Find the latest information on California Elevator Code, laws, and safety standards. Our directories are updated monthly and include website links to help you quickly find the elevator codes and regulations for the state of California (CA)

California elevator codes impose a responsibility on building owners and property managers to adhere to specific requirements within elevators, ensuring the safety of all occupants. Failure to comply with these codes can result in penalties and potential legal action. While the particulars of the Califorina elevator code may differ at the state and local levels, three primary codes govern elevator safety: the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), the International Building Code (IBC), and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

California Elevator Code Authorities having jurisdiction are those government officials who are the final authority on questions in a particular area (or jurisdiction). The California Department of Industrial Relations oversees all elevators in the State. California Elevator Code Authorities have authority over Annual Inspections (Reinspections) Are the Responsibility of the Elevator Owner and State safety inspection is a multipurpose activity.

An annual reinspection allows the Safety Engineer the opportunity to review the activity and maintenance of the device and to see that the applicable Safety Orders, including whatever periodic tests may be required, are complied with. The safety of the general public as well as the conveyance maintenance/repair personnel is paramount.

Elevators in a multiunit residential building serving no more than two dwelling units that are not accessible to the public shall be inspected by the Division upon completion of installation prior to being placed in service, or after alterations prior to being returned to service, but are not inspected on an annual basis.

California Elevator Code Authority have Four Reasons an Elevator/Conveyance Might Be Shut Down Imminent Hazard — if an imminent (unsafe) hazard is found during an inspection, the conveyance will be immediately shut down for safety reasons until the hazard is corrected. Non-compliance — if you receive a Preliminary Order after an inspection and do not comply with the requirements within the specified time period the conveyance will be shut down.

Non-payment — if you do not pay the invoice in a timely manner or do not pay the penalties associated with non-payment the conveyance will be shut down. Illegal device — if upon inspection, the Division finds that you are operating an illegal device not covered by the Elevator Safety Orders, the unit will be shut down. (excerpt from state website)

California Elevator Code – Division Office Locations

Sacramento District Office
2424 Arden Way, Suite 485
Sacramento, CA 95825

San Bernardino District Office
464 W. Fourth Street, Suite 325
San Bernardino, CA 92401

California Elevator Code – Elevator Phone Requirements ASME A17.1 & IBC**

• Answer by live authorized personnel – no automated answering

• Location identification without voice communication

• Monitoring the status of local telephone lines and issuing local alerts

**California also follows IBC 2021, which incorporates extra requirements for new elevators/construction projects

If your elevator travels over 60 feet. A two-way communication system will be installed in the elevator that provides both visible text and audible modes per code requirements. If you’re modernizing the elevator to ensure it complies with current codes, it’s advisable to consult your local California elevator code authority for guidance on the applicable regulations.