CMC · California Mechanical Code
What are inspection responsibilities and required inspections?
The California Mechanical Code requires the permit holder to schedule inspections and keep mechanical work exposed until the Authority Having Jurisdiction inspects and approves it. The CMC’s inspection minimums are **underground**, **rough‑in**, and **final**; the AHJ may require other inspections or special inspections per the Building Code. Key rules and scheduling are in **§105** of the CMC.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Mechanical Code places responsibility on the Authority Having Jurisdiction to inspect mechanical work and on the permittee (or their agent) to schedule inspections, provide access and keep work exposed until approved. No mechanical system or portion thereof may be concealed or put into use until inspected and approved by the AHJ. See §105.1 and §105.2 of the CMC for these rules.
The single most important rule: no mechanical work may be covered or put into use until the AHJ inspects and approves it. §105.1.
Requirements in detail
Who does what (short)
- The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) performs the inspections required by the CMC. §105.1.
- The permittee (or the permittee’s authorized agent) is responsible for scheduling inspections and providing safe access to the work. §105.2.3.
- The permit applicant must keep the work visible and accessible until it is approved; the jurisdiction is not liable for removal/replacement costs if concealment prevents inspection. §105.1.
Required inspection types (CMC)
The CMC specifically lists the inspections the AHJ “shall make” for mechanical work; the typical, minimum inspections are:
| Decision factor | What the inspector checks | When to schedule | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Underground inspection | Piping bedding, installed piping prior to backfill | After trenches/ditches excavated and piping installed, before backfill | §105.2(1) |
| Rough‑in inspection | Ducts, concealed piping, equipment to be covered by walls/ceilings | Prior to installation of wall or ceiling membranes | §105.2(2) |
| Final inspection | Completed installation; readiness for operation and code compliance | Upon completion of installation, before occupancy/use | §105.2(3) |
| Uncovering (to expose concealed work) | Verify work that was covered before inspection | After AHJ issues notice to uncover; special rules for replacement equipment operation | §105.2.1 |
| Other inspections | Any additional inspections the AHJ deems necessary to ensure code compliance | As directed by the AHJ | §105.2.2 |
Notes:
- The AHJ may require a minimum advance notice for inspection requests (often not less than 1 working day) and may allow requests by phone or in writing. See §105.2.3.
- The CMC also prohibits connecting mechanical systems to fuel/energy supply until authorized by the AHJ. §105.1.
Special-inspection and code cross-reference
- Some projects require special inspections beyond the AHJ’s routine inspections (for seismic/wind, fabricator shop work, etc.). Those special-inspection requirements come from the California Building Code (CBC), Chapter 17 (for example, Sections 1704 and 1705) and are coordinated with mechanical work where applicable. See CBC §1704 and §1705.
- Existing building and other California codes use similar inspection frameworks; where an existing‑building provision is relevant, see Existing Building Code §109 for the broader inspection authority and list.
Exceptions & special cases
- Replacement of existing equipment: the CMC permits operation of replacement mechanical equipment serving an occupied portion of a building before full final inspection only if an inspection request was filed with the AHJ within 72 hours after the replacement work is completed and before concealment by permanent building elements—see §105.2.1 for the operative condition.
- The AHJ may require additional or different inspection scheduling mechanisms (electronic request windows, minimum lead time, etc.); the code lets the AHJ set those procedural rules (see §105.2.3).
- Projects requiring CBC special inspections: where special inspections are required by the CBC (Chapter 17), those are in addition to the CMC inspections and must be coordinated with the AHJ and the owner’s approved agencies. See CBC §1704.
Common mistakes
- Scheduling inspections too late (or not at all): the permittee must notify the AHJ that work is ready—failure to do so delays approval. §105.2.3.
- Concealing work before inspection: covering underground piping, rough‑in ducts or fire/smoke penetrations before inspection can force uncovering at the permittee’s expense; the jurisdiction is not liable for removal/replacement costs. §105.1 and §105.2.1.
- Connecting fuel/energy prematurely: do not connect mechanical systems to fuel lines until the AHJ authorizes it. §105.1.
- Assuming AHJ will accept verbal or informal requests: while the AHJ is permitted to accept phone requests, many jurisdictions require a minimum advance notice and specific request methods—check local AHJ rules per §105.2.3.
