410.1A-1 

RULE 410.1A Architectural Coating Controls - Adopted 3/11/10 Effective as of 

1/1/2011

I. Purpose

 The purpose of this rule is to limit VOC emissions from architectural coatings. This rule 

specifies VOC Content limits, storage, cleanup, and labeling requirements for 

architectural coatings. 

II. Applicability

Except as provided in subsection IV, the provisions of this rule are applicable to 

architectural coatings as defined in this rule and to any person who manufactures, blends, 

repackages, supplies, sells, offers for sale, solicits, or applies any architectural coating for 

use within the District. 

III. Severability

 Each provision of this rule shall be deemed severable, and in the event that any provision 

of this rule is held to be invalid, the remainder of this rule shall continue in full force and 

effect. 

IV. Exemptions

A. Provisions of this Rule shall not apply to: 

1. Any architectural coating that is supplied, sold, offered for sale, or 

manufactured for use outside of the District or for shipment to other 

manufacturers for reformulation or repackaging. 

2. Any aerosol coating product. 

B. Provisions of section VI and subsection VII.A shall not apply to any architectural 

coating sold in a container with a volume of one liter (1.057 quarts) or less. 

V. Definitions

A. Adhesive: Any chemical substance applied for the purpose of bonding two surfaces 

together other than by mechanical means. 

B. Aerosol Coating Product: A pressurized coating product containing pigments or 

resins that dispenses product ingredients by means of a propellant and is packaged in 

a disposable can for hand-held application, or for use in specialized equipment for 

ground traffic/marking applications. 

C. Aluminum Roof Coating: A coating labeled and formulated exclusively for 

application to roofs and containing at least 84 grams of elemental aluminum pigment 

per liter of coating (at least 0.7 pounds per gallon). Pigment content shall be 

determined in accordance with SCAQMD Method 318-95, incorporated by reference 

in subsection VII.C.10. 
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D. Appurtenance: Any accessory to a stationary structure coated at the site of 

installation, whether installed or detached, including but not limited to: bathroom and 

kitchen fixtures; cabinets; concrete forms; doors; elevators; fences; hand railings; 

heating equipment, air conditioning equipment and other fixed mechanical equipment 

or stationary tools; lampposts; partitions; pipes and piping systems; rain gutters and 

downspouts; stairways, fixed ladders, catwalks and fire escapes; and window screens. 

E. Architectural Coating: A coating to be applied to stationary structures or their 

appurtenances at the site of installation, to portable buildings at the site of installation, 

to pavements, or to curbs. Coatings applied in shop applications or to nonstationary 

structures such as airplanes, airships, ships, boats, locomotives, railcars and 

automobiles, and adhesives are not considered architectural coatings for the purposes 

of this Rule. 

F. Basement Specialty Coating: A clear or opaque coating that is labeled and 

formulated for application to concrete and masonry surfaces to provide a hydrostatic 

seal for basements and other below-grade surfaces. Basement Specialty Coatings 

must meet the following criteria: 

1. Coating must be capable of withstanding at least 10 psi of hydrostatic 

pressure, as determined in accordance with ASTM D7088-04, which is 

incorporated by reference in subsection VII.C.15; 

2. Coating must be resistant to mold and mildew growth and must achieve a 

microbial growth rating of 8 or more, as determined in accordance with 

ASTM D3273-00 and ASTM D3274-95, incorporated by reference in 

subsection VII.C.21. 

G. Bitumens: Black or brown materials including, but not limited to, asphalt, tar, pitch 

and asphaltite that are soluble in carbon disulfide, consist mainly of hydrocarbons and 

are obtained from natural deposits or as residues from distillation of crude petroleum 

or coal. 

H. Bituminous Roof Coating: A coating which incorporates bitumens that is labeled and 

formulated exclusively for roofing. 

I. Bituminous Roof Primer: A primer which incorporates bitumens that is labeled and 

formulated exclusively for roofing and intended for the purpose of preparing a 

weathered or aged surface or improving the adhesion of subsequent surfacing 

components. 

J. Bond Breaker: A coating labeled and formulated for application between layers of 

concrete to prevent a freshly poured top layer of concrete from bonding to the layer 

over which it is poured. 

K. Coating: A material applied onto or impregnated into a substrate for protective, 

decorative or functional purposes. Such materials include, but are not limited to, 

paints, varnishes, sealers and stains. 

L. Colorant: A concentrated pigment dispersed in water, solvent and/or binder that is 

added to an architectural coating after packaging in sale units to produce the desired 

color. 
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M. Concrete Curing Compound: A coating labeled and formulated for application to 

freshly poured concrete to perform one or more of the following functions: 

1. Retard the evaporation of water; or 

2. Harden or dustproof the surface of freshly poured concrete. 

N. Concrete/Masonry Sealer: A clear or opaque coating that is labeled and formulated 

primarily for application to concrete and masonry surfaces to perform one or more of 

the following functions: 

1. Prevent penetration of water; or 

2. Provide resistance against abrasion, alkalis, acids, mildew, staining, or 

ultraviolet light; or 

3. Harden or dustproof the surface of aged or cured concrete. 

O. Driveway Sealer: A coating labeled and formulated for application to worn asphalt 

driveway surfaces to perform one or more of the following functions: 

1. Fill cracks; or 

2. Seal the surface to provide protection; or 

3. Restore or preserve the appearance. 

P. Dry Fog Coating: A coating labeled and formulated only for spray application such 

that overspray droplets dry before subsequent contact with incidental surfaces in the 

vicinity of the surface coating activity. 

