California Code Update

Here we go again, the new code cycle is upon us. January 1, 2023, marks the day that the updated codes go into effect. The biggest headline for California: the continued push toward a more sustainable and carbon free environment.

For our California clients, the prominent considerations include electric readiness, electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, solar requirements, and new provisions with potential impacts to garage and bathroom sizes.

Many jurisdictions have already started prohibiting gas appliances (check your Reach Codes!), the State is now pushing toward complete electrification too. Don’t worry, you can still cook on a gas stove for now, but homes built after the new year will require installation of an outlet so that wiring is in place for future electric appliances. This requirement also applies to ovens and clothes dryers.

Water heaters are another critical focus. Title 24 will now require a dedicated clear space, in addition to impact protection. So, be on the lookout, heat pump water heaters will be the direction; and providing space similar to the days before tankless heaters is necessary, until tankless technology catches up. For builders putting the water heaters in the garage, make sure you are accounting for that designated area, as this could affect garage size. In single-family detached homes, Energy Storage Systems, whether installed or not, will need to be accommodated. Therefore, if envisioned in the garage, dedicated space is needed. Check the code for clearances!

Speaking of sizing…and aging…the updated CRC Age in Place requirements could impact bathroom sizes requiring designers to go a little larger.

In line with the Energy Code, one of the most significant updates in CalGreen is considerably more EV infrastructure for multifamily dwellings with greater than 20 units (not to be confused with townhomes with attached private garages). Based on the total number of parking spaces in the multifamily project, 10% need to be EV Capable, 25% need to be EV Ready (includes a receptable), and 5% of the total spaces need to have EV Supply Equipment.

The increased electric infrastructure is impacting the electrical panel, so accommodating it now is more cost effective than retrofitting later. Important to also note is that each electric ready item requires breaker space and panel labeling.

Of course, this code blog would not be complete without discussing solar. The Energy Code has updated requirements and added exceptions. For example, new single family homes do not require solar if their code-determined minimum size equates to less than 1.8kW. However, if you have a multifamily building of four stories or more, get ready to include a battery storage system. Think about where to put it since sizes vary and some installations are quite large.

Lastly, and this is the easiest of the updates, Title 24 has now created Subchapters dedicated to multifamily buildings, so make sure you don’t close the book before reading Subchapters 10 through 12.

WHA is focusing on these changes and working with clients to address them. We believe in being proactive and figuring out effective solutions fast. If you would like further information or embark on a deeper dive with us, please reach out. We are happy to set up a meeting.