CBC · California Building Code

How do I apply for, get and receive a permit?

To get a building permit under the CBC you file a signed application with required plans, site info, occupancy and valuation; the code official reviews and either stamps/approves and issues the permit or rejects it in writing; start work within the jurisdiction’s time limit and keep the permit on site.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

You must file a written permit application on the form the enforcing agency provides that identifies the work, the site, the intended use/occupancy, accompanying construction documents and the estimated valuation, and it must be signed by the applicant or authorized agent (§ 105.4). The code official reviews the application and accompanying plans and either approves and issues a permit (stamping/endorsing the plans “APPROVED”) or rejects the application in writing with reasons (§ 105.6 and § 105.6.1). A permit does not authorize violations of the Code and may be suspended or revoked where issued in error or based on incorrect information (§ 105.7).

Requirements in detail

What you must submit with the application

  • A written application on the enforcement agency’s form that: identifies and describes the work; describes the land (legal description or street address); indicates the intended use/occupancy; is accompanied by the plans, diagrams, computations and specifications required by Section 106; states the valuation; and is signed by the applicant or authorized agent (§ 105.4).

  • The building official may require additional or preliminary inspections before issuing a permit (§ 105.4.1).

How the application is reviewed and decided

  • The code official examines the application and construction documents and:

    • Issues the permit and endorses/stamps the approved plans if the work conforms to the code (§ 105.6).
    • Rejects the application in writing with reasons if documents do not conform (§ 105.6.1/§ 105.6).

  • The issuance of a permit does not prevent the code official from later requiring corrections to errors in the construction documents or from preventing occupancy if violations are found (§ 105.7).

Time limits, validity, and retention

  • Application abandonment / time limitation: an application may be deemed abandoned if not pursued in good faith after a stated period (historically 180 days in some provisions) unless extensions are granted — check local application rules for whether a 180‑day or the later 12‑month timeline applies for commencement/abandonment (§ 105.4.2; § 105.5 / § 105.5.1 as amended).

  • Permit expiration and commencement of work: permits become invalid if work is not commenced or if work is suspended or abandoned for the specified period (180 days in older text; an updated rule shows 12 months for commencement/abandonment in later text) — the building official can grant written extensions for justifiable cause (§ 105.5 and § 105.5.1).

  • Placement/retention on site: the issued permit or a copy must be kept at the job site and available for inspection until project completion (§ 105.7 / Placement).

What can cause refusal, suspension or revocation

  • The code official shall refuse to issue a permit when the application or construction documents do not conform to applicable laws; such refusals are to be in writing with stated reasons (§ 105.6.1).

  • A permit may be suspended or revoked if it was issued in error, on incorrect/incomplete information, or the permit is used by a person or for a location other than that for which it was issued, or if conditions/limitations are violated (§ 105.6; § 105.10 referenced by placement/validity provisions).

Decision-relevant table

Decision dimension Typical values / action required Code Reference
Application form required content Work description; site/legal description; use/occupancy; plans/specs per §106; valuation; applicant signature § 105.4
Preliminary inspection before permit Building official may inspect/approve prior to issuing permit § 105.4.1
Approve vs reject Approve → stamp/endorse plans “APPROVED”; Reject → written rejection stating reasons § 105.6 / § 105.6.1
Permit validity (nonauthorization) Permit does not authorize code violations; code official may require corrections later § 105.7
Time to begin work (expiry) Older/alternate text: commence within 180 days; updated text: commence within 12 months (see local adoption) § 105.5 / § 105.5.1
On-site retention Permit/card must be kept on premises until completion and be available for inspection § 105.7 (Placement/Retention)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Work expressly exempt from permits remains regulated; exemptions do not authorize violations (see permit-exempt lists in other parts of Section 105 and the Code). While those exemptions are in other subsections (e.g., § 105.2/§ 105.3), the fundamental permit-application, review and validity rules in § 105.4–§ 105.7 still apply when a permit is required.

