CBC · California Building Code

When is a building permit required?

Under the California Building Code, you must get a permit before you build, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change occupancy of a structure or before you install/replace regulated electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing systems (see § 105.1). The code lists specific, narrowly‑defined exemptions (for example, one‑story accessory sheds ≤120 sq ft, fences ≤7 ft, minor finish work) but those exemptions do not allow work that violates other code provisions or local rules (see § 105.2) .

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Under the California Building Code, a permit is required whenever an owner or the owner’s authorized agent 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 regulated by the CBC (see § 105.1) . The CBC also lists specific categories of work that are exempt from permit requirements; those exemptions do not authorize work that violates other provisions of this code or local ordinance (see § 105.2) .

Requirements in detail

Core rule (what triggers a permit)

  • Any work that will: construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change occupancy of a building/structure; or erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace regulated electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing systems — requires application and issuance of a permit before work begins under § 105.1 .

Annual permits (trade work performed repeatedly)

  • The building official is authorized to issue an annual permit for regularly employed qualified tradespersons to perform multiple alterations to already-approved electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing installations in a building or on premises (see § 105.1.1). Records of work performed under an annual permit must be kept and made available to the official (see § 105.1.2) .

Exemptions (common examples)

The CBC provides a non‑exclusive list of work that does not require a permit. Exemptions are limited and specific; they do not mean the work is free from other code requirements or local regulation (see § 105.2) .

Type of work / condition When a permit is required? Code Reference
New construction, additions, structural alterations, demolition, change of occupancy Permit required § 105.1
Electrical / gas / mechanical / plumbing installations or replacements (regulated systems) Permit required unless specifically exempted § 105.1
One‑story detached accessory structures (tool/storage sheds, playhouses) Exempt if floor area does not exceed 120 sq ft § 105.2 (Building exemption #1)
Fences (not pool barriers) Exempt if not over 7 ft high § 105.2 (Building exemption #2)
Retaining walls Exempt if not over 4 ft high measured from footing to top and not supporting surcharge or impounding liquids § 105.2 (Building exemption #4)
Sidewalks and driveways Exempt if not more than 30 in. above adjacent grade, not over a basement/story below, and not part of an accessible route § 105.2 (Building exemption #6)
Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops, similar finish work Exempt § 105.2 (Building exemption #7)
Prefabricated above‑ground pools for Group R‑3 Exempt if <24 in. deep, ≤5,000 gallons and entirely above ground § 105.2 (Building exemption #9)
Minor electrical repairs/maintenance Generally exempt (replacement of lamps, connection of approved portable equipment to approved receptacles) § 105.2 (Electrical exemptions)
Portable heating/ventilation/cooling appliances, minor gas/mechanical part replacement Exempt for specified portable equipment or minor part replacement that does not alter approval or make equipment unsafe § 105.2 (Gas & Mechanical exemptions)

(These are representative items from the CBC exemption list; the code enumerates additional specific exemptions under § 105.2) .

Exceptions & special cases

  • Annual permit option: For frequent trade work on an applicant’s premises, the building official may issue an annual permit instead of individual permits (§ 105.1.1) — but recordkeeping is required (§ 105.1.2) .
  • Exemptions are narrowly stated and conditional: the CBC explicitly states that exemptions do not authorize work done in violation of the code or other laws; an exempted item may still be subject to other regulations (e.g., local ordinance, fire code, accessibility, utility requirements) (§ 105.2) .
  • Wildland / special‑use areas: separate permit lists and requirements appear in adjunct parts of Title 24 (e.g., wildland‑urban interface provisions) — where those Parts apply they may impose additional permit requirements beyond § 105.1/§ 105.2 .

Common mistakes

  • Assuming “exempt” means “no rules apply”: the CBC’s exemption language explicitly preserves compliance obligations with other code provisions and local laws (see § 105.2) .
  • Overlooking regulated systems: replacing or relocating gas, mechanical, plumbing or electrical equipment that is subject to the code is often treated as regulated work requiring a permit under § 105.1 — minor maintenance exceptions are limited and specific (see § 105.2 electrical/gas/mechanical exemptions) .
  • Misreading size or measurement thresholds: many exemptions use exact numeric limits (120 sq ft for accessory structures, 4 ft for retaining walls, 30 in. for sidewalks/driveways). Measuring incorrectly (e.g., measuring to top of footing vs. top of wall) can change whether a permit is required — refer to the specific exemption text in § 105.2 for correct dimensioning .
  • Failing to check local amendments or related codes: the CBC sets statewide baseline requirements; local jurisdictions or other parts of Title 24 (fire code, energy, accessibility) may require permits or plan reviews even if a CBC exemption appears to apply (§ 105.2 cautions and cross‑references) .

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A homeowner plans a detached storage shed that is one story and 10 ft by 12 ft (120 sq ft), built entirely on grade, no utilities run to it.

