CEBC · California Existing Building Code
When can the code official issue stop-work orders, notices of violation or civil penalties?
If your contractor or someone is doing work that violates the California Existing Building Code or creates an unsafe condition, the code official can serve a **notice of violation** ordering discontinuance and correction (**§ 113.2**) and can issue a **written stop-work order** to make the work stop immediately when it’s unsafe or contrary to the code (**§ 114.1–§ 114.2**); failure to comply can lead to legal action and penalties set by law (**§ 113.3–§ 113.4**).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
The code official may issue a notice of violation whenever work or a condition conflicts with the CEBC and must direct discontinuance and abatement — see § 113.2. If work is being performed contrary to the code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order and require immediate cessation — see § 114.1 and § 114.2. If a notice is not complied with, the code official may request legal action to restrain, correct or abate the violation and penalties apply as prescribed by law — see § 113.3 and § 113.4.
The single most important rule: when work is contrary to the CEBC or creates an unsafe condition, the code official can stop the work immediately and require abatement. § 114.1 and § 114.2.
Requirements in detail
1) Notice of violation — what it is and when to use it
- Purpose: to notify the person responsible that the work or condition violates the CEBC and must stop or be abated. See § 113.2.
- Authority: the code official is authorized to serve the notice on the person responsible for the repair, alteration, addition, removal, demolition or change in occupancy. See § 113.2.
- Next steps if ignored: code official may request the jurisdiction’s legal counsel to initiate proceedings to restrain, correct or abate the violation. See § 113.3.
2) Stop work order — immediate halt for unsafe/contrary work
- Trigger: any work being performed contrary to the CEBC or in a dangerous/unsafe manner. See § 114.1.
- Form and service: must be in writing and delivered to the owner, owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. See § 114.2.
- Effect: cited work must immediately cease; the order must state reasons and conditions for resumption. See § 114.2.
- Emergencies: where an emergency exists, the code official need not give written notice before stopping work. See § 114.3.
- Noncompliance: continuing work after a stop-work order (except directed corrective work) can subject the person to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction. See § 114.4.
3) Violation penalties & prosecution
- Penalties: persons who violate the CEBC or fail to comply with its requirements are subject to penalties “as prescribed by law” — the CEBC does not set dollar amounts in § 113.4.
- Prosecution: if notices are not complied with promptly, the code official may request legal counsel to pursue enforcement through appropriate legal proceedings. See § 113.3.
Decision matrix (quick reference)
| Enforcement action | Trigger / When allowed | Who may be served | Immediate effect | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Notice of violation | Work or condition conflicts with CEBC | Person responsible for the work (owner/agent/contractor) | Directs discontinuance and abatement (not automatically an immediate stop unless ordered) | § 113.2 |
| Stop work order | Work performed contrary to CEBC or is dangerous/unsafe | Owner, owner’s authorized agent, or person performing the work | Work must immediately cease; order must state reasons and resumption conditions | § 114.1, § 114.2 |
| Emergency stop (no written notice required) | An emergency exists as determined by code official | Same recipients as stop work order (written follow-up not required before stopping) | Immediate cessation permitted without prior written notice | § 114.3 |
| Civil/criminal penalties; prosecution | Failure to comply with notices or code provisions | Person(s) who violated or caused violation | Subject to penalties as prescribed by law; legal proceedings may be initiated | § 113.3, § 113.4 |
Exceptions & special cases
- Emergencies: the code official can stop work immediately without providing written notice first when an emergency exists — § 114.3.
- Repeated noncompliance in program sections: some specific CEBC provisions impose staged enforcement (for example, a construction-site record-keeping requirement that triggers a stop-work order upon a third offense) — see the CEBC provision on recordkeeping/enforcement for that activity (example: § 1502.3.1 referencing issuance of stop work on the third offense).
- Remedy-directed work: a person served with a stop-work order may be directed to perform limited work solely to remove the violation or unsafe condition; such directed corrective work is an exception to the immediate-stop requirement. See § 114.4.
If you need municipal-specific rules (e.g., local fine amounts, timelines for compliance, methods of service), the CEBC defers to the jurisdiction and “penalties as prescribed by law” — those details are not specified in § 113.4.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the CEBC sets fine amounts — it does not; penalties are “as prescribed by law” (see § 113.4).
- Believing a stop-work order always requires prior written notice — in emergencies the official may stop work without written notice (§ 114.3).
- Serving the wrong person or failing to document service — § 113.2 requires service on the person responsible; proper service and recordkeeping are essential.
