CEBC · California Existing Building Code

How are inspections scheduled, conducted and documented under the CEBC?

Q: What are “special inspections” and where are the rules?

CEBC § 109.3.9 requires special inspections in accordance with the California Building Code; those CBC sections (not fully reproduced in CEBC §109) set out qualifications, statements and reporting (see CBC § 1704 ) .

Q: Is there a required inspector response time in the CEBC?

No. CEBC sections 109.1–109.6 require the code official to make inspections “on notification,” but these CEBC sections do not specify a set response time; check your local jurisdiction’s procedures for timing expectations ( § 109.3 , § 109.5 ) .

For a homeowner: when you have a permitted project, the permit holder must tell the building department when work is ready. The building official inspects stages listed in CEBC §109.3 (footings, slabs, framing, waterproofing, final, etc.). Don’t hide waterproofing, firestops or structural work before inspection, and don’t continue past an inspection point until the inspector approves it — those are the core CEBC rules.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

The code makes clear that construction requiring a permit must remain accessible for inspection and that the permit holder must notify the code official when work is ready. The code official will perform the inspections listed in § 109.3 (footings, slabs, framing, final, etc.), and work cannot proceed past an inspection point without the code official’s approval (§ 109.1, § 109.3, § 109.6) .

The single most important rule: Keep the work visible and accessible, notify the code official when ready, and do not conceal or continue work beyond an inspection point until the inspector approves it. § 109.1, § 109.5, § 109.6 .

Requirements in detail

Who must request inspections and provide access

The permit holder (or their authorized agent) is responsible to notify the code official when work is ready for inspection and to provide access and means for the inspection (§ 109.5) .
The work must remain visible and accessible for inspection until approved; the permit applicant must keep it exposed for that purpose (§ 109.1) .

What inspections are required and when they occur

The code lists specific mandatory inspection stages in § 109.3 (selected items summarized below) — the inspector performs these “on notification”:

Footing / foundation inspection — after excavations are complete and reinforcing is in place (§ 109.3.1) .
Concrete slab / under-floor inspection — after in-slab/under-floor reinforcing and buried services are set but before concrete is placed (§ 109.3.2) .
Lowest floor elevation documentation (for additions/substantial improvements in flood hazard areas) — at placement of lowest floor and prior to vertical construction (§ 109.3.3) .
Frame inspection — after roof deck/sheathing, framing, fire blocking and bracing are in place and rough utilities installed (§ 109.3.4) .
Lath / gypsum panel inspection — after panels/lath are in place but before plastering or finishing joints (§ 109.3.5) .
Weather‑exposed balcony / walking surface waterproofing — waterproofing elements shall not be concealed until inspected and approved (§ 109.3.6) .
- For multifamily buildings with 3+ units, exterior elevated elements that extend beyond the wall, are more than 6 feet above ground, and rely on wood support must be inspected per Health & Safety Code provisions; CEBC requires those inspections (see § 109.3.6.1) .
Fire- and smoke‑resistant penetrations — protection of joints/penetrations in rated assemblies or smoke barriers shall not be concealed until inspected and approved (§ 109.3.7) .
Special inspections — where required, are governed by the California Building Code; CEBC references these in § 109.3.9 (see also CBC special-inspection rules such as § 1704) .
Final inspection — performed after the work required by the building permit is completed (§ 109.3.11) .

What the code says about inspection agencies and reporting

The code official may accept reports from approved inspection agencies if those agencies demonstrate qualifications and reliability (§ 109.4) .
When special inspections are required, the California Building Code requires statements of special inspections, qualified special inspectors, and report submittals to the building official and design professional (see CBC § 1704 and associated reporting requirements) .

