CPC · California Plumbing Code

Plan review time limits and retention of plans

The CPC says cities and counties must keep an official copy of permit plans for most buildings for the life of the building (with four limited exceptions) and points to State law for plan‑review timing; inactive applications generally expire after 180 days (one 180‑day extension allowed).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Plumbing Code requires that plan-checking procedures and limits on excessive delays are governed by State law; this policy statement appears in § 1.8.4.3. The Code also mandates that an enforcing agency’s building department keep an official copy (paper, microfilm, electronic or photographic) of permit plans for the life of the building, subject to limited exceptions; that requirement appears in § 1.8.4.3.1. These are policy-level requirements; specific time limits for application expiration and review-fee rules appear elsewhere in Division II (see Related provisions).

The single most important rule: enforcing agencies must retain an official copy of permit plans for the life of the building unless the building falls within the limited exceptions listed in § 1.8.4.3.1.

Requirements in detail

Overview — plan review time limits (policy)

  • The Code directs that provisions addressing plan checking, the prohibition of excessive delays, and the ability to contract private parties for plan checking are governed by State Housing Law and referenced in § 1.8.4.3. This is a cross-reference to State statutes (e.g., Health and Safety Code) rather than a numeric timetable inside this single CPC section.

Overview — retention of plans (what to keep and how long)

  • The building department of every city, county, or city and county must maintain an official copy of the plans of every building for which it issued a building permit during the life of the building. That is the core retention mandate in § 1.8.4.3.1.
  • The Code permits official copies to be maintained on paper, microfilm, electronic or other photographic media.

Exceptions (who is not required to be retained)

  • § 1.8.4.3.1 lists four specific exceptions where permanent retention by the building department is not required:
    1. Single or multiple dwellings not more than two stories and basement in height.
    2. Garages and other structures appurtenant to buildings in Exception 1.
    3. Farm or ranch buildings appurtenant to buildings in Exception 1.
    4. Any one-story building where the span between bearing walls does not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm), except steel frame or concrete buildings.
  • Important special case: All plans for common interest developments (CIDs) as defined in California Civil Code § 4100 must be retained by the enforcing agency. The CPC text explicitly preserves that requirement.

Format and reproduction

  • The Code allows electronic or photographic formats for the official copy; the CPC also points readers to Health and Safety Code Sections 19850–19852 for additional information about reproduction/retention by enforcing agencies. The CPC itself does not prescribe a single archival file format or retention system — it permits several acceptable formats.

Time limits on inactive applications (practical decision rule)

  • While § 1.8.4.3 gives the policy direction, the plumbing code’s Division II application rules include a concrete time limit: applications for which no permit is issued within 180 days of application expire, and plans thereafter may be returned to the applicant or destroyed; the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) may grant a single extension of up to 180 days on applicant request. See § 104.3.3 for that process.

Decision table (quick reference)

Decision dimension Rule / value When it matters Code Reference
Policy governing plan review delays Plan-checking and prohibition of excessive delays governed by State Housing Law When assessing whether a jurisdiction’s review times or private plan-checking are allowed § 1.8.4.3
Mandatory retention period Retain official copy during the life of the building Long‑term archival of permit plans for buildings not excepted § 1.8.4.3.1
Acceptable media for official copy Paper, microfilm, electronic, or other photographic copy How the AHJ may store retained plans § 1.8.4.3.1
Exception — small dwellings Dwellings ≤ two stories + basement not required to be retained Applies to most typical single-family homes § 1.8.4.3.1
Exception — short-span one-story One-story buildings with span ≤ 25 ft (7620 mm) (unless steel/concrete) Small accessory or one-story structures § 1.8.4.3.1
Application inactivity expiry 180 days; single extension of up to 180 days permitted; then application expires and plans returned/destroyed When no permit has been issued after plan submission § 104.3.3
CID plans All plans for common interest developments shall be retained Applies to condos, HOAs, etc. § 1.8.4.3.1

