AED Requirements in California
California requires an AED in every membership health studio (Health and Safety Code § 104113) and in certain larger occupied buildings built or renovated after set dates (Health and Safety Code § 19300). School districts and charter schools that offer interscholastic athletics must acquire at least one AED for each participating school (Education Code § 35179.6).
California AED Law Overview
California requires an AED in every membership health studio (Health and Safety Code § 104113) and in certain larger occupied buildings built or renovated after set dates (Health and Safety Code § 19300). School districts and charter schools that offer interscholastic athletics must acquire at least one AED for each participating school (Education Code § 35179.6).
Every year, over 350,000 cardiac arrests occur outside of hospitals in the United States. For every minute that passes without defibrillation, the chance of survival drops by 7-10%. Having an AED on-site and trained staff ready to use it can mean the difference between life and death.
Whether California mandates AED placement for your organization or not, the investment in an AED program protects your employees, customers, and community — and can significantly reduce liability exposure.
Specific Requirements
- Health studios: acquire and maintain an AED, train staff in its use and check it at least every 30 days when it is not used (Health and Safety Code § 104113)
- Occupied buildings in the listed occupancy groups (generally 200 or more occupants, or more than 300 for assembly) built on or after January 1, 2017, or renovated under the law's rules: an AED on the premises; local government buildings are exempt (Health and Safety Code § 19300)
- School districts and charter schools that offer interscholastic athletics: at least one AED for each participating school, maintained and regularly tested (Education Code § 35179.6)
- Anyone who acquires an AED: notify the local EMS agency, test it at least twice a year and after each use, and inspect it at least every 90 days (Health and Safety Code § 1797.196)
Sources
- California Health and Safety Code § 104113
- California Health and Safety Code § 19300
- California Education Code § 35179.6
- California Health and Safety Code § 1797.196
These summaries were last checked against the official sources above in October 2026. This page is general information, not legal advice. Other state or local rules may also apply; check the current law or ask an attorney about your organization.
Who Needs an AED in California?
Offices & Workplaces
Corporate offices, coworking spaces, and business parks
The American Heart Association reports that 10,000 cardiac arrests occur in the workplace each year. Having an AED can increase survival rates by up to 70%.
Schools & Universities
K-12 schools, colleges, and educational institutions
Student athletes and staff are at risk of sudden cardiac arrest. Many states now mandate AEDs in schools.
Gyms & Fitness Centers
Health clubs, yoga studios, CrossFit boxes, and recreation centers
Intense physical activity can trigger cardiac events. Most states require AEDs in fitness facilities.
Churches & Places of Worship
Churches, synagogues, mosques, and community halls
Large gatherings of all ages, often with elderly congregants, make AEDs essential for community safety.
Restaurants & Hotels
Restaurants, hotels, resorts, and hospitality venues
High foot traffic and diverse demographics make AEDs critical for guest safety and liability protection.
Construction & Industrial Sites
Construction sites, warehouses, manufacturing plants
Physical labor, heat stress, and remote locations make rapid cardiac response critical.
Sports Facilities
Stadiums, arenas, sports complexes, and athletic fields
Athletes of all ages face cardiac risks during high-intensity activity.
Medical & Dental Offices
Doctor offices, dental practices, outpatient clinics
Even in medical settings, an AED provides immediate response before advanced care arrives.
California AED Compliance Checklist
Recommended AEDs for California Compliance
Defibtech Lifeline
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View Details →California AED FAQs
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Protect Your California Business Today
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