may issue a tem-
porary Certificate of Occupancy for an existing building, or
LA portion thereof, provided no substantial hazard will result and
satisfactory evidence is submitted justifying the need for such
LA temporary occupancy. The Department shall collect a fee for
each temporary Certificate of Occupancy. The amount of the
t
A
fee shall be $100.00 plus an additional fee as shown in Table
1-B of this Code.
LA
LA Such temporary Certificate of Occupancy shall be valid for a
period not to exceed 6 months. The Department may issue
LA additional temporary Certificates of Occupancy. After the
expiration of a temporary Certificate of Occupancy, the build-
LA ing or structure shall require a Certificate of Occupancy in
accordance with other provisions of this section. Duplicates of
LA the certificate or temporary certificate may be secured upon the
payment of the duplication fee required by ordinance.
109.6 Revocatioll1l. The Superintendent of Building shall have
the authority, in writing, to suspend or revoke a Certificate of
LA Occupancy or Temporary Certificate of Occupancy issued
under the provisions of this Code whenever the certificate is
LA issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information sup-
" plied, or when it is determined that the building or structure or
LA portion of the building or structure is in violation of any ordi-
nance or regulation or any of the provisions of this Code.
109.1 Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 109.4, when-
" ever public improvements are required in connection with the
LA replacement or restoration of a building destroyed or damaged
during the local emergency declared by the Mayor in April,
LA 1992, the completion of those public improvements may be
deferred until June 1, 1995, and a temporary Certificate of
LA Occupancy may issue for the new or restored building or a por-
tion thereof prior to the completion of the public improve-
LA ments. The temporary Certificate of Occupancy shall issue
only if the Superintendent of Building finds that no substantial
LA hazard will result from the occupancy ofthe building or portion
thereof prior to the completion of the public improvements.
LA This Section 109.7 does not affect any requirement of a bond or
other security to warrant the proper completion of the required
public improvements.
109.8 Fire department ll1lo1tificatioJ!R. For each Group A and E
LA occupancy, a copy of the certificate shall be forwarded to the
Los Angeles Fire Department. "
20DR

LA
LA
Building permits shall be presumed to incorporate the provi- LA
sion thatthe applicant, the"applicant's agent, employees or con-
tractors shall carry out the proposed work in accordance with
the approved plans and with all requirements of this Code and L_
any other laws or regulations applicable thereto, whether speci- t.A:
fied or not. LA
LA
No approval shall relieve or exonerate any person ,from the
responsibility of complying with the provisions and intent of LA
this Code.
t_
A
LA:
LA
LA
LA
LA
. 111.1 The Superintendent of Building shall determine what
changes in the Code are necessary to more adequately protect LA
the public health, safety and welfare, based on studies of the
following: LA
LA
1. Schedules of requests for deviation from the provisions
of the Code and for approval of materials and methods of LA
construction' LA
, LA
2. Schedules of violations of the provisions of this Code;
3. Schedules of convictions and nonconvictions, and the
reasons. for nonconvictions, by the city attorney. ' s office;"
4. Changes and improvements in materials, methods of
construction and design; and
5. Investigations of fire and structural damage to buildings.
111.2 Upon request, the board shall consult with and provide
advice to the Superintendent of Building on any matter relating LA
to proposed changes of this Code.
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
112.1 Certificate required. No owner of property or other per-
son or agent in control of property shall permit or allow any LA
grading made after October 17, 1952, and not expressly within t.
A
the exceptions set forth in Section 106, to exist on such prop- t
erty unless a Grading Certificate has been issued therefor or LA
unless the grading is being carried on under the
of a valid grading permit. " LA
LA
112.2 Issuance of certificate. If upon final inspection of any
excavation or fill it is found that the work authorized by the L;e
grading permit has been satisfactorily completed in accordance t.A:
with the requirements of this Code, the Department shall issue LA
to the owner a Grading Certificate covering the work. On the
owner's request a separate certificate will be issued for each lot LA
for which building permits have been issued or applied for
prior to the completion of the grading. LA

2008 cnv Of lOS ANGELES BUilDING CODe

ADMINISTRATION
TABLE 1-A
PERMIT FEES a,b,c,d
TABLE 1-A.1
COMBINED PERMIT FEES
TABLE 1-B
TEMPORARY CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY ADDITIONAL FEES
(R-3 OCCUPANCY) BUILDING ELECTRICAL PLUMBING MECHANICAL COMBINED FEES
New Construction See Table I-A
26% of building 26% of building 13% of building 165% of building permit fee
permit fee permit fee permit fee determined from Table I-A
Alteration See Table I-A
26% of building 26% of building 13% of building 165% of building permit fee
permit fee permit fee permit fee determined from Table I-A
Swimming Pool See Table I-A - - -
175% of building permit fee
determined from Table I-A
Solar Heating and
See Table I-A - - - -
Cooling System
TOTAL VALUATION
From To FEE
$ 0.00 $100 inclusive None
100.01 2,000 inclusive $65.00
2,000.01 20,000 inclusive $40.00 plus $1.25 per $100 or fraction thereof of total valuation
20,000.01 50,000 inclusive $170.00 plus 6.00 per $1,000 or fraction thereof of total valuation
50,000.01 100,000 inclusive $195.00 plus $5.50 per $1,000 or fraction thereof of total valuation
1 0 0 , 0 0 0 ~ 0 1 500,000 inclusive $395.00 plus $3.50 per $1,000 or fraction thereof of total valuation
500,000.01 1,000,000 inclusive $520.00 plus $3.25 per $l,OOOor fraction thereof of total valuation
Over 1,000,000 $920.00 plus $2.85 per $1,000:or fraction thereof of total valuation
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
a. The building permit fee specified in this table shall be increased by a surcharge pursuant to Section 2705, Chapter 8, Division 2 of the Public Resources Code of the t ~
State of California (State Strong Motion Instrumentation Program). This surcharge shall not be included in the building permit fee for the purpose of determining LA
the plan check fee. LA
b. The permit fee specified in the table above shall be increased by 10percent for all construction or work required to comply with the rules and regulations adoptedby LA
the General Resources Conservation and Development Commission of the State of California. This increase in fee shall be included in the building permit fee for t ~
the purpose of determining the plan checking fee. LA
c. The permit fee specified in this table shall be increased by 12.5 percent for all construction or work required to comply with Title 24, Part 2, California Code ofReg- LA
ulations, Section 101.17, et seq., the state's disabled access and adaptability requirements. The increase in fee shall be included in the building permit fee for the LA
purpose of determining the plan check fee. . t ~
d. The minimum permit fee for projects that require more than one inspection shall be double the minimum inspection fee specified in Section 98.0412 (a) ofthe Los LA
Angeles Municipal Code. LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
ITEMS ADDITIONAL FEE
A Occupancy $65.00 each assembly room or area
E Occupancy $65.00 each classroom
I Occupancy $65.00 each floor or portion thereof
H Occupancy $65.00 each floor or portion thereof
B, F, M, or S Occupancy $,65.00 each floor or portion thereof
R10ccupancy $125.00 each floor or portion thereof
R3 Occupancy) No additional fee
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE 20kR
TABLE 1C
REPORT FEES a,d,c,d,e
REPORT FEES
Foundation investigation
f
$240.00
Soils engineering or geology report
g
For the first lot plus $2.80 for each additional lot or for the first acre $240.00
plus $14.00 for each additional acre or fraction thereof, whichever is the greater fee.
Seismology report $240.00
Supplemental fee
$120.00
For each supplemental foundation investigation, soils engineering, geology or seismology report.
ADMINiSTRATION
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
t ~ a. Combined reports when submitted together may have the total fee reduced by $70.00.
LA b. Report fees for minor work (structures, additions, slope repairs or grading) may be reduced to one half of the calculated fee, as determined by the Department.
LA c. Fees are based on single projects and contiguous properties.
t ~ d. Additional fees for division of land review shall be collected as required by Section 107.8.
LA e. The fees in this table shall be increased by 50 percent, when the reports are reviewed during off- hours at the request of the applicant and acceptance by the Depart-
LA ment.
t ~ f. May include soil period evaluation.
LA g. May include special studies zones evaluation.
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
TABLE 1-D
GRADING PERMIT FEES
GRADING FEE
100 cubic yards or less $160.00
101 - 1,000 cubic yards
$160.00 for the first 100 cubic yards,
plus $135.00 for each additional 100 cubic yards or fraction thereof.
1,001 - 10,000 cubic yards
$1,375.00 for the first 1,000 cubic yards,
plus $150.00 for each additional 1,000 cubic yards or fraction thereof.
10,001 - 100,000 cubic yards
$2,725.00 for the first 10,000 cubic yards,
plus $500.00 for each additional 10,000 cubic yards or fraction thereof.
100,001 cubic yards or more
$7,225.00 for the first 100,000 cubic yards,
plus $250.00 for each additional 10,000 cubic yards or fraction thereof.

20lR 2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS
SECTION 201
GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following
words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the
meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense
include the future; words stated in the masculine. gender
.include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes
the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms c;lefined in other codes. Where terms are not
defined in this code and are defined in the California Fire Code,
California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code,
such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those
codes.
LA 201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms, phrases and words are
t ~ not defined they shall have the ordinarily accepted meaning as
LA the context implies. The definitions in Webster's Third New
t ~ International Dictionary of the English Language,
LA Unabridged shall be considered as providing ordinarily
LA d . .
LA accepte meanmgs.
_ For applications listed in Section 111 regulated by the Office
ofthe 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. Web-
ster's Third New International Dictionary of the English Lan-
guage, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing
ordi,narily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202
DEFINITIONS
AAC MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
ACCESSAISLE. [DSA-AC] See Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
ACCESSIBILITY. [DSA-AC&HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A1-A, and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
ACCESSIBLE. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107AI-A, and ChapteI' 11B, Section 1102B.
ACCESSIBLEELEMENT. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Sec-
tion 1102B.
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS. See Section 1002.1.
ACCESSIBLE ROUTE. [DSA-AC&HCD l-AC] See Chap-
ter 11A, Secti6n 1107A1-A
ACCESSIBLE ROUTE OF TRAVEL. [DSA-AC] See Chap-
ter lIB, Section 1102B.
ACCESSIBLE SPACE. [DSA-AC] See Chapter lIB, Section
1102B.
ACCREDITATION BODY. See Section 2302.1.
2008 CIT OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ADAPTABILITY. [DSA-AC] See Chapter lIB, Section
1102B.
ADAPTABLE DWELLING UNIT. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC]
See Chapter 11A, Section 1107AI-A.
ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area or height
of a building or structure.
[DSA-AC] "Addition "is an extension, expansion or
increase infloor area or height ofa building, facility or struc-
ture.
ADHERED MASONRY VENEER. See Section 1402.1.
ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY. [DSA-AC] See Chapter
11B, Section 1102B.
ADOBE CONSTRUCTION. See Section 2102.1.
Adobe, stabilized. See Section 2102.1.
Adobe, unstabilized. See Section 2102.1.
[F] AEROSOL. See Section 307.2.
Levell aerosol products. See Section 307.2.
Level 2 aerosol products. See Section 307.2.
Level 3 aerosol products. See Section 307.2.
[F] AEROSOL CONTAINER. See Section 307.2.
AGED HOME OR INSTITUTION. See Section 310.
AGRICULTURAL, BUILDING. A structure designed and
. constructed to house farm implements, hay, grain, poultry, live-
stock or other horticultural products. This structure shall not be
a place of human habitation or a place of employment where
agricultural products are processed, treated or packaged, nor
shall it be a place used by the public.
AIR-INFLATED STRUCTURE. See Section 3102.2.
AIR-SUPPORTED STRUCTURE. See Section 3102.2.
Double skin. See Section 3102.2.
Single skin. See Section 3102.2.
AISLE. See Section 1002.1.
[DSA-AC] See Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
AISLE ACCESSWAY. See Section 1002.1.
AISLE, EMPLOYEE AREAS. [DSA-AC] See Chapter lIB,
Section 1102B.
[F] ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE. See Section
902.1.
[F] ALARM SIGNAL. See Section 902.1.
[F] ALARM VERIFICATION FEATURE. See Section
902.1.
ALLOWABLE STRESS DESIGN. See Section 1602.1.
29R
DEIFINITIONS
ALTERATIONorALTER. Any construction or renovation to
an existing structure other than repair or addition.
[DSA-AC] "Alteration or alter" is any change, addition or
modification in construction or occupancy or structural repair
or change in primaryfunction to an existing structure made by,
on behalf oforfor the use ofa public accommodation or com-
mercial faciliiy that affects or could affect the usability of the
building orfacility or part thereof. Alterations include, but are
not limited to, remodeling, renovation, rehabilitation, recon-
struction, historic restoration, changes or rearrangement of
the structural parts or elements, and changes or rearrange-
ment in the plan configuration of walls and full-height parti-
tions.
ALTERNATE CARD READER. [DSA-AC] See Chapter
11C, Section 1101C.1.
ALTERNATKNG TREAD DEVICE. See Section 1002.1.
ANCHOR. See Section 2102.1.
ANCHOR BUILDING. See Section 402.2.
ANCHORED MASONRY VENEER. See Section 1402.1.
ANNULAR SPACE. See Section 702.1.
[F] ANNUNCIATOR. See Section 902.1.
ANSI [DSA-AC] means the American National Standards
Institute.
APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official or authority hav-
ing jurisdiction.
[DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2] "Approved" means meeting
the approval of the enforcing agency, except as otherwise
provided by law, when used in connection with any system,
material, type of construction, fixture or appliance as the
result ofinvestigations and tests conducted by the agency, or
by reason ofacceptedprinciples or tests by national author-
ities or technical, health or scientific organizations or agen-
cies.
Notes: [HCD 1 & HCD 2]
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 108.2.1.1.
2. See Health and Safety Code Section 17921.1 for
"Approved" as applied to the use of hotplates in
residential construction referenced in Section
108.2.1.1.
3. See Health and Safety Code Section 17921.3 for
"Approved" as applied to low-flush water closets
in residential construction, as referenced in Sec-
tion 108.2.1.1.
4. See Health and Safety Code Section 19966 for
"Approved" as applied tofactory-built housing as
referenced in Section 108.3.2.5.
5. See Health and Safety Code Section 18201 for
"Approved" as applied to mobilehome parks as
referenced in Section 108.2.
30
6. See Health and Safety Code Section 18862.1 for
"Approved" as applied to special occupancy
parks as referenced in Section 108.2.
APPROVED AGENCY. See Section 1702.1.
APPROVED LISTING AGENCY [HCD 1 & RCD 2] is any
agency approved by the enforcing agency, unless otherwise
providedby statute, which is in the business oflisting and label-
ing and which makes available at least an annual published
report ofsuch listings in which specific information is included
that the product has been tested to recognized standards and
found to comply.
APPROVED TESTINGAGENCY[DSA-A.C, HCD 1 &HCD
2] is any agency, which is determined by the enforcing agency,
except as otherwise provided by statute, to have adequate per-
sonnel and expertise to carry out the testing ofsystems, materi-
als, types of construction, fixtures or appliances.
APPROVED FABRICATOR. See Section 1702.1.
APPROVED SOURCE. An independent person, firm or cor-
poration, approved by the building official, who is competent
and experienced in the application of engineering principles to
materials, methods or systems analyses.
ARCHITECTURAL TERRA COTTA. See Section 2102.1.
AREA. See Section 2102.1.
Bedded. See Section 2102.1.
Gross cross-sectional. See Section 2102.1.
Net cross-sectional. See Section 2102.1.
AREA, BUILDING. See Section 502.1.
AREA OF REFUGE. See Section 1002.1.
AREAWAY. A subsurface space adjacent to a building open at
the top or protected at the top by a grating or guard.
ASSEMBLY AREA. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Section
1102B.
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES. See Section 31 0.2,
"Residential carelAssisted living facilities."
ASSISTIVEDEVICE. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter
11A, Section 1107A.1-A.
ATRIUM. See Section 404.1.1.
ATTIC. The space between the ceiling beams of the top story
and the roof rafters.
[F] AUDIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE.
See Section 902.1.
AUTOCLAVED AERATED CONCRETE (AAC). See Sec-
tion 2102.1.
[F] AUTOMATIC. See Section 902.1.
AUTOMATICDOOR. [DSA-AC & BCD l-AC] See Chapter
11A, Section 1107.A.1-A, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
[F] AUTOMATIC FIRE-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM.
See Section 902.1.
[F] AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER SYSTEM. See Section
902.1.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

[F] AVERAGE AMBIENT SOUND LEVEL. See Section

902.1.
AWNING. An architectural projection that provides weather
protection, identity Of decoration and is wholly supported by
the building to which it is attached. An awning is comprised of
a lightweight, rigid skeleton structure over which'a coveringis
attached.
BACKING. See Section 1402.1.
BALCONY, EXTERIOR. See Section 1602:1.
BALED COTTON. See Section 307.2.
BALED COTTON, DENSELY PACKED. See Section
307.2.
[F] BARRICADE. See Section 307.2.
Artificial barricade. See Section 307.2.
Natural barricade. See Section 307.2.
BASE FLOOD. See Section 1612.2.
BASE FLOOD ELEVATION. See Section 1612.2.
BASEMENT. See Sections 502.1 and 1612.2.
BATHROOM. [DSA-AC& HCD l-ACJ See Chapter 11A, Sec-
tion 1107A.2-B.
BED JOliNI'. See Section 2102.1.
BEDRIDDENPERSON. See Section 310.
BLEACHERS. See Section 1002.1.
t ~ BOARD. The Board of Building and Safety Commissioners of
LA the City of Los Angeles.
BOARDING HOUSE. See Section 310.2.
[F] BOILING POINT. See Section 307.2.
BOND BEAM. See Section 2102.1.
BOND REINFORCING. See Section 2102.1.
BRACED WALL LINE. See Section 2302.1.
BRACED WALL PANEL. See Section 2302.1.
BRICK.. See Section 2102.1.
Calcium silicate (sand lime brick). See Section 2102.1.
Clay or shale. See Section 2102.1.
Concrete. See Section 2102.1.
BUILDING. Any structure used Of intended for supporting or
sheltering any use or occupancy.
Exception:JHCD 1, HCD 2 & HCD 1-ACJ For ,applica-
tions listed in Section 108.2 regulated 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.
2008 CITY OF 110S ANGELES BUILDING CODE
DEFINITIONS
4. Any recreational vehicle as defined in Health and
Safety Code Section 18010.
5. Any multi-unit manufactured housing as defined in
Health and Safety Code Section 18008.7.
For additional information, see Health and Safety
Code Section 18908.
Note: [SFMJ "Building" shall have the same meaning as
defined in Health and Safety Code Sections 17920 and
18908for the applications specified in Section 111.
BUIWING, EXISTING [DSA-AC & HCD 1 & HCD 2J is a
building erected prior to the adoption of this code, or one for
which a legal building permit has been issued.
BUILDING CODE (CODE). The Los Angeles City Building t ~
Code, Article 1 of Chapter IX of the Los Angeles Municipal LA
Code. ,LA
BUIWING ENTRANCE ON AN ACCESSIBLE ROUTE.
[DSA-AC& HCD1-ACJ See Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.2-B.
BUILDING LINE. Any private property line coterminous LA
with a public way; or a building line established by City ordi- ~
nance. LA
LA
BUILDING OFFICIAL. The Superintendent of Building for LA
the City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety. t ~
BUILT-UP ROOF COVERING. See Section 1502.1.
BUTTRESS. See Section 2102.1.
CABLE-RESTRAINED, AIR-SUPPORTED STRUC-
TURE. See Section 3102.2.
CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE (CBC). Part 2, Title 24 LA
of the California Code of Regulations as adopted by the Cali- t ~
fOfnia Building Standards Commission and published as the LA
2007 Edition of the California Building Code which in part t ~
incorporates by adoption the 2006 Edition of the International t ~
Building Code. 'LA
CANOPY. An architectural projection that provides weather
protection, identity or decoration and is supported by the build-
ing to which it is attached and at the outer end by not less than
one stanchion. A canopy is comprised of a rigid structure over
which a covering is attached.
[F] CARBON' DIOXIDE EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS.
See Section 902.1.
CARE AND SUPERVISION. See Section 310.
CAST STONE. See Section 2102.1.
CATASTROPHICALLY INJURED. See Section 310.
CCR [ D S A ~ A C J means the California Code of Regulations.
[F] CEILING LIMIT. See Section 902.1.
CEILING RADIATION DAMPER. See Section 702.1.
CELL. See Sections 308.4.6 and 2102.1.
CELLULAR CONCRETE[HCD1 &HCD 2J is a lightweight
product consisting ofportland cement and selected gas-form-
ing chemicals or foaming agents which create homogeneous
voids in the hardened concrete.
, CEMENT PLASTER. See Section 2502.1.
31R
DEFINITIONS
CERAMIC IFIBER lBLANKJET. See Section 721.1.1.
CERTIIFICATE OF COMPI.J[ANCE. See Section 1702.1.
LA CJH[]]EF OF THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. The Fire Chief of
the Los Angeles Fire Department or a dUly authorized repre-
LA sentative.
CHILD or CHIWREN. See Section 310.
CHILD CARE CENTER. See Section 310.
ClH[IMNEY. See Section 2102.1.
ClH[JIMNEY TYPES. See Section 2102.1.
lH[nglht-lhteaa appllDarnce aype. See Section 2102.1.
ILow-lhteat type. See Section 2102.1.
MasOiJlIrY aype. See Section 2102.1.
MedlnUllm-lhteat applhmce type. See Section 2102.1.
CHRONICALLY ILL. [SFM] See Section 310.
CIRClULATION PATJHL [DSA-AC &HCD l-AC] See Chap-
ter 11B, Section 1102B.
CITY. The City of Los Angeles, California.
[F] CILEAN AGENT. See Section 902.1.
CILEANOlUT. See Section 2102.1.-
CLEAR. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
CLEAR fLOOR SPACE. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Sec-
tion 1102B.
CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEPHONE. [DSA-AC] See Chapter
11B, Section 1102B.
[F] CILOSED SYSTEM. See Section 307.2.
COILLAR JOINT. See Section 2102.1.
COILILECTOR. See Section 2302.1.
COILUMN, MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
COMBINATION FIRE/SMOKE DAMPER. See Section
702.1.
[F] COMJBlUSTIBLE DUST. See Section 307.2.
[F] COMBlUS1r:H:BILE IFIBERS. See Section 307.2.
[F] COMBlUSTIIBILE ILIQlUID. See Section 307.2.
CRass Ill. See Section 307.2.
CRass IlIA. See Section 307.2.
CRass IUB. See Section 307.2.
COMMERCIAL FACILITIES [DSA-AC] are facilities that
are intendedfor nonresidential use and whose operations will
affect commerce, includingfactories, warehouses, office build-
ings and other buildings in which employment may occur.
Commercial facilities shall not include railroad locomotives,
railroadfreight cars, railroad cabooses, railroad cars covered
under Title II ofthe Americans with Disabilities Act of1990 or
facilities that are covered or expressly exemptedfrom coverage
under the Fair Housing Amendment Act of 1988 (42 USC
3601-3631, et seq).
COMMON PATH OlF EGRESS TRAVEIL. See Section
1002.1.
32R
COMMONUSE AREAS. [DSA-AC& BCDl-AC] See Chap-
ter 11A, Section 1107A.3-C, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
COMPOSITE ACTION. See Section 2102.1.
COMPOSITE MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
[F] COMPRESSED GAS. See Section 307.2.
COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF MASONRY. See Sec-
tion 2102.1.
CONCRETE, CARBONATE AGGREGATE. See Section
721.1.1.
CONCRETE, CELLULAR. [HCD 1 & HCn 2] See Section
721.1.1. See "Cellular concrete."
CONCRETE, LIGHTWEIGHT AGGREGATE. See Sec-
tion 721.1.1.
CONCRETE, PERLITE. See Section 721.1.1.
CONCRETE, SAND-ILIGHTWEIGHT. See Section
721.1.1.
CONCRETE, SILICEOUS AGGREGATE. See Section
721.1.1.
CONCRETE, VERMICULITE. See Section 721.1.1.
CONGREGATEILIVINGFACILITnJES. See Section 310.2.
CONGREGATELIVINGHEALTHFACILITY(CLHF). See
Section 310. .
CONGREGATE RESIDENCE. See Section 310.
CONNECTOR. See Section 2102.1.
[F] CONSTANTLY ATTENDED LOCATION. See Section
902.1.
CONSTRlUCTION DOCUMENTS. Written, graphic and
pictorial documents prepared or assembled for describing the
design, location and physical characteristics of the elements of
a project necessary for obtaining a building permit.
CONSTRlUCTION TYPES. See Section 602.
Type I. See Section 602.2.
Type n. See Section 602.2.
Type HI. See Section 602.3.
Type IV. See Section 602.4.
Type V. See Section 602.5.
[F] CONTllNlUOUS GAS-DETECTiON SYSTEM. See
Section 415.2.
[F] CONTROL AREA. See Section 307.2.
CONTROLLED LOW-STRENGTH MATERIAIL. A
self-compacted, cementitious material used primarily as a
backfill in place of compacted fill. .
CONVENTIONAL ILIGHT-FRAME WOOD CON-
STRUCTION. See Section 2302.1.
CORRIDOR. See Section 1002.1.
CORROSION RESISTANCE. The ability of a material to
withstand deterioration of its surface or its properties when
exposed to its environment.
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

[IF] C O R R O S I V E ~ See Section 307.2.

