CMC · California Mechanical Code
When is a Certificate of Occupancy (or completion) required?
You cannot legally occupy a building or change its use until the local code official issues the Certificate of Occupancy (or Certificate of Completion) after final inspection (see **§ 110.1**). The California Mechanical Code does not replace that requirement; instead the CMC supplies mechanical **Certificate(s) of Acceptance** (Appendix E and Sections E801.0–E806.0) that must be included in the occupancy documentation the building official needs before issuing the occupancy certificate.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
- In California a building or portion of a building may not be used or occupied until the authority having jurisdiction (the code official or building official) issues a Certificate of Occupancy or Certificate of Completion after the final inspection determines the work complies with applicable codes. See § 110.1.
- The mechanical industry-specific documents in the California Mechanical Code (CMC) do not create a separate §110 “Certificate of Occupancy” rule; instead the CMC supplies Certificate of Acceptance forms and acceptance procedures that must be included with the occupancy documentation required by the building/code official (see CMC Appendix E and Sections E801.0–E806.0).
The single most important rule: a space cannot be legally occupied until the local code official issues the required certificate after final inspection (see § 110.1 and related occupancy sections).
Requirements in detail
Short rule (who, when)
- Who: the local code official / building official. § 110.1.
- When: before a building, structure, premises — or a change of occupancy — is used or occupied; or when a building permit calls for final approval. § 110.1 / § 110.2.
What the CMC adds (mechanical-specific)
- The CMC provides Certificate(s) of Acceptance for mechanical systems (Appendix E). These certificates are intended to document that mechanical equipment/systems passed required acceptance tests and must be included with the documentation the builder provides at occupancy. See CMC Appendix E and the reference to Sections E 801.0–E 806.0.
Temporary occupancy / phased construction
- A temporary Certificate of Occupancy may be issued for a portion of the work that can be occupied safely before the entire project is complete; the code official sets the time period and conditions. § 110.3.
Revocation authority
- The code official may suspend or revoke a certificate issued in error, based on incorrect information, or when a structure is later found to be in violation. § 110.4.
Decision table — when you need a certificate (quick reference)
| Situation / decision dimension | Certificate required? | What to provide / who issues it | Code reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| New building — final permit closeout and first occupancy | Yes — Certificate of Occupancy / Completion | Building official issues after final inspections show compliance | § 110.1, § 110.2 |
| Change of occupancy (new use or classification) | Yes — Certificate of Occupancy for new occupancy | Building official issues after required alterations/inspections | § 110.1 (building/change of occupancy language appears in CBC/Existing BC) |
| Mechanical-only permit (HVAC, ducts, equipment) — final acceptance tests | Certificate of Acceptance (mechanical form) required to document system acceptance; occupancy certificate still by building official where applicable | CMC Appendix E forms and acceptance procedures (post with permit / include in occupancy documents) | CMC Appendix E; Sections E801.0–E806.0 |
| Work exempt from permits | No certificate required for exempt work | See permit-exemption section — no permit, no occupancy certificate requirement for that work | Exception referencing Section 105.* (CBC/other codes) — CBC/CI codes: § 105.2 / § 105.3 |
(Always confirm local jurisdiction practice — enforcement details and form names vary by agency.)
Exceptions & special cases
- Work that is expressly exempt from permits does not require a certificate of occupancy for that work. The model codes state that certificates are not required where the work is exempt per the permit exemptions (see the exceptions in § 110 referencing Section 105.*).
- Accessory structures are commonly listed as an exception (small detached accessory buildings may be exempt from a certificate requirement under the stated exceptions). § 110.2 exceptions.
- Phased construction: portions that meet required tests/inspections may be occupied under a temporary certificate issued by the code official; other parts remain restricted until final approval. § 110.3.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a mechanical-permit final (or Certificate of Acceptance) by itself equals a legal Certificate of Occupancy for the building. The CMC acceptance forms document mechanical compliance, but the building official issues occupancy certificates after all required disciplines and inspections are satisfied. See CMC Appendix E and § 110.1 (occupancy authority).