Worked example — step‑by‑step scenario with numbers
Scenario: A contractor installs a new gas-fired furnace with associated underground gas piping and new ductwork in a single‑family house.
- Obtain mechanical permit. (Precondition.) — AHJ inspects per CMC. §105.1.
- Underground gas piping: trench is excavated and piping bedded and installed. Contractor schedules underground inspection and calls the AHJ before backfill (the code requires inspection before backfill). §105.2(1).
- After gas piping and duct rough‑ins are complete but before wall/ceiling membranes are installed, contractor schedules the rough‑in inspection. AHJ inspects concealed piping/ducts and approves or lists corrections. §105.2(2).
- Contractor corrects any deficiencies and schedules the final inspection after all work is complete and appliances are set, but before the system is put into regular use (or before AHJ authorizes fuel connection). §105.2(3) and §105.1.
- Timing constraints to remember: the AHJ may require at least 1 working day notice for inspection requests and may accept phone or written requests per local procedure. §105.2.3.
If the contractor covered the piping before inspection, the AHJ may issue a notice to uncover; the contractor must expose the work for inspection (see §105.2.1).
Related provisions
- California Mechanical Code — §105.1 (General inspection authority)
- California Mechanical Code — §105.2 (Required inspections: underground, rough‑in, final)
- California Mechanical Code — §105.2.1 (Uncovering; replacement equipment 72‑hour rule)
- California Mechanical Code — §105.2.2 (Other inspections the AHJ may require)
- California Mechanical Code — §105.2.3 (Inspection request procedures / access)
- California Building Code — §1704 (Special inspections; statements and reports)
- California Building Code — §1705 (When special inspections are required — seismic, wind, fabricated items)
- California Existing Building Code — §109 (Inspection authority and list used in existing‑building context)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Mechanical Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CMC § 108.4 High relevance — show source text
[A] 108.4 Work commencing before permit issuance. Any person who commences any work before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a fee established by the code official that shall be in addition to the required permit fees.
[A] 108.5 Related fees. The payment of the fee for the construction, alteration, removal or demolition of work done in connection to or concurrently with the work authorized by a permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from the payment of other fees that are prescribed by law.
[A] 108.6 Refunds. The code official is authorized to establish a refund policy.
SECTION 109—INSPECTIONS
[A] 109.1 General. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the code official, and such construction or work shall remain visible and able to be accessed for inspection purposes until approved. Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid. It shall be the duty of the permit applicant to cause the work to remain visible and able to be accessed for inspection purposes. Neither the code official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any material required to allow inspection.
[A] 109.2 Preliminary inspection. Before issuing a permit, the code official is authorized to examine or cause to be examined buildings and sites for which an application has been filed.
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[A] 109.3 Required inspections. The code official, on notification, shall make the inspections set forth in Sections 109.3.1 through 109.3.11.
[A] 109.3.1 Footing or foundation inspection. Footing and foundation inspections shall be made after excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place. For concrete foundations, any required forms shall be in place prior to inspection. Materials for the foundation shall be on the job, except where concrete is ready-mixed in accordance with ASTM C94, the concrete need not be on the job.
[A] 109.3.2 Concrete slab or under-floor inspection. Concrete slab and under-floor inspections shall be made after in-slab or under-floor reinforcing steel and building service equipment, conduit, piping accessories and other ancillary equipment items are in place but before any concrete is placed or floor sheathing installed, including the subfloor.
[A] 109.3.3 Lowest floor elevation. For additions and substantial improvements to existing buildings in flood hazard areas, on placement of the lowest floor, including basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the elevation documentation required in the California Building Code, or the California Residential Code, as applicable, shall be submitted to the code official.
[A] 109.3.4 Frame inspection. Framing inspections shall be made after the roof deck or sheathing, framing, fire blocking and bracing are in place and pipes, chimneys and vents to be concealed are complete and the rough electrical, plumbing, heating wires, pipes and ducts are approved.
CMC § 105.0 High relevance — show source text
(2) Refunding of not more than a percentage, as determined by this jurisdiction where no work has been done under a permit issued in accordance with this code.
The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall not authorize refunding of a fee paid except upon written application filed by the original permittee not to exceed 180 days after the date of fee payment.