  • Annual permits: for certain routine trade work the building official may issue an annual permit in lieu of individual permits (see § 105.1.1 / related provisions) — if your work fits that program, follow the local procedure.

  • Interagency/joint approvals: where other agencies have jurisdiction over aspects of the proposed work, joint approvals or clearances may be required before the permit can be issued (§ 105.5 approvals language).

Common mistakes

  • Submitting incomplete plans or omitting required items (site description, valuation, applicant signature) — these are the items specifically required by § 105.4 and are frequent causes of written rejections.

  • Assuming a permit authorizes noncompliant work — issuance does not validate violations and the official can require corrections later (§ 105.7).

  • Missing timelines: failing to commence work within the code’s time limit (see § 105.5 / § 105.5.1) or failing to request extensions in writing can cause the permit to become invalid. Verify whether your local agency enforces the 180‑day rule or the later 12‑month rule and request extensions in writing if needed.

  • Not keeping the permit on site: the permit must be posted/kept on the premises and available for inspection (§ 105.7).

Worked example

You are a homeowner applying for a 400 ft² room addition estimated at $45,000.

  1. Prepare the application form and attach: site address/legal description; plans drawn to show the addition; specification notes; indication that the new space will be Group R‑3 residential; and the $45,000 valuation. Sign the application or have your authorized agent sign it (§ 105.4).

  2. Submit to the local building department. The code official reviews the plans. If the submission conforms, the official stamps the plans “APPROVED” and issues the building permit; the approved plans must be followed and cannot be changed without authorization (§ 105.6). If the plans do not conform, you will receive a written rejection with the reasons and a list of required corrections (§ 105.6.1).

  3. After issuance, keep the permit at the job site at all times (§ 105.7). Begin work within the time allowed by your jurisdiction’s adopted rule (confirm whether your jurisdiction enforces the 180‑day commencement rule or the 12‑month rule) and, if you must delay, request an extension in writing before the deadline (§ 105.5 / § 105.5.1).

  4. If the permit was issued based on incorrect or incomplete information, or if permit conditions are violated, the building official may suspend or revoke the permit — avoid misstatements and follow permit conditions exactly (§ 105.6; § 105.10 references).

Related provisions

  • § 105.1 — General permit requirement and who must apply
  • § 105.2 — Types of work requiring a permit and exemptions (see lists)
  • § 105.3 — Work exempt from permit (and limits of exemptions)
  • § 105.6.1 — Refusal to issue a permit; required written reasons
  • § 105.7 — Validity; permit does not authorize violations; retention/placement on site
  • § 106 (esp. § 106.1) — Construction documents and required plan submittals referenced by § 105.4

Code references

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

  • CBC § 106.3. High relevance — show source text

    ** To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing on a form furnished by the Department of Building Safety for that purpose. Such application shall:

    1. Identify and describe the work in accordance with Chapter 3 to be covered by the permit for which application is made.
    2. Describe the land on which the proposed work is to be done by legal description, street address or similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed building or work.
    3. Indicate the use and occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.
    4. Be accompanied by construction documents and other information as required in Section 106.3.
    5. State the valuation of the proposed work.
    6. Be signed by the applicant or the applicant’s authorized agent.
    7. Give such other data and information as required by the code official.

    [A] 105.3.1 Action on application. The code official shall examine or cause to be examined applications for permits and amendments thereto within a reasonable time after filing. If the application or the construction documents do not conform to the requirements of pertinent laws, the code official shall reject such application in writing, stating the reasons therefor. If the code official is satisfied that the proposed work conforms to the requirements of this code and laws and ordinances applicable thereto, the code official shall issue a permit therefor as soon as practicable.

    [A] 105.3.2 Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; except that the code official is authorized to grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 90 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

    [A] 105.4 Validity of permit. The issuance or granting of a permit shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Permits presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. The issuance of a permit based on construction documents and other data shall not prevent the code official from requiring the correction of errors in the construction documents and other data. The code official is authorized to prevent occupancy or use of a structure where in violation of this code or of any other ordinances of this jurisdiction.