COURT. An open, uncovered space, unobstructed to the sky,
bounded on three or more sides by exterior building walls or
other enclosing devices.
COVER. See Section 2102.1.
COVERED MALL BUILDING. See Section 402.2.
COVERED MULTIFAMILY DWELLINGS. [DSA-AC &
HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.3-C.
CRIPPLE WALL. See Section 2302.1.
CROSS SLOPE. [DSA-AC & BCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.3-C, and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
CRYOGENIC FLUID. See Section 307.2.
CURB CUT. [D,SA-AC & BCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A, Sec-
tion 1107A. 3-C, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
CURBRAMP. [DSA-AC& BCDl-AC] See Chapter 11A, Sec,-
tion 1107A.3-C, and Chapter liB, Section 1102B.
DAILJLlE GJLASS. See Section 2402:1.
DAMPER. See Section 702.1.
DAY BOX. See Section 307.2.
DAY CARE. See Section 310.
DAY CARE HOME, LARGE FAMILY. See Section 310.
eDAY CARE HOME, SMAll FAMILY. See Section 310.
DEAD JLOADS. See Section 1602.1.
DECK. See Section 1602.1.
DECORATIVE GLASS. See Section 2402.1.
[F] DECORATIVE MATERIALS. All materials applied
over the building interior finish for decorative, acoustical or
other effect (such as curtains, draperies, fabrics, streamers and
surface coverings), and all other materials utilized for decora-
tive effect (such as batting, cloth, cotton, hay, stalks, straw,
vines, leaves, trees, moss and similar items), including foam
plastics and materials containing foam plastics. Decorative
materials do not include floor coverings, ordinary window
e
shades, interior finish and materials 0.025 inch (0.64 mm) or
less in thickness applied directly to and adhering tightly to a
substrate.
[F] DEFJLAGR{\TION. See Section 307.2.
[IF] DELUGE SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
DEPARTMENT... The Department of Building and Safety.
DESIGN DISPJLACEMENT. See Section 1908.1.3.
DESIGN EARTHQUAKE GROUND MOTION. See Sec-
tion 16i3.2. .
DESIGN FLOOD. See Section 1612.2.
_ DESIGN FLOOD ELEVATION. See Section 1612.2.
DESIGN STRENGTH. See Section 1602.1.
DESIGNATEDSEISMIC SYSTEM. See Section 1702.1.
[IF] DETACHED BUILDING. See Section 307.2.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
DEFINITIONS .
DETATCHED SINGLE-FAMILY DWELLING [HCD 1 &
RCD 2] is any single-family dwelling which is separatedfrom
adjacent property lines by 3feet (914 mm) or more or is sepa-
ratedfrom adjacent buildings by 6 feet (1829 mm) or more.
DETAILEDPLAIN CONCRETESTRUCTURALWALL.
See Section 1908.1.3.
DETECTABLE WARNING. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See
Chapter llA, Section 1107A.4-D, and Chapter lIB, Section
1102B.
. [F] DETECTOR, HEAT. See Section 902.1.
[F] DETONATION. See Section 307.2.
DIAPHRAGM. See Sections 1602.1 and 2102.1.
Diaphragm, blocked. See Sections 1602.1.
Diaphragm, boundary. See Section 1602.1.
Diaphragm, chord. See Section 1602.1.
Diaphragm, flexible. See Section 1602.1.
Diaphragm, rigid. See Section 1602.1.
Diaphragm, unblocked. See Section 2302.1.
DIMENSIONS. See Section 2102.1.
Actual. See Section 2102.1.
Nominal. See Section 2102.1.
Specified. See Section 2102.1.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN[DSA-AC, HCD 1 &HCD2] is a pub-
licly displayed notice which indicates by use ofwords or sym-
bols a recommended direction or route of travel.
DISABILITY. [DSA-AC] is (1) a physical or mental impair-
ment that limits one or more of the major life activities of an
individual, (2) a record of such an impairment, or (3) being
regarded as having such an impairment.
DISABLED. [DSA-AC] See "Disability."
DISPENSING. See Section 307.2.
DOOR, BALANCED. See Section 1002.1.
DORMITORY. See Sections 308.4.6 and 310.2.
DRAFTSTOP. See Section 702.1.
DRAG STRUT. See Section 2302.1.
[F] DRY-CHEMICAL EXTINGUISHING AGENT. See
Section 902.1.
DRY FLOODPROOFING. See Section 1612.2.
DURATION OF LOAD. See Section 1602.1.
DWELLING. A building that contains one or two dwelling
units used, intended or designed to be used, rented, leased, let
or hired out to be occupied for living purposes.
DWEJLLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete, inde-
pendent living facilities for one or more persons including per-
manent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and
sanitation.
[DSA-AC & RCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A; Section
1107A.4-D, and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
33R

EIFFECTlIVE HElIGHT. See Section 2102.1.
EFFllCllENCY DWELLllNG UNO [HCD 1] is a dwelling
unit containing only one habitable room and includes an effi-
ciency unit as defined by Health and Safety Code Section
17958.1. See Section 1208.4.
EGRESS COURT. See Section 1002.1.
ELECTllUC VEHllCLE. See Section 406.7.
LA ELECTRICAL CODE. The Los Angeles City Electrical
Code, Article 3 of Chapter IX of the Los Angeles Municipal
LA Code. .
ELEMENT. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
ELEVATOR, PASSENGER. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B,
Section 1102B.
LA ELEVATOR CODE. The Los Angeles City Elevator Code,
Article 2 of Chapter IX of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.
[]F] EMERGENCYALARMSYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
[F] EMERGENCY CONTROL STATION. See Section
415.2.
EMERGENCY ESCAPE AND RESCUE OlP'ENlING. See
Section 1002.1.
[F] lEMERGENCY COMMUNICA-
TIONS. See Section 902.1.
ENFORCEMENT. [HCD 1 & HCD2] The applicable section
of the Health and Safety Code is repeated here for clarity and
reads asfollows:
Section 17920. "Enforcement" means diligent effort to
secure compliance, including review of plans and permit
applications, response to complaints, citation ofviolations,
and other legal process. Except as otherwise provided in
this part, "Enforcement" may, but neednot, include inspec-
tions ofexisting buildings on which no complaint or permit
application has beenfiled, and effort to secure compliance
as to these existing buildings.
ENFORCllNGAGENCY[DSA-AC, HCD 1, HCD 2 &SFM]
is the designated department or agency as specified by statute
or regulation.
ENTRANCE. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
EQUllP'MENT PLATFORM. See Section 502.1.
EQUllVALENT FACllLllTATllON. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC]
See Chapter llA, Section 1107A.5-E, and Chapter 11B, Sec-
tion 1102B.
ESSENTIAL FACILITIES. See Section 1602.1.
[IF] EXIEIAUSTEID> ENCLOSURE. See Section 415.2.
EXllSTllNG BUllWllNGS. [DSA-AC] See "Building, exist-
ing."
EXISTING CONSTRUCTION. See Section 1612.2.
EXISTING STRUCTURE. A structure erected prior to the
date of adoption of the appropriate code, or one for which a
legal building permit has been issued. See also Section 1612.2.
EXIT. See Section 1002.1.
EXIT, HORIZONTAL. See Section 1002.1.
34R
EXIT ACCESS. See Section 1002.1.
EXIT 1Il1lSCHARGE. See Section 1002.1.
EXIT DISCHARGE, LEVEL OF. See Section 1002.1.
EXIT ENCLOSURE. See Section 1002.1.
EXIT PASSAGEWAY. See Section 1002.1.
EXPANDED VINYL WALL COVERING. See Section
802.1.
[F] EXPLOSION. See Section 902.1.
[F] EXPLOSiVE. See Section 307.2.
High explosive. See Section 307.2.
Low explosive. See Section 307.2.
Mass detmnating explosives. See Section 307.2.
UNIDOTID. Class 1 Explosives. See Section 307.2.
DivisioID. 1.1. See Section 307.2.
DivisioID. 1.2. See Section 307.2.
Divisimn 1.3. See Section 307.2.
Division 1.4. See Section 307.2.
Division 1.5. See Section 307.2.
DivisioID. 1.6. See Section 307.2.
EXTERIOR SURFACES. See Section 2502.1.
EXTERIOR WALL. See Section 1402.1. e
EXTERIOR WALL COVERJ[NG. See Section 1402.1.
lEXTERIOR WALL lENVELOPE. See Section 1402.1.
JF RATING. See Section 702.1.
FABRIC PARTITIONS. See Section 1602.1.
FABRICATED ITEM. See Section 1702.1.
[IF] FABRllCATION AREA. See Section 415.2.
FACIliTY(OR FACllLITllES). [DSAaAC & HCD l-AC] See
Chapter 11A, Section 1107A. 6-F, and Chapter 11B, Section
1102B.
FACTORED LOAD. See Section 1602.1.
FAMILY[HCD1J is an individual or two or morepersons who _
are related by blood or marriage; or otherwise, live together in
a dwelling unit.
FllBER CEMENT SIDING. See Section 1402.1.
FIBERBOARD. See Section 2302.1.
FIRE ALARM BOX, MANUAL. See Section 902.1. _
[F] FIRE ALARM CONTROL UN!T. See Section 902.1.
[F] FIRE ALARM SiGNAL. See Section 902.1.
[F] FIRE ALARM SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
FIRE AREA. See Section 702.1.
FIRE BARRIER. See Section 702.1. __
FIRE CODE. The Los Angeles City Fire Code, Article 7 of tA
Chapter V of the Los Angeles Municipal Code. LA
[F] FIRE COMMAND CENTER. See Section 902.1.
2008 CilY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
It FiRE DAMPER. See Section 702.1.
[F] FIREDETECTOR, AUTOMATIC. See Section 902.1.
LA FlIRE DISTRICT. Any portion of the City of Los Angeles as
described in Chapter 72 of this Code.
FIRE DOOR. See Section 702.1.
It FIRE DOOR ASSEMBLY. See Section 702.1.
FJIRE EX][T HARDWARE. See Section 1002.1.
[F] FIRE LANE. A road or other passageway developed to
allow the passage of fire apparatus. A fire lane is not necessar-
ily intended for vehicular traffic other than fire apparatus.
_ FIRE PARTITION. See Section 702.1.
- FJIRE PROTECTION RATING.. See Section 702.1.
[F] FJIRE}PROTECTION SYSTEM. See Section 902.1.
FIRE lRESJl:STANCEo See Section 702.1.
F][RE-RES][STANCE RATING. See Section 702.1.
FlIRJE-lRESJISTANT JOINT SYSTEM. See Section 702.1.
FIRE-RETARDANT TREATED WOOD [SFMj is any wood
product impregnated with chemicals by a pressure process or
other means during manufacture, and which, when tested in
accordance with ASTM E 84-05 for a period of 30 minutes,
shall have aflame spread ofnot over 25 and show no evidence
ofprogressive combustion. In addition, theflame front snall not
_ progress more than 1OJ/
2
feet (3200 mm) beyond the center line
ofthe burner at any time during the test. Materials that may be
exposed to the weather shall pass the accelerated weathering
test and be identified as Exterior type, in accordance with
ASTMD 2898-94 andASTMD 3201-94. Where material is not
directly exposed to rainfall but exposed to high humidity condi-
tions, it shall be subjected to the hygroscopic test and identified
as Interior Type A in accordance with ASTM D 2898-94 and
ASTMD 3201-94. .
All materials shall bear identification showing the fire per-
formance rating thereof Such identifications shall be issued by
an approved agency having a servicefor inspection ofmateri-
als at the factory.
Fire-retardant-treated wood shall not be construed as
_ "noncombustible."
_ [F] F1LRJE SAFETY FUNCTIONS. See Section 902.1.
FlIRJE SEPARATION DISTANCE. See Section 702.1.
FJIRE WALL. See Section 702.1.
F][RJE WINDOW ASSEMBLY. See Section 702.1.
_ FJIREBLOCKING. See Section 702.1.
- FIREPLACE. See Section 2102.1.
FIREPLACE THROAT. See Section 2102.1.
See Section 307.2.
FJrRJEWORKS, 1.3G. See Section 307.2.
e FIREWORKS, lAG. See Section 307.2.
FLAME SPREAD. See Section 802.1.
FLAME SPREAD INDEX. See Section 802.1.
2008 CITY OF lQS ANGELES BUilDING CODE
DEFINITIONS
[F] FLAMMABLE GAS. See Section 307.2.
[F] FLAMMABLE LIQUEFIED GAS. See Section 307.2.
[F] FLAMMABLE LIQUID. See Section 307.2.
Class IA. See Section 307.2.
Class lB. See Section 307.2.
Class IC. See Section 307.2.
[F] FLAMMABLE MATERIAL. See Section 307.2.
[t] FLAMMABLE SOLID. See Section 307.2.
[F] FLAMMABLE VAPORS OR FUMES. See Section
415.2.
[F] FLASH POINT. See Section 307.2.
FLEXURAL LENGTH. See Section 1808.1.
FLOOD OR FLOODING. See Section 1612.2.
FLOOD DAMAGE-RESISTANT MATERIALS. See Sec-
tion 1612.2.
FLOOD HAZARD AREA. See Section 1612.2.
FLOOD HAZARD AREA SUBJECT TO HIGH VELOC-
ITY WAVE ACTION. See Section 1612.2.
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP (FIRM). See Section
1612.2.
FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY. See Section 1612.2.
FLOODWAY. See Section 1612.2.
FLOOR AREA, GROSS. See Section 1002.1.
FLOOR AREA, NET. See Section 1002.1.
FLOOR FIRE ;DOOR ASSEMBLY. See Section 702.1.
FLY GALLERY. See Section 410.2.
[F] FOAM-EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS. See Section
902.1.
FOAM PLASTIC INSULATION. See Section 2602.1.
FOLDING AND TELESCOPIC SEATING. See Section
1002.1.
FOOD COUR1'. See Section 402.2.
FOUNDATION-ONLY PERMIT. A building permit issued LA .
for that portion of a building, which constitutes the footings for
the building and which, subject to the approval of the Depart-
ment, may include those portions of the building below the LA
grade level. LA
FOUNDATION PIER. See Section 2102.1.
FREE-STANDING PEDESTAL. [DSA-ACj See Chapter
11C, Section 1101C.1.
FULL-TIME CARE. See Section 310.
[F] GAS CABINET. See Section 415.2.
[F] GAS ROOM. See Section 415.2.
[F] GASEOUS HYDROGENSYSTEM. See Section 420.2.
. GLASS FIBERBOARD. See Section 721.1.1.
GLASS UNIT MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
35R
DIEF I N ~ i I O NS
GVIJED BUlIILT-UP MEMBER. See Section 2302.1.
GRAB BAR. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A, Sec-
tion 1107A.7-G, and Chapter 118. Section 1102B.
GRADE (Adjacent Ground Elevation) [DSA-AC] is the lowest
point ofelevation of the finished surface of the ground, paving
or sidewalk within the area between the building and the prop-
erty line or, when the property line is more than 5feet (1524 mm)
from the building, between the building and a line 5 feet (1524
mm) from the building. See Health and Safety Code Se'ction
19955.3(d).
GRADE. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] See Section 502.1.
GRADE FLOOR OPENliNG. 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.
GRADE (ILUMBER). See Section 2302.1.
GRADE PLANE. See Section 502.1.
LA GRADING. Shall mean soil excavation or fill or any combina-
t ~ tion of soil excavation or fill and shall include the conditions
LA resulting from any soil excavation or fill.
LA
t ~ GRAFF][TI. Shall mean any unauthorized inscription, work,
LA figure or design which is marked, etched, scratched, drawn or
t ~ painted on any structural component of any building, structure
LA or other facility regardless of the ,nature of the material of that
t ~ structural component. Graffiti shall constitute a nuisance.
GRANDSTAND. See Section 1002.1.
GRlIDIIRON. See Section 410.2.
GROSS LEASABILE AREA. See Section 402.2.
GROUND FLOOR. [DSA-AC& HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A. 7-G.
GROUTED MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
GrOllllted. 1l1lORnow-umit masOHuy. See Section 2102.1.
Gro1Ulted. m1Ulntftwytlhe masOHuy. See Section 2102.1.
GUAllID [DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2] or GUARDRAIL. See
Section 1002.1.
GYPSUM BOARD. See Section 2502.1.
GYPSUM PILASTER. See Section 2502.1.
GYPSUM VENEER PILASTER. See Section 2502.1.
HAliUTABILE SPACE. A space in a building for living, sleep-
ing, eating or cooking. Bathrooms, toilet rooms, closets, halls,
storage or utility spaces and similar areas are not considered
habitable spaces. '
[F] HAILOGENATED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEMS. See
Section 902.1.
[F] HANDILING. See Section 307.2.
HANDRAIIIL. See Section 1002.1.
HARDBOARD. See Section 2302.1.
[IF] HAZARDOUS MATERJlA:LS. See Section 307.2.
[F] HAZARDOUS PRODUCTION MATERIAIL ("PM).
See Sectipn 415.2.
36R
HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE [SFM] is a substance which,
by reason of being explosive, flammable, toxic, poisonous,
corrosive, oxidizing, irritant or otherwise harmful, is likely to
cause injury.
HEAD JOINT. See Section 2102.1.
HEADER (Bonder). See Section 2102.1.
HEALTH CARE PROVIDER. [DSA-AC] See "Professional
Office of a Health Care Provider" in Chapter liB, Section
1102B.
[F] HEALTH HAZARD. See Section 307.2.
HEIGHT, BUILDING. See Section 502.1.
HEIGHT, STORY. See Section 502.1.
HEiGHT, WALLS. See Section 2102.1.
HELIPORT. See Section 412.5.1.
HELISTOP. See Section 412.5.1.
[F] HIGHLY TOXIC. See Section 307.2.
HIGH-RISE BUILDING. [SFM] As used in this code:
1. "Existing high-rise structure" means a high-rise struc-
ture, the construction of which is commenced or com-
pleted prior to July 1, 1974.
2. "High-rise structure" means every building ofany type
ofconstruction or occupancy havingfloors usedfor hu-
man occupancy located more than 75 feet (22860 mm) ..
above the lowestfloor level having building access (see
Section 403.1.2), except buildings used as hospitals as
defined in Health and Safety Code Section 1250.
3. "New high-rise structure" means a high-rise structure,
the construction ofwhich is commenced on or after July
1,1974.
HISTORICAL BUIWINGS. [DSA-AC] See "Qualified his-
torical building or property," C.C.R., Title 24, Part 8.
HORIZONTAL ASSEMBLY. See Section 702.1.
HOTEL or MOTEL [DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2] is any
building containing six or more guest rooms intended or
designed to be used, or which are used, rented or hired out to
be occupied, or which are occupiedfor sleeping purposes by _
guests. .,
[F] RPM FLAMMABlLE LIQUID. See Section 415.2.
[F] HPM ROOM. See Section 415.2.
HURRICANE-PRONE REGIONS. See Section 1609.2.
[F] HYDROGEN CUTOFF ROOM. See Section 420.2. _
][MMEDIATElLY DANGEROUS TO lL][FE AND .,
HEALTH (IDLlHI). See Section 415.2.
IMPACTINSULATION CLASS (IIC). See Chapter 12, Sec-
tion 1207.2.
IMPACT lLOAD. See Section 1602.1.
INCOMPATIBLE MATERIALS. See Section 307.2. e
INDEPENDENT ENTITY [DSA-AC] is a not-for-profit
product safety testing and certification organization, dedi-
cated to testingfor public safety. An independent entity would
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILIDING CODE
- operate for the testing, certification and quality assessment of
., products, systems and services.
LA CATERINGTRUCK. An qatering
truck is a motor! vehicle used for the purpose of dispensing and
selling liquids from sanitary dispensers and/or ready-to-eat
LA food and that have been prepared and sealed or pack-
aged on premises so long as the owner and operator have a valid
health permit authorizing the preparation of food. The above
items may be prepared on any industrial catering truckso long
LA as the owner aDd operator have a valid health permit for that
LA . '
LA preparatIOn.
tit
INFANT. [SFMj See Section 310.
[JF] DEVICE. See Section 902.1. '
lINSPECTION CERTIFICATE. See Section 1702.1.
lINTERIOR FINISH. See Section 802.1.
lINTERIOR FLOOR FINISH. See Section 802.1.
lINTERIOR SURFACES. See Section 2502.1.
lINTERIOR WALL AND CEILING FINISH. See Section
802.1.
lINTERLAYMENT. See Section 1502.1.
INTERNATIONAL SYMBOL OF ACCESSIBILITY.
[DSA-AC& HCn l-ACj See Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.9-I,
and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
JOINT. See Section 702.1.
JURISDICTION. The governmental unit that has adopted
this code under due legislative authority.
KICK PLATE. [DSA-AC & BCD l-ACj See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.11-K, and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
LABEL. See Section 1702.1..
LEVEL ACCESSIBLE AREA. [DSA-ACj See Chapter 11C,
Section 1101C.1.
LEVEL AREA. [DSA-AC & HCD l-ACj See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.12-L, and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
LIFT, SPECIAL ACCESS. [DSA-AC & RCD l-ACj See
"Special access lift" Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.12-L, and
Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
L:H:GHT-DIFFUSING SYSTEM. See Section 2602.1.
LlIGHT-FRAME CONSTRUCTION. Atype of construction
whose vertical and horizontal structural elements are primarily
formed by a system of repetitive wood or light gage steel fram-
ing members.
LIGHT-TRANSMITTING PLASTIC ROOF PANELS.
See Section 2602.1.
JLJ[GHT-TRANSMITTING PLASTIC WALL PANELS.
See Section 2602.1. .
JLJ[MIT STATE. See Section 1602.1.
[F] LIQUID. See Section 415.2.
[F] LIQUID STORAGE ROOM. See Section 415.2.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
DEFINITIONS
[F] LIQUID USE, DISPENSING AND MIXING ROOMS.
See Section 415.2.
LISTED. See Section 902.1.
[RCD 1 & 2] "Listed" means all products that appear in a
list published by an approved testing or listing agency. For
additional information, see Health and Safety Code Section
17920(h).
For applications listed in Section 111 regulated by the Office
ofthe State Fire'Marshal, "Listed" shall also mean equipment
or materials accepted by the State Fire Marshal as conforming
to the provisions of the State Fire Marshal's regulations and
which are included in a list published by the State Fire Mar-
shal.
LISTINGAGENCY[RCD 1 &2j means an agency approved
by the department that is in the business oflisting and labeling
products, materials, equipment and installations tested by an
approved testing agency, and that maintains a periodic inspec-
tion program on current production of listed products, equip-
ment and installations, and that, at least annually, makes
available a published report of these iistings. For additional
information, see Health and SafetyCode Section 17920(i).
LIVE LOADS. See Section 1602.1.
LIVE LOADS (ROOF). See Section 1602.1.
LOAD AND RESISTANCE FACTOR DESIGN (LRFD).
See Section 1602.1.
LOAD EFFECTS. See Section 1602.1.
LOAD FACTOR. See Section 1602.1.
LOADS. See Section 1602.1.
LOBBY[HCD 1, HCD 2 & SFMj is an area not defined as a
waiting room at the entrance ofa building through which per-
sons must pass.
LODGING ROUSE [RCD Ij is any building or portion
thereofcontaining not more thanfive guest rooms where rent is
paid in money, goods, labor or otherwise.
LOT. A portion or parcel of land considered as a unit.
LOT LINE. A line dividing one lot from another, or from a
street or any public place.
[F] LOWER FLAMMABLE LIMIT (LFL). See Section
415.2. .
LOWEST FLOOR. See Section 1612.2.
MAIN WINDFORCE-RESISTING SYSTEM. See Section
1702.1.
MALL. See Section 402.2.
[F] MANUAL FIRE ALARM BOX. See Section 902.1.
MANUFACTURER'S DESIGNATION. See Section
1702.1.
MARK. See Section 1702.1.
MARKED CROSSING. [DSA-AC&RCDl-ACj See Chapter
11A, Section 1107A.13-M, and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
37R
DEFINITIONS
MARQUEE. A permanent roofed structure attached to and
supported by the building and that projects into the public
right-of-way.
MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
Asllnllar masmuy. See Section 2102.1.
COllJlJrSe([]l asllnlar. See Section 2102.1.
Glass llllHllnt masoHllry. See Section 2102.1.
lPllanHll masoHllry. See Section 2102.1.
RaHJl((llom asllnllar. See Section 2102.1.
Renmorce([]l masoHllry. See Section 2102.1.
Sollndl. masoHllry. See Section 2102.1.
UnuenKlllforcedl (jplllanHll) masoHllry. See Section 2102.1.
MASONRY UNlIT. See Section 2102.1.
Clay. See Section 2102.1.
COHllcrete. See Section 2102.1.
Hollllow. See Section 2102.1.
Solndl. See Section 2102.1.
MAXIMUM CONSIDERED EARTlBIQUAKJE GROUND
MOTION. See Section 1613.2.
MEAN DAIIJLY TEMPERATURE. See Section 2102.1.
MEANS O!F EGRESS. See Section 1002.1.
LA MECHANICAL CODE. The Los Angeles City Mechanical
t ~ Code, Article 5 of Chapter IX of the Los Angeles Municipal
LA Code.
MEClHIANICALaACCES OPEN PARKING GARAGES.
See Section 406.3.2.
MEClHIANIiCAL EQUlIlPMENT SCREEN. See Section
1502.1.
MEClHIANICAL SYSTEMS. See Section 1613.2.
MEMBRANE-COVERED CABLE STRUCTURE. See
Section 3102.2.
MEMBRANE-COVERED !FRAME STRUCTURE. See
Section 3102.2.
MEMBRANE PENETRATION. See Section 702.1.
MEMBRANE-lPENJETRA'fIiON !FIRESTOP. See Section
702.1.
MENTALLY RETAJlIDED PERSONS, PROFOUNDLY OR
SEVERELY. See Section 310.
MERCHANDISlE PAD. See Section 1002.1.
METAL COMPOSIITE MATERIAL (MCM). See Section
1402.1.
.MlETAL COMPOSITlE MATlEllUAL (MCM) SYSTEM.
See Section 1402.1.
MlETAL ROO!F PANEL. See Section 1502.1.
METAL ROO!F SlHIINGLlE. See Section 1502.1.
MlEZZANIiNE. See Section 502.1.
MICROlP][LlES. See Section 1808.1.
38R
M][NERAlL BOARD. See Section 721.1.1.
MINERAL !FIBER. See Section 702.1.
MINERAlL WOOL. See Section 702.1.
MODERNIZATION PROJECT [SFMJ is any construction
effort that has an estimatedtotal cost in excess of$200,000 that
is intended to modify a permanent school building or structure
and/or the addition ofa new school building or structure used
to serve or house students from kindergarten through 12
th
grade (K-12). Modernization efforts shall apply strictly to a
public school that was establishedprior to July 1, 2002, and is
funded pursuant to the Education Code, Section 17074.56, and
Education Code commencing with Section 17070.10. Modern-
ization projects that are to be completed in more than one
phase may defer the installation ofthe automaticfire detection
and alarm systems until the final phase of the modernization
project. Solely for the purposes of Education Code Section
17074.20, routine maintenance and repair work shall not be
considered a modernization project.
MODI!FIED BITUMEN ROOF COVERING. See Section
1502.1.
MORTAR. See Section 2102.1.
MORTAR, SURFACE-BONDING. See Section 2102.1.
MOTEL. [DSA-AC, HCD1&HCD2J See "Hotel orMotel."
MOTION PICTURE AND TELEVISION PRODUCTION
STUDIO SOUND STAGES, APPROVED PRODUCTION
FACILITIESANDPRODUCTIONLOCATIONS. See Chap-
ter 46, California Fire Code.
MULTIILlEVlEL ASSEMBlLY EATING. See Section
1102.1.
MULTIPLE-ACCOMMODATION TOILET IF'ACILITY
[DSA-ACJ is a room that has more than one sanitaryfixture, is
intended for the use of more than one person at a time and
which usually is provided with privacy compartments or
screens shielding somefixtures from view. A. bathroom serving
a hotel guest room and a privacy toilet in small offices, stores
and similar locations are not included in this category.
[IF] MUlLTIPlLE-STATION ALARM DlEVIClE. See Section
902.1.
[F] MUlLTWlLlE-STATION SMOlKlE ALARM. See Section
902.1.
MULTiSTORYDWELLING UNIT.IDSA-AC& HCD l-ACJ
See Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.13-M.
NAIlLJING
9
BOUNDARY. See Section 2302.1.
NAIlLKNG
9
EDGlE. See Section 2302.1.
NA][lL][NG, !F][ELD. See Section 2302.1.
NATURAlLLY DURABLlE WOOD. See Section 2302.1 .
Decay resnstaHllt. See Section 2302.1.
Termnte resnsU!Hllt See Section 2302.1.
NEWLY CONSTRUCTED. [DSA-AC & HCn l-ACJ See
Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.14-N.
NEWPUBLICSCHOOL CAMPUS [SFM] is an educational
institution established on or after July 1, 2002 that houses
2008 CITY Of LOS ANGELES BUilDING CODE