Q. Exempt Compound: A compound identified as exempt pursuant to the definition of 

Volatile Organic Compound (VOC), Subsection V. III. Exempt compounds content 

of a coating shall be determined by U.S. EPA Method 24 or South Coast Air Quality 

Management District (SCAQMD) Method 303-91 (Revised August 1993), 

incorporated by reference in Subsection VII.C.12. 

R. Faux Finish Coating: A coating labeled and formulated to meet one or more of the 

following criteria: 

1. A glaze or textured coating used to create artistic effects including, but not 

limited to: dirt, suede, old age, smoke damage, and simulated marble or wood 

grain; or 

2. A decorative coating used to create a metallic, iridescent, or pearlescent 

appearance that contains at least 48 grams of pearlescent mica pigment or 

other iridescent pigment per liter of coating as applied (at least 0.4 pounds per 

gallon); or 

3. A decorative coating used to create a metallic appearance that contains less 

than 48 grams of elemental metallic pigment per liter of coating as applied 

(less than 0.4 pounds per gallon), when tested in accordance with SCAQMD 

Method 318-95, incorporated by reference in subsection VII.C.10; or 

4. A decorative coating used to create a metallic appearance that contains greater 

than 48 grams of elemental metallic pigment per liter of coating as applied 

(greater than 0.4 pounds per gallon) and which requires a clear topcoat to 

prevent the degradation of the finish under normal use conditions. The 

metallic pigment content shall be determined in accordance with SCAQMD 

Method 318-95, incorporated by reference in subsection VII.C.10; or 
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5. A clear topcoat to seal and protect a Faux Finishing coating that meets the 

requirements of subsection IV.R.1, IV.R.2, IV.R.3, or VR.4. These clear 

topcoats must be sold and used solely as part of a Faux Finishing coating 

system, and must be labeled in accordance with subsection VII.A.4. 

S. Fire Resistive Coating: A coating labeled and formulated to protect structural 

integrity by increasing fire endurance of interior or exterior steel and other structural 

materials. The Fire Resistive category includes sprayed fire resistive materials and 

intumescent fire resistive coatings that are used to bring structural materials into 

compliance with Federal, State and local building code requirements. Any fire 

resistive coating and a testing agency must be approved by building code officials. 

Any fire resistive coating shall be tested in accordance with ASTM Designation E 

119-07, incorporated by reference in Subsection VII.C.8. 

T. Fire Retardant Coating: A coating labeled and formulated to retard ignition and 

flame spread, that has been fire tested and rated by a testing agency approved by 

building code officials for use in bringing building and construction materials into 

compliance with federal, state and local building code requirements. The fireretardant coating and the testing agency must be approved by building code officials. 

The fire-retardant coating shall be tested in accordance with ASTM Designation E 

84-07, incorporated by reference in subsection VII.C.7. Effective January 1, 2011, 

the Fire Retardant coating category is eliminated and coatings with fire retardant 

properties will be subject to the VOC limit of their primary category (e.g., Flat 

Nonflat, ECT.). 

U. Flat Coating: A coating not defined under any other definition in this Rule and that 

registers gloss less than 15 on an 85 degree meter or less than five on a 60 degree 

meter according to ASTM Designation D 523-89 (1999), incorporated by reference in 

Subsection VII.C.9. 

V. Floor Coating: An opaque coating labeled and formulated for application to flooring, 

including, but not limited to, decks, porches, steps, garage floors, and other horizontal 

surfaces which may be subject to foot traffic. 

W. Form-Release Compound: A coating labeled and formulated for application to a 

concrete form to prevent freshly poured concrete from bonding to the form. The form 

may consist of wood, metal or some material other than concrete. 

X. Graphic Arts Coating or Sign Paint: A coating labeled and formulated for handapplication by artists using brush, air brush, or roller techniques to indoor and outdoor 

signs (excluding structural components) and murals including lettering enamels, 

poster colors, copy blockers and bulletin enamels. 

Y. High-Temperature Coating: A high performance coating labeled and formulated for 

application to substrates exposed continuously or intermittently to temperatures above 

204°C (400°F). 

Z. Industrial Maintenance Coating: High performance architectural coatings including 

primers, sealers, undercoaters, intermediate coats, and topcoats formulated for 

application to substrates, including floors, exposed to one or more of the following 
410.1A-5 

extreme environmental conditions listed in Subsections V.Z.1. through V.Z.5. and 

labeled as specified in Subsection VII.A.5 

1. Immersion in water, wastewater or chemical solutions (aqueous and nonaqueous solutions), or chronic exposure of interior surfaces to moisture 

condensation; 

2. Acute or chronic exposure to corrosive, caustic or acidic agents or to 

chemicals, chemical fumes or chemical mixtures or solution; 

3. Frequent exposure to temperatures above 121°C (250°F); 

4. Frequent heavy abrasion, including mechanical wear and frequent scrubbing 

with industrial solvents, cleansers or scouring agents; or 

5. Exterior exposure of metal structures and structural components. 

AA. Low Solids Coating: A coating containing 0.12 kilogram or less of solids per liter (1 

pound or less of solids per gallon) of coating material as recommended for 

application by the manufacturer. The VOC content for Low Solids Coatings shall be 

calculated in accordance with section V.JJJ. 

BB. Magnesite Cement Coating: A coating labeled and formulated for application to 

magnesite cement decking to protect the magnesite cement substrate from erosion by 

water. 

CC. Manufacture’s Maximum Thinning Recommendations: The maximum 

recommendation for thinning that is indicated on the label or lid of the coating 

container. 

DD. Mastic Texture Coating: A coating labeled and formulated to cover holes and minor 

cracks and to conceal surface irregularities, and applied in a single coat of at least 10 

mils (at least0.010 inch) dry film thickness. 