- Resuming work after a stop-work order without meeting the stated resumption conditions — the order must state when work may resume and unauthorized resumption may lead to fines (§ 114.2, § 114.4).
Worked example
Scenario: A contractor performs an unpermitted structural alteration that removes a required load-bearing element and leaves the second-floor framing unsupported. The inspector documents the unsafe condition.
Steps and code actions:
- The code official determines the work is being done in a dangerous or unsafe manner and issues a written stop work order delivered to the owner and contractor. The order states the reason and lists conditions for resumption (e.g., engineering repair and permit submittal). Authority: § 114.1 and § 114.2.
- The stop-work order requires immediate cessation of the cited work. If the contractor continues work anyway, the contractor may be subject to fines per the jurisdiction’s schedule (CEBC references fines established by the authority having jurisdiction). See § 114.2 and § 114.4.
- If the owner/contractor does not correct the condition or comply with the order promptly, the code official may request the jurisdiction’s legal counsel to initiate enforcement actions (injunction, abatement or other remedies). See § 113.3.
- Penalties for the violation would follow the jurisdiction’s prescribed law (CEBC § 113.4 does not state dollar amounts).
Numerical illustration (to show process, not code amounts): the code official issues the stop-work order immediately on inspection day; owner is given 0 days to stop (immediate). If the owner fails to abate after a reasonable period, legal referral follows per § 113.3. The exact fine amounts and timelines are set by the local authority (not by § 113.4) — check local ordinance for numbers.
Related provisions (CEBC sections)
- § 104.4 — Right of entry for inspections; supports enforcement actions.
- § 104.6 — Notices and orders; cross-references to issuance of necessary notices.
- § 115 — Unsafe structures and equipment (procedures for notice, abatement and demolition when a structure is unsafe).
- § 1502.3.1 — Example program provision that ties repeated violations to stop-work authority (third-offense stop work example).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Existing Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CEBC § 113.4 High relevance — show source text
[A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a [ SPECIFY OFFENSE ], punishable by a fine of not more than [ AMOUNT ] dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding [ NUMBER OF DAYS ], or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
[A] 113.4.1 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the fire code official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.
SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 114.1 Authority. Where the fire code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code, or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the fire code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the fire code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
SECTION 115—UNSAFE STRUCTURES OR EQUIPMENT
[A] 115.1 General. If during the inspection of a premises, a structure, or any building system, in whole or in part, constitutes a clear and inimical threat to human life, safety or health, the fire code official shall issue such notice or orders to remove or remedy the conditions as shall be deemed necessary in accordance with this section, and shall refer the building to the building official for any repairs, alterations, remodeling, removing or demolition required.
[A] 115.1.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, insanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress, inadequate light and ventilation, or that constitute a fire hazard, are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe, as the fire code official deems necessary and as provided for in this section. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.
CEBC § 113.1 High relevance — show source text
[A] 113.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the building official.
[A] 113.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.
[A] 113.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and who are not employees of the jurisdiction.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 113.4 Administration. The building official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.
SECTION 114—VIOLATIONS
[A] 114.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish or occupy any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
[A] 114.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
[A] 114.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
[A] 114.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION 115—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 115.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
CEBC § 112.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 112.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.
[A] 112.4 Administration. The code official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.
SECTION 113—VIOLATIONS
[A] 113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to repair, alter, extend, add, move, remove, demolish or change the occupancy of any building or equipment regulated by this code or cause same to be done in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
[A] 113.2 Notice of violation. The code official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the repair, alteration, extension, addition, moving, removal, demolition or change in the occupancy of a building in violation of the provisions of this code or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
[A] 113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the code official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
[A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who repairs or alters or changes the occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the code official or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 114.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
CEBC § 113.3 High relevance — show source text
[A] 113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the code official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
[A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who repairs or alters or changes the occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the code official or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 114.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
SECTION 115—UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND EQUIPMENT
[A] 115.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, insanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress facilities, inadequate light and ventilation, or that constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or that involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe as the code official deems necessary and as provided for in this code. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.
[A] 115.2 Record. The code official shall cause a report to be filed on an unsafe condition. The report shall state the occupancy of the structure and the nature of the unsafe condition.
[A] 115.3 Notice. If an unsafe condition is found, the code official shall serve on the owner of the structure or the owner’s authorized agent a written notice that describes the condition deemed unsafe and specifies the required repairs or improvements to be made to abate the unsafe condition, or that requires the unsafe building to be demolished within a stipulated time. Such notice shall require the person thus notified to declare immediately to the code official acceptance or rejection of the terms of the order.