Exceptions & special cases

  • The four express exceptions in § 1.8.4.3.1 (two-story dwellings, appurtenant garages, farm/ranch appurtenances, and short-span one-story buildings) relieve the AHJ of the duty to permanently retain plans.
  • Common Interest Developments are explicitly excluded from exceptions — their plans must be retained regardless of size.
  • The Code does not prescribe how agencies must implement electronic archiving standards (e.g., file format, redundancy). Where an enforcing agency needs reproduction or retention details, the CPC points to Health and Safety Code Sections 19850–19852 for additional statutory direction; the CPC itself leaves format choices open.
  • For plan-review timing disputes or allegations of “excessive delay,” the CPC directs attention to State Housing Law (e.g., Health and Safety Code § 17960.1) — enforcement or remedy may lie in those statutes rather than the CPC text alone. § 1.8.4.3 is a cross‑reference to that State framework.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming the CPC’s retention mandate is unlimited for every permit: the Code explicitly lists four exceptions — do not assume all small houses, garages or farm buildings must be kept forever. See § 1.8.4.3.1.
  • Confusing the policy statement in § 1.8.4.3 with a numeric review deadline — the CPC points to State law for limits on excessive delays; the numeric 180‑day application-expiry rule appears in Division II application rules (§ 104.3.3), not in § 1.8.4.3 itself.
  • Retaining only the “approved” set on site and not keeping an official copy in the department’s archive when required — the department must maintain an official copy (in permitted media) for the life of the building unless an exception applies.
  • Believing electronic copies are disallowed — the CPC explicitly permits electronic or other photographic copies as acceptable official copies.

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A developer submits a full plumbing permit application with plans on January 1 for a new 3‑story office building. The AHJ accepts the application; the permit is issued on April 15.

  • Retention consequence: Because this is a 3‑story building (more than two stories), it is not within the two‑story dwelling exception. The building department must maintain an official copy of the plans for the life of the building, in paper, microfilm, electronic or photographic form, per § 1.8.4.3.1.

Contrast: A homeowner submits plans for a single‑family dwelling of two stories plus a basement on January 1, and the AHJ issues the permit on February 1.

  • Retention consequence: That dwelling falls within Exception 1 of § 1.8.4.3.1 (single or multiple dwellings not more than two stories and basement). The local building department is not required by this CPC provision to retain an official copy for the life of the building (local policies may vary).

Application-expiry example (inactive application): An applicant files plans July 1 but no permit is issued and the applicant takes no action.

  • Under § 104.3.3, after 180 days (roughly December 28) the application expires, and the AHJ may return or destroy plans; the applicant may request a single extension up to another 180 days if circumstances justify it. To continue processing after expiration the applicant must resubmit and pay a new plan-review fee.

Related provisions (CPC)

  • § 1.8.4.3 — Plan review and time limitations (policy cross‑reference to State law).
  • § 1.8.4.3.1 — Retention of plans; required official copy and exceptions.
  • § 104.3.1 — Construction document submittal requirements (number of sets / digital).
  • § 104.3.2 — Plan review fees (fee payment at time of submittal).
  • § 104.3.3 — Time limitation of application (180‑day expiration; single 180‑day extension permitted).
  • § 104.4 / 104.4.1 — Permit issuance and stamping/endorsement of approved construction documents.

If you need the precise text of any of the cited sections or copies of the CPC provisions, I can pull the exact snippets for review — but this summary is grounded directly in § 1.8.4.3 and § 1.8.4.3.1 of the California Plumbing Code.

Code references

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

  • CPC § 1.8.4.3 High relevance — show source text

    1.8.4.3 Plan review and time limitations. Subject to other provisions of law, provisions related to plan checking, prohibition of excessive delays and contracting with or employment of private parties to perform plan checking are set forth in the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17960.1, and for employee housing, in Health and Safety Code Section 17021.

    1.8.4.3.1 Retention of plans. The building department of every city, county, or city and county shall maintain an official copy, microfilm, electronic or other type of photographic copy of the plans of every building, during the life of the building, for which the department issued a building permit.

    Exceptions:

    1. Single or multiple dwellings not more than two stories and basement in height. 2. Garages and other structures appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. 3. Farm or ranch buildings appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. 4. Any one-story building where the span between bearing walls does not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm), except a steel frame or concrete building.