EE. Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF): A composite wood product, panel, molding, or 

other building material composed of cellulosic fibers (usually wood) made by dry 

forming and pressing a resinated fiber mat. 

FF. Metallic Pigmented Coating: A coating that is labeled and formulated to provide a 

metallic appearance. Metallic Pigmented coatings must contain at least 48 grams of 

elemental metallic pigment (excluding zinc) per liter of coating as applied (at least 0.4 

pounds per gallon), when tested in accordance with SCAQMD Method 318-95, 

incorporated by reference in Subsection VII.C.10. The Metallic Pigmented Coating 

category does not include coatings applied to roofs or Zinc-Rich Primers. 

GG. Multicolor Coating: A coating packaged in a single container and that is labeled and 

formulated to exhibit more than one color when applied in a single coat. 

HH. Nonflat Coating: coating not defined under any other definition in this Rule and that 

registers a gloss of 15 or greater on an 85 degree meter and 5 or greater on a 60 

degree meter according to ASTM Designation D 523-89 (1999), incorporated by 

reference in Subsection VII.C.9. 

II. Nonflat - High Gloss Coating: A nonflat coating that registers a gloss of 70 or above 

on a 60 degree meter according to ASTM Designation D 523-89 (1999), incorporated 
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by reference in Subsection VII.C.9. Nonflat - High Gloss coatings must be labeled in 

accordance with subsection VII.A.10. 

JJ. Particleboard: A composite wood product panel, molding, or other building material 

composed of cellulosic material (usually wood) in the form of discrete particles, as 

distinguished from fibers, flakes, or strands, which are pressed together with resin. 

KK. Pearlescent: Exhibiting various colors depending on the angles of illumination and 

viewing, as observed in mother-of-pear. 

LL. Plywood: A panel product consisting of layers of wood veneers or composite core 

pressed together with resin. Plywood includes panel products made by either hot or 

cold pressing (with resin) veneers to a platform. 

MM. Post Consumer Coating: Finished coatings generated by a business or consumer that 

have served their intended end uses, and are recovered from or otherwise diverted 

from the waste stream for the purpose of recycling. 

NN. Pre-Treatment Wash Primer: A primer that contains a minimum of 0.5 percent acid, 

by weight, when tested in accordance with ASTM Designation D 1613-06, 

incorporated by reference in Subsection VII.C.11. labeled and formulated for 

application directly to bare metal surfaces to provide corrosion resistance and to 

promote adhesion of subsequent topcoats. 

OO. Primer, Sealer, and Undercoater: A coating labeled and formulated for one or more 

of the following purposes: 

1. To provide a firm bond between the substrate and the subsequent coatings; or 

2. To prevent subsequent coatings from being absorbed by the substrate; or 

3. To prevent harm to subsequent coatings by materials in the substrate; or 

4. To provide a smooth surface for the subsequent application of coatings; or 

5. To provide a clear finish coat to seal the substrate; or 

6. To block materials from penetrating into or leaching out of a substrate. 

PP. Reactive Penetrating Sealer: A clear or pigmented coating that is labeled and 

formulated for application to above-grade concrete and masonry substrates to provide 

protection from water and waterborne contaminates, including but not limited to 

alkalis, acids, and salts. Reactive Penetrating Sealers must penetrate into concrete and 

masonry substrates and chemically react to form covalent bonds with naturally 

occurring minerals in the substrate. Reactive Penetrating Sealers line the pores of 

concrete and masonry substrates with a hydrophobic coating, but do not form a 

surface film. Reactive Penetrating Sealers must meet all of the following criteria: 

1. The Reactive Penetrating Sealer must improve water repellency at least 80 

percent after application on a concrete or masonry substrate. This performance 

must be verified on standardized test specimens, in accordance with one or 

more of the following standards, incorporated by reference in subsection 

VII.C.22: ASTM C67-07, or ASTM C97-02, or ASTM C140-06; and 

2. The Reactive Penetrating Sealer must not reduce the water vapor transmission 

rate by more than 2 percent after application on a concrete or masonry 

substrate. This performance must be verified on standardized test specimens, 
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in accordance with ASTM E96/E96M-05, incorporated by reference in 

subsection VII.C.23; and 

3. Products labeled and formulated for vehicular traffic surface chloride 

screening applications must meet the performance criteria listed n the National 

Cooperative highway Research Report 244 (1981), incorporated by reference 

in subsection VII.C.24; and 

4. Reactive Penetrating Sealers must be labeled in accordance with subsection 

VII.A.8. 

QQ. Recycled Coating: An architectural coating formulated such that it contains a 

minimum of 50% by volume post-consumer coating, with a maximum of 50% by 

volume secondary industrial materials or virgin materials. 

RR. Residential: Areas where people reside or lodge, including, but not limited to, single 

and multiple family dwellings, condominiums, mobile homes, apartment complexes, 

motels and hotels. 

SS. Roof Coating: A non-bituminous coating labeled and formulated for application to 

roofs for the primary purpose of preventing water penetration, reflecting ultraviolet 

light, or reflecting solar radiation. 

TT. Rust Preventative Coating: A coating formulated to prevent corrosion of metal 

surfaces for one or more of the following applications: 

1. Direct-to-metal coating; or 

2. Coating intended for application over rusty, previously coated surfaces. 

The Rust Preventative category does not include the following: 

3. Coatings that are required to be applied as a topcoat over a primer; or 

4. Coatings that are intended for use on wood or any other nonmetallic surface. 

Rust Preventative coatings are for metal substrates only and must be labeled as such, 

in subsection VII.A.6. 

UU. Secondary Industrial Materials: Products or by-products of the paint manufacturing 

process that are of known composition and have economic value but can no longer be 

used for their intended purpose. 

