CBC · California Building Code

How do appeals, violations and stop-work orders work?

If a building official finds a code violation or unsafe work, they can issue a written notice directing correction and may order work stopped; you can appeal the official’s interpretation to a local appeals board — but the board cannot waive code requirements. The CBC (§ 113–115) sets those authorities, while many procedural details (deadlines, exact notice language, fines) are handled by local rules or companion code parts.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Building Code (CBC) creates a local board of appeals to hear claims that the code has been misinterpreted or that an equivalent solution is proposed; the board cannot waive code requirements (§ 113.1–113.2) . The building official is authorized to issue notices of violation, direct abatement, seek prosecution, and impose penalties as prescribed by law (§ 114.1–§ 114.4) . The building official also has explicit authority to issue a stop‑work order where work is being performed contrary to the code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner (§ 115.1) .

Requirements in detail

Appeals — who, when, and scope

  • What exists: A board of appeals must be created to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official about application or interpretation of the CBC (§ 113.1) .
  • Grounds for appeal: An appeal must be based on (a) an incorrect interpretation of the true intent of the code, (b) a claim that the code provisions do not fully apply, or (c) that an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed (§ 113.2) .
  • Limits: The appeals board has no authority to waive code requirements; members must be qualified and not employees of the jurisdiction (§ 113.2–113.3) .
  • Implementation: The board adopts its own rules, issues written decisions to the appellant and the building official, and the building official must act without delay on the board’s decision (§ 113.1, § 113.4) .

Violations — what the building official may do

  • Unlawful acts: It is unlawful to perform work in conflict with or in violation of the CBC (§ 114.1) .
  • Notice: The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation that directs discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation (§ 114.2) .
  • Enforcement escalation: If a notice is not complied with promptly, the building official may request the jurisdiction’s legal counsel to institute appropriate proceedings at law or in equity to restrain, correct, or abate the violation, or require removal or termination of unlawful occupancy (§ 114.3) .
  • Penalties: Persons who violate the CBC or fail to comply with its requirements shall be subject to penalties “as prescribed by law” (the CBC does not itself state specific penalty amounts) (§ 114.4) .

Stop‑work orders — authority and (limited) detail in the CBC

  • Authority: Where the building official finds work being performed contrary to the code or in a dangerous/unsafe manner, the official is authorized to issue a stop‑work order (§ 115.1) .
  • What the CBC explicitly states: § 115.1 grants the authority to issue stop‑work orders; the CBC text retrieved does not provide further procedural detail (for example, wording requirements, service methods, or specified penalties for continuing work) within § 115.1 as published in the CBC text we have .
  • Where additional procedural detail typically exists: Model or related codes and some CBC-adopted code parts (e.g., the Existing Building Code, Residential Code, or Fire Code) include specifics such as written issuance, to‑whom it must be given, immediate cessation, emergency exceptions, and fines for continuing after service (§ 114.2–114.4 in those other code parts) — these are separate documents and not the CBC § 115.1 text itself .

Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference table)

Decision factor Possible values / action Code reference
Who may appeal Any person adversely affected by a building official’s order/decision § 113.1
Valid grounds for appeal Misinterpretation, code not applicable, equivalent alternative proposed § 113.2
Board authority limits Cannot waive code requirements; must be qualified; not jurisdiction employees § 113.2–§ 113.3
Notice of violation — issuer Building official § 114.2
Notice of violation — remedy Direct discontinuance and abatement of the illegal condition § 114.2
Failure to comply with notice Building official may request legal action to restrain/correct/abate § 114.3
Penalties “As prescribed by law” (not specified in CBC) § 114.4
Stop‑work authority Building official may issue stop‑work for unsafe/contrary work § 115.1
Stop‑work procedural detail Not specified in CBC § 115.1 (see related codes for common details) § 115.1; related codes: Existing Building/Residential/Fire Code

Exceptions & special cases

  • Appeals board cannot waive code requirements — requests for “variances” or approvals of alternates must follow other CBC provisions (the board’s authority is expressly limited) (§ 113.2) .
  • The CBC text we retrieved does not spell out time limits for filing appeals, exact notice form, service methods, or fixed penalty amounts; those procedural details are commonly provided by local ordinances or companion codes (for example, the Residential, Existing Building, Mechanical and Fire Codes supply additional procedural language) — when you need specific deadlines or fines, check the applicable local ordinance or the specific code part adopted for that work .
  • Emergency stopping of work: the CBC § 115.1 grants stop‑work authority but the CBC text we have does not include an explicit “emergency” clause in § 115.1; related model code parts often include an emergency exception for immediate action — consult the local adopted variant or the Fire/Residential/Existing Building Code language for emergency rules .