    All plans for common interest developments as defined in Section 4100 of the California Civil Code shall be retained. For additional information regarding plan retention and reproduction of plans by an enforcing agency, see Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 through 19852.

    1.8.4.4 Inspections. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the building official, and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed 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 other regulations of the Department of Housing and Community Development. Required inspections are listed in Chapter 1, Division II, Scope and Administration, Sections 109.3.1 through 109.3.11.

    SECTION 1.8.5—RIGHT OF ENTRY FOR ENFORCEMENT

    1.8.5.1 General. Subject to other provisions of law, officers and agents of the enforcing agency may enter and inspect public and private properties to secure compliance with the rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For limitations and additional information regarding enforcement, see the following: 1. For applications subject to the State Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.1 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, commencing with Section 17910 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 1. 2. For applications subject to the Mobilehome Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.2 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.1, commencing with Section 18200 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2, commencing with Section 1000. 3. For applications subject to the Special Occupancy Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.3 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.3, commencing with Section 18860 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2.2, commencing with Section 2000. _4.

  • CPC § 1.8.4 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 1.8.4—PERMITS, FEES, APPLICATIONS AND INSPECTIONS

    1.8.4.1 Permits. A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcing agency prior to the erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, moving or alteration of any building or structure.

    Exceptions:

    1. Work exempt from permits as specified in Chapter 1, Division II, Scope and Administration, Section 105.2. 2. Changes, alterations or repairs of a minor nature not affecting structural features, egress, sanitation, safety or accessibility as determined by the enforcing agency. 3. Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12.

    Exemptions from permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of other provisions of law or this code.

    1.8.4.2 Fees. Subject to other provisions of law, the governing body of any city, county, or city and county may prescribe fees to defray the cost of enforcement of rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. The amount of the fees shall not exceed the amount reasonably necessary to administer or process permits, certificates, forms or other documents, or to defray the costs of enforcement. For additional information, see the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, Section 17951 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 3, commencing with Section 6.

    1.8.4.3 Plan review and time limitations. Subject to other provisions of law, provisions related to plan checking, prohibition of excessive delays and contracting with or employment of private parties to perform plan checking are set forth in the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17960.1, and for employee housing, in Health and Safety Code Section 17021.

    1.8.4.3.1 Retention of plans. The building department of every city, county, or city and county shall maintain an official copy, microfilm, electronic or other type of photographic copy of the plans of every building, during the life of the building, for which the department issued a building permit.

    Exceptions:

    1. Single or multiple dwellings not more than two stories and basement in height. 2. Garages and other structures appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. 3. Farm or ranch buildings appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. 4. Any one-story building where the span between bearing walls does not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm), except a steel frame or concrete building.

    All plans for common interest developments as defined in Section 4100 of the California Civil Code shall be retained. For additional information regarding plan retention and reproduction of plans by an enforcing agency, see Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 through 19852.

  • CPC § 1.8.4.3 High relevance — show source text

    1.8.4.3 Plan Review and Time Limitations. Subject to other provisions of law, provisions related to plan check- ing, prohibition of excessive delays, and contracting with or employment of private parties to perform plan check- ing are set forth in the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17960.1, and for employee housing, in Health and Safety Code Section 17021.

    1.8.4.3.1 Retention of Plans. The building depart- ment of every city, county, or city and county shall maintain an official copy, microfilm, or electronic or other type of photographic copy of the plans of every building, during the life of the building, for which the department issued a building permit.

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    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    DIVISION I CALIFORNIA ADMINISTRATION

    Exceptions:

    1. Single or multiple dwellings not more than two stories and basement in height.

    2. Garages and other structures appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1.

    3. Farm or ranch buildings appurtenant to build- ings listed in Exception 1.

    4. Any one-story building where the span between bearing walls does not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm), except a steel frame or concrete building.

    All plans for common interest develop- ments as defined in Section 4100 of the Cali- fornia Civil Code shall be retained. For additional information regarding plan retention and reproduction of plans by an enforcing agency, see Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 through 19852.

    1.8.4.4 Inspections. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the building official and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed 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 other regulations of the Department of Housing and Community Development.