VV. Semitransparent Coating: A coating that contains binders and colored pigments and 

is formulated to change the color of the surface, but not conceal the grain pattern or 

texture. 

WW.Shellac: A clear or opaque coating formulated solely with resinous secretions of the 

lac beetle (Laciffer lacca), and formulated to dry by evaporation without a chemical 

reaction. 

XX. Shop Application: Application of a coating to a product or a component of a product 

in or on the premises of a factory or a shop as part of a manufacturing, production or 

repairing process (e.g., original equipment manufacturing coatings). 

YY. Solicit: To require for use or to specify, by written or oral contract. 
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ZZ. Specialty Primer, Sealer and Undercoater: A coating that is formulated for 

application to a substrate to block water-soluble stains resulting from: fire damage; 

smoke damage; or water damage. Specialty Primers, Sealers, and Undercoaters must 

be labeled in accordance with subsection VII.A.7. 

AAA. Stain: A semitransparent or opaque coating labeled and formulated to change the 

color of a surface but not conceal grain pattern or texture. 

BBB. Stone Consolidant: A coating that is labeled and formulated for application to stone 

substrates to repair historical structures that have been damaged by weather or other 

decay mechanisms. Stone Consolidants must penetrate into substrates to create bonds 

between particles and consolidate deteriorated material. Stone Consolidants must be 

specified and used in accordance with ASTM E2167-01, incorporated by reference in 

subsection VII.C.25. 

Stone Consolidants are for professional use only and must be labeled as such, in 

accordance with the labeling requirements in subsection VII.C.10. 

CCC. Swimming Pool Coating: A coating labeled and formulated to coat the interior of 

swimming pools and to resist swimming pool chemicals. Swimming pool coatings 

include coatings used for swimming pool repair and maintenance. 

DDD. Tint Base: An architectural coating to which colorant is added after packaging in sale 

units to produce a desired color. 

EEE. Traffic Marking Coating: A coating labeled and formulated for marking and striping 

streets, highways or other traffic surfaces including, but not limited to, curbs, berms, 

driveways, parking lots, sidewalks and airport runways. 

FFF. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating: A clear or opaque coating that is labeled and 

formulated exclusively for refinishing the surface of a bathtub, shower, sink, or 

countertop. Tub and Tile Refinish coatings must meet all of the following criteria: 

1. The coating must have a scratch hardness of 3H or harder and a gouge 

hardness of 4H or harder. This must be determined on bonderite 1000, in 

accordance with ASTM D3363-05, incorporated by reference in subsection 

VII.C.17; and 

2. The coating must have a weight loss of 20 milligrams or less after 1000 

cycles. This must be determined with CS-17 wheels on bonderite 1000, in 

accordance with ASTM D4060-07, incorporated by reference in subsection 

VII.C.18; and 

3. The coating must withstand 1000 hours or more of exposure with few or no #8 

blisters. This must be determined on unscribed bonderite, in accordance with 

ASTM D4585-99, and ASTM D714-02e1, incorporated by reference in 

subsection VII.C.19; and 

4. The coating must have an adhesion rating of 4B or better after 24 hours of 

recovery. This must be determined on unscribed bonderite, in accordance with 

ASTM D4585-99 and ASTM D3359-02, incorporated by reference in 

subsection VII.C.16. 
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GGG. Veneer: Thin sheets of wood peeled or sliced from logs for use in the manufacture of 

wood products such as plywood, laminated veneer lumber, or other products. 

HHH. Virgin Materials: Materials that contain no post-consumer coatings or secondary 

industrial materials. 

III. Volatile Organic Compound (VOC): Any volatile compound containing at least one 

atom of carbon, excluding Exempt Compounds as listed in Rule 102 Definitions. 

JJJ. VOC Actual: VOC Actual is the weight of VOC per volume of coating and it is 

calculated with the following equation: 

VOC Actual = (Ws – Ww – Wec)

 (Vm) 

Where: 

VOC Actual = the grams of VOC per liter of coating (also known 

 as Material VOC) 

Ws = weight of volatiles, in grams 

Ww = weight of water, in grams 

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in grams 

Vm = volume of coating, in liters 

KKK. VOC Content: The weight of VOC per volume of coating. VOC content is VOC 

Regulatory, as defined in section V.LLL, for all coatings except those in the Low 

Solids category. For all coatings in the Low Solids category, the VOC Content is 

VOC Actual, as defined in section V.JJJ. If the coating is a multi-component product, 

the VOC content is VOC Regulatory as mixed or catalyzed. If the coating contains 

silanes, siloxanes, or other ingredients that generate ethanol or other VOCs during the 

curing process, the VOC content must include the VOCs emitted during curing. 

LLL. VOC Regulatory: VOC Regulatory is the weight of VOC per volume of coating, less 

the volume of water and exempt compounds. It is calculated with the following 

equation: 

VOC Regulatory = (Ws – Ww – Wec)

(Vm – Vw – Vec) 

Where: 

VOC Regulatory = grams of VOC per liter of coating, less water and 

 exempt compounds (also known as Coating VOC) 

Ws = weight of volatiles, in grams 

Ww = weight of water, in grams 

Wec = weight of exempt compounds, in grams 

Vm = volume of coating, in liters 

Vw = volume of water, in liters 

Vec = volume of exempt compounds, in liters 

MMM.Waterproofing Membrane: A clear or opaque coating that is labeled and formulated 

for application to concrete and masonry surfaces to provide a seamless waterproofing 
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membrane that prevents any penetration of liquid water into the substrate. 