Table — Decision‑relevant inspection points and references

Decision / trigger	What must be present or done	Code Reference
Request inspection	Permit holder/agent must notify code official and provide access	§ 109.5
Do not conceal items	Do not conceal joints, penetrations, waterproofing, etc., until inspected and approved	§ 109.3.6, § 109.3.7
Footing/foundation	Excavation complete; reinforcing in place; forms in place for concrete foundations	§ 109.3.1
Slab / under‑floor	In‑slab reinforcing and buried services installed but before concrete/floor sheathing	§ 109.3.2
Framing	Roof deck/sheathing, frame, fire blocking/bracing, and concealed utilities ready	§ 109.3.4
Lath / gypsum	Lath / panels in place; before plaster or taping/finishing	§ 109.3.5
Balconies >6 ft (multifamily)	Inspections required for certain wood‑supported exterior elevated elements	§ 109.3.6.1
Special inspections	Follow CBC special inspection rules (statement, qualifications, reports)	§ 109.3.9; see § 1704 (CBC)
Final sign‑off	Final inspection after permit work complete; approval required before concealing or continuing	§ 109.3.11, § 109.6

Exceptions & special cases

CEBC incorporates exceptions where other state agency rules apply (for example, DSA references in some waterproofing and lath provisions). The CEBC text shows exceptions for certain DSA-administered projects for concealment requirements (§ 109.3.5, § 109.3.6) .
Special inspections: when CEBC points to the California Building Code, special‑inspection procedures, frequencies and reporting rules are governed by the CBC (e.g., § 1704, § 1705) — CEBC § 109.3.9 makes the linkage; follow CBC rules where special inspections are called for .
For multifamily exterior elevated elements (balconies/walking surfaces) that meet the CEBC thresholds, CEBC requires inspections in accordance with Health & Safety Code Section 17973; CEBC § 109.3.6.1 incorporates that special statutory inspection regime (CEBC references the statute; the statute itself must be consulted for procedural detail) .

If you need procedural details that are contained in the referenced statutes or the California Building Code (for example, exact qualification criteria for special inspectors under § 1704), CEBC points you to those texts; those specific CBC/statute texts are not fully reproduced in the CEBC sections cited here, so consult the CBC or statute text directly for the full procedures (CBC § 1704, Health & Safety Code § 17973) .

Common mistakes

Failing to notify the code official: the duty to request inspections rests with the permit holder — not doing so is a common compliance problem (§ 109.5) .
Concealing work before inspection: concealing firewall penetrations, waterproofing, structural items, or other items that CEBC says “shall not be concealed” leads to required uncovering and re‑inspection (§ 109.3.6, § 109.3.7) .
Continuing work past inspection points: performing work “beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection” without approval violates § 109.6 and can cause stop‑work or rework .
Treating special‑inspection obligations as optional: CEBC defers to the CBC for special inspections; where CEBC requires them (or the CBC does), they must be provided, documented and reported to the building official (see CEBC § 109.3.9 and CBC § 1704 reporting rules) .
Assuming inspector response times are set by CEBC: CEBC §§ 109.1–109.6 require the code official to make inspections “on notification,” but these sections do not prescribe a specific response time for inspectors — look to local jurisdiction practice or local procedures for response‑time rules (the CEBC text provided does not set a time limit) .

Worked example — footing inspection for a small addition

Scenario: A homeowner obtains a permit to add a 200‑ft² foundation‑supported addition. The contractor excavates the footing trench, places the required rebar and leaves concrete forms in place.

Step-by-step application of CEBC requirements:

The contractor (authorized agent of the permit holder) notifies the code official that the footings are ready for inspection (this is required by § 109.5) .
The footing excavation is complete, reinforcing steel is installed and forms are in place — these are the conditions identified in § 109.3.1 that trigger the footing/foundation inspection .
The code official schedules and performs the footing inspection on notification; if the footing is approved, the inspector indicates the portion that is satisfactory. If not approved, the inspector notifies the permit holder what fails to comply; those portions must be corrected and not covered until approved (§ 109.1, § 109.6) .
Only after the inspector approves the footing may concrete be placed and subsequent inspections (e.g., slab) be requested — proceeding earlier would violate § 109.6 and could require uncovering or rework .

Numeric example: If the excavation depth is 36 in. and the rebar layout is per the approved plans, those are the elements the inspector will confirm at the § 109.3.1 inspection; CEBC does not assign a set calendar response time for the inspector, so the permit holder should coordinate with the local building department on expected scheduling (CEBC text here does not state a response-time requirement) .