and/or serves students from kindergarten through 12

th
grade
(K-12) and is funded pursuant to the Education Code, com-
mencing with Section 17070.10.
NFPA [DSA-A.C] is the National Fire ProtectionAssociation.
NONAMBULATORY PERSONS. See Section 310.
NONCOMBUSTIBLE, [SFM] as applied to building con-
struction material, means a material which, in the form in
which it is used, is either one of the following:
1. Material ofwhich no part will ignite and burn when sub-
jected to fire. Any material passing ASTM 136 shall be
considered noncombustible.
2. Material having a structural base of noncombustible
materiaias defined in Item 1above, with a suifacing ma-
terial not over 1/
8
inch (3.2 mm) thick which has a
flame-spread rating of50 or less.
"Noncombustible" does not apply to suiface finish materi-
als. Material required to be noncombustiblefor reduced clear-
ances to flues, heating appliances or other sources of high
temperature shall refer to material conforming to Item 1. No
material shall be classed as noncombustible, which is subject
to increase in combustibility orflame spread rf(lting, beyond the
limits herein established, through the effectiofage, moisture or
other atmospheric condition.
NOM][NAL LOADS. See Section 1602.1.
NOMINAL SIZE. (LUMBER). See Section 2302.1.
NONCOMBUSTmLE MEMBRANE STRUCTURE. See
Section 3102.2.
NORMAL [HCD 1 &HCD2] shall mean conforming to a pat-
tern or standard regarded as usual or typical.
[F] NORMAL TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE.
(NTP). See Section 415.2.
NOSING (or NOSE). See Section 1002.1. .[DSA-AC & BCD
1-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.14-N and Chapter
lIB, Section 1102B.
[IF] NUISANCE ALARM. See Section 902.1.
t ~ OCCUPANCY. The purpose for which a building, or part of a'
ALAbuilding, is used or intended to be used. The term "occupancy"
t ~ as used in this Code shall include the room housing that occu-
LA parlcy and the space immediately above a roof or structure if
t ~ used or intended to be used for other than a shelter.
OCCUPANCY CATEGORY. See Section 1602.1.
OCCUPANT
1
iLOAD. See Section 1002.1.
OCCUPIABhE SPACE. A room or enclosed space designed
for human occupancy in which individuals congregate for
amusement, educational or similar purposes or in which occu-
pants are engaged at labor, and which is equipped with means
of egress and light and ventilation facilities meeting the
requirements of this code.
OPEN PARKING GARAGE. See Section 406.3.2.
OPEN RISER. [DSA-AC & RCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.15-0, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
[F] OPEN SSTEM. See Section 307.2.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
DEFINITIONS
OPERABLE PART. [DSA-AC] See Chapter lIB, Section
1102B.
OPERATING BUILDING. See Section 307.2.
ORDINARY PRECAST STRUCTURAL WALL. See Sec-
tion 1908.1.3.
ORDINARY REINFORCED CONCRETE STRUC-
TURAL WALL. See Section 1908.1.3.
ORDINARY STRUCTURAL PLAIN CONCRETE
WALL. See Section 1908.1.3.
[F] ORGANIC PEROXIDE. See Section 307.2.
Class I. See Section 307.2.
Class H. See Section 307.2.
Class III. See Section 307.2.
Class IV. See Section 307.2.
Class V. See Section 307.2.
Unclassified detonable. See Section 307.2.
ORGANIZED CAMPS. [SFM] See Section 440.
ORTHOGONAL. See Section 1613.2.
OTHER STRUCTURES. See Section 1602.1.
OWNER. Any person, agent, firm or corporation having a
legal or equitable interest in the property.
[F] OXIDIZER. See Section 307.2.
Class 4. See Section 307.2.
Class 3. See Section 307.2.
Class 2. See Section 307.2.
Class 1. See Section 307.2.
[F] OXIDIZING GAS. See Section 307.2.
PANEL (PART OF A STRUCTURE). See Section 1602.1.
PANIC HARDWARE. See Section 1002.1.
PARTICLEBOARD. See Section 2302.1.
PASSAGEDOOR. [DSA-AC& HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.16-P, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
PASSENGER ELEVATOR. [DSA-AC] See "Elevator, pas-
senger" in Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
[HCD 1 & HCD2] "Passenger elevator" is an elevator used
primarily to carry persons. For additional information, see
California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7,Article 7-6,
Section 3009 of the 2001 California Building Code.
PASSIVE SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTOR [HCD 1] uses
architectural components, rather than mechanical compo-
nents, to provide heating or cooling for a building interior.
. .
PATH OF TRAVEL. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Section
1102B.
PEDESTRIAN. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.16-P, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
PEDESTRIAN GRADE SEPARATION. [DSA-AC] See
Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
39R

PEDESTRIA.NRAMP. [DSA-AC& HCn l-AC] See Chapter
11A, Section 1107A3.16-p, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
PEDESTRIAN WA}f. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter
11A, Section 1107A, 16-p, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
PENETRATION F][RESTOP. See Section 702.1.
PENTHOUSE. See Section 1502.1.
PERMANENT [DSA-AC] shall mean facilities which, are
intended to be usedforperiods longer than those designated in
this code under the definition of "Temporary."
PERMANENTPORTABLEBUILDING[SFM] is aportable
building that is used to serve or house students and is certified
as a permanent building on a newpublic school campus by the
public school administration shall comply with the require-
ments of new campus buildings.
PERMIT. An official document or certificate issued by the
authority having jurisdiction which authorizes performance of
a specified activity.
PEIRSON. An individual, heirs, executors, administrators or
assigns, and also includes a firm, partnership or corporation, its
or their successors or assigns, or the agent of any of the
aforesaid.
PERSONAL CARlE SERVICE. See Section 310.2.
PERSONS WITH DISABLITlES. [DSA-AC & BCD l-AC]
See Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.16-P.
PHOTOLUMINESCENT. [SFM] See Section 1002.
[IF] PHYSICAL IHIAZARD. See Section 307.2.
[IF] PHYSIOLOGICAL WARNING THRESHOLD
LEVEJL. Section 415.2.
PXJER FOUNDATIONS. See Section 1808.1.
BenIed! piers. See Section 1808.1.
PU.. E FOUNDATlIONS. See Section 1808.1.
Alillger umcased piles. See Section 1808.1.
C31Jissmll piRes. See Section 1808.1.
Concrete-mled steel pipe and tube pines. See Section
1808.1.
Ddvelll lillncasedl piles. See Section 1808.1.
Enlarged base piles. See Section 1808.1.
Steel-cased piles. See Section 1808.1.
Timber piles. See Section 1808.1.
PINRAIJL. See Section 410.2.
PLASTIC, APPROVED. See Section 2602.1.
PLASTIC GJLAZrrNG. See Section 2602.1.
PLAST][C HINGE. See Section 2102.1.
PLATFORM. See Section 410.2.
LA PLUMB][NG CODE. The Los Angeles City Plumbing Code,
. Article 4, Chapter IX of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.
PORTABLE BUILDING [SFM] is a classroom building or
structure of modular design and construction that houses
and/or serves students from kindergarten through twelfth
40R
grade (K-12) and is funded pursuant to the Education Code;
commencing with Section 17070.10 andmeets all ofthefollow-
ing criteria:
a The portable building or structure is designed and con-
structed to be relocatable and transportable over public
streets.
o The portable building or structure is designed and con-
structedfor relocation without detaching the roof or the
floor from the building or structure.
o The portable building or structure is sited upon a tempo-
rary foundation in a manner that is designed to permit
easy removal.
o The portable building or structure has a floor area of
2,000 square feet (186 m
2
) or less when measured from
the extent of the exterior walls.
a The portable building shall be removedwithin three years
ofinstallation or the school administration may request a
three-year extension pursuant to Education Code Section
17074.54(a) and (b).
POSITIVE ROOF DRAINAGE. See Section 1502.1.
POWDER ROOM. [DSA-AC& HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.16-P.
POWER-ASSISTED DOOR [DSA-AC] is a door used for
human passage with a mechanism that helps to open the door,
or relieves the opening resistance ofa door, uponthe activation
of a switch or a continuedforce applied to the door itself.
PREFABRICATED WOOD I-JOIST. See Section 2302.1.
PRESERVATIVE-TREATED WOOD. See Section 2302.1.
PRESTRESSED MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
PRIMARY ENTRY. [HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section
1107A.16-P.
PRIMARY ENTRY LEVEL. [HCn l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.16-P.
PRIMARY FUNCTION. See Section 3402.1.
PRISM. See Section 2102.1.
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE OF A HEALTH CARE PRO-
VIDER. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
PROSCENIUM .WALL. See Section 410.2.
PROTECTIVE SOCIAL CARE [SFM] is the housing and
care ofanyperson ofany age when suchperson is referred to or
placed within such home or facility for care and silpervision
services by any governmental agency.
PUBLICACCOMMODATION[DSA-AC, HCD 1 &HCD 2]
includes, but is not limited to, any building orfacility or other
specific public use facilities not listed in Items 1 through 12 if
they fall into one or more of the following categories:
1. Places ofpublic lodging.
2. Establishments serving food or drink open to public
use.
3. Places of exhibition or entertainment open to public
use.
4. Places ofpublic gathering.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

PUBLI-USE AREAS. [DSA-AC & BCD l-AC] See Chap-

ter 11A, Section 1107A.16-P, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
PUBLIC WAY. See Section 1002.1.
7.
8.
9.
10.