Waterproofing Membranes are intended for the following waterproofing applications: 

below-grade surfaces, between concrete slabs, inside tunnels, inside concrete planters, 

and under flooring materials. Waterproofing Membranes must meet the following 

criteria: 

1. Coating must be applied in a single coat of at least 25 mils (at least 0.025 

inch) dry film thickness; and 

2. Coatings must meet or exceed the requirements contained in ASTM C836-06, 

incorporated by reference in subsection VII.C.20. 

The Waterproofing Membrane category does not include topcoats that are included in 

the Concrete/Masonry Sealer category (e.g., parking deck topcoats, pedestrian deck 

topcoats, etc.). 

NNN. Wood Coatings: Coatings labeled and formulated for application to wood substrates 

only. The Wood Coatings category includes the following clear and semitransparent 

coatings: lacquers; varnishes; sanding sealers; penetrating oils; clear stains; wood 

conditioners used as undercoats; and wood sealers used as topcoats. The Wood 

Coatings category also includes the following opaque wood coatings: opaque 

lacquers; opaque sanding sealers; and opaque lacquer undercoaters. The Wood 

Coatings category does not include the following: clear sealers that are labeled and 

formulated for use on concrete/masonry surfaces; or coatings intended for substrates 

other than wood. 

Wood Coatings must be labeled “For Wood Substrates Only”, in accordance with 

subsection VII.A.11. 

OOO. Wood Preservative: A coating labeled and formulated to protect exposed wood from 

decay or insect attack, registered with both the U.S. EPA under the Federal 

Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (7 United States Code (U.S.C.) Section 

136, et seq.) and with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. 

PPP. Wood Substrates: A substrate made of wood, particleboard, plywood, medium 

density fiberboard, rattan, wicker, bamboo, or composite products with exposed wood 

grain. Wood Products do not include items comprised of simulated wood. 

QQQ. Zinc-Rich Primer: Is a coating that meets all of the following specifications: 

1. Coating contains at least 65 percent metallic zinc powder or zinc dust by 

weight of total solids; and 

2. Coating is formulated for application to metal substrates to provide a firm 

bond between the substrate and subsequent applications of coatings; and 

3. Coating is intended for professional use only and is labeled as such, in 

accordance with the labeling requirements in subsection VII.A.12. 

VI. Requirements

A. VOC Content Limits: No person except as provided in Subsections VI.B.and VI.C., 

shall: 

1. Manufacture, blend, or repackage for sale within the District; 

2. Supply, sell or offer for sale within the District; or 
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3. Solicit for application or apply within the District, any architectural coating 

with a VOC content in excess of the corresponding VOC Content limit 

specified in the Table of Standards, after the specified effective date in the 

Table of Standards. Limits are expressed as VOC Regulatory, thinned to the 

manufacture’s maximum thinning recommendation, excluding any colorant 

added to tint bases. 

B. Most Restrictive VOC Limit: If a coating meets the definition in Section V for one 

or more specialty coating categories that are listed in the Table of Standards, then that 

coating is not required to meet the VOC limits for Flat, Nonflat, or Nonflat – High 

Gloss coatings, but is required to meet the VOC limit for the applicable specialty 

coating listed in the Table of Standards. 

With the exception of the specialty coating categories specified in subsections VI.B.1 

through VI.B.12, if a coating is recommended for use in more than one of the 

specialty coating categories listed in the Table of Standards, the most restrictive (or 

lowest) VOC content shall apply. This requirement applies to: usage 

recommendations that appear anywhere on the coating container, anywhere on any 

label or sticker affixed to the container, or in any sales, advertising, or technical 

literature supplied by a manufacturer or anyone acting on their behalf. 

1. Metallic pigmented coatings. 

2. Shellacs. 

3. Pretreatment wash primers. 

4. Industrial maintenance coatings. 

5. Low-solids coatings. 

6. Wood preservatives. 

7. High-temperature coatings. 

8. Bituminous roof primers. 

9. Specialty primers, sealers and undercoaters. 

10. Aluminum roof coatings. 

11. Zinc-rich primers. 

12. Wood Coatings. 

C. Sell-Through/Existing Stock of Coatings: A coating manufactured prior to the VOC 

Content limit effective date(s) specified for that coating in the Table of Standards, 

that complied with the VOC Content limit in effect at the time the coating was 

manufactured, may be sold, supplied, or offered for sale for up to three years after the 

specified VOC Content limit effective date(s) listed in the Table of Standards. Such a 

coating may be applied at any time, both before and after the specified effective date. 

This subsection VI.C does not apply to any coating that does not display the date or 

date-code required by subsection VII.A.1. 

D. Painting Practices: All architectural coating containers used to apply the contents 

therein to a surface directly from the container by pouring, siphoning, brushing, 

rolling, padding, ragging or other means, shall be closed when not in use. Such 

architectural coating containers include, but are not limited to, drums, buckets, cans, 

pails, trays or other application containers. Containers of any VOC-containing 

materials used for thinning and cleanup shall also be closed when not in use. 
410.1A-12 

E. Thinning: No person who applies or solicits application of any architectural coating 

shall apply a coating thinned to exceed the applicable VOC limit specified in the 

Table of Standards. 

F. Coatings Not Listed in the Table of Standards: For any coating that does not meet 

any of the definitions for specialty coatings categories listed in the Table of 

Standards, the VOC content limit shall be determined by classifying the coating as a 

Flat, Nonflat, or Nonflat-High Gloss coating, based on its gloss, as defined in 

Subsections V.U., V.HH. and V.II. and the corresponding Flat, Nonflat, or NonflatHigh Gloss VOC limit in the Table of Standards shall apply. 