Common mistakes

  • Assuming the appeals board can waive code provisions (it cannot; § 113.2) .
  • Expecting the CBC to list specific fine amounts or exact filing deadlines — the CBC refers to penalties “as prescribed by law” and is otherwise silent on many procedural timeframes (§ 114.4) .
  • Treating stop‑work orders as informal requests — the authority is statutory; where the CBC is silent about formality, local procedures often require a written order and immediate cessation (check the locally adopted procedures or related code parts) (§ 115.1; see related sections in other code parts) .
  • Continuing work after a stop‑work order without express authorization — other code parts describe fines or criminal penalties for continuing; you should not presume you may continue work in spite of an order (§ 115.1 and related code parts) .

Worked example — concrete scenario (with numbered steps)

Scenario: Owner builds an unpermitted rooftop deck and the building official observes unsafe framing.

  1. Day 0 — Inspection and finding: Building official documents that work is contrary to the CBC and is unsafe. Authority to issue a stop‑work order exists under § 115.1; the official elects to stop work (§ 115.1) .
  2. Day 0 — Notice of violation: The building official serves a notice of violation directing discontinuance and abatement under § 114.2; the notice explains required corrective work (the CBC authorizes the notice but does not prescribe exact required wording) (§ 114.2) .
  3. Day 1–n — Owner response options:
    • Owner may comply and fix the unsafe framing; the official then allows work to resume once satisfied.
    • Owner may file an appeal with the local board of appeals claiming the official misinterpreted the code or that an equivalent solution is proposed; the appeals board must be created and act under § 113.1–§ 113.2 and issue a written decision (§ 113.1–§ 113.2) .
  4. If owner does not comply promptly: the building official may request legal counsel to initiate proceedings to abate or restrain the violation (e.g., seek injunction, demolition, or other remedies) per § 114.3; penalties are applied “as prescribed by law” (§ 114.3–§ 114.4) . Notes on numbers: The CBC text does not supply a required number of days for compliance or a fixed fine amount — those are set by local ordinance or other adopted code parts. In this example the steps are sequenced, but the local agency’s procedures (filing deadlines, hearing dates, and fines) govern exact calendar timing and amounts (§ 114.2–114.4; § 113.1) .

Related provisions

  • § 113.1–§ 113.4 — Means of Appeals (board creation, limits, qualifications, administration)
  • § 114.1–§ 114.4 — Violations (unlawful acts, notice, prosecution, penalties)
  • § 115.1 — Stop‑Work Order (authority to stop unsafe/contrary work)
  • § 1.8.8.1–1.8.8.3 — Appeals Board (additional explanatory material on establishing local appeals boards in Chapter 1)
  • See related model/code provisions for procedural details (example: Existing Building Code § 114.2–§ 114.4, Residential Code stop‑work and issuance rules, Fire Code notice/service and penalties) — these are adopted in many jurisdictions alongside the CBC and contain common procedural text not present in the CBC § 115.1 itself

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CBC § 113.1 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 113.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the building official.

    [A] 113.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.

    [A] 113.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and who are not employees of the jurisdiction.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 113.4 Administration. The building official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.

    SECTION 114—VIOLATIONS

    [A] 114.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish or occupy any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 114.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.

    [A] 114.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.

    [A] 114.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.

    SECTION 115—STOP WORK ORDER

    [A] 115.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.

  • CBC § 1-25 High relevance — show source text

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    DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

    R112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.

    R112.4 Administration. The building official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.

    SECTION R113—VIOLATIONS

    R113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish or occupy any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.

    R113.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a detail statement or a plan approved thereunder, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.

    R113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with in the time prescribed by such notice, the building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.

    R113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.

    SECTION R114—STOP WORK ORDER

    R114.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.

    R114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.

    R114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the building official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.

    R114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.

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  • CBC § 113.3 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the code official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.

    [A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who repairs or alters or changes the occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the code official or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.

    SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER

    [A] 114.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.

    [A] 114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.

    [A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.

    [A] 114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.

    SECTION 115—UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND EQUIPMENT

    [A] 115.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, insanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress facilities, inadequate light and ventilation, or that constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or that involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe as the code official deems necessary and as provided for in this code. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.

    [A] 115.2 Record. The code official shall cause a report to be filed on an unsafe condition. The report shall state the occupancy of the structure and the nature of the unsafe condition.

    [A] 115.3 Notice. If an unsafe condition is found, the code official shall serve on the owner of the structure or the owner’s authorized agent a written notice that describes the condition deemed unsafe and specifies the required repairs or improvements to be made to abate the unsafe condition, or that requires the unsafe building to be demolished within a stipulated time. Such notice shall require the person thus notified to declare immediately to the code official acceptance or rejection of the terms of the order.

  • CBC § 112.2 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 112.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.

    [A] 112.4 Administration. The code official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.

