FAQ
California building code FAQs
These are real questions people ask GoCodebook about California building codes, zoning, and ADUs — answered in plain English with citations you can check against the verbatim code text.
Drawn from real questions
These come from what people actually ask GoCodebook — not a keyword list written for search engines.
Answered from the code
Each answer is written against the controlling California code text and cites the sections it relies on.
Local rules still win
Most answers state the statewide rule. Your city can be stricter, so check the jurisdiction page or ask about your address.
Zoning
ADU
Building code
- What are the handrail graspability requirements in the California Building Code?
- What are the egress requirements for a duplex in California?
- How do I calculate average grade plane (CBC §202) on a sloped lot in San Francisco?
- What is the minimum garage size for a single-family home in San Francisco?
- What are the minimum egress window size requirements in California?
- What are the WUI (Wildland-Urban Interface) construction requirements in California?
Permits
Didn't find your question?
Ask about your own address and get an answer scoped to that jurisdiction — or start from the code and read it directly.