105.0 Inspections and Testing. 105.1 General. Mechanical systems for which a permit is required by this code shall be inspected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
No mechanical system or portion thereof shall be covered, concealed, or put into use until inspected and approved as prescribed in this code. Neither the Authority Having Jurisdiction nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of material required to permit inspection. Mechanical systems regulated by this code shall not be connected to the energy fuel supply lines until authorized by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
105.2 Required Inspections. New mechanical system work and such portions of existing systems as affected by new work, or changes, shall be inspected by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to ensure compliance with the requirements of this code and to ensure that the installation and construction of the mechanical system are in accordance with approved plans. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall make the following inspections and other such inspections as necessary. The permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent shall be responsible for the scheduling of such inspections as follows:
(1) Underground inspection shall be made after trenches or ditches are excavated and bedded, piping installed, and before backfill is put in place.
(2) Rough-in inspection shall be made prior to the installation of wall or ceiling membranes.
(3) Final inspection shall be made upon completion of the installation.
105.2.1 Uncovering. Where a mechanical system, or part thereof, which is installed, altered, or repaired, is covered or concealed before being inspected, tested, and approved as prescribed in this code, it shall be uncovered for inspection after notice to uncover the work has been issued to the responsible person by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The requirements of this section shall not be considered to prohibit the operation of mechanical systems installed to replace existing equipment serving
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
an occupied portion of the building in the event a request for inspection of such equipment has been filed with the Authority Having Jurisdiction not more than 72 hours after such replacement work is completed, and before a portion of such mechanical system is concealed by a permanent portion of the building. 105.2.2 Other Inspections. In addition to the inspections required by this code, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require other inspections to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that are enforced by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
105.2.3 Inspection Requests. It shall be the duty of the person doing the work authorized by a permit to notify the Authority Having Jurisdiction that such work is ready for inspection. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require that a request for inspection be filed not less than 1 working day before such inspection is desired. Such request shall be permitted to be made in writing or by telephone, at the option of the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
It shall be the duty of the person requesting inspections in accordance with this code to provide access to and means for inspection of such work.
CMC § 2.5 High relevance — show source text
All reports shall describe the nature and extent of inspections and tests, the location where the inspections and tests were performed, and indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents . Discrepancies shall be brought to the immediate attention of the contractor for correction. If they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and tests, and correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections or tests, shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon prior to the start of work by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official.
1704 A .2.5 Special inspection of fabricated items. Where fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies is being conducted on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspections of the fabricated items shall be performed during fabrication.
1704 A .2.5.1 Fabricator approval. Not permitted by DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC or OSHPD.
1704 A .3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspections or tests are required by Section 1705 A, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.1 for submittal by the applicant in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.3.
Exception: The statement of special inspections is permitted to be prepared by a qualified person approved by the building official for construction not designed by a registered design professional.
[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The exception is not permitted by DSA.
1704 A .3.1 Content of statement of special inspections. The statement of special inspections shall identify the following:
The materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspections or tests by the building official or by the registered design professional responsible for each portion of the work.
The type and extent of each special inspection.
The type and extent of each test.
Additional requirements for special inspections or tests for seismic or wind resistance as specified in Sections 1705 A .12, 1705 A .13 and 1705 A .14.
For each type of special inspection, identification as to whether it will be continuous special inspection, periodic special inspection or performed in accordance with the notation used in the referenced standard where the inspections are defined.
Deferred submittal items that require a supplemental statement of special inspections.
1704 A .3.2 Seismic requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .13 or 1705 A .14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the equipment/components that require special seismic certification and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspections or tests.
1704 A .3.3 Wind requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .12 specifies special inspection for wind resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the main windforce-resisting systems and wind-resisting components that are subject to special inspections.
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CMC § 1.5 High relevance — show source text
R109.1.5 Other inspections. In addition to inspections in Sections R109.1.1 through R109.1.4.2, the building official shall have the authority to make or require any other inspections to ascertain compliance with this code and other laws enforced by the building official.
R109.1.5.1 Fire-resistance-rated construction inspection. Where fire-resistance-rated construction is required between dwelling units or due to location on property, the building official shall require an inspection of such construction after lathing or gypsum panel products are in place, but before any plaster is applied, or before panel joints and fasteners are taped and finished. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated assemblies shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved.