    SECTION 113—VIOLATIONS

    [A] 113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to repair, alter, extend, add, move, remove, demolish or change the occupancy of any building or equipment regulated by this code or cause same to be done in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 113.2 Notice of violation. The code official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the repair, alteration, extension, addition, moving, removal, demolition or change in the occupancy of a building in violation of the provisions of this code or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.

    [A] 113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the code official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.

    [A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who repairs or alters or changes the occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the code official or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.

    SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER

    [A] 114.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.

    [A] 114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.

    [A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.

  • CBC § 112.1 High relevance — show source text

    The code official shall notify the serving utility and, where possible, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and the occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection, the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.

    SECTION 112—MEANS OF APPEALS

    [A] 112.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the code official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant, with a duplicate copy to the code official.

    [A] 112.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.

    [A] 112.4 Administration. The code official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.

    SECTION 113—STOP WORK ORDER

    [A] 113.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.

    [A] 113.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.

    [A] 113.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.

    [A] 113.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.

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    CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS

  • CBC § 106.2 High relevance — show source text

    106.2 Notices of Correction or Violation. Notices of correction or violation shall be written by the Authority Having Jurisdiction and shall be permitted to be posted at the site of the work or mailed or delivered to the permittee or their authorized representative.

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 25

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

    Refusal, failure, or neglect to comply with such notice or order within 10 days of receipt thereof, shall be considered a violation of this code and shall be subject to the penalties set forth by the governing laws of the jurisdiction.

    106.3 Penalties. A person, firm, or corporation violating a provision of this code shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both set forth by the governing laws of the jurisdiction. Each separate day or a portion thereof, during which a violation of this code occurs or continues, shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense.

    106.4 Stop Orders. Where work is being done contrary to the provisions of this code, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to order the work stopped by notice in writing served on persons engaged in the doing or causing such work to be done, and such persons shall forthwith stop work until authorized by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to proceed with the work.

    106.5 Authority to Disconnect Utilities in Emergen- cies. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to disconnect a mechanical system to a building, structure, or equipment regulated by this code in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property. 106.6 Authority to Condemn. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction ascertains that a mechanical system or portion thereof, regulated by this code, has become hazardous to life, health, or property, or has become insanitary, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall order in writing that such mechanical system either be removed or placed in a safe or sanitary condition. The order shall fix a reasonable time limit for compliance. No person shall use or maintain a defective mechanical system after receiving such notice.

    Where such mechanical system is to be disconnected, written notice shall be given. In cases of immediate danger to life or property, such disconnection shall be permitted to be made immediately without such notice.

    107.0 Board of Appeals.

    107.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by the Authority Having Jurisdiction relative to the application and interpretations of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a Board of Appeals consisting of members who are qualified by experience and training to pass upon matters pertaining to mechanical system design, construction, and maintenance and the public health aspects of mechanical systems and who are not employees of the jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be an ex-officio member and shall act as secretary to said board but shall have no vote upon a matter before the board. The Board of Appeals shall be appointed by the governing body and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    107.2 Limitations of Authority. The Board of Appeals shall have no authority relative to interpretation of the administrative provisions of this code, nor shall the board be empowered to waive requirements of this code.

  • CBC § 113.4 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a [ SPECIFY OFFENSE ], punishable by a fine of not more than [ AMOUNT ] dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding [ NUMBER OF DAYS ], or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.

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    DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 113.4.1 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the fire code official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.

    SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER

    [A] 114.1 Authority. Where the fire code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code, or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the fire code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.

    [A] 114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.

    [A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the fire code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.

    [A] 114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.

    SECTION 115—UNSAFE STRUCTURES OR EQUIPMENT

    [A] 115.1 General. If during the inspection of a premises, a structure, or any building system, in whole or in part, constitutes a clear and inimical threat to human life, safety or health, the fire code official shall issue such notice or orders to remove or remedy the conditions as shall be deemed necessary in accordance with this section, and shall refer the building to the building official for any repairs, alterations, remodeling, removing or demolition required.

    [A] 115.1.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, insanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress, inadequate light and ventilation, or that constitute a fire hazard, are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe, as the fire code official deems necessary and as provided for in this section. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.

  • CBC § 1-33 High relevance — show source text

    112 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33

    113 Means of Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33

    114 Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-34

    115 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-34

    CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1

    201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

    202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11

    CHAPTER 3 OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION AND USE . . . . .3-1

    301 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

    302 Occupancy Classification and Use Designation . . . . 3-3

    303 Assembly Group A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

    304 Business Group B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

    305 Educational Group E . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

    306 Factory Group F . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-6

    307 High-Hazard Group H . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7

    308 Institutional Group I . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13

    309 Mercantile Group M. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-14

    310 Residential Group R. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15

    311 Storage Group S. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17

    312 Utility and Miscellaneous Group U . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18

    313 Laboratories Group L [SFM]. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-19

  • CBC § 15-3 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 15-3

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    CONSTRUCTION SAFEGUARDS

    section. The results of each inspection shall be documented and maintained on-site until a certificate of occupancy has been issued. Documentation shall be immediately available on-site for inspection and review.