Related provisions (CEBC)

§ 109.1 — General inspection requirements (visibility, access) .
§ 109.3 — Required inspections (109.3.1–109.3.11 enumerate footing, slab, framing, waterproofing, final, etc.) .
§ 109.3.6.1 — Weather‑exposed balcony/walking surface inspections for certain multifamily buildings (threshold: more than 6 feet above ground) .
§ 109.3.9 — Special inspections (references the California Building Code) .
§ 109.4 — Acceptance of reports from approved inspection agencies .
§ 109.5 — Inspection requests; duty to notify and provide access .
§ 109.6 — Approval required before proceeding beyond inspection points .

Code references

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

CEBC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
Chronological records and reports of annual inspections, audits and post-event inspections and documentation of equipment or structural changes shall be maintained.

Records shall be indexed and be readily accessible to the Division (see 2 CCR Section 2320 (c) (2)) [2.1].

3102F.1.5 Baseline assessment. If “as-built” or subsequent modification drawings are not available, incomplete or inaccurate, a baseline inspection is required to gather data in sufficient detail for adequate evaluation.

The level of detail required shall be such that structural member sizes, connection and reinforcing details are documented, if required in the structural analysis. In addition, the strength and/or ductility characteristics of construction materials shall be determined, as appropriate. Nondestructive testing, partially destructive testing and/or laboratory testing methods may be used.

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MARINE OIL TERMINALS

All fire, piping, mechanical and electrical systems shall be documented as to location, capacity, operating limits and physical conditions in the equipment layout diagram(s).

3102F.2 Annual compliance inspection. The Division may carry out annual inspections to determine the compliance status of the MOT with this code, based on the terminal’s audit and inspection findings and action plan implementation (see Section 3102F.3.9).

These inspections may include a visual and tactile assessment of structural, mechanical and electrical systems of the topside and underside areas of the dock, including the splash zone. Subject to operating procedures, a boat shall be provided to facilitate the inspec- tion of the dock undersides and piles down to the splash zone.

3102F.3 Audits.

3102F.3.1 Objective. The objective of the audit is to review structural, mechanical and electrical systems on a prescribed periodic basis to verify that each berthing system is fit for its specific defined purpose. The audit includes above water and underwater inspec- tions, engineering evaluation, documentation and recommended follow-up actions.

3102F.3.2 Overview. The audit shall include above water and underwater inspections, and structural, electrical and mechanical systems evaluations, with supporting documentation, drawings and follow-up actions. Structural systems shall include seismic, oper- ational, mooring, berthing and geotechnical considerations. Mechanical systems shall include fire, piping/pipelines and mechanical equipment considerations. The audit is performed by a multi-disciplinary team of engineers, qualified inspectors and may include Division representatives.

The above water inspection involves an examination of all structural, mechanical and electrical components above the waterline. Structural defects and their severity shall be documented, but the exact size and location of each deficiency is typically not required.

The underwater inspection involves an examination of all structural, mechanical and electrical components below the waterline. A rational and representative underwater sampling of piles may be acceptable with Division approval, for cases of limited visibility, heavy marine growth, restricted inspection times because of environmental factors (currents, water temperatures, etc.) or a very large number of piles.

Global operational structural assessment rating(s) (OSAR), global seismic structural assessment rating(s) (SSAR) and global inspection condition assessment rating(s) (ICAR) shall be assigned to each structure and overall berthing system, where appropriate (Table 31F-2-4).
CEBC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
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. The inspector of record and approved agency shall submit reports of special inspections and tests to the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge at frequencies required by the approved construction documents or building official as required by the California Administrative Code . All reports shall describe the nature and extent of inspections and tests, the location where the inspections and tests were performed, and indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents . Discrepancies shall be brought to the immediate attention of the contractor for correction. If they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and tests, and correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections or tests, shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon prior to the start of work by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official.

1704 A .2.5 Special inspection of fabricated items. Where fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies is being conducted on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspections of the fabricated items shall be performed during fabrication.