11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
5. Sales or rental establishments open to public use.
6.' Service establishments open to public use.
7. Stations usedfor public transportation.
8. Places ofpublic display or collection.
9. Places ofpublic recreation.
10. Places ofpublic education.
11. Social service center establishments open to the gen-
eral public.
12. Places of exercise or recreation open to public use.
Examples of public accommodations for purposes of this
code shall include, but not be, limited to, the following private
entities:
1. An inn, hotel, motel or otherplace ofpublic lodging, ex-
cept for a lodging house located within a builCling that
contains not more than five rooms for rent or hire and
that is pctually occupied by the proprietor of such es-
tablishment as the residence. of such proprietor.
2. A restqurant, bar or other establishment serving food
or drink.
3. A motion picture house, theater, concert hall, stadium
or other place of exhibition or entertainment.
4. An auditorium, convention center, lecture hall or other
place ofpublic gathering.
5. A bakery, grocery store, clothing store, hardware store,
shopping center or other sales or retail establishment.
6. A laundromat, dry cleaner, bank, barber shop, beauty
shop, travel service, shoe repair service,juneral parlor,
gas station, office of an accountant or lawyer, phar-
macy, insurance office, professional office of a health
care provider, hospital or other service establishment.
A terminal, depot or other station used for specified
public transportation.
A museum, library, gallery or other place ofpublic dis-
play or collection.
A park, zoo, amusement park or other place of recre-
ation.
A nursery, elementary, secondary, undergraduate or
postgraduate private school, or other place of educa-
tion.
A day care center, senior citizen center, homeless shel-
ter, food bank, adoption agency or other social service
center establishment. .
A gymnasium, health spa, bowling alley, golfcourse or
other place of exercise.
A church.
An office building.
A public curb or sidewalk.
PUBLIC ENTRANCE[HCD l-AC] is an entrance that is not
a service entrance or a restricted entrance.
2008 CITY OF, lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
DEFINITIONS
PUBLICLY FUNDED [DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2] for the
purpose ofhousing, all buildings, structures, sidewalks, curbs
and related facilities constructed in the state and used or
intended to be used as a public use area, as defined in Section
1107A.16-P, shall comply with the accessibility standards of
Chapter 11B of this code when state, county or municipal
funds, orfunds ofany political subdivision ofthe state are used.
[F] PYROPHORIC. See Section 307.2.
[F] PYROTECHNIC COMPOSITION. See Section 307.2.
QUALIFIED HISTORICAL BUILDING (or PROPERTY).
[DSA-AC] See C.CR. Title 24, Part 8.
RAIL TRANSiT BOARDING PLATFORM. [DSA-AC] SeJ!
"transit boarding platform" in Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
RAMP. See Section 1002.1.
[DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section
1107A.18-R.
RAMP-ACCESS OPEN PARKING GARAGES. See Sec-
tion 406.3.2.
REASONABLE PORTION [DSA-AC] shall mean that seg-
ment of a building, facility, area, space or condition, which
would normally be necessary if the activity therein is to be
accessible by persons with disabilities.
RECOMMENDIDSA-AC, HCD1 & /fCD2] does not require
mandatory acceptance, but identifies a suggested action that
shall be considered for the purpose of providing a greater
degree of aCCf:ssibility to persons with disabilities.
[F] RECORD DRAWINGS. See Section 902.1.
REFERENCE RESISTANCE (D). See Section 2302.1.
REGISTERED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL. An individual
who is registered or licensed to practice their respective design
profession as defined by the statutory requirements of the pro-
fessional registration laws of the state or jurisdiction in which
the p r o j ~ c t is to be constructed.
REINFORCED PLASTIC, GLASS FIBER. See Section
. 2602.1.
RELIGIOUS WORSHIP, PLACE OF. Abuilding or portion
thereof intended for the performance of religious services.
REMODELING. [DSA-AC] See "Alteration or Alter."
REPAIR. The reconstruction or renewal of any part of an exist-
ing building for the purpose of its maintenance.
REQUIREDSTRENGTH.. See Sections 1602.1 and 2102.1.
REROOFING. See Section 1502.1.
RESIDENTIAL AIRCRAFT HANGAR. See Section
412.3.1.
RESIDENTIAL CARE/ASSISTED LIVING FACILI-
TIES. See Section 310.2.
RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY FOR THE CHRONI-
CALLY ILL (RCF/CI). See Section 310.
RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY FOR THE ELDERLY
(RCFE). See Section 310.
RESIDENTIAL FACILITY (RF). See Section 310.
41R
i)
DEFINITIONS
RESISTANCE FACTOR. See Section 1602.1.
RESTRAINT [SFM] shall mean the physical retention of a
person within a room, cell or cell block by any means, or within
the exterior walls ofa building by means oflocked doors inop-
erable by the person restrained. "Restraint" shall also mean
the physical binding, strapping or similar restriction of any
person in a chair, walker, bed or other contrivance for the pur-
pose of deliberately restricting the free movement of ambula-
tory persons.
"Restraint" shall not be construed to include
nonambulatory persons nor shall it include the use ofbandage
material, strip sheeting or otherfabrics or materials (soft ties)
used to restrainpersons in hospital-type beds or wheelchairs to
prevent injury, providedan approvedmethodofquick release is
maintained. Facilities employing tlJe use of soft ties, however,
shall be classified as a building used to house nonambulatory
persons.
"Restraint" shall not be practiced in licensedfacilities clas-
sified as Group I-I, R-3.1 and R-4 occupancies unless con-
structed as a Group 1-3 occupancy. For Group 1-3 occupancies
see Section 308.2.
R.ESTRICTED ENTRANCE [BCD 1, HCD 2 & HCD
1-AC] is an entrance that is made availablefor common use on
a controlledbasis, but is not public use, and that is not a service
entrance.
RETRACTABLE AWNING. See Section 3105.2.
RISER. [DSA-AC, HCD 1 & Hen 2} See Chapter 11A, Sec-
tion 1107A.18-R, and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
ROOF ASSEMBLY. See Section 1502.1.
ROOF COVERING. See Section 1502.1.
. ROOF COVERlING SYSTEM. See Section 1502.1.
ROOF DECK. See Section 1502.1.
ROOF RECOVER.. See Section 1502.1.
ROOF REPAIR. See Section 1502.1.
ROOF REPLACEMENT. See Section 1502.1.
ROOF VENTJIILATION. See Section 1502.1.
ROOFTOP STRUCTURE. See Section 1502.1.
RUBBLE MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
Coursed rubbie. See Section 2102.1.
Rall1dom rubble. See Section 2102.1..
Rough or <mdhnary rubble. See Section 2102.1.
RUNNING BOND. See Section 2102.1.
RUNNING SLOPE. [DSA-AC] See Chapter lIB, Section
1102B.
SANITARY FACILITY [DSA-AC, HCD 1 & HCD 2] is any
single water closet, urinal, lavatory, bathtub or shower, or a
combination thereof, together with the room or space in which
they are housed.
SCISSOR STAIR. See Section 1002.1.
SCUPPER. See Section 1502.1.
42R
SEISMIC DESIGN CATEGORY. See Section 1613.2.
SEISMIC-FORCE-RESISTING SYSTEM. See Section
1613.2.
SELF-CLOSING. See Section 702.1.
SELF-LUMINOUS. See Section 1002.
[F] SERVICE CORRIDOR. See Section 415.2.
SERVICE ENTRANCE [HCD l-AC] is an entrance
intended primarily for the delivery of goods or services.
SHAFT. See Section 702.1.
SHAFT ENCLOSURE. See Section 702.1.
SHALL [DSA-AC] as used in this code means mandatory.
SHEAR WALL. See Sections 2102.1 and 2302.1.
Detailed plain masonry shear waiL See Section 2102.1.
Intermediate prestressed masonry sh.ear wall. See Sec-
tion 2102.1.
Intermediate reinforced masonry shear wall. See Section
2102.1.
Ordinary plain masonry shear walt See Section 2102.1.
Ordinary plain prestressed masonry shear wall. See Sec-
tion 2102.1. .
Ordinary reinforced masonry shear walt See Section
2102.1.
Perforated shear wain. See Section 2302.1.
Perforated shear wain segment. See Section 2302.1.
Special prestressed masonry shear wall. See Section
2102.1.
Special reinforced masonry shear wall. See Section
2102.1.
SHELL. See Section 2102.1.
SHOPPING CENTER (or SHOPPINGMALL). [DSA-AC&
HCD 2] See Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.
SHOUW. [DSA-AC, HeD 1 & HCD 2] See "Recommend."
SIDEWALK[nSA-AC&HCD l-AC] is a suifacedpedestrian
way contiguous to a street usedby the public. (As differentiated
from the definition of "Walk" in Chapter 11A, Section
1107A.23-W, and Chapter lIB, Section 1102B.)
SIGNAGE [DSA-AC] is displayed verbal, symbolic, tactile,
and/or pictorial information.
.SINGLE-ACCOMMODATION SANITARY FACILITY
[DSA-AC, HeD 1 & HCD 2] is a room that has not more than
one ofeach type ofsanitary fixture, is intendedfor use by only
one person at a time, has no partition around the toilet and has
a door that can be lockedon the inside by the room occupant.
SINGLE-PLY MEMBRANE. See Section 1502.1.
[F] SINGLE-STATION SMOKE ALARM. See Section
902.1.
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

SITE[DSA-AC, BCD1 & HCD 2J is aparcel ofland bounded

by a property line or a designated portion of a. public
right-of-way.
SITE CJLASS. See Section 1613.2.
SITE COEFFICIENTS. See Section 1613.2.
SITEDEVELOPMENT[DSA-AC&HCDl-ACJ is "on-site"
and "off-site" work, including, not limited to, walks, side-
walks, ramps, curbs, curb ramps, parking facilities, stairs,
planting areas, pools, promenades, exterior gathering or
assembly areas and raised or depressed paved areas.
SKYJLIGHT, UNIT. Afactory-assembled, glazed fenestration
unit, containing one panel of glazing material that allows for
natural lighting through an opening in the roof assembly while
preserving the weather-resistant barrier of the roof.
SKYLIGHTS AND SLOPED GLAZING. Glass or other
transparent or translucent glazing material installed at a slope
of 15 degrees (0.26 rad) or more from vertical. Glazing mate-
rial in skylights, including unit skylights, solariums, sunrooms,
roofs and sloped walls, are included in this definition.
SLEEPING ACCOMMODATIONS. [DSA-AC & HCD
l-ACJ See Chapter 11A, Section 1107A.19-S, and Chapter
11B, Section 1102B.
SJLEEPING UNIT. A room or space in which people sleep,
which can also include permanent provisions for living, eating,
and either sanitation or kitchen facilities but not both. Such
rooms and spaces that are also part of a dwelling unit are not
sleeping units.
SLOPE. [DSA-AC & HCD l-ACJ See Chapter 11A, Section
1107A.19-S.
[If] SMO:KE ALARM. See Section 902.1.
SMOKE BARRIER. See Section 702.1.
SMOKECOMPARTMENT. See Section 702.1.
SMOKE DAMPER. See Section 702.1.
[If] SMOKE DETECTOR. See Section 902.1.
INDEX. See Section 802.1.
SMOlKE..PR@TECTED ASSEMBLY SEATING. See Sec-
tion 1002.1.
SMOKEPROOF ENCLOSURE. See Section 902.1.
[If] SOLID. See Section 415.2.
SOUND TRANSMISSION CLASS (STC). [HCD IJ See
Chapter 12, Section 1207.2.
SPACE (DSA-AC & HCD 2J is a definable area, e.g., a room,
toilet room, hall, assembly area, entrance, storage room,
alcove, courtyard, or lobby.
SPECIALACCESSLIFT. [DSA-AC& HCD-lACJ See Chap-
ter 11A, Section 1107A.19-S, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
SPECIAL AMUSEMENT BUILDING. See Section 411.2.
SPECIAL INSPECTION. See Section 1702.1.
Special continuous. See Section 1702.1.
Special inSpection, periodic. See Section 1702.1.
2008 cnv OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
DEFINITIONS
SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA. See Section 1612.2.
SPECIFIED. See Section 2102.1.
SPECIFIED COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH OF
MASONRY if''''). See Section 2102.1.
SPECIFIED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION. [DSA-ACJ See
Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
SPLICE. See Section 702.1.
SPRAYED FIRE-RESISTANT MATERIALS. See Section
1702.1.
STACK BOND. See Section 2102.1.
STAGE. See Section 410.2.
STAIR. See Section 1002.1.
STAIRWAY. See Section 1002.1.
STAIRWAY, EXTERIOR. See Section 1002.1.
STAIRWAY, INTERIOR. See Section 1002.1.
STAIRWAY, SPIRAL. See Section 1002.1.
[F] STANDPIrE SYSTEM, CLASSES OF. See Section
902.1.
Class I system. See Section 902.1.
Class II system. See Section 902.1.
Class III system. See Section 902.1.
[F] STANDPIPE, TYPES OF. See Section 902.1.
Automatic dry. See Section 902.1.
Automatic wet. See Section 902.1.
Manual dry. See Section 902.1.
Manual wet. See Section 902.1.
Semiautomatic dry. See Section 902.1.
START OF CONSTRUCTION. See Section 1612.2.
STATE-OWNED/LEASED BUILDING [SFMJ is a building
or portion ofa building that is owned, leased or rented by the
state. State-leased buildings shall include all required exits to a
public way serving such leased area or space. Portions ofstate-
leased buildings that are not leased or rented by the state shall
not be included within the scope ofthis section unless such por-
tions present an exposure hazard to the state-leased area or
space.
STEEL CONSTRUCTION, COLD-FORMED. See Section
2202.1.
STEEL JOIST. See 2202.1.
STEEL MEMBER, STRUCTURAL. See Section 2202.1.
STEEPSLOPE. Aroof slope greater than two units vertical in
12 units horizontal (l7-percent slope).
.STONE MASONRY. See Section 2102.1.
Ashlar stone masonry. See Section 2102.1.
Rubble stone m"asonry. See Section 2102.1.
[F] STORAGE, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. See Section
415.2. I
43R
DEFINlllONS
STORY. The portion of a building included between the upper
surface of a floor and the upper surface of the floor or roof next
above (also see "Mezzanine" and Section 502.1). It is mea-
sured as the vertical distance from top to top of two successive
tiers of beams or finished floor surfaces and, for the topmost
story, from the top of the floor finish to the top of the ceiling
joists, or where there is not a ceiling, to the top of the roof raf-
ters.
[DSAaACJ See Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
STORY ABOVE GRADE PLANE. Any story having its fin-
ished floor surface entirely above grade plane, except that a
shall be considered as a story above grade plane
where the finished surface of the floor above the basement is:
1. More than 6 feet (1829 mm) above grade plane; or
2. More than 12 feet (3658 mm) above the finished ground
level at any point.
STORY, FIRST. [DSA-ACJ See Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
STRENGTH. See Section 2102.1.
DesigHll strength. See Section 2102.1.
Nominal strengtlhi. See Sections 1602.1 and 2102.1.
Required strelIlgth. See Sections 1602.1 and 2102.1.
STRENGTH DESIGN. See Section 1602.1.
STRUCTURAL COMPOSITE I,UMBER. See Section
2302.1.
Lamill1latedl vellleer lumber (LVL). See Section 2302.1 ..
Paralllell strallld.lumber (PSL). See Section 2302.1.
STRUCTURAL FRAME. [DSA-AC/ See Chapter 11B, Sec-
tion 1102B.
STRUCTURAL GLUEDaLAMINATED TIMBER. See
Section 2302.1.
STRUCTURAL OBSERVATION. See Section 1702.1.
STRUCTURE. That which is built or constructed.
SUBDIAJPHRAGM. See Section 2302.1.
SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE. See Section 1612.2.
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT. See Section 1612.2.
SUNROOM ADDITION. See Section 1202.1.
LA SUPER][NTENDENT OF BUILDING. The General Man-
ager of the Department of Building and Safety of the City of
LA Los Angeles or a duly authorized representative.
[F] SUPERVISING STATION. See Section 902.1.
[F]SUPERVISORY SERVICE. See Section 902.1.
[F] SUPERVISORY SIGNAL. See Section 902.1.
[JF] SUPERVISORY SIGNAL-INITIATINGDEVICE. See
Section 902.1.
SWIMMING POOLS. See Section 3109.2.
T RATING. See Section 702.1.
TACTILE[DSA-AC&HCD 2J describes an object that can be
perceived using the sense of touch.
441R
TECHNICALLY INFEASIBLE. See Section 3402. e
[DSA-ACJ "Technically infeasible" means, with respect to
an alteration ofa building or afacility, that it has little likeli-
hood of being accomplished because existing structural
conditions would require removing or altering a load-bear-
ing member which is an essential part of the structural
frame; or because other existing physical or site constraints -
prohibit modification or addition ofelements, spaces orfea-
tures which are in full and strict compliance with the mini-
mum requirements for new construction and which are
necessary to provide accessibility.
TEMPORARY. Shall mean buildings and facilities intended
for use at one location for not more than 120 days and seats
intended for use at one location for not more than 90 days.
TEMPORARY [DSA-ACJ shall mean buildings andfacilities
intendedfor use at one locationfor not more than one year and
seats intended for use at one location for not more than 90
days.
TENT. Any structure, enclosure or shelter which is con-
structed of canvas or pliable material supported in any manner
except by air or the contents it protects.
TERMINALLY ILL. See Section 310.
TESTING AGENCY [BCD-l & BCDa 2J means an agency
approved by the department as qualifiedand equippedfor test-
ing products, materials, equipment and installations in accor-
dance with nationally recognized standards. For additional ,.
information, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(m). _
TEXT TELEPHONE. [DSA-ACJ See Chapter 11B, Section
1102B.
THERMAL ISOLATION. See Section 1202.1.
THERMOPLASTIC MATERIAL. See Section 2602.1.
THERMOSETTING MATERIAL. See Section 2602.1.
THIN-BED MORTAR. See Section 2102.1.
THROUGH PENETRATION. See Section 702.1.
THROUGH-PENETRATION FIRESTOP SYSTEM. See
Section 702.1.
TIE-DOWN (HOLD-DOWN). See Section 2302.1.
TIE, LATERAL. See Section 2102.1.
TIE, WALL. See Section 2102.1.
TILE. See Section 2102.1.
TILE, STRUCTURAL CLAY. See Section 2102.1.
[F] T][RES, BULK STORAGE OF. See Section 902.1.
TOEBOARD. [DSA-AC& HCn l-ACJ See Chapter 11A, Sec-
tion 1107A.20-T.
TOWNHOUSE. A single-family dwelling unit constructed in
a group of three or more attached units in which each unit
extends from the foundation to roof and with open space on at
least two sides.
[DSA-AC & HCD 1-AC] For applications required to pro-
vide accommodations for persons with disabilities, see Chap-
ter 11A, Section 1107A.20-T.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
[JF] TOXIC. See Section 307.2.
TRANSIENT. See Section 310.2.
TRANSIENT LODGING. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See
Chapter 11B, Section 1102B and Chapter 11A, Section
1107A.20-T.
TRANSIT BO'?!RDING PLATFORM. [DSA-AC] Se(! Chap-
ter 11B, Section 1102B.
TREAD. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section
1107A.20-T, a,!d Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
TREAD DEPTH. [DSA-AC,& HeD l-AC] See Chapter 11A,
Section 1107A.20-T, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
TREADRUN. [DSA-AC& HCDl-AC] See Chapter 11A, Sec-
tion 1107A. 20-'T, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
TREATED WOOD. See Section 2302.1.
TRIM. See Section 802.1.
[IF] TROUBLE SIGNAL. See Section 902.1.
TYPE OF MOTOR FUEL. [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11C, Sec-
tion 1101C.1.
. UNDERILAYMENT. See Section 1502.1.
HARDSHIP [DSA-AC] exists when the
enforcing agencyfinds that compliance with the building stan-
dard would make the specific work ofthe project affected by the
building standard unfeasible, basedon an overall evaluation of
the following factors:
1. The cost ofproviding access.
2. The cost of all construction contemplated.
3. The impact ofproposed improvements onfinancialfeasi-
bility of the project.
4. The nature ofthe accessibility which would be gained or
lost.
5. The nature of the use of the facility under construction
and its availability to persons with diasbilities.
The details ofanyfinding ofunreasonable hardship shall be
recorded and entered in the files of the enforcing agency.
[IF] UNSTABLE (REACTIVE) MATERIAL. See Section
307.2.
Class 41. See Section 307.2.
CRass 3. See Section 307.2.
Class 2. See Section 307.2.-
Class 1. See'Section 307.2.
[F] USE (MATERIAL). See Section 415.2.
VAPOR-PERMEABLEMEMBRANE. A material or cover-
ing having a permeance rating of 5 perms (52.9 xl 0-
10
kg/Pa . s .
m
2
) or greater,when tested in accordance with the dessicant
method using Procedure A of ASTM E 96. A vapor-permeable
material permits the passage of moisture vapor.
VAPOR RETJ\.RDER. A vapor-resistant material, membrane
or covering such as foil, plastic sheeting or insulation facing
having a permeance rating of 1 perm (5.7 x 10-
11
kg/Pa s m
2
)
or less, when tested in accordance with the dessicant method
using Procedure A of ASTM E 96. Vapor retarders limit the
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
DEFINITIONS
amount of moisture vapor that passes through a material or wall
assembly.
VEHICLE BARRIER SYSTEM. See Section 1602.1.
VEHICULAR OR PEDESTRIAN ARRIVAL POINTS.
[DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section
1107A.22- V.
VEHICULAR WAY: [DSA-AC] See Chapter 11B, Section
1102B.
VENEER. See Section 1402.1.
VENTILATION. The natural or mechanical process of sup-
plying conditioned or unconditioned air to, or removing such
air from, any space.
VERY HIGH FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE
(VHFHSZ). A Fire District in the City of Los Angeles estab-
lished by the Board of Forestry and the Office of the State Fire
Marshal and described in Chapter 72.
VINYL SIDING. See Section 1402.1.
[F] VISIBLE ALARM NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE.
See Section 902.1 .
WAITING ROOM[SFM] is a room or area normally provided
with seating and usedfor persons waiting.
WALK. [DSA-AC & HCD l-AC] See Chapter 11A, Section
1107A.23-W, and Chapter 11B, Section 1102B.
PEDESTRIAN. A walkway used exclusively as
a pedestrian trafficway.
WALL. See Section 2102.1.
Cavity wall. See Section 2102.1.
Composite wall. See Section 2102.1.
Dry-stacked, surface-bonded wall. See Section 2102.1.
Masonry-bonded hollow wall. See Section 2102.1.
Parapet wall. See Section 2102.1.
WALL, LOAD-BEARING. Any wall meeting either of the
following classifications:
1. Any metal or wood stud wall that supports more than 100
pounds per linear foot (1459 N/m) of vertical load in ad-
dition to its own weight.
2. Any masonry or concrete wall that supports more than
200 pounds per linear foot (2919 N/m) of vertical load in
addition to its own weight.
WALL, NONLOAD-BEARING. Any wall that is not a
load-bearing wall. .
WALL PIER. See Section 1908.1.3.
[F] WATER-REACTIVE MATERIAL. See Section 307.2.
Class 3. See Section 307.2.
Class 2. See Section 307.2.
chiss 1. See Section 307.2.
WATER-RESISTIVE BARRIER. See Section 1402.
WEATHER-EXPOSED SURFACES. See Section 2502.1.
WEB. See Section 2102.1.
45R
DEfINITIONS
[]F] WlET-CHEMICAL lEXTDNGUISHING SYSTEM. See
Section 902.1.
WHEEJLCHAllR [DSA-AC &HCD l-AC] is a chair mounted
on wheels to be propelled by its occupant manually or with the
aid ofelectric power, ofa size and configuration conforming to
the recognized standard models of the trade.
WHEEJLCHAllR OCCUPANT (orWHEEJLCHAlR USER)
[DSA-AC] is an individual who, due to a physical impairment
or disability, utilizes a wheelchair for mobility.
WHlEEILCHAIR SPAClE [HeD l-AC] is space for a single
wheelchair and its occupant.
WEND-BORNE DEBRIS REGION. See Section 1609.2.
WENDlER. See Section 1002.1.
WllNERY CAVES. See Section 436.
wn:RlE BACKING. See Section 2502.1.
[F] WIREILESS PROTECTION SYSTEM. See Section
902.1.
WOOD SHEAR PANEIL. See Section 2302.1.
WOOD STRUCTURAIL JPANEIL. See Section 2302.1.
COffiposntte paneDs. See Section 2302.1.
Odten1ed strand board (OSB). See Section 2302.1.
JPnywoodi. See Section 2302.1.
[F] WORKSTATliON. See Section 415.2.
[DSA-AC] See Chapter lIB, Section II02B.
WYTIHDE. See Section 2102.1.
YARD. An open space, other than a court, unobstructed from
the ground to the sky, except where specifically provided by
this code, on the lot on which a building is situated.
[F] ZONE. See Section 902.1.
46R 2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING COOlE