    1.8.5 Right of Entry for Enforcement.

    1.8.5.1 General. Subject to other provisions of law, offi- cers and agents of the enforcing agency may enter and inspect public and private properties to secure compli- ance with the rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. For limitations and additional information regarding enforcement, see the following:

    1. For applications subject to State Housing Law as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.1 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, com- mencing with Section 17910, and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Sub- chapter 1, commencing with Section 1.

    2. For applications subject to the Mobilehome Parks Act as referenced in Section 1.8.3.2.2 of this code, refer to Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.1, commencing with Section 18200, and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2, commencing with Section 1000.

  • CPC § 1.8.3.2.5 High relevance — show source text

    1.8.3.2.5 Factory-Built Housing Law. Refer to the Factory-Built Housing Law, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6 commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000 for factory-built housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections and penalties.

    SECTION 1.8.4—PERMITS, FEES, APPLICATIONS AND INSPECTIONS 1.8.4.1 Permits. A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcing agency prior to the erection, construction, recon- struction, installation, moving or alteration of any building or structure.

    Exceptions:

    1. Work exempt from permits as specified in Chapter 1, Division II, Scope and Administration, Section 105.2. 2. Changes, alterations or repairs of a minor nature not affecting structural features, egress, sanitation, safety or accessibility as determined by the enforcing agency. 3. Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12.

    Exemptions from permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in viola- tion of other provisions of law or this code.

    1.8.4.2 Fees. Subject to other provisions of law, the governing body of any city, county, or city and county, may prescribe fees to defray the cost of enforcement of rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. The amount of the fees shall not exceed the amount reasonably necessary to administer or process permits, certificates, forms or other documents, or to defray the costs of enforcement. For additional information, see the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, Section 17951 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 3, commencing with Section 6.

    1.8.4.3 Plan review and time limitations. Subject to other provisions of law, provisions related to plan checking, prohibition of exces- sive delays and contracting with or employment of private parties to perform plan checking are set forth in the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17960.1, and for employee housing, in Health and Safety Code Section 17021.

    1.8.4.3.1 Retention of plans. The building department of every city, county, or city and county shall maintain an official copy, micro- film, electronic or other type of photographic copy of the plans of every building, during the life of the building, for which the department issued a building permit.

    Exceptions:

    1. Single or multiple dwellings not more than two stories and basement in height. 2. Garages and other structures appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. 3. Farm or ranch buildings appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. 4. Any one-story building where the span between bearing walls does not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm), except a steel frame or concrete building.

    All plans for common interest developments as defined in Section 4100 of the California Civil Code shall be retained. For additional information regarding plan retention and reproduction of plans by an enforcing agency, see Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 through 19852.

  • CPC § 104.3.1. High relevance — show source text

    (3) Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work is intended.

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    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

    (4) Be accompanied by construction documents in accordance with Section 104.3.1.

    (5) Be signed by the permittee or the permittee’s authorized agent. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require evidence to indicate such authority.

    (6) Give such other data and information in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

    104.3.1 Construction Documents. Construction documents, engineering calculations, diagrams, and other data shall be submitted in two or more sets, or in a digital format where permitted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, with each application for a permit. The construction documents, computations, and specifications shall be prepared by, and the plumbing designed by, a registered design professional. Construction documents shall be drawn to scale with clarity to identify that the intended work to be performed is in accordance with the code.

    Exception: The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to waive the submission of construction documents, calculations, or other data where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the nature of the work applied for is such that reviewing of construction documents is not necessary to obtain compliance with the code.

    104.3.2 Plan Review Fees. Where a plan or other data is required to be submitted in accordance with Section 104.3.1, a plan review fee shall be paid at the time of submitting construction documents for review.

    The plan review fees for plumbing work shall be determined and adopted by this jurisdiction.

    The plan review fees specified in this subsection are separate fees from the permit fees specified in Section 104.5.

    Where plans are incomplete or changed so as to require additional review, a fee shall be charged at the rate shown in Table 104.5.