Application of the CBC:

  • The CBC exemption for one‑story detached accessory structures (used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses) applies only if the floor area does not exceed 120 sq ft (see § 105.2, Building exemption #1) .
  • Because the shed is exactly 120 sq ft, it meets the CBC numeric threshold in § 105.2 and therefore would be listed as exempt from a building permit under that specific CBC exemption, assuming no other regulated work is involved (for example: electrical, plumbing, or structural work exceeding local restrictions) .
  • Caveat: If the homeowner plans to add electrical or plumbing to the shed, that new work would be regulated under § 105.1 and would require a permit regardless of the accessory‑structure exemption; likewise, local jurisdictional amendments or other codes (zoning, fire, DSA/OSHPD applicability) could alter the permit requirement, so confirm with the local building official before starting work (CBC permits rules: § 105.1 and exemption limits in § 105.2) .

Related provisions

  • § 105.1.1 — Annual permit (authorization for annual trade permits)
  • § 105.1.2 — Annual permit records (recordkeeping requirement for annual permits)
  • § 106 — Construction documents (plans and information required with permit applications; related to the permit process)
  • § 107 — (Referenced in table of contents as part of administration: construction documents/plan submittal requirements; see CBC table of contents)
  • Wildland‑Urban Interface special permit lists (where applicable) — see § 105.2 and the CWUIC cross‑references for additional permit requirements in those contexts

Code references

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

  • 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 § 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 § 104.7.4 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.7.4 Tests. The building official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.2.4 and 104.2.3.5.

    [A] 104.7.5 Fees. The building official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 109.

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The building official, member of the board of appeals 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 any 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 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 building official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an 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 building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.

    [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 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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  • 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 § 104.7.5 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.7.5 Fees. The code official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 108.

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the board of appeals 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 all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of any 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

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    implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until final termination of the proceedings. The code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an 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.

    [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.

  • CBC § 7.5 Medium 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|||||||||

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    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 § 1504.4.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Metal

    Aluminum Chapter 20 Roof coverings 1504.4.2, 1507.4, 1507.5

    Steel Chapter 22

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    Pedestrian

    Protection at construction site

    3303.2, 3306 Walkways and tunnels 3104, 3202.3.4 Penalties 114.4 Penetration-Firestop System Fire-rated horizontal assemblies

    714.5.2

    Fire-rated walls 714.4.2 Penetrations 714, 717 Fire-resistant assemblies

    Exterior wall 705.11

    Fire barrier 707.7, 707.10 Fire partition 708.7, 708.9 Fire wall 706.9, 706.11 Horizontal assemblies 714.5

    Installation 714.2

    Shaft enclosures 712.1, 713.1, 713.8, 713.10 Smoke barriers 709.6, 709.8, 714.5.4 Smoke partitions 710.6, 710.7 Special inspection 1705.18 Walls 714.4

    Nonfire-resistant assemblies 714.6

    Penthouse 713.12.1, 1011.12.2, 1023.7.2,

    1511.2.4 Performance Category Wood structural panels 2303.1.5 Performance-Based Application Appendix O Perlite Table 721.1(1), Table 2507.2 Permits 105 Application for 104.3, 105.1, 105.3 Drawings and specifications 107.2.1 Expiration 105.5 Fees 109 Liability for issuing 104.8 Placement of permit 105.7 Plan review 104.3, 107.3 Suspension or revocation 105.6 Time limitations 105.3.2, 105.5 Personal Care Service

    [see Educational Occupancy (Group E)] 305.2 Photovoltaic Shingles 1507.16, 1505.8, 1512 Ballasted, seismic design 1613.4 Fire classification 1505.8, 1505.9 Power systems 903.3.1.1.4 Roof live loads 1607.14.3.1 Rooftop mounted 1505.9, 1511.7, 1511.10, 1511.10.1, 1603.1.8.1,

  • CBC § 2.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    2.1.3|Content|N||||||||| |104.2.1.4|Tests|N||||||||| |104.2.2|Alternative
    materials, design and
    methods|Y||1.11.2.4
    1.11.2.5||||||| |104.2.2.1|Approval authority|N||||||||| |104.2.2.2|Application and
    disposition|N||1.11.2.4
    1.11.2.5||||||| |104.2.2.3|Compliance with
    code intent|N||||||||| |104.2.2.4|Equivalency criteria|N||||||||| |104.2.2.5|Tests|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6|Reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6.1|Evaluation reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6.2|Other reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.7|Peer review|N||||||||| |104.2.3|Modifications|N||||||||| |104.3|Applications and
    permits|Y||||||||| |104.4|Right of entry|N||||||||| |104.4.1|Warrant|N||||||||| |104.5|Identification|N||||||||| |104.6|Notices and orders|Y||||||||| |104.7|Official records|N||||||||| |104.7.1|Approvals|N||||||||| |104.7.2|Inspections|N||||||||| |104.7.3|Code alternatives
    and modifications|N||||||||| |104.7.4|Tests|N||||||||| |104.7.5|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,