gas-detection system shall be provided for RPM gases in

accordance with Section 415.8.7.
[F] 908.3 Highly toxic and toxic materials. A gas detection sys-
tem shall be provided to detect the presence of gas at or below the
permissible exp0sure limit (PEL) or ceiling limit of the. gas for
which detection is provided. The systemshall be capable of moni-
toring the discharge from the treatment system at or below one-
half the dangerous to life and health (IDLH) limit.
Exception: A gas-detection system is not required for toxic
gases when the physiological warning threshold level for
the gas is at a level below the accepted PEL for the gas.
[F] 908.3.1 A.larms. The gas detection system shall initiate a
local alarm and transmit a signal to a constantly attended con-
trol station when a short-termhazard condition is detected. The
alarm shall both visible and audible and shall provi4e warn-
ing both inside and outside the area where gas is detected. The
audible alarrrl shall be distinct from all other alarms.
Exception: Signal transmission to a constantly attended
control station is not required when not more than one
cylinder of highly toxic or toxic gas is stored.
[F] 908.3.2 Shutoff of gas supply. The gas detection sys-
tem shall automatically close the shutoff valve at the source
on gas supply piping and tubing related to the system being
monitored for whichever gas is detected.
Exception: Automatic shutdown is not required for
reactors utilized for the production of highly toxic or
toxic compressed gases where such reactors are:
1. Operated at pressures less than 15 pounds per
square inch gauge (psig) (103.4 kPa).
2. Constantly attended.
3. Provided with readily accessible emergency shut-
off valves.
[:IF] 908.3.3 Valve closure. The automatic closure of shutoff
valves shall be in accordance with the following:
1. When the gas-detection sampling point initiating the
gas detection system alarm is within a gas cabinet or
'exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valve in the gas cabi-
net or exhausted enclosure for the specific gas de-
tected shall automatically close.
2. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating the
. gas detection system alarm is within a gas room' and
compressed gas containers are not in gas cabinets or
exhausted enclosures, the shutoff valves on all gas lines
for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.
3. WherE( the gas-detection sampling point initiating the
gas detection system alarm is within a piping distribu-
tion manifold enclosure, the shutoff valve for the
compressed container of specific gas detected supply-
ing the manifold shall automatically close.
Exception: When the gas-detection sampling point
initiating the gas-detection system alarm is at a use
location or within a gas valve enclosure of a branch
line downstream of a piping distribution manifold,
the shutoff valve in the gas valve enclosure for the
line located in the piping distribution mani-
f01O. enclosure shall automatically close.
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEMS
[F] 908.4 Ozone gas-generator rooms. Ozone gas-generator
rooms shall be equipped with a continuous gas-detection sys-
tem that will shut off the generator and sound a local alarm
when concentrations above the PEL occur.
[F] 908.5 Repair garages. A flammable-gas detection system
.shall be provided in repair garages for vehicles fueled by
nonodorized gases in accordance with Section 406.6.6.
[F] 908.6 Refrigerant detector. Machinery rooms shall con-
tain a refrigerant detector with an audible and visual alarm. The
detector, or a sampling tube that draws air to the detector, shall
be located in an area where refrigerant from a leak will concen-
trate. The alarm shall be actuated at a value not greater than the
corresponding TLV-TWA values for the refrigerant classifica-
tion indicated in the California Mechanical Code. Detectors
and alarms shall 'be placed in approved locations.
SECTION 909
SMOKE CONTROL SYSTEMS
[F] 909.1 Scope and purpose. This section applies to mechanical
or passive smoke control systems when they are required by other
provisions of this code. The purpose of this section is to establish
minimumrequirements for the design, installation and acceptance
testing of smoke control systems that are intended to provide a
tenable environment for the evacuation or relocation ofoccupants.
These provisions are not intended for the preservation of contents,
the timely restoration of operations or for assistance in fire sup-
pression or overhaul activities. Smoke control systems regulated
by this section serve a different pUl;,pose. than the smoke- and
heat-venting provisions found in Section 910. Mechanical smoke
control systems shall not be considered exhaust systems under
Chapter 5 of the California Mechanical Code.
[F] 909.2 General design requirements. Buildings, structures
or parts thereof required by this code to have a smoke control
system or systems shall have such systems designed in accor-
dance with the applicable requirements of Section 909 and the
generally accepted and well-established principles of engi-
neering relevant to the design. The construction documents
shall include sufficient information and detail to adequately
describe the elements of the design' necessary for the proper
implementation of the smoke control systems. These docu-
ments shall be accompanied by sufficient information and
analysis to demonstrate compliance with these provisions.
909.3 Special inspection and test requirements. In addition to the LA
ordinary inspection and test requirements, which buildings, struc-
tures and parts of buildings and structures are required to undergo, LA
smoke control systems subject to the provisions of Section 909 shall
undergo special inspections and tests sufficient to verify the proper
commissioning of the smoke control design in its final installed LA
dition. The design submission accompanying the construction docu-
ments shall clearly detail procedures and methods to be used and the LA
items subject to the inspections and tests: The commissioning shall be
in accordance with generally accepted engineering practice and, LA
where possible, based on published standards for the particular test-
ing involved. The special inspections and tests required by this sec- LA
tion shall be in compliance with Section 1704 of this Code.
. l' LA
A copy of the final report of the results of the speCIa mspec- LA
tions and tests shall be filed with the Superintendent of Building
and the fire department and an identical copy shall be maintained LA
in an approved location at the building. LA
279R
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fiRE PROTIECTION SYSTEMS
909.3.:' Systemtesting. Prior to the issuance of a Certificate
of Occupancy, all of the smoke-control systems shall be
tested as required by the Department of Building and Safety
and the fire department and shall show compliance with the
minimum standards of both Departments. The tests shall be
conducted in the presence of an authorized representative
from both Departments. A report of the results shall be sub-
mitted to both Departments.
909.3.2 Periodic retesting. After occupancy of the building,
all operating parts of the smoke-control systems shall be
retested every 6 months in accordance with the retest require-
ments established by the Department of Building and Safety
and the fire department. The retest shall be conducted by an
approved inspection agency or by the owner or the owner's
representative when so approved by both Departmentsr Also, a
report ofthe test results shall be submitted to both Departments.
[F] 909.4 Amllysis. A rational analysis supporting the types of
smoke control systems to be employed, their methods of opera-
tion, the systems supporting themand the methods of construc-
tion to be utilized shall accompany the submitted construction
documents and shall include, but not be limited to, the items
indicated in Sections 909.4.1 through 909.4.6.
[IF] 909.4.:' S1tack effect The system shall be designed such
that the maximum probable normal or reverse stack effect will
not adversely interfere with the system's capabilities. In deter-
mining the maximumprobable stack effect, altitude, elevation,
weather history and interior temperatures shall be used.
[IF] 909.4.2 Temper3hlllre dfed of fire. Buoyancy and
expansion caused by the design fire in accordance with Sec'":
tion 909.9 shall be analyzed. The system shall be designed
such that these effects do not adversely interfere with the
system's capabilities.
[F] 909.4.3 Wnll1ld effect The design shall consider the
adverse effects of wind. Such consideration shall be consis::.
tent with the wind-loading provisions of Chapter 16.
[F] 909.4,4 HVAC systems. The design shall consider the
effects ofthe heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC)
systems on both smoke and fire transport. The analysis shall
include all permutations of systems status. The design shall
consider the effects of the fire on the HVAC systems.
[F] 909.41.5 Climate. The design shall consider the effects
of low temperatures on systems, property and occupants.
Air inlets and exhausts shall be located so as to prevent snow
or ice blockage.
[IF] 909.41.6 DUllration of operation. All portions of active or
passive smoke control systems shall be capable of continued
operation after detection of the fire event for a period of not
less than either 20 minutes or 1.5 times the calculated egress
time, whichever is less.
[F] 909.5 Smoke barmer constructiOl!ll. Smoke barriers shall
comply with Section 709, and shall be constructed and sealed
to limit leakage areas exclusive of protected openings. The
maximum allowable leakage area shall be the aggregate area
calculated using the following leakage area ratios:
1. Walls: A1A
w
=O.OOlOO
2. Exit enclosures: A1A
w
=0.00035
3. All other shafts: A1A
w
=0.00150
280R
4. Floors and roofs:
where:
A = Total leakage area, square feet (m
2
).
A
F
. = Unit floor or roof area of barrier, square feet (m
2
).
A
w
= Unit wall area of barrier, square feet (m
2
).
The leakage area ratios shown do not include openings
due to doors, operable windows or similar gaps. These shall
be included in calculating the total leakage area.
[F] 909.5.1 Leakage area. The total leakage area ofthe barrier
is the product of the smoke barrier gross area multiplied by the
allowable leakage area ratio, plus the area of other openings
such as gaps and operable windows. Compliance shall be
determined by achieving the minimum air pressure difference
across the barrier with the system in the smoke control mode
for mechanical smoke control systems. Passive smoke control
systems tested using other approved means such as door fan
testing shall be as approved by the fITe code officiaL
909.5.2 Opennng protection. Openings in smoke barriers
shall be protected by self-closing devices or automatic-clos-
ing devices actuated by the required controls for the mechani-
cal smoke control system. Door openings shall be protected
by fire door assemblies complying with Section 715.4.3.
Exceptions:
1. Passive smoke control systems with auto-
matic-closing devices actuated by spot-type
smoke detectors listed for releasing service in-
stalled in accordance with Section 907.10. When
used in a Group 1-2, such detectors shall activate
the fire alarm system.
2. Fixed openings between smoke zones that are pro-
tected utilizing the airflow method in other than
Group 1-2.
3. In Group 1-2, where doors are installed across coni-
dors, a pair of opposite-swinging doors without a
center mullion or horizontal sliding doors that com-
ply with Section 1008.1.3.3 shall be installed. Vision
panels consisting offire-rated glazing in approved
frames shall be provided in each cross:'corridor
swinging door and at each cross-corridor horizon-
tal-sliding door in a smoke barrier. The doors shall
be close fitting within operational tolerances, and
shall not have undercuts, louvers or grilles. Swinging
doors shall have head andjamb stops andastragals or
rabbets at meeting edges. Doors installed across cor-
ridors shall be automatic closing by smoke detection
in accordance with Section 715.4.7.3. Positive-latch-
ing devices are required. Doors installed across cor-
ridors shall comply with Section 1008.1.1.
4. Group 1-3.
5. Openings between smoke zones with clear ceiling
heights of 14 feet (4267 mm) or greater and
bank-down capacity of greater than 20 minutes as
determined by the design fire size.
6. In Group 1-2, smoke damper activation may be ac-
complished by a fire alarm control unit, provided
that an open area smoke detection system is pro-
videdwithin all areas servedby an HVACsystem.
2008 CiTY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

4. [HCDl] When a passive solar energy collector is de-

signedas a conditioned area it shall comply with the
Califo'rnia Energy Code, Title 24, Fart 6.
Nonconditioned passive solar energy collectors are
"exempt from Title 24, Part 6.
SECTION 1205
LIGHTING
1205.1 General. Every space intended for human occupancy
shall be provide(j with natural light by means of exterior glazed
openings in accprdance with Section 1205.2 or shall be pro-
vided with artificial light in accordance with Section 1205.3.
Exterior glazed openings shall open directly onto a public way
or onto a yard or court in accordance with Section 1206.
[HCD 1] ylaZf(d openings may open into a passive solar
energy collector provided the area of exterior glazed opening
in the passive solar energy collector is increased to compen-
sate for the area required by the interior space.
1205.2 Natural light. The minimum net glazed area shall not
be less than 8 percent of the floor area of the room served.
1205.2.1 Adjoining spaces. For the purpose of natural
lighting, any room is permitted to be considered as a portion
of an adjoining room where one-half of the area of the com-
mon wall is open and unobstructed and provides an opening
of not less than one-tenth of the floor area of the interior
room or 25 square feet (2.32 m
2
), whichever is greater.
Exception: Openings required for natural light shall be
permitted to open into a thermally isolated sunroom
addition or patio cover where the common wall provides
a glazed area of not lessthan one-tenth of the floor area of
the interior room or 20 square feet (1.86 m
2
), whichever
is greater.
1205.2.2 Exterior openings. Exterior openings required by
Section 1205.2 for natural light shall open directly onto a
public way, yard or court, as set forth in Section 1206.
Exceptions:
1. Required exterior openings are permitted to open
into a roofed porch where the porch:
1.1. Abuts a public way, yard or court.
1.2. Has a ceiling. height of not less than 7 feet
(2134 mm).
1.3. Has a longer side at least 65 percent open
and unobstructed.
2. Skylights are not required to open directly onto a
public way, yard or'court.
1205.3 Artificial light. Artificial light shall be provided that is
adequate to provide an average illumination of 10 foot-candles
(107 lux) over the area of the room at a height of 30 inches (762
mm) above the Noor level.
- 1205.4 Stairway illumination. Stairways within dwelling
units and exterior stairways serving a dwelling unit shall have
an illumination level on tread runs of not less than 1foot-candle
(11 lux). Stairs in other occupancies shall be governed by
Chapter 10.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT
1205.4.1 Controls. The control for activation of the
required stairway lighting shall be in accordance with the
California Electrical Code.
1205.5 Emergency egress lighting. The means of egress shall
be illuminated in accordance with Section 1006.1.
1205.6 Campus. lighting for parking facilities and primary
walkways at California state universities, colleges and com-
munity colleges. [BSC] Artificial light shall be provided for
parking facilities and primary walkways at California state
universities, colleges, and community colleges in accordance
with provisions of this subsection. This subsection shall not
apply to the University of California unless the Regents of the
University of California, by resolution, make it applicable.
1205.6.1 Light requirements. Based on the recommenda-
tions of the most current edition of the Illuminating Engi-
neering Society Lighting Handbook, for the following
lighting standards shall be usedfor all new construction of
open parking facilities, covered parking facilities and pri-
mary walkways.
1. Open and covered parking facilities.
1.1. Medium-level activity usage when medium
usage is present.
1.2. High-level activity usage when high usage is
present.
2. Primary campus walkways.
2.1. Medium-level activity usage when medium
usage is present.
2.2. High-level activity usage when high usage is
present.
SECTION 1206
YARDS OR COURTS
1206.1 General. This section shall apply to yards and courts
adjacent to exterior openings that provide natural light or venti-
lation. Such yards and courts shall be on the same property as
the building.
1206.2 Yards. Yards shall not be less than 3 feet (914 mm) in
width for one- and two-story buildings. For buildings mote
than two stories in height, the minimum width of the yard shall
be increased at the rate of 1 foot (305 mm) for each additional
story. For buildings exceeding 14 stories in height, the required
width of the yard shall be computed on,the basis of 14 stories.
1206.3 Courts. Courts shall not be less than 3 feet (914 mm) in
width. Courts having windows opening on opposite sides shall
not be less than 6 feet (1829 mm) in width. Courts shall not be
less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in length unless bounded on one
end by a public way or yard. For buildings more than two sto-
ries in height, the court shall be increased '1 foot (305 mm) in
width and 2 feet (310 mm) in length for each additional story.
For buildings exceeding 14 stories in height, the required
dimensions shall be computed on the basis of 14 stories.
1206.3.1 Court access. Access shall be provided to the bot-
tom of courts for cleaning purposes.
549

INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT
1206.3.2 Air nntake. Courts more than two stories in height
shall be provided with a horizontal air intake at the bottom
not less than 10 square feet (0.93 m
2
) in area and leading to
the exterior of the building unless abutting a yard or public
way.
1206.3.3 Court drainage. The bottom of every court shall
be properly graded and drained to a public sewer or other
approved disposal system complying with the California
Plumbing Code.
SECTION 1207[HCD}
SOUND TRANSMISSION
1207.1 Purpose 31l1ld scope. The purpose of this section is to
LA establish uniform minimum noise insulation performance
standards to protect persons within new hotels, motels, dormi-
LA tories, residential care facilities, apartment houses, dwellings,
private schools, and places of worship from the effects of
LA excessive noise, including but not limited to, hearing loss or
impairment and interference with speech and sleep.
1207.2 Definitions. The following special definitions shall
apply to this section:
SOUND TRANSMISSION CLASS (STC) is a single-number
rating used to compare walls, floor-ceiling assemblies and
doors for their sound-insulating properties with respect to
speech and small household appliance noise. The STC is
derivedfrom laboratory measurements of sound transmission
loss across a series of16 test bands.
Laboratory STC ratings should be used to the greatest extent
possible in determining that the design complies with this sec-
tion.
FiELD SOUND TRANSMISSION CLASS (FSTC) is a sin-
gle-number rating similar to STC, except that the transmission
loss values used to derive the FSTC are measured in the field.
All sound transmitted from the source room to the receiving
room is assumed to be through the separating wall or
floor-ceiling assembly.
This section does not require determination ofthe FSTC, and
field-measured values of noise reduction should not be
reported as transmission loss.
IMPACTINSULATIONCLASS (IIC) is a single-number rat-
ing used to compare the effectiveness offloor-ceiling assem-
blies in providing reduction of impact-generated sounds such
asfootsteps. The IIC is derivedfrom laboratory measurements
ofimpact sound pressure level across a series of 16 test bands
using a standardized tapping machine. Laboratory IIC ratings
should be used to the greatest extent possible in determining
that the design complies with this section.
FlEW iMPACT INSULATION CLASS (FIlC) is a sin-
gle-number rating similar to the llC, except that the impact
sound pressure levels are measured in the field
NOiSE ISOLATIONCLASS (NIC) is a single-number rating
derivedfrom measured values of noise reduction between two
enclosed spaces that are connected by one or more paths. The
NIC is not adjusted or normalized to a standard reverberation
time. (,.
550R
NORMALIZED NOISE ISOLATION ClASS (NNle) is a
single-number rating similar to the NIC, except that the mea-
sured noise reduction values are normalized to a reverberation
time of one-half second.
NORMALIZEDA-WEIGHTED SOUND LEVELDIFFER-
ENCE (Dn) means for a specified source room sound spec-
trum, Dn is the difference, in decibels, between the average
sound levels produced in two rooms after adjustment to the
expected acoustical conditions when the receiving room under
test is normally furnished.
DAY-NIGHT AVERAGE SOUND LEVEL (Un) is the
A-weighted equivalent continuous sound exposure level for a
24-hour period with a 10 db adjustment added to sound levels
occurring during nighttime hours (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.).
COMMUNITYNOISE EQUIVALENTLEVEL (CNEL) is a
metric similar to the Ldn, except that a 5 db adjustment is
added to the equivalent continuous sound exposure level for
evening hours (7p.m. to 10p.m.) in addition to the 10db night-
time adjustment used in the Ldn.
1207.3 Relevant standards. The current edition of the follow-
ing standards is generally applicable for determining compli-
ance with this section. Copies may be obtained from the
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) at 100
Barr Harbor Drive, West Conshohocken, PA, 19428-2959.
ASTM C 634, Standard Definitions of Terms Relating to
Environmental Acoustics.
ASTME 90, Standard Methodfor Laboratory Measurement _
0t Airborne Sound Transmission Loss of Building Parti- _
tlOns.
ASTM E 336, Standard Test Method for Measurement of
Airborne Sound Insulation in Buildings.
ASTM E 413, Standard Classification for Determination of
Sound Transmission Class.
ASTME492, Standa1"1 Method ofLaboratory M"easurement
of Impact Sound Transmission Through Floor-Ceiling
Assemblies Using the Tapping Machine.
ASTME 497, StandardRecommendedPracticefor Installa-
tion ofFixed Partitions ofLight Frame Type for the Purpose
of Conserving Their Sound Insulation Efficiency.
ASTM E 597, Recommended Practice for Determining a _
Single-Number Rating of Airborne Sound Isolation in.
Multi-unit Building Specifications.
ASTME966, Standard Guidefor FieldMeasurement ofAir-
borne Sound of Building Facades and Facade
Elements.
ASTME 989, Standard Classification for Determination of .-
Impact Insulation Class (IIC).
ASTM E 1007, Standard Test Method for Field Measure-
ment of Tapping Machine Impact Sound Transmission
Through Floor-Ceiling Assemblies andAssociated Support
Structures.
ASTM E 1014, Standard Guide for Measurement of Out- .-
door A-Weighted Sound Levels.
1207.4 Complaints. Where a complaint as to noncompliance
with this chapter requires a field test, the complainant shall
post a bond or adequate funds in escrow for the cost of said
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
testing. Such costs shall be chargeable to the complainant if the
field tests show compliance with this chapter. If the tests show
noncompliance, testing costs shall be borne to the owner or
builder.
1207.5 Local modification. The governing body ofany city or
county or city and county may, by ordinance, adopt changes or
modifications to the requirements ofthis section as setforth in
Section 17922.7 of the Health and Safety Code.
1207.6 lnterdwelling sound transmission control..
1207.6.1 Wall and floor-ceiling assemblies. Wall and
floor-ceiling assemblies separating dwelling units or guest
roomsfrom each otherandfrompublic or service areas such
as interior corridors, garages and mechanical spaces shall
provide airborne sound insulation for walls, and both air-
borne and impact sound insulation for floor-ceiling assem-
blies.
Excltption: Impact sound insulation is not required for
floor-ceiling assemblies over nonhabitable rooms or
spaces not designed to be occupied, such as garages,
mechanical rooms or storage areas.
1207.7Airborne sound insulation. All such acoustically rated
separating wall andfloor-ceiling assemblies shall provide air-
borne sound insulation equal to that required to meet a sound
transmission class (STC) rating of50 based on laboratQry tests
as defined in ASTM E 90 andE 413. Field-tested assemblies
shall meet a noise isolation class (NIC) rating of45 for occu-
pied units and a normalized noise isolation class (NINIC) rat-
ing of45for unoccupied units as defined in ASTME 336 and E
4 1 ~ .
ASTM E 597 may be used as simplified procedure for field
tests ofthe airborne sound isolation between rooms in unoccu-
pied buildings. In such tests, the minimum value ofDnis 45 db
for compliance.
Entrance doors from interior corridors together with their
perimeter sea,l; shall have STC ratings not less than 26. Such
tested doors shall operate normally with commercially avail-
able seals.
Solid-core wood-slab doors P/8 inches (35 mm) thick mini-
mum or 18 gauge insulated steel-slab doors with compression
seals all around, including the threshold, may be considered
adequate without other substantiating information.
Field tests of corridor walls should not include segments
with doors. If such tests are impractical, however, the NIC or
NNIC ratingfor the composite wall-door assembly shall not be
less than 30. '
Penetrations'i or openings in construction assemblies/orpip-
ing, electrical devices, recessed cabinets, bathtubs, soffits or
heating, ventilating or exhaust ducts shall be sealed, lined,
insulated or otherwise treatedto maintain the requiredratings.
1207.8 Impact sound insulation. All acoustically rated sepa-
rating floor-ceiling assemblies shall provide impac.t sound
insulation equal to that required to meet a IIC rating of 50
based on laboratory tests as defined in ASTME 492 and E 989.
Field-tested assemblies shall meet a field impact insulation
class (FIIC) rating of 45 for both occupied and unoccupied
units as defined in ASTME 1007 and E 989, with the exception
that the measured impact sound pressure levels shall not be
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
INTERIOR ENVIRONMENT
normalized to a standardamount ofabsorption in the receiving
room.
Floor coverings may be included in the assembly to obtain the
required ratings. These coverings must be retained as a perma-
nent part ofthe assembly and may be replaced only by otherfloor
coverings that provide the required impact sound insulation.
1207.9 Tested assemblies. Laboratory-tested wall or
floor-ceiling designs having STC or IIC ratings of50 or more
may be used by,the building official to determine compliance
with this section during review phase. Field tests shall be
required by the building official when evidence of sound leaks
offlanking paths is noted, or when the separating assembly is
not built according to the approved design.
Generic sound transmission control systems as listed in the
Catalog of STC and IIC Ratings for Wall and Floor-Ceiling
Assemblies, as published by the Office ofNoise Control, Califor-
nia Department rfHealth Services, or the Fire Resistance Design
Manual, as published by the GypsumAssociation, may be used to
evaluate construction assemblies for their sound transmission
properties. Other tests from recognized laboratories may also be
used. When ratings for essentially similar assemblies differ, and
when ratings are below STCor ICC 50, field testing may be used
to demonstrate that the building complies with this section.
Forfield testing, rooms should ideally be large and reverber-
antfor reliable measurements to be made in all test bands. This
is often not possible for bathrooms, kitchens, hallways or
rooms with large amounts ofsound-absorptive materials. Field
test results should, however, report the measured values in all
bands, noting those which do not meet relevant ASTMcriteria
for diffusion.
It should be noted that-STC ratings do not adequately char-
acterize the sound insulation ofconstruction assemblies when
the intruding nbise is predominantly low-pitched, as is often
produced by amplified music or by large pieces ofmechanical
equipment.
It should also be noted that the transmission ofimpact sound
from a standardized tapping machine may vary considerably
for a given design due to differences in specimen size, flanking
transmission through associated structure and the acoustical
response of the room below. Laboratory IIC values should
therefore be used with caution when estimating the perfor-
mance of hard-surfaced floors in the field. Additionally, IIC
ratings may notalways be adequate to characterize the subjec-
tively annoying creak or boom generated by footfalls on a
lumber floor.
1207.10 Certification. Field testing, when required, shall be
done under the supervision ofa person experienced in the field
of acoustical testing and engineering, who shall forward test
results to the building official showing that the sound isolation
requirements stated above have been met. Documentation of
field test results should generally follow the requirements out-
lined in relevant ASTM standards.
1207.11 Exterior sound transmission control.
1207.11.1 Application consistent with local land-use LA
standards. All structures identified in Section 1207.1 t ~
located in noise critical areas, such as proximity to high- LA
ways, county roads, city streets, railroads, rapid transit t ~
lines, airports or industrial areas shall be designed to prevent LA
551R
INTERIOR IENVIRONMENT
dential structures. The report shall show topographical rela-
tionships of noise sources and dwelling sites, identification of
noise sources and their characteristics, predicted noise spectra
and levels at the exterior of the proposed structure considering LA
present and future land usage, the basis for the prediction (mea-
sured or obtained from published data), the noise attenuation LA
measures to be applied, and an analysis of the noise insulation
effectiveness of the proposed construction showing that the La
prescribed interior level requirements are met.
If interior allowable noise levels are met by requiring that
windows be unopenable or closed, the design for the structure
must also specify a ventilation or air-conditioning system to LA
provide a habitable interior environment. The ventilation sys-
tern must not compromise the in.terior room noise reduction. L_
1207.13 Field testing. When inspection indicates that the con-
struction is not in accordance with the approved design, or that
thenoise reduction is compromised due to sound leaks orflank-
ing paths, .field testing may be required. A test report showing
compliance or noncompliance with prescribed interior allow-
able levels shall be submitted to the building official.
Measurements of outdoor sound levels shall generally fol-
low the guidelines in ASTM E 1014.
Field measurements ofthe A-weighted airborne sound insu-
lation ofbuildingsfrom exterior sources shall generallyfollow
the guidelines in ASTM E 966.
For the purpose of this standard, sound level differences
measured in unoccupied units shall be normalized to a receiv- e"
ingroom reverberation time of one-half second. Sound level
differences measured in occupied units shall not be normalized
to a standard reverberation time.
SECTION 1208
INTERIOR SPACE DIMENSIONS
1208.1 MinimumrOOm widths. Habitable spaces, other than a
kitchen, shall not be less than 7 feet (2134 mm) in any plan
dimension. Kitchens shall have a clear passageway of not less
than 3 feet (914 mm) between counter fronts and appliances or
counter fronts and walls.
[HCD 1JFor limited-density owner-built rural dwellings, there
shall be no requirements for room dimensions, provided there is
adequate light and ventilation and adequate means of egress.
1208.2 Minimum ceiling heights. Occupiable spaces, habit-
able spaces and corridors shall have a ceiling height of not less
than 7 feet 6 inches (2286 mm). Bathrooms, toilet rooms, kitch-
ens, storage rooms and laundry rooms shall be permitted to
have a ceiling height of notless than 7 feet (2134 mm).
Exceptions:
1. In one- and two-family dwellings, beams or girders
spaced not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) on center and
projecting not more than 6 inches (152 mm) below the
required ceiling height.
2. If any room in a building has a sloped ceiling, the pre-
scribed ceiling height for the room is required in
one-half the area thereof. Any portion of the room
measuring less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from the fin-
ished floor to the ceiling shall not be included in any
computation of the minimum area thereof.
the intrusion of exterior noises beyond prescribed levels.
Proper design shall include, but shall not be limited to, ori-
entation of the structure, setbacks, shielding and sound
insulation of the building itself.
1207.11.2 Allowable interior noise levels. Interior noise
levels attributable to" exterior sources shall not exceed45 db
in any habitable room. The noise metric shall be either the
day-night average sound level (Ldn) or the community noise
equivalent level (CNEL), consistent with the noise element
of the local general plan.
Note: Ldn is the preferred metricfor implementing these
standards. Worst-case noise levels, either existing or
future, shall be used as the basisfor determining
ance with this section. Future noise levels shall be pre-
dicted for a period of at least 10 years from the time of
building permit application.
1207.11.3 Airport noise sources. Residential structures
and all other structures identified in Section 1207.1 located
where the annual L
dll
or CNEL (as defined in Title 21,
Subchapter 6, California Code of Regulations) exceeds 60
db, shall require an acoustical analysis showing that the pro-
posed design will achieve prescribed allowable interior
level.
Exception: New single family detaGhed dwellings and
all nonresidential noise sensitive structures located out-
side the noise impact boundary of 65 db CNEL are
exempt from Section 1207.
Alterations or additions to all noise sensitive structures,
within the 65db and greater CNEL shall co"mply with the
Section 1207. If the addition or alteration cost exceeds 75
percent of the replacement cost of the existing structure,
then the entire structure must comply with Section 1207.
For public-use airports or heliports, the L
dll
or CNEL shall
be determined from the Aircraft Noise Impact Area Map
prepared by the Airport Authority. For military bases, the
L
dll
shall be determined from the facility Air Installation
Compatible Use Zone (AICUZ) plan. For all other airports
or heliports, or public-use airports or heliports for which a
land-use plan has not been developed, the L
dll
or CNEL shall
be determined from the noise element of the general plan of
the local jurisdiction.
When aircraft noise is not the only significant source,
noise levels from all sources shall be added to determine the
composite site noise level.
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1207.11.4 Other noise sources. All structures identified in
LA Section 1207.1 located where the L
dll
or CNEL exceeds
LA
LA 60db shall require an acoustical analysis showing that the
LA proposed design will limit exterior noise to the prescribed
LA
LA allowable interior level.The noise element of the local gen-
LA eral plan. shall be used to the greatest extent possible to iden-
tify sites with noise levels potentially greater than 60db.
LA
LA 1207.12 Compliance. Evidence of compliance shall be sub-
mitted with the application for a building permit for all struc-
LA tures identified in Section 1207.1. Evidence of compliance
shall consist of the submittal of an acoustical analysis report
LA prepared under the supervision of a person experienced in the
field of acoustical engineering or the use of prescriptive stan- "
LA dards as determined by the Superintendent of Building for resi-
552R 2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ENERGY CONSERVATION
CHAPTER 13
LA
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t ~ SECTION 1300
4IIr GENERAL
L ~ In order to comply with the purpose of this Chapter, buildings
t ~ shall be designed to comply with requirements of Part 6, Title
LA 24 of the California Building Standards Code-California
t ~ Energy Code, 1998 Edition.
LA
a
A
__~ SECTION 1301
t ~ SOLAR ENERGY COLLECTORS
~ Approved collectors which function as building components
~ shall comply with the applicable provisions of the Code.
t
A
Approved collectors located above or upon a roof and not
L ~ functioning. as building components shall not reduce the
t ~ required fire-resistance or fire-retardancy classification of the
LA roof-covering materials.
LA
LA Exceptions:
LA
LA 1. Approved collectors installed in one- and two-family
t ~ dwellings outside the Very High Fire Hazard Severity
LA Zone.
LA
a
A
2. Approved noncombustible collectors located on
. ~ buildings not .over three stories in height or 9,000
~ square feet (836 m
2
) in total floor area.
LA 3. Approved collectors that comply with the provisions
t ~ of Section 2603.14 of this Code.
2008 CITY Of LOS ANGELIES BUILDING CODE 611R
612 2008 cnv OF lOS ANGELIES BWlDING CODIE
CHAPTER 14
EXl1ERIOR WALLS
SECTION 1401
GENERAL
1401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall establish the
minimum requirements for exterior walls; exterior wall cover-
ings; exterior wall openings; exterior windows and doors;
architectural trim; balconies and similar projections; and bay
and oriel windows.
SECTION 1402
DEFINITIONS
1402.1 General. The following words and terms shall, for the
purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code,
have the meanings shown herein.
ADHERED MASONRY VENEER. Veneer secured and sup-
ported through the adhesion of an approved bonding material
applied to an approved backing.
ANCHORED MASONRY VENEER. Veneer secured with
approved mechanical fasteners to an approved backing.
JRAClKJll'l"G. The wall or surface to which the veneer is secured.
EXTERIOR WALL. A wall, bearing or nonbearing, that is
used as an enclosing wall for a building, other than a fire wall,
and that has a slope of 60 degrees (1.05 rad) or greater with the
horizontal plane.
COVERING. A material or assembly of
matenals applIed on the exterior side of exterior walls for the
purpose of providing a weather-resisting barrier, insulation or
for aesthetics, including but not limited to, veneers, siding,
exterior insulation and finish systems, architectural trim and
embellishments such as cornices, soffits, facias, gutters and
leaders.
lEXT,ERIOR WALL ENVELOPE. A system or assembly of
extenor wall components, including exterior wall finish mate-
rials, that provides protection of the building structuralmem-
bers, "including framing and sheathing materials, and
conditioned interior space, from the detrimental effects of the
exterior environment.
IF][BER CEMENT SIDING. A manufactured fiber-reinforc-
ing product made with an inorganic hydraulic 'or calcium sili-
cate binder formed by chemical reaction and reinforced with
organic or inorganic nonasbestos fibers, or both. Additives that
or product performance are peqnitted.
FIber cement siding products have either smooth or textured
and are intended for exterior wall and related applica-
tIons.
METAL COMPOSITE MATERIAL (MCM). A fac-
tory-manufactured panel consisting of metal skins bonded to
both faces of ,a plastic core.
METAL CQMPOSITE MATERIAL (MCM) SYSTEM.
An exterior finish system fabricated using MCM in a spe-
2008 CITY OF los ANGELES BUILDING CODE
.cific assembly inCluding joints, seams, attachments, substrate,
framing and other details as appropriate to a particular design.
VENEER. A facing attached to a wall for the purpose of pro-
viding ornamentation, protection or insulation, but'not counted
as adding strength to the wall.
VINYL SIDING. A shaped material, made principally from
rigid polyvinyl chloride (PVC), that is used as an exterior wall
covering.
WATER-RESISTIVE BARRIER. A material behind an
exterior wall covering that is intended to resist liquid water that
has penetrated behind the exterior covering from further
intruding into the exterior wall assembly.
SECTION 1403
PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS
1403.1 General. The provisions of this section shall apply to
exterior walls, wall coverings and components thereof.
1403.2 Weather protection. Exterior walls shall provide the
building with a weather-resistant exterior wall envelope. The
exterior wall envelope shall include flashing, as described in
Section 1405.3. The exterior wall envelope shall be designed
and constructed in such a manner as to prevent the accumula-
tion of water within the wall assembly by providing a
water-resistive barrier behind the exterior veneer, as described
in Section 1404.2, and a means for draining water that enters
the assembly to the exterior. Protection against condensation in
the exterior wall assembly shall be provided in accordance with
the California Energy Code, Section 150 of Title 24, Part 6.
Exceptions:
1. A weather-resistant exterior wall envelope shall not
be required over concrete or masonry walls designed
in accordance with Chapters 19 and 21, respectively.
2. Compliance with the requirements for a means of
drainage, and the requirements of Sections 1404.2
and 1405.3, shall not be required for an exterior wall
_envelope that has been demonstrated through testing
to resist wind-driven rain, including joints, penetra-
tions arid intersections with dissimilar materials, in
accordance with ASTM E 331 under the following
conditions:
2.1. Exterior wall envelope test assemblies shall
include at least one opening, one controljoint,
one wall/eave interface and one wall sill. All
tested openings and penetrations shall be rep-
resentative of the intended end-use configura-
tion. ,-
615
EXTERIOR WAllS
2.2. Exterior wall envelope test assemblies shall be
at least 4 feet by 8 feet (1219 mm by 24,38
mm) in size.
2.3. Exterior wall envelope assemblies shall be
tested at a minimumdifferential pressure of6.24
pounds per square foot (pst) (0.297 kN/m
2
).
2.4. Exterior wall envelope assemblies shall be
subjected to a minimum test exposure dura-
tion of 2 hours.
3. [OSHPD 1,2 and 4J OSHPD regulatedfacilities are
exempt from requirements of Title 24, Part 6.
The exterior wall envelope design shall be considered
to resist wind-driven rain where the results of testing indi-
cate that water did not penetrate control joints in the exte-
rior wall envelope, joints at the perimeter of openings or
intersections of terminations with dissimilar materials.
LA :ll.4103.3 Stn.Ad1l!Jrall. Exterior walls and the associated openings
shall be designed and constructed to resist, safely, the superim-
posed loads required by Chapter 16 of this Code.
In no case shall veneer be considered as part of the wall in com-
LA puting strength or deflection, nor shall it be considered a part of
the required thickness of the wall. Deflection of lateral support of
LA veneer, including wood studs, shall be no greater than h/500.
:ll.4103.4 JFnJre JresistaH1lce. Exterior walls shall be fire-resistance
rated as required by other sections of this code with opening
protection as required by Chapter 7.
:ll.403.5lFll))(l\ JresnstaH1llce. For buildings in flood hazard areas as
established in Section 1612.3, exterior walls extending below
the design flood elevation shall be resistant to water damage.
Wood shall be pressure-preservative treated in accordance with
AWPA VI for the species, product and end use using a preser-
vative listed in Section 4 of AWPAVI or decay-resistant heart-
wood of redwood, black locust or cedar.
. :ll.403.6 JFllm)dl Jresnstall1lce jf)Jr h.iglbtDvelocity wave acti)lI1l areas.
For buildings in flood hazard areas subject to high-velocity
wave action as established in Section 1612.3, electrical,
mechanical and plumbing system components shall not be
mounted on or penetrate through exterior walls that are
designed to break away under flood loads.
1404
MATERIALS
:ll.404l.1 GelD.erall. Materials used for the construction of exterior
walls shall comply with the provisions of this section. Materi-
als not prescribed herein shall be permitted, provided that any
such alternative has been approved.
:ll.404.2 WateJrDJresistnve harder. A minimum of one layer of
No.I5 asphalt felt, complying with ASTM D 226 for Type 1
felt or other approved materials, shall be attached to the studs or
sheathing, with flashing as described in Section 1405.3, in such
a manner as to provide a continuous water-resistive barrier
behind the exterior wall veneer.
141ij4.3 W)odl. Exterior walls of wood construction shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with Chapter 23.
616Ft
1404.3.1 Basic h.ardlboardl. Basic hardboard shall conform
to the requirements of AHA A135.4.
1404.3.2 Hardboard siding. Hardboard siding shall con-
form to the requirements of AHA A135.6 and, where used
structurally, shall be so identified by the label of an
approved agency.
1404.4 MasolJury. Exterior walls of masonry construction shall
be designed and constructed in accordance with this section
and Chapter 21. Masonry units, mortar and metal accessories
used in anchored and adhered veneer shall meet the physical
requirements of Chapter 21. The backing of anchored and
adhered veneer shall be of concrete, masonry, steel framing or
wood framing..
1404.5 Metallo Exterior walls of formed steel construction,
structural steel or lightweight metal alloys shall be designed in
accordance with Chapters 22 and 20, respectively.
1404.5.1 Aluminum siding. Aluminum siding shall con-
form to the requirements of AAMA 1402.
1404.5.2 Cold-rolledl copper. Copper shall conform to the
requirements of ASTM B 370.
1404.5.3 Lead-coated copper. Lead-coated copper shall
conform to the requirements of ASTM B 101.
1404.6 ConcJrete. Exterior walls of concrete construction shall
be designed and constructed in accordance with Chapter 19.
1404.7 GiassDunit masonry. Exterior walls of glass-unit
masonry shall be designed and constructed in accordance with
Chapter 21.
1404.8 Plastics. Plastic panel, apron or spandrel walls as
defined in this code shall not be limited in thickness, provided
that such plastics and their assemblies conform to the require-
ments of Chapter 26 and are constructed of
weather-resistant materials of adequate strength to resist the
wind loads for cladding specified in Chapter 16.
1404.9 Vinyl siding. Vinyl siding shall be certified and labeled
as conforming to the requirements of ASTM D 3679 by an
approved quality control agency.
1404.10 lFnber cement siding. Fiber cement siding shall con-
form to the requirements of ASTMC 1186 and shall be so iden-
tified on labeling listing an approved quality control agency.
SECTION 1405
INSTALLATION OF WALL
1405.1 Generall. Exterior wall coverings shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with the applicable provisions of
this section.
1405.1.1 Additional requirements. [DSA-SS & OSHPD 1,
2 and 4] In addition to the requirements of1405.5, 1405.6,
1405.7, 1405.8 and 1405.9, the installation ofanchored or
adhered veneer shall comply with applicable provisions of
Section 1408.
:ll.405.2 Weather jprotectllon. Exterior walls shall provide
weather protection for the building. The materials of the mini-
mum nominal thickness specified in Table 1405.2 shall be
acceptable as approved weather coverings.
2008 CiTY Of lOS ANGELES BUilDING CODE
TABLE 1405.2
MINIMUM THICKNESS OF WEATHER COVERINGS
MINIMUM THICKNESS
CpVERING TYPE (inches)
Adhered masonry veneer 0.25
Aluminum siding 0.019
Anchored masonry veneer 2.625
Asbestos-cement boards 0.125
Asbestos shingles 0.156
Cold-rolled coppert 0.0216 nominal
Copper shingles
d
O . 0.0162 nominal
Exterior plywood (with sheathing) 0.313
Exterior plywood (without sheathing) See Section 2304.6
Fiber cement lap siding 0.25
c
Fiber cement panel siding 0.25
c
Fiberboard siding 0.5
,.,
Glass-fiber reinforced concrete panels 0.375
Hardboard siding
C
0.25
High-yield coppet! 0.0162 nominal
Lead-coated coppet! 0.0216 nominal
Lead-coated high-yield copper 0.0162 nominal
Marble slabs 1
Particleboard (with sheathing) See Section 2304.6
Particleboard (without sheathing) See Section 2304.6
Precast stone facing 0.625
Steel (approved corrosion resistant) 0.0149
Stone (cast artificial) 1.5
Stone (natural) 2
Structural glass 0.344
Stucco or exteri9r portland cement plaster
Three-coat work over:
Metal plaster base 0.875
b
Unit masonry 0.625
b
Cast-in-place or precast concrete 0.625
b
Two-coat work over:
Unit masonry 0.5
b
Cast-in-place or precast concrete 0.375
b
Terra cotta (anchored) 1
Terra cotta (adhered) 0.25
Vinyl siding 0.035
Wood shingles 0.375
Wood siding (without sheathing)a 0.5
For SI: 1 inch =25.4 mm.
a. Wood siding of thicknesses less than 0.5 inch shall be placed over sheathing
that conforms to Section 2304.6.
b. Exclusive of texture.
c. As measured at the bottom of decorative grooves.
d. 16 ounces per square foot for cold-rolled copper and lead-coated copper, 12
ounces per square foot for copper shingles, high-yield copper and
lead-coated high-yield copper.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
EXTERIOR WALLS
1405.3 Flashing. Flashing shall be installed in such a manner
so as to prevent moisture from entering the wall or to redirect it
to the exterior. Flashing shall be installed at the perimeters of
exterior door aHd assemblies, penetrations and termi-
nations of exterior wall assemblies, exterior wall intersections
with roofs, chimneys, porches, decks, balconies and similar
projections and at built-in gutters and similar locations where
moisture could enter the wall. Flashing with projecting flanges
shall be installed on both sides and the ends of copings, under
sills and continuously above projecting trim.
1405.3.1 Exterior wall pockets. In exterior walls of build-
ings or structures, wall pockets or crevices in which mois-
ture can accumulate shall be avoided or protected with caps
or drips, or other approved means shall be provided to pre-
vent water damage.
1405.3.2 Masonry. Flashing and weep holes shall be
located in the first course of masonry above finished ground
level above the foundation wallor slab, and other points of
support, including structural floors, shelf angles and lintels
where anchored veneers are designed in accordance with
Section 1405.5.
1405.4 Wood. veneers. Wood veneers on exterior walls of
buildings of Type I, II, III and IV construction shall be not less
than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness, 0.438-inch (11.1 mm)
exterior hardboard siding or 0.375-inch (9.5 mm) exterior-type
wood structural panels or particleboard and shall conform to
the following:
1. The veneer shall not exceed three stories in height, mea-
sured from the grade plane. Where fire-retardant-treated
wood is used, the height shall not exceed four stories.
2. The veneer is attached to or furred from a
noncombustible backing that is fire-resistance rated as
required by other provisions of this code.
3. Where open or spaced wood veneers (without concealed
spaces) are used, they shall not project more than 24
inches (610 mm) from the building wall.
1405.5 Anchored masonry veneer. Anchored masonry
veneer shall comply with the provisions of Sections 1405.5,
1405.6, 1405.7 and 1405.8 and Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of ACI
5301ASCE 5ITMS 402.
1405.5.1 Tolerances. Anchored masonry veneers in accor-
dance with Chapter 14 are not required to meet the toler-
ances in Article 3.3 Gl of ACI 530.1/ASCE 6ITMS 602.
1405.5.2 Seismic requirements. Anchored masonry
.veneer located in Seismic Design Category C, E or F shall
conform to the requirements of Section 6.2.2.10 of ACI5301
ASCE51 TMS 402. Anchored masonry veneer located in
Design Category D shall conform to the require-
for Seismic Design Category E or F.
)
1405.6 Masonry or stone veneer. Support of masonry and LA
d
d LA
stone veneer shall be eSlgne, unless the masonry or stone LA
veneer complies with the following.
1405.6.1 Masonry and stone units [5 inches (127 mm)
maximum in thickness]. Masonry and stone veneer not
exceeding 5 inches (127 mm) in thickness may be anchored LA
617R
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!EXTERIOR WALLS
directly to structural masonry, concrete or studs in one of the
following manners:
1. Wall ties shall be corrosion resistant, made of sheet
metal, have a minimum thickness of 0.0785 inch
(2.00 mm) (No. 14 galvanized sheet gage) by 1 inch
(25.4 mm) and shall be attached to the backing, as the
veneer is laid, by minimum #10 hex head galvanized
screws with penetration of at least 2 inches (51 mm)
into the framing member, placed not more than
'/
4
-inch (6.35 mm) above the extended leg of the angle
tie. Wall ties shall be spaced so as to support not more
than 2 square feet (0.19 m
2
) of wall area but shall not
be more than 24 inches (610 mm) on center horizon-
tally. In Seismic Zone 4, wall ties shall have a lip or
hook on the extended leg that will engage or enclose a
horizontal joint reinforcement wire having a
0.148-inch (3.76 mm) diameter (No.9 B.W. gage) or
equivalent. The joint reinforcement shall be continu-
ous with butt splices between ties permitted.
When applied over wood stud construction, the
studs shall be spaced a maximum of 16 inches (406
mm) on center and approved paper, a minimum 30#
fiberglass felt, 4-inch (102 mm) minimum on hori-
zontallaps and 6-inch (152 mm)minimum on end
laps shall first be applied over minimum 15/32-inch (12
mm) plywood sheathing, except as otherwise pro-
vided in Section 1402, and an air space of at least one
inch (25 mm) shall be maintained between the back-
ing and the veneer. Spot bedding at all ties shall be of
cement mortar.
2. Veneer may be applied with a I-inch minimum (25
mm) grouted backing space, which is reinforced by
not less than 2-inch by 2-inch (51 mm by 51 mm)
0.065 of an inch thick (1.65 mm) (No. 16 B.W. gage)
galvanized wire mesh placed over waterproof paper
backing and anchored directly to stud construction.
Construction shall not exceed a height of 4 feet (1219
mm) above grade.
The stud spacing shall not exceed 16 inches (406
mm) on center. The galvanized wire mesh shall be an-
chored to wood studs by galvanized steel wire furring
nails at 4 inches (102 mm) on center or by barbed gal-
vanized nails at 6 inches (152 mm) on center with a
Ills-inch minimum (29 mm) penetration. The galva-
nized wire mesh. may be attached to steel studs by
equivalent wire ties. If this method is applied over
solid sheathing, the mesh shall be furred for
embedment in grout. The wire mesh shall be attached
at the top and bottom with not less than 8d common
wire nails. The grout fill shall be placed to fill the
space intimately around the mesh and veneer facing.
1405.6.2 Stone units [10 inches (254 mm) maximum in
thkkness]. Stone veneer units not exceeding ten inches
(254 mm) in thickness may be anchored directly to struc-
tural masonry or concrete. Anchor ties shall not be less than
0.109 inch (2.77 mm) (No. 12 B.W. gage) galvanized wire,
or an approved equal, formed as an exposed eye and extend-
ing not less than 1/
2
inch (12.7 mm) beyond the face of the
backing. The legs of the loops shall not be less than 6 inches
618R
(152 mm) in length bent at right angles and laid in the L_
. .
masonry mortarJomt and spaced so that the eyes or loops are LA
12 inches (254 mm) maximum on center in both directions.
There shall be provided not less than a 0.109-inch (2.77 LA
mm) (No. 12 B.W. gage) galvanized wire tie, or approved
equal, threaded through the exposed loops for every 2 LA
feet (0.19 m
2
) of veneer. This.' tie shall be a loop
havmg legs not less than 15 mches (381 mm) in length bent
so that it will lie in the stone veneer mortar joint. The last 2
inches (51 mm) of each wire leg shall have a right angle LA
bend. One inch (25 mm) of cement grout shall be placed
between the backing and the stone veneer. LA
1405.7 Slab-type veneer. Slab-type veneer units not exceed- ..
ing 2 inches (51 mm) in thickness shall be anchored directly to _
masonry, concrete or stud construction. For veneer units of
marble, travertine, granite or other stone units of slab form ties
of corrosion-resistant dowels in drilled holes shall be locatedin
the middle third of the edge of the units, spaced a maximum of
24 inches (610 m) apart around the periphery of each unit with
not less than four ties per veneer unit. Units shall not exceed 20
square feet (1.9 m
2
) in area. If the dowels are not tight fitting,
the holes shall be drilled not more than 0.063 inch (1.6 mm)
larger in diameter than the dowel, with the hole countersunk to
a diameter and depth equal to twice the diameter of the dowel in
order to provide a tight-fitting key of cement mortar at the
dowel locations when the mortar in the joint has set. Veneer ties
shall be corrosion-resistant metal capable of resisting, in ten-
sion or compression, a force equal to two times the weight of ..
the attached veneer. If made of sheet metal, veneer ties shall be _
not smaller in area than 0.0336 by 1 inch (0.853 by 25 mm) or,
if made of wire, not smaller in diameter than O.1483-inch (3.76
mm) wire.
1405.8 Terra cotta. Anchored terra cotta or ceramic units not
less than 1.625 inches (41 mm) thick shall be anchored directly
-to masonry, concrete or stud construction. Tied terra cotta or
ceramic veneer units shall be not less than 1.625 inches (41
mm) thick with projecting dovetail webs on the back surface
spaced approximately 8 inches (203 mm) o.c. The facing shall
be tied to the backing wall with corrosion-resistant metal
anchors of not less than No.8 gage wire installed at the top of
each piece in horizontal bed joints not less than 12 inches (305
mm) nor more than 18 inches (457 mm) o.c.; these anchors
shall be secured to 0.25-inch (6.4 rhm) corrosion-resistant pen- ..
cil rods that pass through the vertical aligned loop anchors in -
the backing wall. The veneer ties shall have sufficient strength
to support the full weight of the veneer in tension. The facing
shall be set with not less than a 2-inch (51 mm) space from the
backing wall and the space shall be filled solidly with portland
cement grout and pea gravel. Immediately plior to setting, the ..
backing wall and the facing shall be drenched with clean water _
and shall be distinctly damp when the grout is poured.
1405.9 Adhered masonry veneer. Adhered masonry veneer
shall comply with the appUcable requirements in Section
1405.9.1 and Sections 6.1 and 6.3 of ACI 530lASCE 5/TMS
402.
1405.9.1 Interior adhered masonry veneers. Interior
adhered masonry veneers shall have a maximum weight of
20 psf (0.958 kg/m
2
) and shall be installed in accordance
with Section 1405.9. Where the interior adhered masonry
2008 CITY Of lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
veneer is supported by wood construction, the supporting
members shall be designed to limit deflection to 1/
600
of the
span of the supporting members.
1405.10 Metal veneers. Veneers of metal shall be fabricated
from approved corrosion-resistant materials or shall be pro-
tected front and back with porcelain enamel, or otheFwise be
treated to render the metal resistant to corrosion. Such. veneers
shall not be less than 0.0149-inch (0.378 mm) nominal thick-
ness sheet steel mounted on wood or metal furring strips or
approved sheathing on the wood construction.
1405.10.1 Attachment. Exterior metal veneer shall be
securely attached to the supporting masonry or framing
members with corrosion-resistant fastenings, metal ties or
by other approved devices or methods. The spacing of the
fastenings or ties shall not exceed 24 inches(610 mill) either
vertically or horizontally, but where units exceed 4 square
feet (0.4 m
2
) in area there shall be not less than four attach-
ments per unit. The metal attachments shall have a
cross-sectiop.al area not less than provided by W 1.7 wire.
Such attachments and their supports shall be capable of
resisting a horizontal force' in accordance with the wind
loads specified in Sectiori 1609, but in no case less than 20
psf (0.958 kg/m
2
).
1405.10.2 Weather protection. Metal supports for exterior
metal veneer shall be protected by painting, galvanizing or
by other equivalent coating or treatment. Wood studs, fur-
ring strips or other wood supports for exterior metal veneer
shall be approved pressure-treated wood Of protected as
required in Section1403.2. Joints and edges exposed to the
weather shall be caulked with approved durable waterproof-
ing material or by other approved means to prevent penetra-
tion of moisture.
1405.10.3 Backup. Masonry backup shall not be required
for metal veneer except as is necessary to meet the fire-resis-
tance requirements of this code.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
EXTERIOR WALLS
618aR
618bR
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE

TABLE 1504.8
MAXIMUMIALLOWABLE MEAN ROOF HEIGHT PERMITTED. FOR
BUILDINGS wrtH GRAVEL OR STONE ON THE ROOF INIAREAS
OUTSIDE A HURRICANE-PRONE REGION
MAXIMUM MEAN ROOF HEIGHT (ft)8.C
BASIC WIND SPEED
Exposure category
FROM FIGURE 1609
(flJph)b B C
,0
85 170 60 30
90 110 35 15
95 75 20 NP
100 55 15 NP
105 40 NP NP
110 30 NP NP
115 20 NP NP
120 15 NP NP
Greater than 120 NP NP NP
For SI: 1 foot =304.8 mm; 1 mile per hour =0.447 mls.
a. Mean roof height in accordance with Section 1609.2.
b. For intermediate values of basic wind speed, the height associated with the
next higher value of wind speed shall be used, or direct interpolation is per-
mitted.
c. NP =gravel and stone not permitted for any roof height.
_ SECTION 1505
_. .' FIRE CLASSIFICATION
1505.1 General. Roof assemblies shall be divided into the
LA classes defined below. Class A, Band C roof assemblies and
roof coverings required to be listed by this section shall be
LA tested in accordance with ASTM E 108 or UL 790. The mini-
mum roof coverings installed on buildings shall comply with
LA Table 1505.1 based on the type ofconstruction of the building.
LA
Exception: Skylights and sloped glazing shall comply with
LA Chapter 24 or Section 2610 of this Code.
LA
LA No wood shake or wood shingle roof covering is permitted
anywhere in the City of Los Angeles.
TABLE 1505.1
8
MINIMUM ROOF COVERING CLASSIFICATION
FOR TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
IA IB IlA nB IlIA nIB IV VA VB
B B B C B C B B C
For SI: 1 foot =304.8 mm, 1 square foot =.0.0929 m
2
.
a. Unless otherwise required in accordance with Chapter 7A.
1505.1.1 /?eal coverings within very high fire hazard
severity zones. The entire roof covering' of every existing
structure wltere more than 50percent ofthe total roofarea is
replaced wlthin anyone-year period, the entire roof cover-
ing ofevery new structure, and any roofcovering applied in
the alteration, repair or replacement of the. roof of every
existing structure, shall be a fire-retardant roof covering
that is at least Class A.
Exception: The requirements shall not apply in any
jurisdiction that adopts the model ordinance approved
. by the State Fire Marshal pursuant to Section 51189 of
the Government Code oran ordinance that substantially
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
conforms to the model ordinance and transmits a copy to
the State Fire Marshal.
1505.1.2 Real coverings within state responsibility areas.
The entire roof covering of every existing structure where
more than 50percent ofthe total roofarea is replacedwithin
anyone-year period, the entire roof covering of every new
structure and any roof covering applied in the alteration,
repair or replacement ofthe roof ofevery existing structure
shall be a fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class
B.
Exception: Areas designated as moderate fire hazard
severity zones.
1505.1.3 Roofcoverings within all other areas. The entire
roofcovering ofevery existing structure where more than 50
percent ofthe total roofarea is replaced within any one-year
period, the entire roof covering of every new structure, and
any roof covering applied in the alteration, repair or
replacement ofthe roofofevery existing structure, shall be a
fire-retardant roof covering that is at least Class C.
1505.1.4 Roofing requirements in a Wildland-Urban
Interface Fire Area. Roofing requirements for structures
located in a Wildland-Urban Inteiface Fire Area shall also
comply with Section 704A.1.
1505.2 Class A roof assemblies. Class A roof assemblies are
those that are effective against severe fire test exposure. Class
A roof assemblies and roof coverings shall be listed and identi-
fied as Class A by an approved testing agency. Class A roof
assemblies shall be permitted for use in buildings or structures
of all types of construction.
Exception: Class Aroof assemblies include those with cov-
erings of brick, masonry, slate, clay or concrete roof tile,
exposed concrete roof deck, ferrous or copper shingles or
sheets.
15Q5.3 Class B roof assemblies. Class B roof assemblies are
those that are effective against moderate fire-test exposure.
Class B roof assemblies and roof coverings shall be listed and
identified as Class B by an approved testing agency.
Exception: Class Broof assemblies include those with cov-
erings of metal sheets and shingles.
1505.4 Class C roof assemblies. Class C roof assemblies are
those that are effective against light fire-test exposure. Class C
roof assemblies and roof coverings shall be listed and identi-
fied as Class C by an approved testing agency.
1505.5 Nonclassified roofing. roofing is
approved material that is not listed as a Class A, B or C roof
covering.
1505.6 Fire-retardant-treated wood shingles and shakes.
Fire-retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles are wood
shakes and shingles complying with UBC Standard 15-3 or
15-4 which are impregnated by the full-cell vacuum-pressure
process with fire-retardant chemicals, and which have been
qualified by UBC Standard 15-2 for use on Class A, B or C
roofs.
Fire-retardant-treated wood shakes and shingles shall com-
ply with ICC-ES EG107 and with the weathering requirements
contained in Health and Safety Code Section 13132. 7(j). Each
627R
ROOF ASSIEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
bundle shall bear labelsfrom an ICCaccreditedquality control
agency identifying their roof-covering classification and indi-
cating their compliance with ICC-ES EG107 and with the
weathering requirements contained in Health and Safety Code
Section 13132.7(j).
Health and Safety Code Section 13132.7(j). No wood roof
covering materials shall be sold or applied in this state unless
both of the following conditions are met:
(1) The materials have been approved and listed by the
State Fire Marshal as complying with the requirements
of this section.
(2) The materials have passed at least five years of the
10-year natural weathering test. The 10-year natural
weathering test required by this subdivision shall be
conducted in accordance with standard 15-2 of the
1994 edition ofthe Uniform Building Code at a testing
facility recognized by the State Fire Marshal.
1505.7 Spedall pUlrJPlose roofs. Special purpose wood shingle
or wood shake roofing shall conform with the grading and
application requirements of Section 1507.8 or 1507.9. In addi-
tion, an underlayment of 0.625-inch (15.9 mm) Type X
water-resistant gypsum backing board or gypsum sheathing
shall be placed under minimum nominal 0.5-inch-thick (12.7
mm) wood structural panel solid sheathing or I-inch (25 mm)
nominal spaced sheathing.
SECTION 1506
MATERIALS
1506.1 Scope. The requirements set forth in this section shall
apply to the application of roof-covering materials specified
herein. Roof coverings shall be applied in accordance with this
chapter and the manufacturer's installation instructions. Instal-
lation of roof coverings shall comply with the applicable provi-
sions of Section 1507.
1506.2 Compatiibmty of materials. Roofs and roof coverings
shall be of materials that are compatible with each other and
with the building or structure to which the materials are
applied.
1506.3 MateJriiall speciifications and physical characteristics.
Roof-covering materials shall conform to the applicable stan-
dards listed in this chapter. In the absence of applicable stan-
dards or where materials are of questionable suitability, testing
by an approved agency shall be required by the building official
to determine the character, quality and limitations of
application of the materials.
1506.4 Prodanct identification. Roof-covering materials shall
be delivered in packages bearing the manufacturer's identify-
ing marks and approved testing agency labels required in
accordance with Section 1505. Bulk shipments of materials
shall be accompanied with the same information issued in the
form ofa certificate or on abill oflading by the manufacturer.
628
SECTION ~ 507
REQUIREMENTS FOR ROOF COVERINGS
1507.1 Scope. Roof coverings shall be applied in accordance
with the applicable provisions of this section and the manufac-
turer's installation instructions.
1507.2 Asphalt shingles. The installation of asphalt shingles
shall comply with the provisions of this section.
1507.2.1 Deck requirements. Asphalt shingles shall be fas-
tened to solidly sheathed decks.
1507.2.2 Slope. Asphalt shingles shall only be used on roof
slopes of two units vertIcal in 12 units horizontal (17-per-
cent slope) or greater. For roof slopes from two units vertical
in 12 units horizontal (17-percent slope) up to four units ver-
tical in 12 units horizontal (33-percent slope), double
underlayment application is required in accordance with
Section 1507.2.8.
1507.2.3 Underlayment. Unless otherwise noted, required
underlayment shall conform to ASTM D 226, Type I,
ASTM D 4869, Type I, or ASTM D 6757.
1507.2.4 Self-adhering polymer modified bitumen sheet.
Self-adhering polymer modified bitumen sheet shall com-
ply with ASTM D 1970.
1507.2.5 Asphalt shingles. Asphalt shingles shall have .
self-seal strips or be interlocking and comply with ASTMD
225 or ASTM D 3462. Asphalt shingle packaging shall bear
labeling indicating compliance with ASTMD 3161 or a list-
ing by an approved testing agency in accordance with the
requirements of Section 1609.5.2.
1507.2.6 Fasteners; Fasteners for asphalt shingles shall be
galvanized, stainless steel, aluminum or copper roofing
nails, minimum 12 gage [0.105 inch (2.67 mm)] shank with
a minimum 0.375 inch-diameter (9.5 mm) head, of a length
to penetrate through the roofing materials and a minimumof
0.75 inch (19.1 mm) into the roof sheathing. Where the roof
sheathing is less than 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) thick, the nails
shall penetrate through the sheathing. Fasteners shall
comply with.ASTM F 1667.
1507.2.7 Attachment. Asphalt shingles shall have the min-
imumnumber of fasteners required by the manufacturer and
Section 1504.1. Asphalt shingles shall be secured to the roof
with not less than four fasteners per strip shingle or two fas-
teners per individual shingle. Where the roof slope exceeds
20 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (166-percent slope),
asphalt shingles shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer's printed installation instructions for
steep-slope roof applications.
1507.2.8 Underlayment application. For roof slopes from
two units vertical in 12 units horizontal (17-percent slope)
and up to four units vertical in 12 units horizontal (33-per-
cent slope), underlayment shall be two layers applied in the
following manner. Apply a minimum 19-inch-wide (483
mm) strip of underlayment felt parallel with and starting at
the eaves, fastened sufficiently to hold in place. Starting at
the eave, apply 36-inch-wide (914 mm) sheets of
underlayment overlapping successive sheets 19 inches (483
mm), by fastened sufficiently to hold in place. Distortions in
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
TABLE 1507.3.7
CLAY AND CONCRETE TILE b, C
GENERAL-CLAY OR CONCRETE ROOF TILE
Maximum basic iMean roof
wind speed height
(mph) (feet) Roof slope up to < 3:12 Roof slope 3:12 and over
85 0-60
100 0-40
Two fasteners per tile. Two fasteners per tile.
The head of all tiles shall be nailed. The nose of all eave tiles shall be fastened with approved clips. All rake
100 >40-60 tiles shall be nailed with two nails. The nose of all ridge, hip arid rake tiles shall be set in a bead ofroofer's
mastic.
110 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
120 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
130 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
All >60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
INTERLOCKING CLAY OR CONCRETE ROOF TILE WITH PROJECTING ANCHOR LUGS
d
, e
(Installations on solid sheathing with battens)
Maximum basic Mean roof "
wind speed height
(mph) (feet) Roof slope up to < 5:12 Roof slope 5:12 < 12:12 Roof slope 12:12 and over
85 0-60 One fastener per tile. Tiles with
One fastener required for every tile. Tiles
Minimum slope is 4:12. : installed weight less than 9
with installed weight less than 9 lbs.lsq. ft.
100 0-40
One fastener per tile. lbs.lsq. ft. require a minimum of
require a minimum of one 'fastener per tile.
one fastener per tile.
The head of all tiles shall be nailed. The nose of all eave tiles shall be fastened with approved clips. All rake
100 >40-60 tiles shall be nailed with two nails The nose of all ridge, hip and rake tiles shall be set in a bead of roofers's
mastic.
110 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
120 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
130 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
All >60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
INTERLOCKING CLAY OR CONCRETE ROOF TILE WITH PROJECTING ANCHOR LUGS
on solid sheathing without battens)
Maximum basic Mean roof
wind speed height Minimum roof slopes 4 units vertical in 12 units horizontal
(mph) (feet) Maximum slope 7 units vertical in 12 units horizontal
85 0-60 One fastener per tile.
100 0-40 One fastener per tile.
The head of all tiles shall be nailed. The nose of all eave tiles shall be fastened with approved clips. All rake
100 >40-60 tiles shall be nailed with two nails The nose of all ridge, hip and rake tiles shall be set in a bead of roofer's
mastic.
110 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
120 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
130 0-60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
All >60 The fastening system shall resist the wind forces in Section 1609.5.2.
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
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For SI: 1 inch =25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour =: 0.447 m!s, 1 pound per square foot = 4.882 kg/m
2

a. Minimum fastener size. Hot dipped galvanized ring shank o.r other corrosion-resistant nails not less than No. 11 gage with 5/16-inch head. Fasteners shall be long LA
enough to penetrate into the sheathing 0.75 inch or through the thickness of the sheathing, whichever is less. Attaching wire for clay and concrete tile shall not be
smaller than 0.083 inch and shall be copper, brass or stainless sttyel.
b. Snow areas. A minimum of two fasteners per tile are required or battens and one fastener.
c. Roof slopes greater than 24: 12. The nose of all tiles shall be securely fustened.
d. Horizontal battens. Battens shall be not less than 1inch by 2 inch nominal. Provisions shall be made for drainage by a minimum of 1/
8
- inch riser at each nail or by
4-foot-long battens with at least a 0.5-inch separation between battens. Horizontal battens are required for slopes <Ner 7: 12.
e. Perimeter fastening areas include three tile courses but not less than 36 inches from either side of hips or ridges and edges of eaves and gable rakes.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE 631R
ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURIES
TABLE
METAL ROOF COVIERINGS
STANDARD APPLICATION
ROOF COVERING TYPE RATEfTHICKNESS
ASTM B 209,0.024 inch minimum
Aluminum
thickness for roll-formed panels and 0.019
inch minimum thickness for press-formed
shingles.
Aluminum-zinc alloy
ASTM A 792 AZ 50
coated steel
ASTM B 370 minimum 16 oz/sq. ft. and
12 oz.lsq. ft. high yield copper for
Cold-rolled copper metal-sheet roof covering systems: 12
oz/sq. ft. for preformed metal shingle
systems.
16 oz.lsq. ft. for metal-sheet roof-covering
Copper systems; 12 oz.lsq. ft. for preformed metal
shingle systems.
Galvanized steel ASTM A 653 G-90 zinc-coated
a

Hard lead 2 lbs.lsq. ft.