    [A] 105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. The code official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

  • CBC § 104.9.1 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working order and approved.

    [A] 104.10 Other agencies. When requested to do so by the code official, other officials of this jurisdiction shall assist and cooperate with the code official in the discharge of the duties required by this code.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 General. Where not otherwise provided in the requirements of the California Building Code or California Fire Code, permits are required in accordance with Sections 105.2 through 105.10.

    [A] 105.2 Permits required. Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official.

    For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3.

    Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities, operations, practices or functions within a wildland-urban interface area:

    1. Automobile wrecking yard.

    2. Candles and open flames in assembly areas.

    3. Explosives or blasting agents.

    4. Fireworks.

    5. Flammable or combustible liquids.

    6. Hazardous materials.

    7. Liquefied petroleum gases.

    8. Lumberyards.

    9. Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations.

    10. Open burning.

    11. Pyrotechnical special effects material.

    12. Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures.

    13. Tire storage.

    14. Welding and cutting operations.

    [A] 105.3 Work exempt from permit. Exemption from the permit requirements of this code or in other Parts of Title 24 shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.

    The code official is authorized to stipulate conditions for permits. Permits shall not be issued where public safety would be at risk, as determined by the code official.

    [A] 105.4 Permit application. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing on a form furnished by the code enforcement agency for that purpose. Every such application shall:

    1. Identify and describe the work, activity, operation, practice or function to be covered by the permit for which application is made.

    2. Describe the land on which the proposed work, activity, operation, practice or function is to be done by legal description, street address or similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed building, work, activity, operation, practice or function.

    3. Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work, activity, operation, practice or function is intended.

    4. Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computation and specifications and other data as required in Section 106 of this code.

    5. State the valuation of any new building or structure or any addition, remodeling or alteration to an existing building.

    6. Be signed by the applicant or the applicant’s authorized agent.

    7. Give such other data and information as required by the code official.

    [A] 105.4.1 Preliminary inspection. Before a permit is issued, the code official is authorized to inspect and approve the systems, equipment, buildings, devices, premises and spaces or areas to be used.

  • CBC § 105.4.2 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 105.4.2 Time limitation of application. An application for a permit for any proposed work shall be deemed to have been abandoned 180 days after the date of filing, unless such application has been pursued in good faith or a permit has been issued; except that the code official is authorized to grant one or more extensions of time for additional periods not exceeding 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 105.5 Permit approval. Before a permit is issued, the code official, or an authorized representative, shall review and approve permitted uses, occupancies or structures. Where laws or regulations are enforceable by other agencies or departments, a joint approval shall be obtained from agencies or departments concerned.

    [A] 105.6 Permit issuance. The application, plans, specifications and other data filed by an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the code official. If the code official finds that the work described in an application for a permit and the plan, specifications and other data filed therewith conform to the requirements of this code, the code official is allowed to issue a permit to the applicant.

    When the code official issues the permit, the code official shall endorse in writing or stamp the plans and specifications APPROVED. Such approved plans and specifications shall not be changed, modified or altered without authorization from the code official, and work regulated by this code shall be done in accordance with the approved plans.

    [A] 105.6.1 Refusal to issue a permit. Where the application or construction documents do not conform to the requirements of pertinent laws, the code official shall reject such application in writing, stating the reasons therefor.

    [A] 105.7 Validity of permit. The issuance or granting of a permit or approval of plans, specifications and computations shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Permits presuming to give authority to violate or conceal the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.

    [A] 105.8 Expiration. On or after January 1, 2019, every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or aban- doned for a period of 12 months after the time the work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demon- strated. (See Health and Safety Code Section 18938.5 and 18938.6.)

    [A] 105.9 Retention of permits. Permits shall at all times be kept on the premises designated therein and shall at all times be subject to inspection by the code official or other authorized representative.