CEBC § 113.3.1 High relevance — show source text
[A] 113.3.1 Service. A notice of violation issued pursuant to this code shall be served on the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition or violation, either by personal service, mail or by delivering the same to, and leaving it with, some person of responsibility on the premises. For unattended or abandoned locations, a copy of such notice of violation shall be posted on the premises in a conspicuous place at or near the entrance to such premises and the notice of violation shall be mailed by certified mail with return receipt requested or a certificate of mailing, to the last known address of the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, or occupant.
[A] 113.3.2 Compliance with orders and notices. A notice of violation issued or served as provided by this code shall be complied with by the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, operator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition or violation to which the notice of violation pertains.
[A] 113.3.3 Prosecution of violations. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the fire code official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate legal proceedings at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant hereto.
[A] 113.3.4 Unauthorized tampering. Signs, tags or seals posted or affixed by the fire code official shall not be mutilated, destroyed or tampered with, or removed, without authorization from the fire code official.
[A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Persons who shall violate a provision of this code or shall fail to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who shall erect, install, alter, repair or do work in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the fire code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a [ SPECIFY OFFENSE ], punishable by a fine of not more than [ AMOUNT ] dollars or by imprisonment not exceeding [ NUMBER OF DAYS ], or both such fine and imprisonment. Each day that a violation continues after due notice has been served shall be deemed a separate offense.
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
[A] 113.4.1 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the fire code official is authorized to institute appropriate action to prevent unlawful construction or to restrain, correct or abate a violation; or to prevent illegal occupancy of a structure or premises; or to stop an illegal act, conduct of business or occupancy of a structure on or about any premises.
SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 114.1 Authority. Where the fire code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code, or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the fire code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
CEBC § 113.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 113—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 113.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 113.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 113.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 113.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
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CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGT-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt Entire Chapter Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X Adopt only those sections that
are listed below[California Code of Regulations,
Title 19, Division 1]Chapter / Section 201.3 X Applicable Building X Defensible Space X _Exterior Wall CEBC § 1502.3.1 High relevance — show source text
Standpipe systems are in service and continuous to the highest work floor, as specified in Section 1509.
Portable fire extinguishers are available in locations required by Section 1507 and for roofing operations in accordance with the California Fire Code .
Where a fire watch is required, fire watch records complying with the California Fire Code are up-to-date.
[F] 1502.3.1 Violations. Failure to properly conduct, document and maintain documentation required by this section shall constitute an unlawful act in accordance with Section 113.1 and shall result in the issuance of a notice of violation to the site safety director in accordance with Section 113.2. Upon the third offense, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order in accordance with Section 114, and work shall not resume until satisfactory assurances of future compliance have been presented to and approved by the code official.
SECTION 1503—SANITARY
[BG] 1503.1 Facilities required. Sanitary facilities shall be provided during construction or demolition activities in accordance with the California Plumbing Code .
SECTION 1504—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS
[BS] 1504.1 Protection of pedestrians. Pedestrians shall be protected during construction and demolition activities as required by Sections 1504.1.1 through 1504.1.7 and Table 1504.1. Signs shall be provided to direct pedestrian traffic.
TABLE 1504.1—PROTECTION OF PEDESTRIANS Col2 Col3 HEIGHT OF
CONSTRUCTIONDISTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION TO LOT LINE TYPE OF PROTECTION REQUIRED 8 feet or less Less than 5 feet Construction railings 8 feet or less 5 feet or more None More than 8 feet Less than 5 feet Barrier and covered walkway More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but not more than one-fourth the height of construction Barrier and covered walkway More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but between one-fourth and one-half the height of construction Barrier More than 8 feet 5 feet or more, but exceeding one-half the height of construction None For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm. [BS] 1504.1.1 Walkways. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel in front of every construction and demolition site unless the applicable governing authority authorizes the sidewalk to be fenced or closed. A walkway shall be provided for pedestrian travel that leads from a building entrance or exit of an occupied structure to a public way. Walkways shall be of sufficient width to accommodate the pedestrian traffic, but shall be not less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in width. Walkways shall be provided with a durable walking surface and shall be accessible in accordance with Chapter 11 A of the California Building Code . Walkways shall be designed to support all imposed loads and the design live load shall be not less than 150 pounds per square foot (psf) (7.2 kN/m [2] ).
CEBC § 1-25 High relevance — show source text
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
R112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.
R112.4 Administration. The building official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.