- Occupying a building before final inspection or before the building official issues the certificate. The code plainly forbids use/occupancy until the certificate is issued (§ 110.1).
- Failing to include the CMC Certificate(s) of Acceptance and operation/maintenance documentation with the occupancy packets — Appendix E requires these forms and states they should be provided at occupancy.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A small office tenant improvement includes new HVAC and ductwork. The permit process and certificates:
The mechanical contractor completes the HVAC installation and performs required functional/acceptance testing per the CMC acceptance procedures (Appendix E; Sections E801.0–E806.0). The contractor completes the CMC Certificate of Acceptance (Appendix E) and posts or provides it with the permit documents.
The code official inspects the building for all trades (structural, fire/life safety, mechanical, electrical). The building official verifies compliance. Only after those inspections are satisfied will the building official issue the Certificate of Occupancy (or Certificate of Completion) authorizing the tenant to occupy the office. Occupancy is not allowed until the code official issues the certificate. § 110.1.
If only the HVAC work was performed and no change of occupancy is involved, the local agency may allow issuance of a temporary occupancy for the tenant area if life-safety systems are in place and the official finds the occupied portion is safe (temporary CO authority in § 110.3).
Related provisions (CMC / California codes)
- CMC Appendix E — Certificates of Acceptance and acceptance procedures (see Certificate of Acceptance forms and instruction to include with occupancy documentation).
- CMC acceptance procedure references: Section E 801.0 through E 806.0 (acceptance requirements for mechanical systems).
- California Wildland‑Urban Interface Code — § 110.1–110.4 (Certificate of Completion / occupancy authority and exceptions).
- California Building Code — Certificate of Occupancy provisions (change of occupancy; certificate content; temporary occupancy authority) — § 111 / § 110.x as adopted in CBC.
- Final inspection / inspection requests — provisions for final inspection before certificate issuance (see sections on final inspection / approvals).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Mechanical Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CMC § 109.3.7.2 High relevance — show source text
109.3.7.2 Notice of violation. The code official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for 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] 109.3.8 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the 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 110—CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
[A] 110.1 General. A building, structure or premises shall not be used or occupied, and a change in the existing use or occupancy classification of a building, structure, premise or portion thereof shall not be made until the code official has issued a certificate of completion therefor as provided herein. The certificate of occupancy shall not be issued until the code official has determined that the project is in compliance with this code. The code official shall, upon completion of construction, provide the owner or applicant with a copy of the final inspection report that demonstrates the building was constructed in compliance with all applicable state and local building standards, including those for materials and construction methods for wildfire exposure as described in this code. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the local building official for the proposed building shall be considered to indicate compliance with this code.
[A] 110.2 Certificate of occupancy. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other pertinent laws and ordinances of the jurisdiction. Certificates presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
Exceptions:
Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits under Section 105.3.
Accessory structures.
[A] 110.3 Temporary occupancy. The code official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The code official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
[A] 110.4 Revocation. The code official is authorized to, in writing, suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy or completion issued under the provisions of this code wherever the certificate is issued in error, on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or where it is determined that the building or structure, premise or portion thereof is in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.
SECTION 111—SERVICE UTILITIES
[A] 111.1 Connection of service utilities. A person shall not make connections from a utility, source of energy, fuel, power, water system or sewer system to any building or system that is regulated by this code for which a permit is required until authorized by the code official.
[A] 111.2 Temporary connection. The code official shall have the authority to authorize the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility, source of energy, fuel, power, water system or sewer system for the purpose of testing systems or for use under a temporary approval.
**[A] 111.3 Authority to disconnect service utilities.
CMC § 109.3.11 High relevance — show source text
[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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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
[A] 110.1 Change of occupancy. A structure shall not be used or occupied in whole or in part, and a change of occupancy of a structure or portion thereof shall not be made until the code official has issued a certificate of occupancy therefor as provided herein. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Certificates presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
Exception: Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits in accordance with Section 105.2.
[A] 110.2 Certificate issued. After the code official inspects the structure and does not find violations of the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by the department, the code official shall issue a certificate of occupancy that contains the following:
The permit number.
The address of the structure.
The name and address of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.
A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.