    [A] 105.10 Revocation of permits. Permits issued under this code can be suspended or revoked where it is determined by the code official that:

  • CBC § 104.8 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the Board of Appeals, officer or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties.

    [A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for cost in any action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the code official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.

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    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to repair, add to, alter, relocate, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or to repair, install, add, alter, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required permit.

    [A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing installation, the code official is authorized to issue an annual permit on application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified trade persons in the building, structure, or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.

    [A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The code official shall have access to such records at all times, or such records shall be filed with the code official as designated.

    [A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

  • CBC § 105.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.

    [A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing installation, the building official is authorized to issue an annual permit upon application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified tradespersons in the building, structure or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.

    [A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The building official shall have access to such records at all times or such records shall be filed with the building official as designated.

    [A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

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    Building:

    1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area does not exceed than 120 square feet (11.15 m [2] ). It is permissible that these structures still be regulated by Section 710A, despite exemption from permit.

    2. Fences, other than swimming pool barriers, not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.

    3. Oil derricks.

    4. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.

    5. Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity is not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width is not greater than 2:1.

    6. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade, and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.

    7. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work.

    8. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.

    9. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep, are not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) and are installed entirely above ground.

    10. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.

    11. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings.

  • CBC § 105.4 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 105.4 Validity of permit. The issuance or granting of a permit shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Permits presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. The issuance of a permit based on construction documents and other data shall not prevent the building official from requiring the correction of errors in the construction documents and other data. The building official is authorized to prevent occupancy or use of a structure where in violation of this code or of any other ordinances of this jurisdiction.

    [A] 105.5 Expiration. Every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the time the work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated.

    105.5.1 Expiration. On or after January 1, 2019, every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance, or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or abandoned for a period of 12 months after the time the work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated . (See Health and Safety Code Section 18938.5 and 18938.6.)

    [A] 105.6 Suspension or revocation. The building official is authorized to suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code wherever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 105.7 Placement of permit. The building permit or copy shall be kept on the site of the work until the completion of the project.

    SECTION 106—FLOOR AND ROOF DESIGN LOADS

    [A] 106.1 Live loads posted. In commercial or industrial buildings, for each floor or portion thereof designed for live loads exceeding 50 psf (2.40 kN/m [2] ), such design live loads shall be conspicuously posted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent in that part of each story in which they apply, using durable signs. It shall be unlawful to remove or deface such notices. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] These posting requirements also apply to school and state-owned essential services buildings as regulated by DSA.

    106.1.1 Snow load posting. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Snow loads used in design shall be posted as for live loads.

  • CBC § 104.11.1 High relevance — show source text

    In the exercise of such power, the fire chief is authorized to prohibit any person, vehicle, vessel or thing from approaching the scene, and is authorized to remove, or cause to be removed or kept away from the scene, any vehicle, vessel or thing that could impede or interfere with the operations of the fire department and, in the judgment of the fire chief, any person not actually and usefully employed in the extinguishing of such fire or in the preservation of property in the vicinity thereof.

    104.11.1 Barricades. The fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge at the scene of an emergency is authorized to place ropes, guards, barricades or other obstructions across any street, alley, place or private property in the vicinity of such operation so as to prevent accidents or interference with the lawful efforts of the fire department to manage and control the situation and to handle fire apparatus.

    104.11.2 Obstructing operations. Persons shall not obstruct the operations of the fire department in connection with extinguishment or control of any fire, or actions relative to other emergencies, or disobey any lawful command of the fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge of the emergency, or any part thereof, or any lawful order of a police officer assisting the fire department.

    104.11.3 Systems and devices. Persons shall not render a system or device inoperative during an emergency unless by direction of the fire chief or fire department official in charge of the incident.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 General. Permits shall be in accordance with Sections 105.1.1 through 105.6.25.

    [A] 105.1.1 Permits required. A property owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to conduct an operation or business, or install or modify systems and equipment that are regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the fire code official and obtain the required permit.