1704 A .2.5.1 Fabricator approval. Not permitted by DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC or OSHPD.

1704 A .3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspections or tests are required by Section 1705 A, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.1 for submittal by the applicant in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.3.
CEBC § 109.3.7 High relevance — show source text
Inspections shall be conducted in accordance with Health and Safety Code_ Section 17973(a) through (f) and (m). Weather-exposed balconies and walking surfaces found to be in need of repair or replace- ment shall be corrected in accordance with Section 17973(g) through (i). Continued and ongoing maintenance of weather-exposed balconies and walking surfaces shall be the responsibility of the building owner in accordance with Section 17973(k). See defini- tion of “exterior elevated element” in Health and Safety Code Section 17973(b)(2) for additional details. See Civil Code Section 5551 for inspections of condominium projects.

[A] 109.3.7 Fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated assemblies, smoke barriers and smoke partitions shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved.

[A] 109.3.8 Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified in Sections 109.2 through 109.3.7, the code official is authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction work to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that are enforced by the department of building safety.

Note: All noncompliant plumbing fixtures in any residential real property shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. Plumbing fixture replacement is required prior to issuance of a certificate of final completion, certificate of occupancy or final permit approval by the local building department. See Civil Code Section 1101.1, et seq., for the definition of a noncompliant plumbing fixture, types of residential buildings affected and other important enactment dates.

[A] 109.3.9 Special inspections. Special inspections shall be required in accordance with the California Building Code .

[A] 109.3.10 Flood hazard documentation. Where a building is located in a flood hazard area, documentation of the elevation of the lowest floor or the elevation of dry floodproofing, if applicable, as required in the California Building Code or the California Residential Code, as applicable, shall be submitted to the code official prior to the final inspection.

[A] 109.3.11 Final inspection. The final inspection shall be made after work required by the building permit is completed.

[A] 109.4 Inspection agencies. The code official is authorized to accept reports of approved inspection agencies, provided that such agencies satisfy the requirements as to qualifications and reliability.

[A] 109.5 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the holder of the building permit or their duly authorized agent to notify the code official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder to provide access to and means for any inspections of such work that are required by this code.

[A] 109.6 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the code official. The code official, on notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate the portion of the construction that is satisfactory as completed or shall notify the permit holder or an agent of the permit holder

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ADMINISTRATION

wherein the same fails to comply with this code. Any portions that do not comply shall be corrected and such portion shall not be covered or concealed until authorized by the code official.

SECTION 110—CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
CEBC § 1704A.2.4. High relevance — show source text
If they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and tests, and correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections or tests, shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon prior to the start of work by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Report requirement shall be per 1704A.2.4.

1704.2.5 Special inspection of fabricated items. Where fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies is being conducted on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspections of the fabricated items shall be performed during fabrication, except where the fabricator has been approved to perform work without special inspections in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.1.

1704.2.5.1 Fabricator approval. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD. Special inspections during fabrication are not required where the work is done on the premises of a fabricator approved to perform such work without special inspection. Approval shall be based on review of the fabricator’s written fabrication procedures and quality control manuals that provide a basis for control of materials and workmanship, with periodic auditing of fabrication and quality control practices by an approved agency or the building official. At completion of fabrication, the approved fabricator shall submit a certificate of compliance to the owner or the owner’s authorized agent for submittal to the building official as specified in Section 1704.5 stating that the work was performed in accordance with the approved construction documents.

1704.3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspections or tests are required by Section 1705, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704.3.1 for submittal by the applicant in accordance with Section 1704.2.3.

Exception: The statement of special inspections is permitted to be prepared by a qualified person approved by the building official for construction not designed by a registered design professional.

1704.3.1 Content of statement of special inspections. The statement of special inspections shall identify the following:
1. The materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspections or tests by the building official or by the registered design professional responsible for each portion of the work.
2. The type and extent of each special inspection.
3. The type and extent of each test.
4. Additional requirements for special inspections or tests for seismic or wind resistance as specified in Sections 1705.12, 1705.13 and 1705.14.
5. For each type of special inspection, identification as to whether it will be continuous special inspection, periodic special inspection or performed in accordance with the notation used in the referenced standard where the inspections are defined.
6. Deferred submittal items that require a supplemental statement of special inspections.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
CEBC § 1270.07 High relevance — show source text
Exceptions requested_ and approved in conformance with § 1270.07 (Exceptions to Standards) may be granted on a case-by-case basis. (d) Notwithstanding a local regulation that equals or exceeds the State Minimum Fire Safe Regulations, building construction shall comply with the State Minimum Fire Safe Regulations.