Lead-coated copper ASTM B 101
Prepainted steel ASTM A 755
Soft lead 3 lbs.lsq. ft.
Stainless steel ASTM A 240, 300 Series Alloys
Steel ASTM A 924
Terne coating of 40 lbs. per double base
Teme and box, field painted where applicable in
terne-coated stainless accordance with manufacturer's
installation instructions.
0.027 inch minimum thickness; 99.995%
electrolytic high grade zinc with alloy
Zinc additives of copper (0.08% - 0.20%),
titanium (0.07% - 0.12%) and aluminum
(0.015%).
For SI: 1 ounce per square foot =0.0026 kg/m
2
,
1 pound per square foot =4.882 kg/m
2
,
1 inch =25.4 mm, 1 pound =0.454 kg.
a. For Group U buildings, the minimum coating thickness for ASTM A 653
galvanized steel roofing shall be G-60.
TABLE
MINIMUM CORROSION RESISTANCE
55% Aluminum-Zinc Alloy Coated Steel ASTM A 792 AZ 50
5% Aluminum Alloy-coated steel ASTM A875 GF60
Aluminum-coated steel ASTM A463 T2 65
Galvanized Steel ASTM A 653 G-90
Prepainted Steel ASTMA 755
a
a. Paint systems in accordance with ASTM A 755 shall be applied over steel
products with corrosion resistant coatings complying with ASTM A 792,
ASTM A 875, ASTM A 463, or ASTM A 653.
JlS07.4.41 Attachment. Metal roof panels shall be secured to
the supports in accordance with the approved manufac-
632
turer's fasteners. In the absence of manufacturer e
recommendations, the following fasteners shall be used:
1. Galvanized fasteners shall be used for steel roofs.
2. 300 series stainless-steel fasteners shall be used for
copper roofs.
3. Stainless-steel fasteners are acceptable for all types of _
metal roofs. _
1507.5 Metan roof shingles. The installation of metal roof
shingles shall comply with the provisions of this section.
IS07.S.Jl Deck requirements. Metal roof shingles shall be
applied to a solid or closely fitted deck, except where the
roof covering is specifically designed to be applied to
spaced sheathing.
1507.5.2 Deck slope. Metal roof shingles shall not be
installed on roof slopes below three units vertical in 12 units
horizontal (25-percent slope).
Jl507.5.3 UnderHayment. Underlayment shall comply with
ASTMD 226, Type I or ASTMD4869. In areas where there
has been a history of ice forming along the eaves causing a
backup of water, an ice barrier that consists of at least two
layers of underlayment cemented together or of a
self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet shall be
used in lieu of normal underlayment and extend from the
eave's edge to a point at least 24 inches (610 mm) inside the
exterior wall line of the building.
Exception: Detached accessory structures that contain
no conditioned floor area.
1507.5.4 Material standards. Metal roof shingle roof cov-
erings shall comply with Table 1507.4.3(1). The materials
used for metal-roof shingle roof coverings Shall be naturally
corrosion resistant or provided with corrosion resistance in
accordance with the standards and minimum thicknesses
specified in the standards listed in Table 1507.4.3(2).
JlS07.5.5 Attachment. Metal roof shingles shall be secured
to the roof in accordance with the approved manufacturer's
installation instructions.
1507.5.6 FlashiJrng. Roof valley flashing shall be of corro-
sion-resistant metal of the same material as the roof cover-
ing or shall comply with the standards in Table 1507.4.3(1).
The valley flashing shall extend at least 8 inches (203 mm)
from the centerline each way and shall have a splash diverter
rib not less than 0.75 inch (19.1 mm) high at the flow line
formed as part of the flashing. Sections of flashing shall
have an end lap of not less than 4 inches (102 mm). In areas
where the average daily temperature in January is 25P
(-4C) or less or where there is a possibility of ice forming
along the eaves causing a backup of water, the metal valley
flashing shall have a 36-inch-wide (914 mm) underlayment
directly under it consisting of either one layer of
underlayment running the full length of the valley or a
self-adhering polymer-modified bitumen sheet complying
with ASTM D 1970, in addition to underlayment required
for metal roof shingles. The metal valley flashing
underlayment shall be solidly cemented to the roofing
underlayment for roof slopes under seven units vertical in
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELIES BUilDING CODE
- 1507.13 Thermoplastic single-ply roofing. The installation
of thermoplastic single-ply roofing shall comply with the pro-
visions of this
1507.13.. 1 &llope. Thermoplastic single-ply mel11brane
roofs shall have a design slope of a minimum of one-fourth
unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope).
1507.13.2 Material standards. Thermoplastic single-ply
roof coverings shall comply with ASTM D 4434, D
6754, ASTM D 6878 or CGSB CAN/CGSB 37-54.
1507.14 Sprayed polyurethane foam roofing. The
tion of sprayed polyurethane foam roofing shall comply with
the provisions of this section.
1507.14.1 Slope. Sprayed polyurethane foam roofs shall
have a design slope of a minimum of one-fourth unit vertical
in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) for drainage.
1507.14.2 Material standards. Spray-applied polyure-
thane foam insulation shall comply with ASTM C 1029.
1507.].4.3 Application. Foamed-in-place roof insulation
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions. A liquid-applied protective coating that com-
plies with Section 1507.15 shall be applied no less than 2
hours nor more than 72 hours following the application of
the foam.
1507.14.4 Foamplastics. Foamplastic materials and instal-
lation shall comply with Chapter 26.
1507.15 Liquid-applied coatings. The installation of liq-
uid-applied coatings shall comply with the provisions of this
section.
1507.15.1 Slope. Liquid-applied roofs shall have a design
slope of a minimum of one-fourth unit vertical in 12 units
horizontal (2-percent slope).
1507.15.2 Material standards. Liqujd-applied roof coat-
ings shall comply with ASTM C 836, ASTM C 957, ASTM
D 122Tor ASTM D3468, ASTMD6083 or ASTMD6694.
SECTION 1508
ROOF INSULATION
_ 150ftl General. The use of above-deck thermal insulation
shall be permitted provided such insulation is covered with an
approved roof covering and passes the tests of FM 4450 or UL
1256 when tested as an assembly.
]Exceptions:
1. Foam plastic roof insulation shall conform to the ma-
_ terial and installation requirements of Chapter 26.
2. Whel1e a concrete roof deck is used and the
above-deck thermal insulation is covered with an ap-
provep roof covering.
1508.1.1 Celliulosic fiberboard. Cellulosic fiberboard roof
_ insulation shall conform to the material and installation
requirements of Chapter 23.
1508.2 Material standards. Above-deck thermal insulation
board shall comply with the standards in Table 1508.2.
2008 CITY OF ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
TABLE 1508.2
MATERIAL STANDARDS FOR ROOF INSULATION
Cellular glass board ASTMC552
Composite boards
ASTM C 1289, Type III, IV, V or VI
Expanded polystyrene ASTMC 578
Extruded polystyrene board ASTM C.578
Perlite board ASTM C728
Polyisocyanurate board ASTM C 1289, Type I or Type II
Wood fiberboard ASTMC208
SECTION 1509
ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
1509.1 General. The provisions of this section shall govern the
construction of rooftop structures.
1509.2 Penthouses. A penthouse or other projection above the
roof in structures of other than Type I construction shall not
exceed 28 feet (8534 mm) above the roof where used as an
enclosure for tanks or for elevators that run to the roof and in all
other cases shall not extend more than 18 feet (5486 mm) above
the roof. The aggregate area of penthouses and other rooftop
structures shall not exceed one-third the area of the supporting
roof. A penthouse, bulkhead or any other similar' projection
above the roof shall not be used for purposes other than shelter
of mechanical equipment or shelter of vertical shaft openings
in the roof. Provisions such as louvers, louver blades or flash-
ing shall be made to protect the mechanical equipment and the
building interior from the elements. Penthouses or bulkheads
used for purposes other than permitted by this section shall
conform to the requirements of this code for an additional
story. The restrictions of this section shall not prohibit the plac-
ing of wood flagpoles or similar structures on the roof of any
building.
1509.2.1 Type of construction. Penthouses shall be con-
structed with walls, floors and roof as required for the build-
ing.
Exceptions:
1. On buildings of Type I and II construction, the ex-
terior walls and roofs of penthouses with a fire sep-
aration distance of more than 5 feet (1524 mm) and
less than 20 feet (6096 mm) shall be of at least
I-hour fire-resistance-rated noncombustible con-
struction. Walls and roofs with a fire separation
distance of20 feet (6096 mm) or greater shall be of
noncombustible construction. Interior framing
and walls shall be of noncombustible construction.
2. On buildings of Type III, IV and V construction,
the exterior walls of penthouses with a fire separa-
tion distance of more than 5 feet (1524 mm) and
less than 20 feet (6096 mm) shall be at least I-hour
fire-resistance-rated construction. Walls with a fire
distance of 20 feet (6096 mm) or greater
637
ROOf ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
from a common property line shall be of Type IV
or noncombustible construction. Roofs shall be
constructed of materials and fire-resistance rated
as required in Table 601. Interior framing and
walls shall be Type IV or noncombustible
construction.
3. Unprotected noncombustible enclosures housing
only mechanical equipment and located with a
minimum fire separation distance of 20 feet (6096
mm) shall be permitted.
4. On one-story buildings, combustible unroofed me-
chanical equipment screens, fences or similar en-
closures are permitted where located with a fire
separation distance of at least 20 feet (6096 mm)
from adjacent property lines and where not ex-
ceeding 4 feet (1219 mm) in height above the roof
surface.
5. Dormers shall be of the same type of construction
as the roof on which they are placed, or of the exte-
rior walls of the building.
Tanks having a capacity of more than 500 gal-
lons (2 m
3
) placed in or on a building shall be supported on
masonry, reinforced concrete, steel or Type IV construction
provided that, where such supports are located in the building
above the lowest story, the SUppOlt shall be fire-resistance rated
as required for Type IA construction.
J1.509.3.J1. VaRve. Such tanks shall have in the bottom or on
the side near the bottom, a pipe or outlet, fitted with a suit-
able quick opening valve for discharging the contents in an
emergency through an adequate drain.
J1.509.3.2 lLocation. Such tanks shall not be placed over or
near a line of stairs or an elevator shaft, unless there is a solid
roof or floor underneath the tank.
J1.509.3.3Tanlkcovell". Unenclosed roof tanks shallhavecov-
ers sloping toward the outer edges.
J1.509.4 Cooling towell"s. Cooling towers in excess of 250
square feet (23.2 m
2
) in base area or in excess of 15 feet (4572
mm) high where located on building roofs more than 50 feet
(15 240 mm) high shall be of noncombustible construction.
Cooling towers shall not exceed one-third of the supporting
roof area.
Drip boards and the enclosing construction of
wood not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness, pro-
vided the wood is covered on the exterior of the tower with
noncombustible material.
J1.5l1:D9.5 Towers, spires, domes aJl1ld cupolas. Any tower, spire,
dome or cupola shall be of a type of construction not less in
fire-resistance rating than required for the building to which it
is attached, except that any such tower, spire, dome or cupola
that exceeds 85 feet (25 908 mm) in height above grade plane,
exceeds 200 square feet (18.6 m
2
) in horizontal area or is used
for any purpose other than a belfry or an architectural embel-
lishment shall be constructed of and supported on Type I or II
construction.
1509.5.J1. Nmncombustible construction requllJred. Any
tower, spire, dome or cupola that exceeds 60 feet (18 288) in
638R
height above the highest point at which it comes in contact ..
with the roof, or that exceeds 200 square feet (18.6 m
2
) in .,
area at any horizontal section, or which is intended to be
used for any purpose other than a belfry or architectural
embellishment, shall be entirely constructed of and sup-
ported by noncombustible materials. Such structures shall
be separated from the.building below by construction hav- _
ing a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1.5 hours with
openings protected with a minimum 1.5-hour fire-protec-
tion rating. Structures, except aerial supports 12 feet (3658
mm) high or less, flagpoles, water tanks and cooling towers,
placed above the roof of any building more than 50 feet (15
240 mm) in height, shall be of noncombustible material and
shall be supported by construction of noncombustible
material.
Jl509.5.2 Towers and spires. Towers and spires where
enclosed shall have exterior walls as required for the build-
ing to which they are attached. The roof covering of spires
shall be of a class of roof covering as required for the main
roof of the rest of the structure.
SECTION
REROOFING
1510.J1. Gelfllend. Materials and methods of application used LA
for recovering or replacing an existing roof covering shall com-
ply with the requirements of Chapter 15. LA
Exception: Reroofing shall not be required to meet the min- _
imum design slope requirement of one-quarter unit vertical LA
in 12 units horizontal (2-percent slope) in Section 1507 for
roofs that provide positive roof drainage. LA
LA
1510.2 Structural and construdioJrn loads. Structural roof LA
components shall be capable of supporting the roof-covering
system and the material and equipment loads that will be
encountered during installation of the system. LA
. LA
1510.3 Recovering versus replacemen.t. New roof coverings LA
shall not be installed without first removing all existing layers
of roof coverings where any of the following conditions occur: LA
LA
1. Where the existing roof or roof covering is water soaked LA
or has deteriorated to the point that the existing roof or
roof covering is not adequate as a base for additional :.
roofing. _
2. Where the existing roof covering is wood shake, slate,
clay, cement or asbestos-cement tile.
3. Where the existing roof has two or more applications of
"IE
any of roof covering.. _LA
xceptnoIrns:
1. Complete and separate roofing systems, such as L
standing-seam metal roof systems, that are designed
to transmit the roof loads directly to the building's LA
structural systemand that do not rely on existing roofs
and roof coverings for support shall not require the re- LA
moval of existing roof coverings. _
2. The application of a new protective coating over an
existing. spray polyurethane foam roofing system LA
shall be permitted without tear-off of existing roof
coverings. .
2008 CITY OF lOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
ROOF ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
TABLE 1510.1
ALLOWABLE REROOFS OVER EXISTING ROOFING
NEW OVERLAY ROOFING
Spray
EXISTING ROOFING Built up Asphalt shingle Tile roof Metal roof Modified bitumen polyurethane form
Built Up Yes
Yes Yes
Yes Yes Yes
(2:12) (2.5:12)
Asphalt Shingle NP Yes
Yes
Yes Yes NP
(2.5:12)
Asphalt over Asphalt NP Yes Yes Yes Yes NP
Tile Roof NP NP NP NP NP NP
Metal Roof NP NP NP Yes NP NP
Modified Bitumen Yes Yes
Yes
Yes Yes NP
(2.5:12)
NP = Not Permitted.
Note: (Minimum Roof Slope).
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
LA
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LA
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LA 1510.4 Roof recovering. Roofcovering may be applied over
t ~ existing roofing in accordance to Table 1510.1 of this Code.
1510.5 Reinstallation of materials. Existing slate, clay or
cement tile shall be permitted for reinstallation, except that
damaged, cracked or broken slate or tile shall not be reinstalled.
Existing vent flashing, metal edgings, drain outlets, collars and
metal counterflashings shall not be reinstalled where rusted,
damaged or deteriorated. Aggregate surfacing materials shall
not be reinstalled.
1510.6 Flashings. Flashings shall be reconstructed in accor-
dance with approved manufacturer's installation instructions.
Metal flashing to which bituminous materials are to be adhered
shall be primed prior to installation.
SECTION 1511 [DSA-SS & OSHPD 1, 2 and 4]
SEISMIC ANCHORAGE OF SLATE SHINGLE, 'CLAY
AND CONCRETE TILE ROOF COVERINGS'
1511.1 Fasteners. Nails shall be long enough to penetrate into
the sheathing 3/
4
inch (19 mm). Where sheathing is less than 3/
4
..inch (19 mm) in thickness, nails shall be driven into supports,
_ unless nails with ring shanks are used.
All fasteners shall be corrosion resistant and fabricated of
copper, stainless steel or brass, or shall have a hot-dipped gal-
vanized coating not less than 1.0 ounce ofzinc per square foot
(458 gmlm
2
). .
e Nailsfor slate shingles andclay or concrete tile shall be cop-
per, brass or stainless steel with gage and length per common
ferrous nails.
1511.2 Wire. Wireforattaching slate shingles and clay or con-
crete tile shall be copper, brass or stainless steel capable of
.. supporting four times the weight of tile.
_ Wire supporting a single tile or shingle shall not be smaller
, than 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) in diameter. Continuous wire ties sup-
porting more than one tile shall not be smaller than 0.084 inch
(2 mm) in diameter.
2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE
1511.3 Metal strips. Metal strips for attaching slate shingles
and clay or concrete tile shall be copper, brass or stainless steel
capable of supporting four times the weight of tile.
1511.4 Clay or concrete tiles. Clay or concrete tile shall be
installed in accordance with Table 1507.3.7 and as described
herein.
1. On wood roofs or roofs ofother material to which wood
strips are secured, every cover or top tile when fastened
with nails shall be naileddirectly into 1
1
/
4
inches (32 mm)
sound grain soft wood strips of sufficient height to sup-
port the tile.
Pan or bottom tiles shall be nailed directly to the roof
sheathing or to wood strips. Wood strips shall be secured
to the roofby nails spaced not over 12 inches (305 mm)
apart.
2. On concrete roofs, wires shall be securedin place by wire
loops embedded into the concrete not less than 2 inches
(51 mm). The wire loops shall be spaced not more than
36 inches (914 mm) on center parallel to the eaves, and
spaced vertically to allowfor the minimum 3 inches (76
mm) lapping of the tile.
3. Where continuous ties oftwisted wire, interlocking wires
or metal strips extendingfrom the ridge to eave are used
to attach tile, the ties shall be attached to the roof con-
struction at the ridge, eave andat intervals not exceeding
10 feet (3048 mm) on center. The ties within 2 feet (610
mm) of the rake shall be attached at intervals of 5 feet
(1524 mm).
Attachment for continuous ties shall be nails, screws,
staples or approved clips ofthe same material as the ties
and shall not be subjected to withdrawal forces. Attach-
ments for continuous ties shall have an allowable work-
ing stress 'shear resistance ofnot less than twice the dead
weight ofthe tile tributary to the attachment, but not less
than 300 pounds (136 kg).
4. Tile with projecting anchor lugs at the bottom ofthe tiles
shall be held in position by means of1-inch by 2-inch (25
639R
ROOf ASSEMBLIES AND ROOFTOP STRUCTURES
nun by 51 mm) wood stripping nailed to the roof sheath-
ing over the underlay.
5. Clay or concrete tile on roofs with slopes exceeding 24
units vertical in 12 units horizontal (200-percent slqpe)
shall be attached as requiredfor veneer in Chapter 14.
The nose ofall tiles shall be securely fastened.
6. Clay or concrete tile shall have a minimumoftwofasten-
ers per tile. Tiles that are 8 inches (203 mm) in width or
less are permitted to befastened at the center ofthe head
with one fastener per tile.
7. Interlocking clay or concrete tile shall have a minimum
ofone nail near center Qfheador two wire ties per tile.
1511.5 Slat shingls. Slate shingles on roofs with slopes
exceeding 24 units vertical in 12 units horizontal (200-percent
slope) shall be attached as requiredfor veneerper Chapter 14.
1511.6 Altrnativ design. An alternative design ofthe fasten-
ing system used to resist seismic loads is permitted, provided
that an engineering analysis or test report based on cyclic test-
ing is provided to the enforcement agency.
The fastening system shall be designed to resist seismic
forces per ASCE 7, Section 13.3. Testing ofalternative fasten-
ing system shall comply with ASCE 7, Section 13.2.5.
640R 2008 CITY OF LOS ANGELES BUILDING CODE