    105.1.2 Types of permits. There shall be two types of permits as follows:

    1. Operational permit. An operational permit allows the applicant to conduct an operation or a business for which a permit is required by Section 105.5 for either: 1.1. A prescribed period.

    1.2. Until renewed or revoked.

    1. Construction permit. A construction permit allows the applicant to install or modify systems and equipment for which a permit is required by Section 105.6.

    105.1.3 Multiple permits for the same location. Where more than one permit is required for the same location, the fire code offi- cial is authorized to consolidate such permits into a single permit provided that each provision is listed in the permit.

    [A] 105.1.4 Emergency repairs. Where equipment replacement and repairs must be performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within the next working business day to the fire code official.

    [A] 105.1.5 Repairs. Application or notice to the fire code official is not required for ordinary repairs to structures, equipment or systems. Such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; nor shall any repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, fire protection water supply, automatic sprinkler system, fire alarm system or other work affecting fire protection or life safety.

  • CBC § 104.9.1 High relevance — show source text

    ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to repair, add to, alter, relocate, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or to repair, install, add, alter, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required permit.

    [A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing installation, the code official is authorized to issue an annual permit on application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified trade persons in the building, structure, or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.

    [A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The code official shall have access to such records at all times, or such records shall be filed with the code official as designated.

    [A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

    Building:

    1. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade and not over any basement or story below and that are not part of an accessible route.
    2. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
    3. Temporary motion picture, television, and theater stage sets and scenery.
    4. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, and not including service systems.
    5. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.
    6. Nonfixed and movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height.

    Electrical:

    1. Repairs and maintenance: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

    2. Radio and television transmitting stations: The provisions of this code shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions, but do apply to equipment and wiring for power supply, the installations of towers and antennas.

    3. Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be required for the installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.

    Gas:

    1. Portable heating appliance.
    2. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.

    Mechanical:

    1. Portable heating appliance.
    2. Portable ventilation equipment.
    3. Portable cooling unit.
    4. Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
    5. Replacement of any part that does not alter its approval or make it unsafe.
    6. Portable evaporative cooler.
    7. Self-contained refrigeration system containing 10 pounds (4.54 kg) or less of refrigerant and actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.
  • CBC § 7.5 High relevance — show source text

    7.5|Fees|N||||||||| |104.8|Liability|Y||||||||| |104.8.1|Legal defense|Y||||||||| |104.9|Approved materials
    and equipment|N||||||||| |104.9.1|Material and
    equipment reuse|N||||||||| |104.10|Other agencies|N||||||||| |105|Permits|Y||||||||| |105.1|General|Y||||||||| |105.2|Permits required|Y||||||||| |105.3|Work exempt from
    permit|Y||||||||| |105.4|Permit application|Y||||||||| |105.4.1|Preliminary
    inspection|N||||||||| |105.4.2|Time limitation of
    application|N||||||||| |105.5|Permit approval|N||||||||| |105.6|Permit issuance|N||||||||| |105.6.1|Refusal to issue a
    permit|N||||||||| |105.7|Validity of permit|N||||||||| |105.8|Expiration|Y||105.5.1||||||| |105.9|Retention of permits|N|||||||||

    APPENDIX H-22 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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

    APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

    2025 CWUIC—continued Col2 Adopted
    Yes/No    		 IWUIC
    Section    		 CBC
    Section    		 CFC
    Section    		 Title 14,
    Division 1.5
    Section    		 Title 19,
    Division 1
    Section    		 Gov Code
    Section    		 PRC
    Section    		 HSC
    Section
    Section Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title
    Chapter 1 _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration
    105.10 Revocation of permits Y
    106 Construction
    documents    		 Y
    106.1 General Y 107.1
    106.2 Information on plans
    and specifications    		 Y
    106.3 Site plan Y
    106.4 Vegetation manage-
    ment_compliance_    		 Y 701A.5
    106.5 Fire protection plan Y
    106.6 Other data and
    substantiation    		 N
    106.7 Vicinity plan Y
    106.8 Retention of plans Y 1.11.3.5
    106.9 Examination of
    documents    		 N
    106.
  • CBC § 105.6.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    [A] 105.6.1 Refusal to issue a permit. Where the application or construction documents do not conform to the requirements of pertinent laws, the code official shall reject such application in writing, stating the reasons therefor.