[California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, §1270.06] Inspections.

Inspections shall conform to the following requirements: (a) Inspections in the SRA shall be made by: (1) the Director, or (2) Local Jurisdictions that have assumed state fire protection responsibility on SRA lands, or (3) Local Jurisdictions where the inspection duties have been formally delegated by the Director to the Local Jurisdictions, pursuant to subsection (b). (b) The Director may delegate inspection authority to a Local Jurisdiction subject to all of the following criteria: (1) The Local Jurisdiction represents that they have appropriate resources to perform the delegated inspection authority. (2) The Local Jurisdiction acknowledges that CAL FIRE's authority under subsection (d) shall not be waived or restricted. (3) The Local Jurisdiction consents to the delegation of inspection authority. (4) The Director may revoke the delegation at any time. (5) The delegation of inspection authority, and any subsequent revocation of the delegation, shall be documented in writing and retained on file at the CAL FIRE Unit headquarters that administers SRA fire protection in the area. (c) Inspections in the VHFHSZ shall be made by the Local Jurisdiction. (d) Nothing in this section abrogates CAL FIRE's authority to inspect and enforce state forest and fire laws in the SRA even when the inspection duties have been delegated pursuant to this section. (e) Reports of violations within the SRA shall be provided to the CAL FIRE Unit headquarters that administers SRA fire protection in the Local Jurisdiction.

(f) When inspections are conducted, they shall occur prior to: the issuance of the use permit or certificate of Occupancy; the recor- dation of the parcel map or final map; the filing of a notice of completion; or the final inspection of any project or Building permit.

[California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5, §1270.07] Exceptions to Standards. (a) Upon request by the applicant, an Exception to standards within this Subchapter may be allowed by the Inspection entity in accordance with 14 CCR § 1270.06 (Inspections) where the Exceptions provide the Same Practical Effect as these regulations towards providing Defensible Space. Exceptions granted by the Local Jurisdiction listed in 14 CCR § 1270.06, shall be made on a case-by-case basis only. Exceptions granted by the Local Jurisdiction listed in 14 CCR § 1270.06 shall be forwarded to the appro- priate CAL FIRE unit headquarters that administers SRA fire protection in that Local Jurisdiction, or the county in which the Local Jurisdiction is located and shall be retained on file at the Unit Office.

(b) Requests for an Exception shall be made in writing to the Local Jurisdiction listed in 14 CCR § 1270.06 by the applicant or the applicant's authorized representative.
CEBC § 1270.06 High relevance — show source text
1270.06 Inspections. Inspections shall conform to the following requirements: (a) Inspections in the SRA shall be made by: (1) the Director, or (2) Local Jurisdictions that have assumed state fire protection responsibility on SRA lands, or (3) Local Jurisdictions where the inspection duties have been formally delegated by the Director to the Local Jurisdictions, pursuant to subsection (b). (b) The Director may delegate inspection authority to a Local Jurisdiction subject to all of the following criteria: (1) The Local Jurisdiction represents that they have appropriate resources to perform the delegated inspection authority. (2) The Local Jurisdiction acknowledges that CAL FIRE's authority under subsection (d) shall not be waived or restricted. (3) The Local Jurisdiction consents to the delegation of inspection authority. (4) The Director may revoke the delegation at any time. (5) The delegation of inspection authority, and any subsequent revocation of the delegation, shall be documented in writ- ing, and retained on file at the CAL FIRE Unit headquarters that administers SRA fire protection in the area. (c) Inspections in the VHFHSZ shall be made by the Local Jurisdiction. (d) Nothing in this section abrogates CAL FIRE's authority to inspect and enforce state forest and fire laws in the SRA even when the inspection duties have been delegated pursuant to this section. (e) Reports of violations within the SRA shall be provided to the CAL FIRE Unit headquarters that administers SRA fire protection in the Local Jurisdiction.

(f) When inspections are conducted, they shall occur prior to: the issuance of the use permit or certificate of Occupancy; the recor- dation of the parcel map or final map; the filing of a notice of completion; or the final inspection of any project or Building permit.