R109.1.5.2 Special inspections. For special inspections, see California Building Code, Chapter 17.
R109.1.5.3 Weather-exposed balcony and walking surface waterproofing. Where balconies or other elevated walking surfaces are exposed to water from direct or blowing rain, snow or irrigation, and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system shall not be concealed until inspected and approved.
Exception: Where special inspections are provided in accordance with California Building Code Section 1705.1.1, Item 3.
R109.1.6 Final inspection. Final inspection shall be made after the permitted work is complete and prior to occupancy.
R109.1.6.1 Elevation documentation. If located in a flood hazard area, the documentation of elevations required in Section R306.1.10 shall be submitted to the building official prior to the final inspection.
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
CMC § 109.3.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 109.3.5 Lath or gypsum panel product inspection. Lath and gypsum panel inspections shall be made after lathing and gypsum panel products, interior and exterior, are in place but before any plastering is applied or before gypsum panel product joints and fasteners are taped and finished.
Exception: Gypsum panels that are not part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly or a shear assembly.
[A] 109.3.6 Weather-exposed balcony and walking surface waterproofing. Where the scope of work involves balconies or other elevated walking surfaces that have weather-exposed surfaces and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system shall not be concealed until inspected and approved.
Exception: [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Where special inspections are provided in accordance with Section 1705A.1.1, Item 3 or Section 1705.1.1, Item 3, as applicable, of the California Building Code .
109.3.6.1 Weather-exposed balcony and walking surface (exterior elevated element) inspections for multifamily buildings with three or more dwelling units. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Weather-exposed balconies and walking surfaces extending beyond the exterior walls of a building, more than 6 feet (1828.8 mm) above ground level, and that rely on wood or wood-based products for structural support or stability shall be inspected. Inspections shall be conducted in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17973(a) through (f) and (m). Weather-exposed balconies and walking surfaces found to be in need of repair or replace- ment shall be corrected in accordance with Section 17973(g) through (i). Continued and ongoing maintenance of weather-exposed balconies and walking surfaces shall be the responsibility of the building owner in accordance with Section 17973(k). See defini- tion of “exterior elevated element” in Health and Safety Code Section 17973(b)(2) for additional details. See Civil Code Section 5551 for inspections of condominium projects.
[A] 109.3.7 Fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated assemblies, smoke barriers and smoke partitions shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved.
[A] 109.3.8 Other inspections. In addition to the inspections specified in Sections 109.2 through 109.3.7, the code official is authorized to make or require other inspections of any construction work to ascertain compliance with the provisions of this code and other laws that are enforced by the department of building safety.
Note: All noncompliant plumbing fixtures in any residential real property shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. Plumbing fixture replacement is required prior to issuance of a certificate of final completion, certificate of occupancy or final permit approval by the local building department. See Civil Code Section 1101.1, et seq., for the definition of a noncompliant plumbing fixture, types of residential buildings affected and other important enactment dates.
[A] 109.3.9 Special inspections. Special inspections shall be required in accordance with the California Building Code .
CMC § 108.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 108.2 Schedule of permit fees. Where a permit is required, a fee for each permit shall be paid as required, in accordance with the schedule as established by the applicable governing authority.
108.3 Permit valuations. The applicant for a permit shall provide an estimated value of the work for which the permit is being issued at the time of application. Such estimated valuations shall include the total value of work, including materials and labor, for which the permit is being issued, such as electrical, gas, mechanical, plumbing equipment and permanent systems. Where, in the opinion of the fire code official, the valuation is underestimated, the permit shall be denied unless the applicant can show detailed estimates acceptable to the fire code official. The fire code official shall have the authority to adjust the final valuation for permit fees.
[A] 108.4 Work commencing before permit issuance. A person who commences any work, activity or operation regulated by this code before obtaining the necessary permits shall be subject to a fee established by the applicable governing authority, which shall be in addition to the required permit fees.
[A] 108.5 Related fees. The payment of the fee for the construction, alteration, removal or demolition of work done in connection to or concurrently with the work or activity authorized by a permit shall not relieve the applicant or holder of the permit from the payment of other fees that are prescribed by law.