A statement that the described portion of the structure has been inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code for the occupancy and division of occupancy and the use for which the proposed occupancy is classified.
The name of the code official.
The edition of the code under which the permit was issued.
The use and occupancy in accordance with the provisions of the California Building Code .
The type of construction as defined in the California Building Code .
The design occupant load and any impact the alteration has on the design occupant load of the area not within the scope of the work.
Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided, and whether an automatic sprinkler system is required.
Any special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
CMC § 109.3.6 High relevance — show source text
[A] 109.3.6 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] 109.3.7 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 code official, or of a permit or certificate used under provisions of this code, shall be guilty of a [ SPECIFY OFFENSE ], punishable
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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.
109.3.7.1 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.
109.3.7.2 Notice of violation. The code official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for 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] 109.3.8 Abatement of violation. In addition to the imposition of the penalties herein described, the 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 110—CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION
[A] 110.1 General. A building, structure or premises shall not be used or occupied, and a change in the existing use or occupancy classification of a building, structure, premise or portion thereof shall not be made until the code official has issued a certificate of completion therefor as provided herein. The certificate of occupancy shall not be issued until the code official has determined that the project is in compliance with this code. The code official shall, upon completion of construction, provide the owner or applicant with a copy of the final inspection report that demonstrates the building was constructed in compliance with all applicable state and local building standards, including those for materials and construction methods for wildfire exposure as described in this code. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy by the local building official for the proposed building shall be considered to indicate compliance with this code.
CMC § 1.6.2 High relevance — show source text
R109.1.6.2 Operation and maintenance manual. At the time of final inspection, a manual, compact disc, web-based reference or other media acceptable to the enforcing agency shall be placed in the building in accordance with the California Green Building Standards Code, Chapter 4, Division 4.4.
R109.2 Inspection agencies. The building official is authorized to accept reports of approved agencies, provided such agencies satisfy the requirements as to qualifications and reliability.
R109.3 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the permit holder or their agent to notify the building official that such work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the person requesting any inspections required by this code to provide access to and means for inspection of such work.
R109.4 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the building official. The building official, upon 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
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holder 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 building official.
SECTION R110—CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
R110.1 Use and change of occupancy. A building or structure shall not be used or occupied in whole or in part, and a change of occupancy of a building or structure or portion thereof shall not be made, until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy therefor as provided herein. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Certificates presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
Exceptions:
- Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits under Section R105.2.
- Accessory buildings or structures.
R110.2 Certificate issued. After the building official inspects the building or structure and does not find violations of the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by the department, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy containing the following:
The permit number.
The address of the structure.
The name and address of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.
A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.
A statement that the described portion of the structure has been inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code.
The name of the building official.
The edition of the code under which the permit was issued.
Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided and whether the sprinkler system is required.
Any special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
R110.3 Temporary occupancy. The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The building official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
CMC § 110.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 110.5 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the holder of the building permit or their duly authorized agent to notify the building official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder to provide access to and means for inspections of such work that are required by this code.
[A] 110.6 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the building official. The building official, upon notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate the portion of the construction that is satisfactory as completed, or notify the permit holder or the permit holder’s agent 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 building official.
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SECTION 111—CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
[A] 111.1 Change of occupancy. A building or structure shall not be used or occupied in whole or in part, and a change of occupancy of a building or structure or portion thereof shall not be made, until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy therefor as provided herein. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Certificates presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
Exception: Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits in accordance with Section 105.2.
[A] 111.2 Certificate issued. After the building official inspects the building or structure and does not find violations of the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by the department, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy that contains the following:
The permit number.
The address of the structure.
The name and address of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.
A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.
A statement that the described portion of the structure has been inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code.
The name of the building official.
The edition of the code under which the permit was issued.
The use and occupancy, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 3.
The type of construction as defined in Chapter 6.
The design occupant load.
Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided, whether the sprinkler system is required.
Any special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
[A] 111.3 Temporary occupancy. The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The building official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
[A] 111.4 Revocation. The building official is authorized to suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy or completion issued under the provisions of this code, in writing, wherever the certificate is issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or where it is determined that the building or structure or portion thereof is in violation of the provisions of this code or other ordinance of the jurisdiction.