1270.07 Exceptions to Standards. (a) Upon request by the applicant, an Exception to standards within this Subchapter may be allowed by the Inspection entity in accordance with 14 CCR § 1270.06 (Inspections) where the Exceptions provide the Same Practical Effect as these regulations towards providing Defensible Space. Exceptions granted by the Local Jurisdiction listed in 14 CCR § 1270.06, shall be made on a case-by-case basis only. Exceptions granted by the Local Jurisdiction listed in 14 CCR § 1270.06 shall be forwarded to the appro- priate CAL FIRE unit headquarters that administers SRA fire protection in that Local Jurisdiction, or the county in which the Local Jurisdiction is located and shall be retained on file at the Unit Office.

(b) Requests for an Exception shall be made in writing to the Local Jurisdiction listed in 14 CCR § 1270.06 by the applicant or the applicant's authorized representative.

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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

At a minimum, the request shall state the specific section(s) for which an Exception is requested; material facts supporting the contention of the applicant; the details of the Exception proposed; and a map showing the proposed location and siting of the _Exception.
CEBC § 108.4 High relevance — show source text
[A] 108.4 Work commencing before permit issuance. Any person who commences any work before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a fee established by the code official that shall be in addition to the required permit fees.

[A] 108.5 Related fees. The payment of the fee for the construction, alteration, removal or demolition of work done in connection to or concurrently with the work authorized by a permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from the payment of other fees that are prescribed by law.

[A] 108.6 Refunds. The code official is authorized to establish a refund policy.

SECTION 109—INSPECTIONS

[A] 109.1 General. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the code official, and such construction or work shall remain visible and able to be accessed for inspection purposes until approved. Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. It shall be the duty of the permit applicant to cause the work to remain visible and able to be accessed for inspection purposes. Neither the code official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any material required to allow inspection.

[A] 109.2 Preliminary inspection. Before issuing a permit, the code official is authorized to examine or cause to be examined buildings and sites for which an application has been filed.

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[A] 109.3 Required inspections. The code official, on notification, shall make the inspections set forth in Sections 109.3.1 through 109.3.11.

[A] 109.3.1 Footing or foundation inspection. Footing and foundation inspections shall be made after excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place. For concrete foundations, any required forms shall be in place prior to inspection. Materials for the foundation shall be on the job, except where concrete is ready-mixed in accordance with ASTM C94, the concrete need not be on the job.

[A] 109.3.2 Concrete slab or under-floor inspection. Concrete slab and under-floor inspections shall be made after in-slab or under-floor reinforcing steel and building service equipment, conduit, piping accessories and other ancillary equipment items are in place but before any concrete is placed or floor sheathing installed, including the subfloor.

[A] 109.3.3 Lowest floor elevation. For additions and substantial improvements to existing buildings in flood hazard areas, on placement of the lowest floor, including basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the elevation documentation required in the California Building Code, or the California Residential Code, as applicable, shall be submitted to the code official.

[A] 109.3.4 Frame inspection. Framing inspections shall be made after the roof deck or sheathing, framing, fire blocking and bracing are in place and pipes, chimneys and vents to be concealed are complete and the rough electrical, plumbing, heating wires, pipes and ducts are approved.
CEBC § 31F-2 High relevance — show source text
MOTs rated “Critical” will not be operational; and Emergency Action shall be required in accordance with Table 31F-2-6._
6. ICARs shall be assigned in accordance with Table 31F-2-4.|

3102F.1.3 Berthing systems. For the purpose of assigning structural ratings and documenting the condition of mechanical and elec- trical systems, an MOT shall be divided into independent “berthing systems.” A berthing system consists of the wharf and supporting structure, mechanical and electrical components that serve the berth and pipeline systems.

For example, a MOT consisting of wharves with three berths adjacent to the shoreline could contain three independent “berthing systems” if the piping does not route through adjacent berths. Therefore, a significant defect that would restrict the operation of one berth would have no impact on the other two berths. Conversely, if a T-head Pier, with multiple berths sharing a trestle that supports all piping to the shoreline, had a significant deficiency on the common trestle, the operation of all berths could be adversely impacted. This configuration is classified as a single berthing system.

The physical boundaries of a berthing system may exclude unused sections of a structure. Excluded sections must be physically isolated from the berthing system. Expansion joints may provide this isolation.