[A] 108.6 Refunds. The applicable governing authority is authorized to establish a refund policy.
SECTION 109—INSPECTIONS
[A] 109.1 Inspection authority. The fire code official is authorized to enter and examine any building, structure, marine vessel, vehicle or premises in accordance with Section 104.4 for the purpose of enforcing this code.
[A] 109.2 Inspections. The fire code official is authorized to conduct such inspections as are deemed necessary to determine the extent of compliance with the provisions of this code and to approve reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. Reports of such inspections shall be prepared and submitted in writing for review and approval. Inspection reports shall be certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The fire code official is authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report on unusual, detailed or complex technical issues subject to the approval of the governing body.
[A] 109.2.1 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the holder of the permit or their duly authorized agent to notify the fire code 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] 109.2.2 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the fire code official. The fire code official, on 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 his or her 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 fire code official.
CMC § 1704A.2.4. High relevance — show source text
If they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and tests, and correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections or tests, shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon prior to the start of work by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Report requirement shall be per 1704A.2.4.
1704.2.5 Special inspection of fabricated items. Where fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies is being conducted on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspections of the fabricated items shall be performed during fabrication, except where the fabricator has been approved to perform work without special inspections in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.1.
1704.2.5.1 Fabricator approval. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD. Special inspections during fabrication are not required where the work is done on the premises of a fabricator approved to perform such work without special inspection. Approval shall be based on review of the fabricator’s written fabrication procedures and quality control manuals that provide a basis for control of materials and workmanship, with periodic auditing of fabrication and quality control practices by an approved agency or the building official. At completion of fabrication, the approved fabricator shall submit a certificate of compliance to the owner or the owner’s authorized agent for submittal to the building official as specified in Section 1704.5 stating that the work was performed in accordance with the approved construction documents.
1704.3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspections or tests are required by Section 1705, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704.3.1 for submittal by the applicant in accordance with Section 1704.2.3.
Exception: The statement of special inspections is permitted to be prepared by a qualified person approved by the building official for construction not designed by a registered design professional.
1704.3.1 Content of statement of special inspections. The statement of special inspections shall identify the following:
The materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspections or tests by the building official or by the registered design professional responsible for each portion of the work.
The type and extent of each special inspection.
The type and extent of each test.
Additional requirements for special inspections or tests for seismic or wind resistance as specified in Sections 1705.12, 1705.13 and 1705.14.
For each type of special inspection, identification as to whether it will be continuous special inspection, periodic special inspection or performed in accordance with the notation used in the referenced standard where the inspections are defined.
Deferred submittal items that require a supplemental statement of special inspections.
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CMC § 2.2 High relevance — show source text
Certification as a Level IV Bridge Inspector by the National Institute of Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) shall also be acceptable [2.2].
For underwater inspections, the registered civil or structural engineer directing the underwater structural inspection shall also be a commercially trained diver or equivalent and shall actively participate in the inspection, by personally conducting a mini- mum of 25 percent of the underwater examination [2.2].
Each underwater team member shall also be a commercially trained diver, or equivalent. Divers performing manual tasks such as cleaning or supporting the diving operation, but not conducting or reporting on inspections, may have lesser technical qualifi- cations [2.2].
3102F.3.4.4 Structural analyst. A California registered civil or structural engineer shall be in responsible charge of the structural evaluations.
3102F.3.4.5 Electrical inspection team. A registered electrical engineer shall direct the on-site team performing the inspection and evaluation of electrical components and systems.
3102F.3.4.6 Mechanical inspection team. A registered engineer shall direct the on-site team performing the inspection and eval- uation of piping/pipeline, mechanical and fire components and systems, except the Fire Protection Assessment in accordance with Section 3108F.2.2.
3102F.3.4.7 Corrosion specialist. The corrosion specialist shall be a chemical engineer, corrosion engineer, chemist or other professional with expertise in the types and causes of corrosion, and available means to prevent, monitor and mitigate associated damage. The specialist shall perform the corrosion assessment (Section 3102F.3.6.5) and may be directly involved in corrosion inspection (Section 3102F.3.5.4).
3102F.3.4.8 Geotechnical analyst. A California registered civil engineer with a California authorization as a geotechnical engi- neer shall perform the geotechnical evaluation required for the audit and all other geotechnical evaluations.
