Los Angeles Codes and Regulations for Building Upgrades

Use and Occupancy Code

This covers the general classification of all buildings and structures as to occupancy and use. There are different classifications of occupancy and use based on the varying degrees of hazard risk to adjacent properties and building occupants.

General Building Height and Area Limitations

This section details the limitations relating to building height, number of stories, and other building areas based on the types of construction and occupants. 

Fire and Smoke Protection Code

The Fire and Smoke Protection Code chapter details the regulations associated with the materials, systems, and assemblies used for structural fire resistance and fire-resistance-rated construction separation of adjacent spaces to protect against smoke and fire from spreading throughout the building or to other buildings.

Energy Conservation Code

This code deems that buildings must be designed to comply with the requirement of the California Energy Code. 

Green Building Code

Green Building Code specifies mandatory and voluntary green building measures for the construction of structures covered by this code. They apply to the construction of every new building, and every building alteration with a building permit valuation of at least $200,000 or more. Building additions are also included in this code. 

Los Angeles Plumbing Code

LA Plumbing Code covers all plumbing mandates, including materials of various grades, weights, quality, and configurations. It contains a list of accepted plumbing standards and references solar thermal energy systems for more energy-efficient properties. 

Elevator Code

Elevator code deals with the design, construction, installation, alteration, inspection, maintenance, testing, operation, repairing, and licensing of all types of elevators, escalators, lifts, conveyors, chairlifts, wheelchair lifts, and more. 

Existing Building Code

This code’s purpose is to establish requirements for safeguarding the public health, safety, and general welfare of people via regulations on repair, alteration, change of occupancy, addition to, and relocation of existing buildings. Building demolition is also included in this code’s scope.