3102F.1.4 Records. All MOTs shall have records reflecting current, “as-built” conditions for all berthing systems. Records shall include, but not be limited to modifications and/or replacement of structural components, electrical or mechanical equipment or relevant operational changes, new construction including design drawings, calculations, engineering analyses, soil borings, equip- ment manuals, specifications, shop drawings, technical and maintenance manuals and documents.

Chronological records and reports of annual inspections, audits and post-event inspections and documentation of equipment or structural changes shall be maintained.

Records shall be indexed and be readily accessible to the Division (see 2 CCR Section 2320 (c) (2)) [2.1].

3102F.1.5 Baseline assessment. If “as-built” or subsequent modification drawings are not available, incomplete or inaccurate, a baseline inspection is required to gather data in sufficient detail for adequate evaluation.

The level of detail required shall be such that structural member sizes, connection and reinforcing details are documented, if required in the structural analysis. In addition, the strength and/or ductility characteristics of construction materials shall be determined, as appropriate. Nondestructive testing, partially destructive testing and/or laboratory testing methods may be used.

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MARINE OIL TERMINALS

All fire, piping, mechanical and electrical systems shall be documented as to location, capacity, operating limits and physical conditions in the equipment layout diagram(s).

3102F.2 Annual compliance inspection. The Division may carry out annual inspections to determine the compliance status of the MOT with this code, based on the terminal’s audit and inspection findings and action plan implementation (see Section 3102F.3.9).

These inspections may include a visual and tactile assessment of structural, mechanical and electrical systems of the topside and underside areas of the dock, including the splash zone. Subject to operating procedures, a boat shall be provided to facilitate the inspec- tion of the dock undersides and piles down to the splash zone.
CEBC § 3102F.3.4 High relevance — show source text
3102F.3.4 Audit team.

3102F.3.4.1 Project manager. The audit shall be conducted by a multidisciplinary team under the direction of a project manager representing the MOT. The project manager shall have specific knowledge of the MOT and may serve other roles on the audit team.

3102F.3.4.2 Audit team leader. The audit team leader shall lead the on-site audit team and shall be responsible for directing field activities, including the inspection of all structural, mechanical and electrical systems. The team leader shall be a California regis- tered civil or structural engineer and may serve other roles on the audit team.

3102F.3.4.3 Structural inspection team. The structural inspection shall be conducted under the direction of a registered civil or structural engineer.

All members of the structural inspection team shall be graduates of a 4-year civil/structural engineering, or closely related (ocean/coastal) engineering curriculum, and shall have been certified as an Engineer-in-Training; or shall be technicians who have completed a course of study in structural inspections. The minimum acceptable course in structural inspections shall include 80 hours of instruction specifically related to structural inspection, followed by successful completion of a comprehensive exam- ination. An example of an acceptable course is the U.S. Department of Transportation’s “Safety Inspection of In- Service Bridges.”

2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 31F-7

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MARINE OIL TERMINALS

Certification as a Level IV Bridge Inspector by the National Institute of Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) shall also be acceptable [2.2].

For underwater inspections, the registered civil or structural engineer directing the underwater structural inspection shall also be a commercially trained diver or equivalent and shall actively participate in the inspection, by personally conducting a mini- mum of 25 percent of the underwater examination [2.2].

Each underwater team member shall also be a commercially trained diver, or equivalent. Divers performing manual tasks such as cleaning or supporting the diving operation, but not conducting or reporting on inspections, may have lesser technical qualifi- cations [2.2].

3102F.3.4.4 Structural analyst. A California registered civil or structural engineer shall be in responsible charge of the structural evaluations.

3102F.3.4.5 Electrical inspection team. A registered electrical engineer shall direct the on-site team performing the inspection and evaluation of electrical components and systems.

3102F.3.4.6 Mechanical inspection team. A registered engineer shall direct the on-site team performing the inspection and eval- uation of piping/pipeline, mechanical and fire components and systems, except the Fire Protection Assessment in accordance with Section 3108F.2.2.