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410.1A-13 

TABLE OF STANDARDS 

VOC CONTENT LIMITS FOR ARCHITECTURAL COATINGS

Coating Category Effective 1/1/2011 Effective 1/1/2012 

Flat Coatings 50 

Nonflat Coatings 100 

Nonflat - High Gloss Coatings 150 

Specialty Coatings: 

Aluminum Roof Coatings 400 

Basement Specialty Coatings 400 

Bituminous Roof Coatings 50 

Bituminous Roof Primers 350 

Bond Breakers 350 

Concrete Curing Compounds 350 

Concrete/Masonry Sealers 100 

Driveway Sealers 50 

Dry Fog Coatings 150 

Faux Finishing Coatings 350 

Fire Resistive Coatings 350 

Floor Coatings 100 

Form-Release Compounds 250 

Graphic Arts Coatings (Sign Paints) 500 

High Temperature Coatings 420 

Industrial Maintenance Coatings 250 

Low Solids Coatings2 120 

Magnesite Cement Coatings 450 

Mastic Texture Coatings 100 

Metallic Pigmented Coatings 500 

Multi-Color Coatings 250 

Pre-Treatment Wash Primers 420 

Primers, Sealers, and Undercoaters 100 

Reactive Penetrating Sealers 350 

Recycled Coatings 250 

Roof Coatings 50 

Rust Preventative Coatings 400 250 

Shellacs: 

 Clear 

 Opaque 

730 

550 

Specialty Primers, Sealers, and Undercoaters 350 100 

Stains 250 

Stone Consolidants 450 

Swimming Pool Coatings 340 

Traffic Marking Coatings 100 

Tub and Tile Refinish Coatings 420 

Waterproofing Membranes 250 

Wood Coatings 275 

Wood Preservatives 350 

Zinc-Rich Primers 340 

1. Limits are expressed as VOC Regulatory thinned to the manufacturer’s maximum thinning 

recommendation, excluding any colorant added to tint bases. 

2. Limit is expressed as VOC Actual. 
410.1A-14 

VII. Administrative Requirements

A. Labeling Requirements: Each manufacturer of any architectural coating subject to 

this Rule shall display information listed in Subsections VII.A.1. through VII.A.12 on 

coating container (or label) in which coating is sold or distributed. 

1. Date Code: The date coating was manufactured, or date code representing 

date, shall be indicated on label, lid or bottom of container. If manufacturer 

uses a date code for any coating, manufacturer shall file an explanation of 

each code with the Executive Officer of the ARB. 

2. Thinning Recommendations: A statement of manufacturer's recommendation 

regarding thinning of coating shall be indicated on label or lid of container. 

This requirement does not apply to thinning of architectural coatings with 

water. If thinning of coating prior to use is not necessary, recommendation 

must specify coating is to be applied without thinning. 

3. VOC Content: Each container of any coating subject to this rule shall display 

one of the following values in grams of VOC per liter of coating: 

a. Maximum VOC Content as determined from all potential product 

formulations; or 

b. VOC Content as determined from actual formulation data; or 

c. VOC Content as determined using the test methods in subsection 

VII.C.2. 

If the manufacturer does not recommend thinning, the container must display 

the VOC Content, as supplied. If the manufacturer recommends thinning, the 

container must display the VOC Content including the maximum amount of 

thinning solvent recommended by the manufacturer. If the coating is a multicomponent product, the container must display the VOC content as mixed or 

catalyzed. If the coating contains silanes, siloxanes, or other ingredients that 

generate ethanol or other VOCs during the curing process, the VOC content 

must include the VOCs emitted during curing. VOC Content shall be 

determined as defined in subsections V.JJJ, V.KKK, and V.LLL. 

4. Faux Finishing Coatings: The labels of all clear topcoat Faux Finishing 

coatings shall prominently display the statement “This product can only be 

sold or used as part of a Faux Finishing coating system.” 

5. Industrial Maintenance Coatings: The labels of all Industrial Maintenance 

coatings shall prominently display the statement “For industrial use only” or 

“For professional use only” or “Not for residential use” or “Not intended for 

residential use”. 

6. Rust Preventative Coatings: The labels of all rust preventative coatings shall 

prominently display statement “For Metal Substrates Only”. 

7. Specialty Primers, Sealers and Undercoaters: Until January 1, 2012, the labels 

of all specialty primers, sealers and undercoaters shall prominently display 

one or more of following descriptions: 
410.1A-15 

a. For fire damaged substrates; 

b. For smoke damaged substrates; 

c. For water damaged substrates; or 

8. Reactive Penetrating Sealers: The labels of all Reactive Penetrating Sealers 

shall prominently display the statement “Reactive Penetrating Sealer”. 

9. Stone Consolidants: The labels of all Stone Consolidants shall prominently 

display the statement “Stone Consolidant – For Professional Use Only”. 

10. Nonflat-High Gloss Coatings: The labels of all nonflat-high gloss coatings 

shall prominently display words “High Gloss”. 

11. Wood Coatings: The labels of all Wood Coatings shall prominently display 

the statement “For Wood Substrates Only”. 

12. Zinc Rich Primers: The labels of all Zinc Rich Primers shall prominently 

display one of the following statements “Not For Residential Use” or “Not 

Intended For Residential Use” or “For Industrial Use Only” or “For 

professional use only”. 