    1. Any contractors entering the site to perform hot work each day have been instructed in the hot work safety requirements in the California Fire Code, and hot work is performed only in areas approved by the site safety director.

    2. Temporary heating equipment is maintained away from combustible materials in accordance with the equipment manufacturer’s instructions.

    3. Combustible debris, rubbish and waste material is removed from the building in areas where work is not being performed.

    4. Temporary wiring does not have exposed conductors.

    5. Flammable liquids and other hazardous materials are stored in locations that have been approved by the site safety director when not involved in work that is being performed.

    6. Fire apparatus access roads required by the California Fire Code are maintained clear of obstructions that reduce the width of the usable roadway to less than 20 feet (6096 mm).

    7. Fire hydrants are clearly visible from access roads and are not obstructed.

    8. The location of fire department connections to standpipe and in-service sprinkler systems are clearly identifiable from the access road and such connections are not obstructed.

    9. Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 1509.

    10. Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 1507 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .

    11. Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.

    [F] 1502.3.1 Violations. Failure to properly conduct, document and maintain documentation required by this section shall constitute an unlawful act in accordance with Section 113.1 and shall result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the site safety director in accordance with Section 113.2. Upon the third offense, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order in accordance with Section 114, and work shall not resume until satisfactory assurances of future compliance have been presented to and approved by the code official.

    SECTION 1503—SANITARY

    [BG] 1503.1 Facilities required. Sanitary facilities shall be provided during construction or demolition activities in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .

    SECTION 1504—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS

    [BS] 1504.1 Protection of pedestrians. Pedestrians shall be protected during construction and demolition activities as required by Sections 1504.1.1 through 1504.1.7 and Table 1504.1. Signs shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.

  • CBC § 1-18 Medium relevance — show source text

    R104 Duties and Powers of the Building Official . . . . . . . 1-18

    R105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

    R106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    R107 Temporary Structures and Uses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

    R108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

    R109 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

    R110 Certificate of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

    R111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

    R112 Means of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

    R113 Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

    R114 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

    Part II—Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5

    CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-5

    R201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

    R202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5

    Part III—Building Planning and Construction . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5

    CHAPTER 3 BUILDING PLANNING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-5

    R300 Site Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

    R301 Design Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5

    R302 Fire-Resistant Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-23

  • CBC § 113.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    [A] 113.3.1 Service. A notice of violation issued pursuant to this code shall be served on the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition or violation, either by personal service, mail or by delivering the same to, and leaving it with, some person of responsibility on the premises. For unattended or abandoned locations, a copy of such notice of violation shall be posted on the premises in a conspicuous place at or near the entrance to such premises and the notice of violation shall be mailed by certified mail with return receipt requested or a certificate of mailing, to the last known address of the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, or occupant.

    [A] 113.3.2 Compliance with orders and notices. A notice of violation issued or served as provided by this code shall be complied with by the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition or violation to which the notice of violation pertains.

    [A] 113.3.3 Prosecution of violations. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the fire code official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate legal proceedings at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant hereto.

    [A] 113.3.4 Unauthorized tampering. Signs, tags or seals posted or affixed by the fire code official shall not be mutilated, destroyed or tampered with, or removed, without authorization from the fire code official.

    [A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a [ SPECIFY OFFENSE ], punishable by a fine of not more than [ AMOUNT ] dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding [ NUMBER OF DAYS ], or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.

    1-28 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 113.4.1 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the fire code official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.

    SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER

    [A] 114.1 Authority. Where the fire code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code, or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the fire code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.

Frequently asked questions

Can the appeals board overturn a building official’s decision?

Yes — the appeals board hears and decides appeals about application and interpretation of the CBC and issues written decisions, but the board may not waive code requirements (§ 113.1–§ 113.2) .

Does the CBC say how much the fine will be for continuing after a stop‑work order?

No — the CBC provides that violators are subject to penalties “as prescribed by law,” but it does not list specific dollar amounts or schedules in § 114.4; local ordinances or other adopted codes typically set amounts .

Must a stop‑work order be written and delivered?

The CBC grants authority to issue a stop‑work order (§ 115.1) but the specific written‑notice and service procedures are not detailed in § 115.1 of the CBC text we have; many related code parts and local rules do require a written order and describe service methods .

If I appeal, does the building official have to follow the board’s decision?

Yes — the CBC requires the building official to take action without delay in accordance with the board’s decision (§ 113.4) .

If a notice of violation is ignored, what can the building official do next?

If not complied with promptly, the building official may request legal counsel to institute appropriate proceedings at law or in equity to restrain, correct, or abate the violation or to require removal or termination of unlawful occupancy (§ 114.3) .

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