Updates to California’s building codes take effect Jan. 1

Green-building and accessibility are the major themes of the 2013 updates to California’s construction codes that are set to take effect Jan. 1.

California’s standards for signage, placement of items, ease of movement for wheelchairs, ramps and parking spaces for those with physical challenges will align more closely with federal standards mandated by the Americans With Disabilities Act. The 2013 updates to the California Energy Code increase the energy efficiency of homes by 25% and of nonresidential structures by 30%.

(http://www.northbaybusinessjournal.com/81555/accessibility-energy-top-california-code-updates/)