  • CBC § 1-12 Medium relevance — show source text

    1.9 Division of the State Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12

    1.10 Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

    1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

    1.12 State Librarian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

    1.13 Department of Water Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

    1.14 California State Lands Commission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20

    DIVISION II – SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21

    PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21

    101 Scope and General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21

    102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    104 Duties and Powers of Code Official. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

    106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

    107 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems. . . . . . . 1-28

    108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

    109 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

    110 Certificate of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30

    111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30

    112 Means of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30

  • CBC § 8.10 Medium relevance — show source text

    1.8.10 Other Building Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

    1.9 Division of the State Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

    1.10 Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15

    1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

    1.12 State Librarian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    1.13 Reserved . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    1.14 California State Lands Commission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22

    DIVISION II – SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

    Part 1—Scope and Application. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

    101 Scope and General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-23

    102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24

    Part 2—Administration and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24

    103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24

    104 Duties and Powers of Building Official. . . . . . . . . . . 1-25

    105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27

    106 Floor and Roof Design Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29

    107 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29

    108 Temporary Structures, Equipment and Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

    109 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

    110 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31

    111 Certificate of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33

  • CBC § 150.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    150.0(s), 160.4(a), 160.5(b), 160.6(c), 160.9(a), 160.9(b), 160.9(c)1, 180.2(b)4B Branch Circuit Conductor 130.5(C), 150.0(tv), 160.6(c), 160.9(a-c) BTU/HR 110.2(D), 110.3(C)1, 110.3(C)3, 110.3(c)6, 110.5(b), 110.8(d)2, 120.2(i), 120.6(a), 120.6(b)2B, 120.6(i), 120.6(j)3, 140.4(a)2, 140.4(e)1, 140.4(k)4, Table 140.4-I, 150.0(n)4, 150.1(c)6, 150.1(c)8, 160.3(a)2H, 160.4(a), 160.4(d), 170.2(c)3-4, Table 170.2-K

    Building Cavities 120.4(a), 150.0(m)1, 160.3(b)5A, 160.3(c)2A Commissioning 120.8 Components 110.0, 120.8(g), 140.3(a), 141.0(b)2Q Design 10-103, 10-105, 120.8, 140.10(a), 150.19(c)14, 160.2(a), 160.2(b)2A, 170.2(f), 170.2(g) Enclosure air leakage 150.1(b)3 Energy use 140.4(f), 170.2(c)4D Envelope 100.0(b), 100.0(f), 110.7, 120.0, 120.6(h)4, 120.8(b), 120.8(c), 140.3, 140.3(d)2, 141.0(b)2P, 141.1(c)2, Table 150.1-A, 160.1 Facade 130.2(b), 130.2(c)3, Table 140.7-B, 160.5, Table 170.2-S Loads 140.4(f), 140.4(k)4, 140.4(p)4, 170.2(c)4D, 170.2(c)4I, 170.2(c)4N Model 150.1(b)3 Permit 10-103(a), 10-103(b), 10-104(a), 10-105(c), 10-107(a), 10-109(c)2, 10115(a, c), 100.0(a)2, 140.6(a)2C, 150.1(b)3, 150.2(b)1M, 170.1(d), 170.2(e)2B, 180.2(b)5B, Plan 140.3(c), 170.2(b)2 Roof space 140.10(a)1, 150.1(c)14, 170.2(f), 170.2(g) Shell 140.3(a)9C, 141.0(b)2O, Q Bureau of Household Goods and

Frequently asked questions

Do I always need a permit to replace a water heater?

Not always. Replacement of a part that does not alter approval or make equipment unsafe is listed among exemptions for gas/mechanical work, but replacing an entire regulated system typically requires a permit per § 105.1; check the precise exemption language in § 105.2 and confirm with the local building official .

If my fence is 7 feet high do I need a permit?

The CBC lists fences (other than swimming pool barriers) not over 7 feet high as exempt from permit in § 105.2. If your fence is 7 ft or under and not a pool barrier, the CBC exemption applies — but local ordinances, zoning or pool barrier rules may still impose requirements .

Is painting or new flooring permit‑exempt?

Yes. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work are exempt from permits under § 105.2, but the exemption does not relieve you from meeting other code requirements (e.g., fire‑rating changes, structural modifications, accessibility) .

What if I start work and later discover a permit is required?

Starting regulated work without a permit is addressed by the CBC’s enforcement and penalty provisions; the safe course is to stop and contact the building department to apply for the required permit. The foundational permit rule is in § 105.1 and exemptions are in § 105.2 .

Can my contractor use an annual permit?

Yes — the building official may issue an annual permit for an employer who regularly employs qualified tradespersons on the premises for alterations to already‑approved electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing installations (see § 105.1.1 and § 105.1.2 for recordkeeping) .

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