3102F.3.4.9 Division representation. The Division representative(s) may participate in any audit or inspection as observer(s). The Division shall be notified in advance of audit-related inspections.
3102F.3.5 Scope of inspections.
3102F.3.5.1 Structural inspections.
3102F.3.5.1.1 Above water structural inspection. The above water inspection shall include all accessible components above and below deck that are reachable without the need for excavation or extensive removal of materials that may impair visual inspection. The above water inspection shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
1. Piles
2. Pile caps
3. Beams
4. Deck soffit
5. Bracing 6. Retaining walls and bulkheads
7. Connections
8. Seawalls
9. Slope protection 10. Deck topsides and curbing 11. Expansion joints 12. Fender system components 13. Dolphins and deadmen 14. Mooring points and hardware 15. Navigation aids 16. Platforms, ladders, stairs, handrails and gangways 17. Backfill (sinkholes/differential settlement)
CMC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text
[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The exception is not permitted by DSA.
1704 A .3.1 Content of statement of special inspections. The statement of special inspections shall identify the following:
The materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspections or tests by the building official or by the registered design professional responsible for each portion of the work.
The type and extent of each special inspection.
The type and extent of each test.
Additional requirements for special inspections or tests for seismic or wind resistance as specified in Sections 1705 A .12, 1705 A .13 and 1705 A .14.
For each type of special inspection, identification as to whether it will be continuous special inspection, periodic special inspection or performed in accordance with the notation used in the referenced standard where the inspections are defined.
Deferred submittal items that require a supplemental statement of special inspections.
1704 A .3.2 Seismic requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .13 or 1705 A .14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the equipment/components that require special seismic certification and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspections or tests.
1704 A .3.3 Wind requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .12 specifies special inspection for wind resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the main windforce-resisting systems and wind-resisting components that are subject to special inspections.
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
1704 A .4 Contractor responsibility. Each contractor responsible for the construction of a main wind- or seismic force-resisting system, installation of equipment/components requiring special seismic certification or a wind- or seismic force-resisting component listed in the statement of special inspections shall submit a written statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner or the owner’s authorized agent prior to the commencement of work on the system or component. The contractor’s statement of responsibility shall contain acknowledgement of awareness of the special requirements contained in the statement of special inspections. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The contractor’s statement is required only when specified on the approved construction documents.
1704 A .5 Submittals to the building official. In addition to the submittal of reports of special inspections and tests in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.4, reports and certificates shall be submitted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official for each of the following:
Reserved.
Reserved.
Certificates of compliance for equipment/components requiring special seismic certification in accordance with Section 1705 A .14.3.
Reports of preconstruction tests for shotcrete in accordance with ACI 318 and Section 1705A.3.9.2.
Certificates of compliance for open web steel joists and joist girders in accordance with Section 2207 A. 5.
CMC § 108.6 High relevance — show source text
[A] 108.6 Refunds. The applicable governing authority is authorized to establish a refund policy.
SECTION 109—INSPECTIONS
[A] 109.1 Inspection authority. The fire code official is authorized to enter and examine any building, structure, marine vessel, vehicle or premises in accordance with Section 104.4 for the purpose of enforcing this code.
[A] 109.2 Inspections. The fire code official is authorized to conduct such inspections as are deemed necessary to determine the extent of compliance with the provisions of this code and to approve reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. Reports of such inspections shall be prepared and submitted in writing for review and approval. Inspection reports shall be certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The fire code official is authorized to engage such expert opinion as deemed necessary to report on unusual, detailed or complex technical issues subject to the approval of the governing body.
[A] 109.2.1 Inspection requests. It shall be the duty of the holder of the permit or their duly authorized agent to notify the fire code 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] 109.2.2 Approval required. Work shall not be done beyond the point indicated in each successive inspection without first obtaining the approval of the fire code official. The fire code official, on 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 his or her 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 fire code official.
[A] 109.3 Concealed work. It shall be the duty of the permit applicant to cause the work to remain visible and able to be accessed for inspection purposes. Where any installation subject to inspection prior to use is covered or concealed without having first been inspected, the fire code official shall have the authority to require that such work be made visible and able to be accessed for inspection. Neither the fire code official nor the jurisdiction shall be liable for expense entailed in the removal or replacement of any material required to allow inspection.