    [A] 105.7 Validity of permit. The issuance or granting of a permit or approval of plans, specifications and computations shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, any violation of any of the provisions of this code or of any other ordinance of the jurisdiction. Permits presuming to give authority to violate or conceal the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.

    [A] 105.8 Expiration. On or after January 1, 2019, every permit issued shall become invalid unless the work on the site authorized by such permit is commenced within 12 months after its issuance or if the work authorized on the site by such permit is suspended or aban- doned for a period of 12 months after the time the work is commenced. The building official is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time for periods not more than 180 days each. The extension shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demon- strated. (See Health and Safety Code Section 18938.5 and 18938.6.)

    [A] 105.9 Retention of permits. Permits shall at all times be kept on the premises designated therein and shall at all times be subject to inspection by the code official or other authorized representative.

    [A] 105.10 Revocation of permits. Permits issued under this code can be suspended or revoked where it is determined by the code official that:

    1. It is used by a person other than the person to whom the permit was issued.
    2. It is used for a location other than that for which the permit was issued.
    3. Any of the conditions or limitations set forth in the permit have been violated.
    4. The permittee fails, refuses or neglects to comply with any order or notice duly served on him or her under the provisions of this code within the time provided therein.
    5. There has been any false statement or misrepresentation as to material fact in the application or plans on which the permit or application was made.
    6. The permit is issued in error or in violation of any other ordinance, regulations or provisions of this code.

    The code official is allowed to, in writing, suspend or revoke a permit issued under the provisions of this code whenever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.

    SECTION 106—CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

    [A] 106.1 General. Plans, engineering calculations, diagrams and other data shall be submitted in not fewer than two sets, or in a digital format where allowed by the code official, with each application for a permit. The construction documents shall be prepared by a registered design professional where required by the statutes of the jurisdiction in which the project is to be constructed. Where special conditions exist, the code official is authorized to require additional documents to be prepared by a registered design professional.

    Exception: Submission of plans, calculations, construction inspection requirements and other data, if it is found that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of plans is not necessary to obtain compliance with this code.

  • CBC § 17920.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    What does ministerial review of a permit application involve? A ministerial review ensures that the permit application meets all the applicable objective standards effective at the time of the review and uses no discretionary judgment, opinion, or subjective standards. Agency staff inspect the submitted application, site plan, and building plans for compliance with applicable standards. This often means that the permitting agency (i.e., planning, building, fire departments and utilities) reviews the application using only checklists. (Gov. Code, §§ 66316, 66317, 66320.)

    Can an applicant delay the 60-day timeline? Yes. If an applicant would like to request a delay on their application for any reason, they may do so. The 60-day period to approve or deny the permit shall be tolled for the period of the delay. (Gov. Code, § 66317, subd. (a).)

    When is an ADU permit application “deemed approved” without formal review? An ADU permit application is “deemed approved” when the permitting agency fails to approve or deny a completed application within 60 days of receiving a completed application (Gov. Code, §§ 66317, subd. (a); 66320, subd. (a)).

    Do ADUs need a Certificate of Occupancy? Yes, property owners must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the local agency prior to any residential occupancy of an ADU or JADU (Gov. Code, § 66328; 2022 CBC, § 111).

    Can the local agency deny a permit application for an unpermitted ADU that was built before 2020? A local agency shall not deny a permit for an unpermitted ADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, due to the ADU being in violation of building standards, non-compliance with State ADU Law, or any local ordinance regulating ADUs (Gov. Code, § 66332, subd. (a)). However, the local agency may deny the permit if the local agency makes a finding that correcting the violation is necessary to protect the health and safety of the public or occupants of the structure, or if the building is deemed substandard pursuant to section 17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code (Gov. Code, § 66332, subds. (b), (c)).