B. Reporting Requirements

1. Sales Data: A responsible official from each manufacturer shall upon request 

of the Executive Officer of the ARB, or his or her delegate, provide data 

concerning the distribution and sales of architectural coatings. The responsible 

official shall within 180 days provide information including, but not limited 

to: 

a. The name and mailing address of the manufacturer; 

b. The name, address and telephone number of a contact person; 

c. The name of the coating product as it appears on the label and the 

applicable coating category; 

d. Whether the product is marketed for interior or exterior use or both; 

e. The number of gallons sold in California in containers greater than one 

liter (1.057 quart) and equal to or less than one liter (1.057 quart); 

f. The VOC Actual content and VOC Regulatory content in grams per 

liter. If thinning is recommended, list the VOC Actual content and 

VOC Regulatory content after maximum recommended thinning. If 

containers less than one liter have a different VOC content than 

containers greater than one liter, list separately. If the coating is a 

multi-component product, provide the VOC content as mixed or 

catalyzed; 

g. The names and CAS numbers of the VOC constituents in the product; 

h. The names and CAS numbers of any compounds in the product 

specifically exempted from the VOC definition, as listed in Rule 102 

Definitions; 

i. Whether the product is marketed as solventborne, waterborne, or 

100% solids; 

j. Description of resin or binder in the product; 
410.1A-16 

k. Whether the coating is a single-component or multi-component 

product; 

l. The density of the product in pounds per gallon; 

m. The percent by weight of: solids, all volatile materials, water, and any 

compounds in the product specifically exempted from the VOC; 

definition, as listed in Rule 102 Definitions 

n. The percent by volume of: solids, water, and any compounds in the 

product specifically exempted from the VOC definition, as listed in 

Rule 102 Definitions. 

2. All sales data listed in subsection VII.B.1.a to VII.B.1.n shall be maintained 

by the responsible official for a minimum of three years. Sales data submitted 

by the responsible official to the Executive Officer of the ARB may be 

claimed as confidential, and such information shall be handled in accordance 

with the procedures specified in Title 17, California Code of Regulations 

Sections 91000-91022. 

C. Test Methods

1. Calculation of VOC Content: For the purpose of determining compliance with 

the VOC content limits in the Table of Standards, the VOC content of a 

coating shall be determined as defined in subsection V.JJJ, V.KKK, or 

V.LLL. The VOC content of a tint base shall be determined without colorant 

that is added after the tint base is manufactured. If the manufacturer does not 

recommend thinning, the VOC content must be calculated for the product as 

supplied. If the manufacturer recommends thinning, the VOC content must be 

calculated including the maximum amount of thinning solvent recommended 

by the manufacturer. If the coating is a multi-component product, the VOC 

content must be calculated as mixed or catalyzed. If the coating contains 

silanes, siloxanes, or other ingredients that generate ethanol or other VOCs 

during the curing process, the VOC content must include the VOCs emitted 

during curing. 

2. VOC Content of Coatings: To determine physical properties of a coating in 

order to perform calculations in Subsections V.LLL. or V.JJJ., the reference 

method for VOC content shall be U.S. EPA Method 24, except as provided in 

Subsections VII.C.3 and VII.C.4. An alternative method to determine VOC 

content of coatings is SCAQMD Method 304-91 (Revised 1996), incorporated 

by reference in Subsection VII.C.4. The exempt compounds content shall be 

determined by SCAQMD Method 303-91 (Revised 1993), BAAQMD Method 

43 (Revised 1996), or BAAQMD Method 41 (Revised 1995), as applicable, 

incorporated by reference in Subsection VII.C.12, VII.C.13, and VII.C.14, 

respectively. To determine VOC content of a coating, the manufacturer may 

use U.S. EPA Method 24, or an alternative method as provided in Subsection 

VII.C.3., formulation data, or any other reasonable means for predicting 

coating has been formulated as intended (e.g., quality assurance checks, 

recordkeeping). However, if there are any inconsistencies between results of 

a Method 24 test and any other means for determining VOC content, Method 

24 test results will govern, except when an alternative method is approved as 
410.1A-17 

specified in Subsection VII.C.3. The District Air Pollution Control Officer 

(APCO) may require manufacturer to conduct a Method 24 analysis. 

3. Alternative Test Methods: Other test methods demonstrated to provide results 

acceptable for purposes of determining compliance with Subsection VII.C.2., 

after review and approved in writing by the staffs of District, ARB and U.S. 

EPA, may also be used. 

4. Alternative VOC Content of Coatings: The VOC content of coatings may be 

analyzed either by U.S. EPA Method 24 or SCAQMD Method 304-91 

(Revised 1996), “Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in 

Various Materials”, “SCAQMD Laboratory Methods of Analysis for 

Enforcement Samples” (see Subsection VII.C.2.). 

5. VOC Content of Coatings: The VOC content of a coating shall be determined 

by U.S. EPA Method 24 as it exists in Appendix A of 40 Code of Federal 

Regulations (CFR) Part 60, “Determination of Volatile Matter Content, Water 

Content, Density, Volume Solids and Weight Solids of Surface Coatings” (see 

Subsection VII.C.2.). 

6. Methacrylate Traffic Marking Coatings: The VOC content of methacrylate 

multicomponent coatings used as traffic marking coatings shall be analyzed 

by procedures in 40 CFR Part 59, Subpart D, Appendix A, “Determination of 

Volatile Matter Content of Methacrylate Multicomponent Coatings Used as 

Traffic Marking Coatings”. (This method has not been approved for 

methacrylate multicomponent coatings used for other purposes than traffic 

marking coatings or for other classes of multicomponent coatings). 

7. Flame Spread Index: The flame spread index of a fire retardant coating shall 

be determined by ASTM E 84-07, “Standard Test Method for Surface Burning 

Characteristics of Building Materials” (see Subsection V.T., Fire Retardant 

Coating). 

8. Fire Resistance Rating: The fire resistance rating of a fire resistive coating 

shall be determined by ASTM E 119-07, “Standard Test Methods for Fire 

Tests of Building Construction Materials” (see Subsection V.S., Fire Resistive 

Coating). 