SECTION 112—SERVICE UTILITIES
CMC § 105.2. High relevance — show source text
Exception: Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits in accordance with Section 105.2.
[A] 110.2 Certificate issued. After the code official inspects the structure and does not find violations of the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by the department, the code official shall issue a certificate of occupancy that contains the following:
The permit number.
The address of the structure.
The name and address of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.
A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.
A statement that the described portion of the structure has been inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code for the occupancy and division of occupancy and the use for which the proposed occupancy is classified.
The name of the code official.
The edition of the code under which the permit was issued.
The use and occupancy in accordance with the provisions of the California Building Code .
The type of construction as defined in the California Building Code .
The design occupant load and any impact the alteration has on the design occupant load of the area not within the scope of the work.
Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided, and whether an automatic sprinkler system is required.
Any special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
[A] 110.3 Temporary occupancy. The code official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The code official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
[A] 110.4 Revocation. The code official is authorized to suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy or completion issued under the provisions of this code, in writing, wherever the certificate is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or where it is determined that the building or structure or portion thereof is in violation of the provisions of this code or other ordinance of the jurisdiction.
SECTION 111—SERVICE UTILITIES
[A] 111.1 Connection of service utilities. A person shall not make connections from a utility, source of energy, fuel, power, water system or sewer system to any building or system that is regulated by this code for which a permit is required, until approved by the code official.
[A] 111.2 Temporary connection. The code official shall have the authority to authorize the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility, source of energy, fuel, power, water system or sewer system for the purpose of testing systems or for use under a temporary approval.
[A] 111.3 Authority to disconnect service utilities. The code official shall have the authority to authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this code and the referenced codes and standards in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property or where such utility connection has been made without the approval required by Section 111.1 or 111.2. The code official shall notify the serving utility and, wherever 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 disconnecting, the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing, as soon as practical thereafter.
SECTION 112—MEANS OF APPEALS
CMC § 110.3.9 High relevance — show source text
[A] 110.3.9 Energy efficiency inspections. Inspections shall be made to determine compliance with Chapter 13 and shall include, but not be limited to, inspections for: envelope insulation R- and U-values, fenestration U-value, duct system R-value, and HVAC and water-heating equipment efficiency.
[A] 110.3.10 Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified in Sections 110.3.1 through 110.3.9, the building 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.
[A] 110.3.11 Special inspections. For special inspections, see Chapter 17.
[A] 110.3.12 Final inspection. The final inspection shall be made after all work required by the building permit is completed.
[A] 110.3.12.1 Flood hazard documentation. If 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 Section 1612.4 shall be submitted to the building official prior to the final inspection.
110.3.12.2 [HCD 1] Operation and maintenance manual. At the time of final inspection, a manual, compact disc, web-based reference or other media acceptable to the enforcing agency shall be placed in the building in accordance with the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), Chapter 4, Division 4.4.
[A] 110.4 Inspection agencies. The building official is authorized to accept reports of approved inspection agencies, provided that such agencies satisfy the requirements as to qualifications and reliability.
[A] 110.5 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the holder of the building permit or their duly authorized agent to notify the building official when work is ready for inspection. It shall be the duty of the permit holder to provide access to and means for inspections of such work that are required by this code.
[A] 110.6 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the building official. The building official, upon notification, shall make the requested inspections and shall either indicate the portion of the construction that is satisfactory as completed, or notify the permit holder or the permit holder’s agent 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 building official.
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SECTION 111—CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
[A] 111.1 Change of occupancy. A building or structure shall not be used or occupied in whole or in part, and a change of occupancy of a building or structure or portion thereof shall not be made, until the building official has issued a certificate of occupancy therefor as provided herein. Issuance of a certificate of occupancy shall not be construed as an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Certificates presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
Exception: Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits in accordance with Section 105.2.
CMC § 111.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 111.2 Certificate issued. After the building official inspects the building or structure and does not find violations of the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by the department, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy that contains the following:
The permit number.
The address of the structure.
The name and address of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.
A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.
