This guide summarizes California Residential Code (CRC) requirements as published by California building departments. Your city’s building department has the final word. Confirm before you build.
When a guard is required
A guard (often called a guardrail) is required along the open sides of walking surfaces, including stairs, ramps, landings, balconies, decks and porches, that are more than 30 inches above the floor or grade below, measured within 36 inches horizontally of the open edge.
The key numbers
| Requirement | California Residential Code |
|---|---|
| Guard height (residential) | At least 42 inches above the walking surface |
| Guard openings | A 4-inch sphere must not pass through |
| Stair guard openings | Triangular openings at the riser/tread/bottom rail: 6-inch sphere. Some jurisdictions allow 4⅜ inches on the open side of stairs |
| Handrail height | 34 to 38 inches above the stair nosings |
| When a handrail is required | Stairways with 4 or more risers |
| Handrail grip (round) | 1¼ to 2 inches in cross-section |
| Handrail load | Withstands 200 pounds applied in any direction |
Handrails vs. guards
They are two different things. A handrail is what you hold while using the stairs. A guard keeps people from falling off an open side. On a stair with an open side, the top of the guard can double as the handrail, which is why stair guards are often 34 to 38 inches instead of 42. Landings, lofts and balconies need full 42-inch guards.
Glass railings
Glass used in railings must be safety glazing, and glass guard systems must be designed for guard loads. Frameless systems often call for laminated glass. Use a tested system installed to the manufacturer’s instructions. See glass railings.
Decorative and horizontal designs
Scrollwork, baskets and wide modern bar spacing can easily create openings larger than 4 inches. A fabricator who designs to code will check every opening. Horizontal designs, including cable railings, can meet the opening rule but need careful spacing and tension, and some building departments look closely at climbable designs.
Permits in Riverside County
New decks and balconies, and structural changes, generally need a permit from your city (for example, City of Riverside Building & Safety) or from Riverside County for unincorporated areas. Inspectors check guard height, openings and attachment. Ask before work starts.
Sources
- City of Gilroy: Residential Stairs, Handrails and Guards handout (CRC)
- City of Alameda: Guardrails & Handrail Requirements (CRC R312, R311.7.8)
- City of Santa Barbara: 2022 Residential Handrails & Guards
Common questions
Is a 36-inch railing allowed in California?
For residential guards, the California Residential Code requires at least 42 inches where a guard is required. 36 inches is the national model code number that many other states use, but California requires 42. Stair handrails are a separate item, at 34 to 38 inches.
Do horizontal railings meet code in California?
Horizontal bars and cables can meet code if openings don't pass a 4-inch sphere and the system meets load requirements. Some local jurisdictions have added climbability concerns, so confirm with your building department before choosing a horizontal design.
Do I need a permit to replace a railing?
It depends on the scope and your city. New decks, balconies and structural work typically need a permit. Replacing a railing in kind may not. Check with your city's building department or ask your fabricator.