    What happens when an application for an ADU is denied? The permitting agency denying the application must provide the applicant a full set of comments listing items that are defective or deficient and include a description of how the application may be remedied. A full set of comments includes all comments from all reviewers,

    36

    from every permitting agency. The 60-day countdown continues until the complete list is provided. (Gov. Code, §§ 66317, 66320.) A local agency which has provided a complete set of correction comments has fulfilled this requirement. Following a denial, a subsequent application resets the 60-day period.

    The applicant may address the proposed remedy and resubmit the application to the permitting agency. A local agency may charge a fee to process a resubmitted application. (Gov. Code, § 66335 subd. (c).)

  • CBC § 7-115 Medium relevance — show source text

    1704 A .1 General. Special inspections and tests, statements of special inspections, responsibilities of contractors, submittals to the building official and structural observations shall meet the applicable requirements of this section.

    1704 A .2 Special inspections and tests. Where application is made to the building official for construction as specified in Section 105 the owner shall employ one or more approved agencies to provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work specified in Section 1705 A and identify the approved agencies to the building official. These special inspections and tests are in addition to the inspections by the building official that are identified in Section 110.

    [OSHPD 1 & 4] The inspectors shall act under the direction of the architect or structural engineer or both, and be responsible to the Owner. Where the California Administrative Code (CAC) Section 7-115 (a) 2 permits construction documents to be prepared under the

    17A-4 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    responsible charge of a mechanical, electrical or civil engineer, inspectors shall be permitted to work under the direction of engineer in appropriate branch as permitted therein.

    Exceptions:

    1. Special inspections and tests are not required for construction of a minor nature or as warranted by conditions in the jurisdiction as approved by the building official.
    2. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Reference to Section 105 and Section 110 shall be to the California Administrative Code instead.

    1704 A .2.1 Special inspector qualifications. Prior to the start of the construction, the approved agencies shall provide written documentation to the building official demonstrating the competence and relevant experience or training of the special inspectors who will perform the special inspections and tests during construction. Experience or training shall be considered to be relevant where the documented experience or training is related in complexity to the same type of special inspection or testing activities for projects of similar complexity and material qualities. These qualifications are in addition to qualifications specified in other sections of this code.

    The registered design professional in responsible charge and engineers of record involved in the design of the project are permitted to act as an approved agency and their personnel are permitted to act as special inspectors for the work designed by them, provided they qualify as special inspectors.

    1704 A .2.2 Access for special inspection. The construction or work for which special inspection or testing is required shall remain accessible and exposed for special inspection or testing purposes until completion of the required special inspections or tests.

    1704 A .2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections prepared by the regis- tered design professional in general responsible charge in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for construction documents review . This statement shall be in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.

    [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Reference to Section 107.1 shall be to the California Administrative Code instead.

    1704 A .2.4 Report requirement. The inspector(s) of record and approved agencies shall keep records of special inspections and tests.

Frequently asked questions

What happens if my application is rejected?

The code official must provide a written rejection stating the reasons; you must correct the deficiencies and resubmit or appeal per local procedures (§ 105.6.1).

How long do I have to start work after a permit is issued?

Check local adoption: some Code text refers to commencing within 180 days, while updated provisions show commencement within 12 months for permits issued on/after Jan 1, 2019; you may request written extensions for justifiable cause (§ 105.5 / § 105.5.1).

Can I change the approved plans after the permit is issued?

No — approved plans are to be followed. Any changes require authorization from the code official; unapproved changes can lead to suspension or revocation (§ 105.6).

Must the permit be on the job site?

Yes. The permit or a copy must be kept on the premises and be available for inspection until project completion (§ 105.7).

If my permit was issued in error, can it be revoked?

Yes. The building official is authorized to suspend or revoke a permit if it was issued in error, on incorrect information, or if permit conditions are violated (§ 105.6; § 105.10).

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