A statement that the described portion of the structure has been inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code.
The name of the building official.
The edition of the code under which the permit was issued.
The use and occupancy, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 3.
The type of construction as defined in Chapter 6.
The design occupant load.
Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided, whether the sprinkler system is required.
Any special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
[A] 111.3 Temporary occupancy. The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The building official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
[A] 111.4 Revocation. The building official is authorized to suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy or completion issued under the provisions of this code, in writing, wherever the certificate is issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or where it is determined that the building or structure or portion thereof is in violation of the provisions of this code or other ordinance of the jurisdiction.
SECTION 112—SERVICE UTILITIES
[A] 112.1 Connection of service utilities. A person shall not make connections from a utility, a source of energy, fuel, or power, or a water system or sewer system to any building or system that is regulated by this code for which a permit is required, until approved by the building official.
[A] 112.2 Temporary connection. The building official shall have the authority to authorize the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility, the source of energy, fuel, or power, or the water system or sewer system for the purpose of testing systems or for use under a temporary approval.
[A] 112.3 Authority to disconnect service utilities. The building official shall have the authority to authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this code and the referenced codes and standards in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property or where such utility connection has been made without the approval required by Section 112.1 or 112.2. The building official shall notify the serving utility, and wherever possible the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnecting, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent or occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing, as soon as practical thereafter.
SECTION 113—MEANS OF APPEALS
California Mechanical Code High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
- Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits under Section R105.2.
- Accessory buildings or structures.
R110.2 Certificate issued. After the building official inspects the building or structure and does not find violations of the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by the department, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy containing the following:
The permit number.
The address of the structure.
The name and address of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.
A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.
A statement that the described portion of the structure has been inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code.
The name of the building official.
The edition of the code under which the permit was issued.
Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided and whether the sprinkler system is required.
Any special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
R110.3 Temporary occupancy. The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The building official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
R110.4 Revocation. The building official is authorized to suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy issued under the provisions of this code, in writing, wherever the certificate is issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or where it is determined that the building or structure or portion thereof is in violation of the provisions of this code or other ordinance of the jurisdiction.
SECTION R111—SERVICE UTILITIES
R111.1 Connection of service utilities. A person shall not make connections from a utility, a source of energy, fuel or power, or water system or sewer system to any building or system that is regulated by this code for which a permit is required, until approved by the building official.
R111.2 Temporary connection. The building official shall have the authority to authorize the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility, source of energy, fuel or power, water system or sewer system for the purpose of testing systems for use under a temporary approval.
R111.3 Authority to disconnect service utilities. The building official shall have the authority to authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this code and the referenced codes and standards in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property or where such utility connection has been made without the approval required by Section R111.1 or R111.2. The building official shall notify the serving utility and where possible the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and 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 occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.
SECTION R112—MEANS OF APPEALS
R112.1 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.
CMC § 1-12 Medium relevance — show source text
1.9 Division of the State Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-12
1.10 Department of Health Care Access and Information/Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13
1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
1.12 State Librarian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
1.13 Department of Water Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
1.14 California State Lands Commission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
DIVISION II – SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
PART 1—SCOPE AND APPLICATION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
101 Scope and General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
104 Duties and Powers of Code Official. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26
107 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems. . . . . . . 1-28
108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
109 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
110 Certificate of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
112 Means of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
CMC § 1.11.5.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1.11.5.1 Existing Group I-1 or R occupancies. Licensed 24-hour care in a Group I-1 or R occupancy in existence and originally classi- fied under previously adopted state codes shall be reinspected under the appropriate previous code, provided there is no change in the use or character that would place the facility in a different occupancy group.
1.11.6 Certificate of Occupancy. A Certificate of Occupancy shall be issued as specified in Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code, Section 111.
Exception: Certificates of Occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits in accordance with Section 105.2 of the Califor- nia Building Code.
1.11.7 Temporary structures and uses. See Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code, Section 108.
1.11.8 Service utilities. See Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code, Section 112.
1.11.9 Stop work order. See Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code, Section 115, and Title 24, Part 9, California Fire Code, Section 113.