    104.3.3 Time Limitation of Application. Applications for which no permit is issued within 180 days following the date of application shall expire by limitation, plans and other data submitted for review thereafter, shall be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to exceed the time for action by the applicant for a period not to exceed 180 days upon request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented the action from being taken. No application shall be extended more than once. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. 104.4 Permit Issuance. The application, construction documents, and other data filed by an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Such plans shall be permitted to be reviewed by other departments of this jurisdiction to verify compliance with applicable laws under their jurisdiction. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the work described in an application for permit and the plans, specifications, and other data filed therewith are in

  • CPC § 1.8.4.1 High relevance — show source text

    **_ 1.8.4.1 Permits. A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcing agency prior to the erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, relocation, or alteration of any mechanical system. Exceptions: (1) Work exempt from permits as specified in Chapter 1, Scope and Administration, Division II, Section 104.2 Items (1) through (5) of this code. (2) Changes, alterations, or repairs of a minor nature not affecting structural features, egress, sanitation, safety, or accessibility as determined by the enforcing agency.

    (3) Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12.

    Exemptions from permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of other provisions of law or this code. 1.8.4.2 Fees. Subject to other provisions of law, the governing body of any city, county, or city and county may prescribe fees to defray the cost of enforcement of rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Housing and Community Development. The amount of the fees shall not exceed the amount reasonably neces- sary to administer or process permits, certificates, forms, or other documents, or to defray the costs of enforcement. For additional information, see State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, Section 17951 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Divi- sion 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 3, commencing with Section 6.

    1.8.4.3 Plan Review and Time Limitations. Subject to other provisions of law, provisions related to plan checking, prohibition of excessive delays, and contracting with or employment of private parties to perform plan checking are set forth in the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17960.1, and for employee housing, in Health and Safety Code Section 17021. 1.8.4.3.1 Retention of Plans. The building depart- ment of every city, county, or city and county shall maintain an official copy, microfilm, or electronic or other type of photographic copy of the plans of every building, during the life of the building, for which the department issued a building permit. Exceptions: (1) Single or multiple dwellings not more than two stories and basement in height. (2) Garages and other structures appurtenant to buildings listed in Exception 1. (3) Farm or ranch buildings appurtenant to build- ings listed in Exception 1. (4) Any one-story building where the span between bearing walls does not exceed 25 feet (7620 mm), except a steel frame or concrete building. All plans for common interest developments as defined in Section 4100 of the California Civil Code shall be retained. For additional information regarding plan retention and reproduction of plans by an enforcing agency, see Health and Safety Code Sections 19850 through 19852. 1.8.4.4 Inspections. Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to inspection by the building official and such construction or work shall remain accessible and exposed for inspection purposes _until approved.

  • CPC § 1.8.3.2.5 High relevance — show source text

    Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, com- mencing with Section 600 for employee housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections, and penalties.

    1.8.3.2.5 Factory-Built Housing Law. Refer to the Factory-Built Housing Law, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6 commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, com- mencing with Section 3000 for factory-built housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections, and penalties.

    1.8.4 Permits, Fees, Applications, and Inspections.

    1.8.4.1 Permits. A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcing agency prior to the erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, relocation, or alteration of any plumbing system.

    Exceptions:

    1. Work exempt from permits as specified in Chapter 1, Administration, Division II, Section 104.2 items (1)-(2) of this code.

    2. Changes, alterations, or repairs of a minor nature not affecting structural features, egress, sanitation, safety, or accessibility as determined by the enforc- ing agency.

    3. Retroactive permits issued in accordance with Health and Safety Code Section 17958.12.

    Exemptions from permit requirements shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of other provisions of law or this code.

    1.8.4.2 Fees. Subject to other provisions of law, the gov- erning body of any city, county, or city and county may prescribe fees to defray the cost of enforcement of rules and regulations promulgated by the Department of Hous- ing and Community Development. The amount of the fees shall not exceed the amount reasonably necessary to administer or process permits, certificates, forms, or other documents, or to defray the costs of enforcement. For additional information, see State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1.5, Section 17951 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 1, Article 3, com- mencing with Section 6.