[A] 109.4 Approvals. Approval as the result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel provisions of this code or of other ordinances of the jurisdiction shall not be valid.
SECTION 110—MAINTENANCE
[A] 110.1 Maintenance of safeguards. Where any device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement, level of protection, or any other feature is required for compliance with the provisions of this code, or otherwise installed, such device, equipment, system, condition, arrangement, level of protection, or other feature shall thereafter be continuously maintained in accordance with this code and applicable referenced standards.
[A] 110.2 Testing and operation. Equipment requiring periodic testing or operation to ensure maintenance shall be tested or operated as specified in this code.
[A] 110.2.1 Reinspection and testing. Where any work or installation does not pass an initial test or inspection, the necessary corrections shall be made so as to achieve compliance with this code. The work or installation shall then be resubmitted to the fire code official for inspection and testing.
CMC § 7-115 High relevance — show source text
1704 A .1 General. Special inspections and tests, statements of special inspections, responsibilities of contractors, submittals to the building official and structural observations shall meet the applicable requirements of this section.
1704 A .2 Special inspections and tests. Where application is made to the building official for construction as specified in Section 105 the owner shall employ one or more approved agencies to provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work specified in Section 1705 A and identify the approved agencies to the building official. These special inspections and tests are in addition to the inspections by the building official that are identified in Section 110.
[OSHPD 1 & 4] The inspectors shall act under the direction of the architect or structural engineer or both, and be responsible to the Owner. Where the California Administrative Code (CAC) Section 7-115 (a) 2 permits construction documents to be prepared under the
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SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
responsible charge of a mechanical, electrical or civil engineer, inspectors shall be permitted to work under the direction of engineer in appropriate branch as permitted therein.
Exceptions:
- Special inspections and tests are not required for construction of a minor nature or as warranted by conditions in the jurisdiction as approved by the building official.
- [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Reference to Section 105 and Section 110 shall be to the California Administrative Code instead.
1704 A .2.1 Special inspector qualifications. Prior to the start of the construction, the approved agencies shall provide written documentation to the building official demonstrating the competence and relevant experience or training of the special inspectors who will perform the special inspections and tests during construction. Experience or training shall be considered to be relevant where the documented experience or training is related in complexity to the same type of special inspection or testing activities for projects of similar complexity and material qualities. These qualifications are in addition to qualifications specified in other sections of this code.
The registered design professional in responsible charge and engineers of record involved in the design of the project are permitted to act as an approved agency and their personnel are permitted to act as special inspectors for the work designed by them, provided they qualify as special inspectors.
1704 A .2.2 Access for special inspection. The construction or work for which special inspection or testing is required shall remain accessible and exposed for special inspection or testing purposes until completion of the required special inspections or tests.
1704 A .2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections prepared by the regis- tered design professional in general responsible charge in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for construction documents review . This statement shall be in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.
[DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Reference to Section 107.1 shall be to the California Administrative Code instead.
1704 A .2.4 Report requirement. The inspector(s) of record and approved agencies shall keep records of special inspections and tests.
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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ADMINISTRATION
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.
Frequently asked questions
Who must call for mechanical inspections?
The permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent must notify the AHJ that work is ready; the AHJ may require at least one working day’s notice and may specify how to request inspections. §105.2.3.
Can I run a furnace before final approval?
No — mechanical systems must not be connected to energy/fuel supply or put into use until authorized by the AHJ. There is a limited exception for replacement equipment serving an occupied space if an inspection request was filed within 72 hours; see §105.2.1.
What happens if I conceal work before inspection?
If work is concealed before inspection, the AHJ can require it to be uncovered for inspection; the jurisdiction is not responsible for removal/replacement costs. §105.1 and §105.2.1.
Are there inspections beyond underground/rough-in/final?
Yes. The AHJ may require other inspections as necessary, and some projects also need CBC special inspections (Chapter 17) in addition to CMC inspections. §105.2.2 and CBC §1704.
What records or reports are required for special inspections?
Special-inspection reports and test records required by the CBC must be submitted per the statement of special inspections and reporting frequencies outlined in CBC Chapter 17. See CBC §1704.
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