1.11.10 Unsafe buildings, structures and equipment. See Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code, Section 116, and Title 24, Part 9, California Fire Code, Section 114.
1.11.11 Adopting agency identification. The provisions of this code applicable to buildings identified in Section 1.11 will be identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables under the acronym SFM.
[California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1, §1.03] Scope. (a) California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall govern the use and maintenance of any building or struc- ture used or intended for use as an asylum, jail, mental hospital, hospital, sanitarium, home for aged, children’s home or institution, school or any similar occupancy of any capacity; and any theater, dance hall, skating rink, auditorium, assembly hall, meeting hall, night club, fair building or similar place of assemblage where 50 or more persons may gather together in a building, room or structure for the purpose of amusement, entertainment, instruction, deliberation, worship, drinking or
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 1-9
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ADMINISTRATION
dining, awaiting transportation or education, and in any building or structure which is open to the public and is used or intended to be used for the showing of motion pictures when an admission fee is charged and when such building or structure has a capacity of 10 or more persons, and shall apply to both new and existing occupancies.
Exceptions: (1) Buildings controlled by the Federal Government, provided they are not subject to the provisions of Section 15452, Education Code.
(2) Homes and institutions and day-care facilities that provide nonmedical board, room, and care for six or fewer ambulatory children.
California Code of Regulations, Title 19, Division 1 regulations shall also apply to any building housing any occupancy when _such building is used as an auxiliary or accessory structure to any of the occupancies specified herein.
CMC § 1001.1 Medium relevance — show source text
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
10 CHANGE OF OCCUPANCY
User notes:
About this chapter : The purpose of this chapter is to provide regulations for the circumstances where an existing building is subject to a change of occupancy or a change of occupancy classification. A change of occupancy is not to be confused with a change of occupancy classification. The California Building Code defines different occupancy classifications in Chapter 3 and special occupancy requirements in Chapter 4. Within specific occupancy classifications there can be many different types of actual activities that can take place. For instance, a Group A-3 occupancy classification deals with a wide variation of different types of activities, including bowling alleys and courtrooms, indoor tennis courts and dance halls. When a facility changes use from, for example, a bowling alley to a dance hall, the occupancy classification remains A-3, but the different uses could lead to drastically different code requirements. Therefore, this chapter deals with the special circumstances that are associated with a change in the use of a building within the same occupancy classification as well as a change of occupancy classification.
SECTION 1001—GENERAL
1001.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shalle a change of occupancy occurs, as defined in Section 202.
1001.2 Certificate of occupancy. A change of occupancy or a change of occupancy within a space where there is a different fire protection system threshold requirement in Chapter 9 of th apply where current California Building Code than exists in the current building or space shall not be made to any structure without the approval of the code official. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued where it has been determined that the requirements for the change of occupancy have been met.
1001.2.1 Change of use. Any work undertaken in connection with a change in use shall conform to the applicable requirements for the work as classified in Chapter 6 and to the requirements of Sections 1002 through 1010.
1001.2.2 Change of occupancy classification. Where a building undergoes a change of occupancy classification, the provisions of Sections 1002 through 1011 shall apply.
1001.2.2.1 Partial change of occupancy. Where a portion of an existing building undergoes a change of occupancy classification, Section 1011 shall apply.
1001.3 Certificate of occupancy required. A certificate of occupancy shall be issued where a change of occupancy occurs that results in a different occupancy classification as determined by the California Building Code .
SECTION 1002—SPECIAL USE AND OCCUPANCY
1002.1 Compliance with the building code. Where an existing building or part of an existing building undergoes a change of occupancy to one of the special use or occupancy categories as described in Chapter 4 in the California Building Code, the building shall comply with all of the requirements of Chapter 4 of the California Building Code applicable to the special use or occupancy.
1002.2 Incidental uses. Where a portion of a building undergoes a change of occupancy to one of the incidental uses listed in Table 509.1 of the California Building Code, the incidental use shall comply with Section 509 of the California Building Code applicable to the incidental use.
SECTION 1003—BUILDING ELEMENTS AND MATERIALS
1003.1 General. Building elements and materials in portions of buildings undergoing a change of occupancy classification shall comply with Section 1011.