3102F.3.4.7 Corrosion specialist. The corrosion specialist shall be a chemical engineer, corrosion engineer, chemist or other professional with expertise in the types and causes of corrosion, and available means to prevent, monitor and mitigate associated damage. The specialist shall perform the corrosion assessment (Section 3102F.3.6.5) and may be directly involved in corrosion inspection (Section 3102F.3.5.4).
CEBC § 1704.2.2 High relevance — show source text
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.

1704.2.2 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.

1704.2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for permit issuance. This statement shall be in accordance with Section 1704.3.

Exception: A statement of special inspections is not required for portions of structures designed and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of Section 2206.1.2 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.

1704.2.4 Report requirement. Approved agencies shall keep records of special inspections and tests. The approved agency shall submit reports of special inspections and tests to the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge at frequencies required by the approved construction documents or building official. All reports shall describe the nature and extent of inspections and tests, the location where the inspections and tests were performed, and indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents. Discrepancies shall be brought to the immediate attention of the contractor for correction. If they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and tests, and correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections or tests, shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon prior to the start of work by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Report requirement shall be per 1704A.2.4.

1704.2.5 Special inspection of fabricated items. Where fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies is being conducted on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspections of the fabricated items shall be performed during fabrication, except where the fabricator has been approved to perform work without special inspections in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.1.

1704.2.5.1 Fabricator approval. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD. Special inspections during fabrication are not required where the work is done on the premises of a fabricator approved to perform such work without special inspection. Approval shall be based on review of the fabricator’s written fabrication procedures and quality control manuals that provide a basis for control of materials and workmanship, with periodic auditing of fabrication and quality control practices by an approved agency or the building official. At completion of fabrication, the approved fabricator shall submit a certificate of compliance to the owner or the owner’s authorized agent for submittal to the building official as specified in Section 1704.5 stating that the work was performed in accordance with the approved construction documents.
CEBC § 312.1. Medium relevance — show source text
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. Unless otherwise required by the building official, special inspections and tests are not required for Group U occupancies that are accessory to a residential occupancy including, but not limited to, those listed in Section 312.1.
3. Special inspections and tests are not required for portions of structures designed and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of Section 2206.1.2 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
1. The contractor is permitted to employ the approved agencies where the contractor is also the owner. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD. 5. [HCD 1] The provisions of Health and Safety Code Division 13, Part 6 and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, commencing with Section 3000, shall apply to the construction and inspection of factory-built housing as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 19971.
1704.2.1 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.

1704.2.2 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.

1704.2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for permit issuance. This statement shall be in accordance with Section 1704.3.

Exception: A statement of special inspections is not required for portions of structures designed and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of Section 2206.1.2 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.

1704.2.4 Report requirement. Approved agencies shall keep records of special inspections and tests. The approved agency shall submit reports of special inspections and tests to the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge at frequencies required by the approved construction documents or building official. All reports shall describe the nature and extent of inspections and tests, the location where the inspections and tests were performed, and indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents.
CEBC § 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

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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

Who must call for inspections?

The permit holder or their authorized agent must notify the code official when work is ready for inspection (§ 109.5) .

Can I conceal waterproofing, firestopping or other items before an inspection?

No. The CEBC explicitly requires that waterproofing systems, fire‑ and smoke‑resistant penetrations and similar items not be concealed until inspected and approved (§ 109.3.6, § 109.3.7) .

What are “special inspections” and where are the rules?

CEBC § 109.3.9 requires special inspections in accordance with the California Building Code; those CBC sections (not fully reproduced in CEBC §109) set out qualifications, statements and reporting (see CBC § 1704) .

Is there a required inspector response time in the CEBC?

No. CEBC sections 109.1–109.6 require the code official to make inspections “on notification,” but these CEBC sections do not specify a set response time; check your local jurisdiction’s procedures for timing expectations (§ 109.3, § 109.5) .

What happens if work is done beyond an inspection point without approval?

Work done beyond the point indicated for an inspection without approval is a violation — the inspector may require uncovering, correction or other enforcement actions. CEBC requires approval before proceeding past successive inspection points (§ 109.6) .

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Related in the CEBC

When is a permit required and what work is exempt?

What must be submitted with a permit application (plans, reports, professional stamps)?

When can the code official issue stop-work orders, notices of violation or civil penalties?

Permits, construction documents, fees and inspections

California Existing Building Code