SECTION R113—VIOLATIONS
R113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish or occupy any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
R113.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a detail statement or a plan approved thereunder, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
R113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with in the time prescribed by such notice, the building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
R113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION R114—STOP WORK ORDER
R114.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
R114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
R114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the building official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
R114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
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CEBC § 112.1 High relevance — show source text
The code official shall notify the serving utility and, where possible, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and the occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection, the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.
SECTION 112—MEANS OF APPEALS
[A] 112.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the code official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant, with a duplicate copy to the code official.
[A] 112.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.
[A] 112.4 Administration. The code official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.
SECTION 113—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 113.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 113.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 113.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 113.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
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on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
1-26 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS
CEBC § 1-26 High relevance — show source text
R113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION R114—STOP WORK ORDER
R114.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
R114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
R114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the building official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
R114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
1-26 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt entire chapter Adopt entire chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)X X X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter / Section R201.3 X X R201.4 X ACCESS (TO) X _ACCESSORY DWELLING CEBC § 114.2 Medium relevance — show source text
[A] 114.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
[A] 114.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
[A] 114.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION 115—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 115.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 115.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 115.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the building official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 115.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
SECTION 116—UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND EQUIPMENT
[A] 116.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, insanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress facilities, inadequate light and ventilation, or that constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or that involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe, as the building official deems necessary and as provided for in this section. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.
[A] 116.2 Record. The building official shall cause a report to be filed on an unsafe condition. The report shall state the occupancy of the structure and the nature of the unsafe condition.
CEBC § 103.2 Medium relevance — show source text
103.2 Liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
103.3 Applications and Permits . . . . . . . . 22
103.4 Right of Entry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
104.0 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
104.1 Permits Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
104.2 Exempt Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
104.3 Application for Permit . . . . . . . . . . . 22
104.4 Permit Issuance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
104.5 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
105.0 Inspections and Testing . . . . . . . . . 24
105.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
105.2 Required Inspections . . . . . . . . . . . 24
105.3 Testing of Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
105.4 Connection to Service Utilities . . . . 25
106.0 Violations and Penalties . . . . . . . . . 25
106.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
106.2 Notices of Correction or Violation . . 25
106.3 Penalties. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
106.4 Stop Orders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
106.5 Authority to Disconnect Utilities in Emergencies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
106.6 Authority to Condemn. . . . . . . . . . . 26
107.0 Board of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
107.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
107.2 Limitations of Authority . . . . . . . . . . 26
Table 104.5 Mechanical Permit Fees . . . . . . . . . 27
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
201.0 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
201.1 Applicability. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
202.0 Definition of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
202.1 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
xxviii
CHAPTER 3 GENERAL REGULATIONS. . . . . . 49
301.0 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Frequently asked questions
When exactly can a stop-work order be issued?
When the code official finds work is being done contrary to the CEBC or in a dangerous or unsafe manner — authority in § 114.1; the order must be written and served and the work must immediately cease (§ 114.2).
Does the code list dollar amounts for civil penalties?
No. The CEBC states that violators are subject to penalties “as prescribed by law” in § 113.4; the code does not set specific dollar amounts. Check your local ordinance or state law for amounts.
Can the code official stop work immediately without written notice?
Yes — if an emergency exists, the code official need not give a written notice before stopping the work (§ 114.3). A written order is typically provided when practicable.
Who can be served with a notice of violation or stop-work order?
The owner, the owner’s authorized agent, or the person performing the work (the party responsible for the action) — see § 113.2 and § 114.2.
What happens if a notice of violation is not complied with?
The code official may request the jurisdiction’s legal counsel to institute appropriate legal proceedings at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate the violation (see § 113.3).
More in California Existing Building Code
- Administration and Definitions (Scope, enforcement, code official duties, definitions)
- Provisions for All Compliance Methods (general requirements that apply to all compliance options; Chapter 3 / 3A)
- Seismic retrofit and evaluation (Appendix A and seismic provisions/sections for evaluation and retrofit)
- Referenced Standards and Appendices (Chapter 16 and Appendices A–E, Resource A)
- Repairs (Chapter 4 — repair-specific rules for materials, means of egress, structural, MEP, etc.)
- Alterations — Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 (technical requirements for each alteration level; Chapters 7–9)
- Change of Occupancy and Additions (requirements for occupancy changes and additions; Chapters 10–11)
- Compliance Methods — Prescriptive, Work Area, Performance (Chapters 5, 6–11, 13)
- Relocated Buildings (requirements for buildings moved or relocated; Chapter 14)
- Construction Safeguards (site safety, means of egress and life-safety during construction; Chapter 15)
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