SECTION 1004—FIRE PROTECTION
CMC § 1-4 Medium relevance — show source text
1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1.12 Board of Forestry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
PART 1—GENERAL PROVISIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
101 Scope and General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
104 Duties and Powers of the Code Official . . . . . . . . . 1-17
105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
107 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems . . . . . . 1-21
108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
109 Inspection and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
110 Certificate of Completion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
112 Means of Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
113 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
CHAPTER 3 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREAS . . . . 3-3
CMC § 1-22 Medium relevance — show source text
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
104 Duties and Powers of Code Official. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26
107 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems. . . . . . . 1-28
108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
109 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28
110 Certificate of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
112 Means of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-30
113 Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
114 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
115 Unsafe Structures and Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
116 Emergency Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32
117 Demolition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-32
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
202 General Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
CHAPTER 3 PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE
METHODS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3
301 Administration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
CMC § 801.0 Medium relevance — show source text
I certify that the information provided on this form substantiates that the construction/installation identified on this form complies with the acceptance requirements indicated in the plans and specifications approved by the enforcement agency, and conforms to the applicable acceptance requirements and procedures specified in Section E 801.0 through Section E 806.0.
I have confirmed that the Installation Certificate(s) for the construction/installation identified on this form has been completed and is posted or made available with the permit(s) issued for the building.
I will ensure that a completed, signed copy of this Certificate of Acceptance shall be posted, or made available with the building permit(s) issued for the building, and made available to the enforcement agency for all applicable inspections. I understand that a signed copy of this Certificate of Acceptance is required to be included with the documentation the builder
provides to the building owner at occupancy. Col2 Col3 Col4
Company Name:
Company Name:
Company Name:Phone:
Responsible Person’s Name:
Responsible Person’s Name:Responsible Person’s Signature: Responsible Person’s Signature: License: Date Signed: Position With Company (Title): Position With Company (Title): 522 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
APPENDIX E
CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE MECH-13A Col2
Automatic Fault Detection and Diagnostics (FDD) for Packaged Direct-Expansion Units and Zone
(Page 2 of 4)
Terminal Units Acceptance
Automatic Fault Detection and Diagnostics (FDD) for Packaged Direct-Expansion Units and Zone
(Page 2 of 4)
Terminal Units Acceptance
Project Name/Address:
Project Name/Address:System Name or Identification/Tag: System Location or Area Served: Intent: Verify that the system detects common faults in air handling units and zone terminal units.
Construction Inspection
- Instrumentation to perform test includes, but not limited to: a. No instrumentation is required – changes are implemented at the building automation system control station.
- Installation.
a. The functional testing verifies proper installation of the controls for FDD for air handling units and zone terminal units. No additional installation checks are required.
|A.
CMC § 1-24 Medium relevance — show source text
102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
Part 2—Administration and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
104 Duties and Powers of Building Official. . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27
106 Floor and Roof Design Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
107 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29
108 Temporary Structures, Equipment and Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
109 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
110 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-31
111 Certificate of Occupancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
112 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
113 Means of Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-33
114 Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-34
115 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-34
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1
201 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-11
CHAPTER 3 OCCUPANCY CLASSIFICATION AND USE . . . . .3-1
301 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
302 Occupancy Classification and Use Designation . . . . 3-3
Frequently asked questions
Who issues the Certificate of Occupancy or Completion?
The local code official or building official issues the certificate after final inspections show the project complies with the codes. § 110.1.
If my HVAC system has a CMC Certificate of Acceptance, can I occupy?
No — the CMC Certificate(s) of Acceptance document mechanical system acceptance and must be included in occupancy documents, but the building official still must issue the Certificate of Occupancy/Completion for the space. See CMC Appendix E and § 110.1.
Can I get a temporary Certificate of Occupancy while other work remains?
Yes. The code official may issue a temporary certificate for portions that can be occupied safely and will set the valid time period and conditions. § 110.3.
Are small accessory buildings required to have a Certificate of Occupancy?
Accessory structures are commonly listed in exceptions; check the local adoption and the exceptions in § 110 (permit exemption references).
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