    1.8.4.3 Plan Review and Time Limitations. Subject to other provisions of law, provisions related to plan check- ing, prohibition of excessive delays, and contracting with or employment of private parties to perform plan check- ing are set forth in the State Housing Law, Health and Safety Code Section 17960.1, and for employee housing, in Health and Safety Code Section 17021.

    1.8.4.3.1 Retention of Plans. The building depart- ment of every city, county, or city and county shall maintain an official copy, microfilm, or electronic or other type of photographic copy of the plans of every building, during the life of the building, for which the department issued a building permit.

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 9

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

  • CPC § 104.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    104.3.2 Plan Review Fees. Where a plan or other data is required to be submitted in accordance with Section 104.3.1, a plan review fee shall be paid at the time of submitting construction documents for review.

    The plan review fees for plumbing work shall be determined and adopted by this jurisdiction.

    The plan review fees specified in this subsection are separate fees from the permit fees specified in Section 104.5.

    Where plans are incomplete or changed so as to require additional review, a fee shall be charged at the rate shown in Table 104.5.

    104.3.3 Time Limitation of Application. Applications for which no permit is issued within 180 days following the date of application shall expire by limitation, plans and other data submitted for review thereafter, shall be returned to the applicant or destroyed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to exceed the time for action by the applicant for a period not to exceed 180 days upon request by the applicant showing that circumstances beyond the control of the applicant have prevented the action from being taken. No application shall be extended more than once. In order to renew action on an application after expiration, the applicant shall resubmit plans and pay a new plan review fee. 104.4 Permit Issuance. The application, construction documents, and other data filed by an applicant for a permit shall be reviewed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Such plans shall be permitted to be reviewed by other departments of this jurisdiction to verify compliance with applicable laws under their jurisdiction. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the work described in an application for permit and the plans, specifications, and other data filed therewith are in

    accordance with the requirements of the code and other pertinent laws and ordinances and that the fees specified in Section 104.5 have been paid, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall issue a permit therefore to the applicant. 104.4.1 Approved Plans or Construction Docu- ments. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction issues the permit where plans are required, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall endorse in writing or stamp the construction documents “APPROVED.” Such approved construction documents shall not be changed, modified, or altered without authorization from the Authority Having Jurisdiction, and the work shall be done in accordance with approved plans.

    The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to issue a permit for the construction of a part of a plumbing system before the entire construction documents for the whole system have been submitted or approved, provided adequate information and detailed statements have been filed in accordance with the pertinent requirements of this code. The holder of such permit shall be permitted to proceed at the holder’s risk without assurance that the permit for the entire building, structure, or plumbing system will be granted. 104.4.2 Validity of Permit. The issuance of a permit or approval of construction documents shall not be construed to be a permit for, or an approval of, a violation of the provisions of this code or other ordinance of the jurisdiction. No permit presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of this code shall be valid.

    The issuance of a permit based upon plans, specifications, or other data shall not prevent the Authority Having Jurisdiction from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said plans, specifications, and other data or from preventing building operations being carried on thereunder where in violation of this code or of other ordinances of this jurisdiction. **104.4.3 Expiration.

Frequently asked questions

Who decides whether a plan qualifies for the retention exceptions?

Local building departments apply the exceptions listed in § 1.8.4.3.1 (for example, determining if a dwelling is “not more than two stories and basement” or whether a one‑story span exceeds 25 ft). If there’s a dispute, consult the AHJ and applicable State statutes.

Are electronic copies acceptable as the “official copy”?

Yes. § 1.8.4.3.1 explicitly allows an official copy to be maintained in electronic, microfilm or other photographic formats.

What happens to plans when an application expires?

Per § 104.3.3, applications with no permit issued within 180 days expire and the AHJ may return the plans to the applicant or destroy them; the applicant may request one extension of up to 180 days.

Must plans for condos or HOAs be retained?

Yes. The CPC states that all plans for common interest developments must be retained (see § 1.8.4.3.1).

If my jurisdiction uses a private plan‑checking firm, does that change retention duties?

No. § 1.8.4.3 addresses plan‑checking arrangements and cross‑references State law; retention duties remain with the building department as stated in § 1.8.4.3.1.

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California Plumbing Code