Mogavero Architects

Code 101: How to Read the California Building Code

Jay Hyde and Jamie Corsaro
Jay Hyde and Jamie Corsaro-Vaca

Mogavero Architects conducts on-going Building Code training and discussion for our staff. As we are a California Architectural Firm, the courses we conduct are centered around the requirements of the California Building Code, some of the topics covered are not applicable to other states.

The first class is Code 101: How to read the California Building Code. It covers topics such as:

  • How the Code is Organized
  • How to understand California Amendments
  • Which parts of the code apply or do not apply to the projects regulated by various enforcing agencies.
  • Special attention is made to
    • Occupancy Groups
    • Types of Construction
    • Allowable Building Area
    • Allowable Exterior Openings

Code 101 is  published in three parts and are accessible below:

CODE 101 Part 1

CODE 101 Part 2

CODE 101 Part 3

Additional Courses include the following topics:

  • Multiple Buildings on a Site and Fire Separation Distances. (CBC Chapter 7 +)
  • Exiting Basic (CBC Chapter 10)
  • Exiting Advanced (CBC Chapter 10 +)
  • Fire Resistive Construction Detailing (CBC Chapter 7)
  • Basic Accessibility (CBC Chapters 11A and 11B)
  • Dwelling Unit Accessibility (CBC Chapters 11A and 11B)
  • California Green Building Standards Code (CGBSC Chapters 4 and 5)
  • Fire Vehicle Access (CFC Chapters 5 and Appendix Chapter D)
  • Fire Hydrants and Fire Flow (CFC Appendix Chapters B and C)
  • Vehicle Parking: Van Accessible, Accessible, EVCS (Van Accessible, Standard Accessible, Ambulatory), Specialized Spaces (Carpool, Vanpool, Low or Zero Emitting Vehicles)

The information presented here is the Code as we understand it. Mogavero Architects does not warrant or guarantee that the information presented in this course will conform to the Local requirements. As Mogavero Architects works in dozens of jurisdictions we are aware that the Codes interpreted and enforced by the Local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The AHJ may have a different interpretation of specific items identified in this course. Check with your local jurisdiction on their interpretation of the information presented here. Mogavero Architects welcomes comments regarding this information and would appreciate any information regarding possible errors or corrections needed.

2 Comments

Leave a Comment