9. Gloss Determination: Gloss of a coating shall be determined by ASTM D 

523-89 (1999), “Standard Test Method for Specular Gloss” (see Subsections 

V.U., V.HH., and V.II. Flat Coating, Nonflat Coating, and Nonflat-High Gloss 

Coating). 

10. Metal Content of Coatings: Metallic content of a coating shall be determined 

by SCAQMD Method 318-95, “Determination of Weight Percent Elemental 

Metal in Coatings by X-Ray Diffraction,” SCAQMD Laboratory Methods of 

Analysis for Enforcement Samples (see Subsections V.C., V.R., and V.FF; 

Aluminum Roof, Faux Finishing, and Metallic Pigmented Coating). 
410.1A-18 

11. Acid Content of Coatings: The acid content of a coating shall be determined 

by ASTM D 1613-06, “Standard Test Method for Acidity in Volatile Solvents 

and Chemical Intermediaries Used in Paint, Varnish, Lacquer and Related 

Products” (see Subsection V.NN., Pretreatment Wash Primer). 

12. Exempt Compounds: The content of compounds pursuant to U.S. EPA 

Method 24 shall be analyzed by SCAQMD Method 303-91 (Revised 1993), 

“Determination of Exempt Compounds”, “SCAQMD Laboratory Methods of 

Analysis for Enforcement Samples” (see Subsection V.III., Volatile Organic 

Compound and Subsection VII.C.2.). 

13. Exempt Compounds–Siloxanes: Exempt compounds that are cyclic, branched 

or linear completely methylated siloxanes, shall be analyzed as exempt 

compounds for compliance with Section VIII by BAAQMD Method 43, 

“Determination of Volatile Methylsiloxanes in Solvent-Based Coatings, Inks, 

and Related Materials”, “BAAQMD Manual of Procedures”, Volume III, 

adopted 11/6/96 (see Subsection V.III., Volatile Organic Compound and 

Subsection VII.C.2.). 

14. Exempt Compounds– Parachlorobenzotrifluoride (PCBTF): The exempt 

compound parachlorobenzotrifluoride shall be analyzed as an exempt 

compound for compliance with Section VIII by BAAQMD Method 41, 

“Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Solvent-Based Coatings 

and Related Materials Containing Parachlorobenzotrifluoride”, “BAAQMD 

Manual of Procedures”, Volume III, adopted 12/20/95 (see Subsection V.III., 

Volatile Organic Compounds and Subsection VII.C.2.). 

15. Hydrostatic Pressure for Basement Specialty Coatings: ASTM D7088-04, 

“Standard Practice for Resistance to Hydrostatic Pressure for Coatings Used 

in Below Grade Applications Applied to Masonry” (see section V.F., 

Basement Specialty Coating). 

16. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating Adhesion: ASTM D 4585-99, “Standard 

Practice for Testing Water Resistance of Coatings Using Controlled 

Condensation” and ASTM D3359-02, “Standard Test Methods for Measuring 

Adhesion by Tape Test” (see section V.FFF., Tub and Tile Refinish Coating). 

17. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating Hardness: ASTM D 3363-05, “Standard Test 

Method for Film Hardness by Pencil Test” (see section V.FFF., Tub and Tile 

Refinish Coating). 

18. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating Abrasion Resistance: ASTM D 4060-07, 

“Standard Test Methods for Abrasion Resistance of Organic Coatings by the 

Taber Abraser” (see section V.FFF., Tub and Tile Refinish Coating). 

19. Tub and Tile Refinish Coating Water Resistance: ASTM D 4585-99, 

“Standard Practice for Testing Water Resistance of Coatings Using Controlled 

Condensation” and ASTM D714-02e1, “Standard Test Method for Evaluating 

Degree of Blistering of Paints” (see section V.FFF., Tub and Tile Refinish 

Coating). 
410.1A-19 

20. Waterproofing Membrane: ASTM C836-06, “Standard Specification for High 

Solids Content, Cold Liquid-Applied Elastomeric Waterproofing Membrane 

for Use with Separate Wearing Course” (see section V.MMM., Waterproofing 

Membrane). 

21. Mold and Mildew Growth for Basement Specialty Coatings: ASTM D3273-

00, “Standard Test Method for Resistance to Growth of Mold on the Surface 

of Interior Coatings in an Environmental Chamber” and ASTM D3274-95, 

“Standard Test Method for Evaluating Degree of Surface Disfigurement of 

Paint Films by Microbial (Fungal or Algal) Growth or Soil and Dirt 

Accumulation” (see section V.F., Basement Specialty Coating). 

22. Reactive Penetrating Sealer Water Repellency: ASTM C67-07, “Standard 

Test Methods for Sampling and Testing Brick and Structural Clay Tile”; or 

ASTM C97-02, “Standard Test Methods for Absorption and Bulk Specific 

Gravity of Dimension Stone”; or ASTM C140-06, “Standard Test Methods 

for Sampling and Testing Concrete Masonry Units and Related Units” (see 

section V.PP., Reactive Penetrating Sealer). 

23. Reactive Penetrating Sealer Water Vapor Transmission: ASTM E96/E96M05, “Standard Test Method for Water Vapor Transmission of Materials” (see 

section V.PP., Reactive Penetrating Sealer). 

24. Reactive Penetrating Sealer - Chloride Screening Applications: National 

Cooperative Highway Research Report 244 (1981), “Concrete Sealers for the 

Protection of Bridge Structures” (see section V.PP., Reactive Penetrating 

Sealer). 

25. Stone Consolidants: ASTM E2167-01, “Standard Guide for Selection and 

Use of Stone Consolidants” (see section V.BBB., Stone Consolidant). 

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