CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code

What are the duties, powers and compliance determinations of the code official?

Q: Who is the "code official" and how are they appointed?

The code official is the head of the enforcement agency appointed by the jurisdiction’s chief appointing authority; deputies and staff may be appointed with delegated powers ( § 103.1–103.3 ) .

Q: If the code official requires a technical report, who pays and who prepares it?

The technical opinion and report must be provided without charge to the jurisdiction (owner supplies it), and it must be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official; the official may require registered design professional stamps where appropriate ( § 104.2.1.1–.2 ) .

Q: Can the code official enter my property at any time?

The code official may enter premises at reasonable times to inspect. If entry is refused, the official must make reasonable efforts to contact the owner/agent and may then obtain a warrant or other legal remedy to secure entry ( § 104.4, § 104.4.1 ) .

The code official enforces the California Wildland‑Urban Interface Code and is the authority that decides whether buildings and practices comply. They can require technical reports or tests, approve or deny alternative materials or methods (using specific equivalency criteria), enter properties for inspections (with proper process), and grant case‑by‑case modifications only when safety isn’t reduced; but they may not waive explicit code requirements (§ 104, § 104.1, § 104.2).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The code official is the person authorized to implement, administer and enforce the California Wildland‑Urban Interface Code. The official is empowered to enforce the code (§ 104.1) and to determine compliance, render formal interpretations, and adopt clarifying policies and procedures — but may not use those policies to waive requirements that the code specifically prescribes (§ 104.2) .

The single most important rule: the code official enforces the CWUIC and decides whether a building or practice meets the code — including ordering technical reports and tests — but cannot waive explicit code requirements (§ 104.2).

Requirements in detail

Core authorities (short)

Enforce the code: § 104.1 (authority to enforce) .
Decide compliance and issue official interpretations and policies: § 104.2 (determination of compliance; interpretations must follow intent and cannot waive explicit requirements) .
Receive applications, review documents, issue permits, inspect, and enforce permit conditions: § 104.3 .
Enter premises for inspection at reasonable times and, if necessary, seek a warrant if entry is refused: § 104.4 and § 104.4.1 .
Issue notices and orders to secure compliance and keep records of those actions: § 104.6 (notices) and related provisions on recording modifications and appeals (see § 104.2.3 and § 112) .

Technical assistance, tests and who pays

The code official may require a technical opinion and report to determine compliance: § 104.2.1. The report must be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official; the code official may require stamped submittals by a registered design professional where appropriate (§ 104.2.1.2, § 104.2.1.3) .
Cost: the required technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction (§ 104.2.1.1) — that is, the owner provides the report but not at cost to the enforcing agency .
Where evidence of compliance is insufficient, the code official may require tests; tests must follow specified or recognized standards or approved procedures (§ 104.2.1.4) .

Alternative materials, designs and methods

The code allows alternatives if the code official approves them; approval requires finding the alternative is satisfactory and meets the equivalency criteria and intent of the code (§ 104.2.2 and subsections) .
Equivalency criteria include quality, strength, effectiveness, durability, safety (other than fire safety), and fire safety (listed explicitly) (§ 104.2.2.4) — all are decision factors the code official must consider .
The official may require the alternative request in writing and must respond in writing if the request is denied (§ 104.2.2.2) and may request peer review or other supporting reports prepared by qualified persons (§ 104.2.2.7, § 104.2.2.6.2) .

Discretionary modifications (practical difficulties)

For individual cases with practical difficulties the code official can grant modifications, but only after finding (a) strict compliance is impractical for special individual reasons, (b) the modification conforms with the intent and purpose, and (c) the change does not reduce health, life or fire safety. The request and decision must be recorded in the enforcement files (§ 104.2.3) .

Identification, records and enforcement tools

The code official must carry proper identification when inspecting (§ 104.5) and must issue notices or orders to secure compliance; notices of violation follow § 110.2 procedures (§ 104.6) .
Related enforcement actions available in the code: appeals to a board (§ 112), stop work orders (§ 113), and enforcement/abatement procedures (§ 109 and § 113) — see Related Provisions below for exact citations .

Decision-relevant dimensions (table)

Decision question	Key values/thresholds	Who supplies evidence	Code Reference
Authority to enforce	Full authority to enforce CWUIC	N/A	§ 104.1
Who determines compliance	Code official (final authority)	Code official review; owner may submit evidence	§ 104.2
Require technical report?	Yes, when needed; report must be by qualified preparer and provided without charge to the jurisdiction	Owner or owner’s agent prepares (engineer/specialist/registered design professional)	§ 104.2.1, § 104.2.1.1–.3
Tests to verify compliance	Tests per code or recognized standards; code official can approve procedures	Party acceptable to code official conducts tests	§ 104.2.1.4
Approve alternative materials/methods	Must meet equivalency criteria (quality, strength, effectiveness, durability, safety, fire safety)	Written application; code official decision in writing if denied	§ 104.2.2 & § 104.2.2.4
Require peer review	Yes — code official may require peer review on alternatives	Peer reviewer approved by code official	§ 104.2.2.7
Entry for inspection	Entry at reasonable times; if refused, seek warrant	Code official presents credentials and requests entry	§ 104.4, § 104.4.1
Grant modifications	Only for special individual reasons; must not lessen health/life/fire safety; decision recorded	Written request and record in files	§ 104.2.3

Exceptions & special cases

Interpretations, policies or procedures adopted by the code official must follow the code’s intent and purpose and cannot have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided in the code (§ 104.2.1 (2)) .
Alternatives that do not demonstrate equivalency to the code’s intent must be denied; when denied, the code official must respond in writing stating the reasons (§ 104.2.2.2–.3–.4) .
The code official can seek additional technical validation (tests, peer review, stamped design submittals) when compliance evidence is insufficient — the owner must supply those materials but the jurisdiction bears no cost for the report itself (§ 104.2.1.1, § 104.2.1.4, § 104.2.2.7) .

Common mistakes

Treating an official interpretation as a waiver — the code official may interpret and adopt procedures, but these cannot waive explicit code provisions (§ 104.2) .
Failing to provide required technical documentation prepared by an acceptable qualified preparer or assuming the jurisdiction must pay for the report — the code says the report is provided without charge to the jurisdiction, but it must be prepared by a qualified party acceptable to the code official (§ 104.2.1.1–.2) .
Assuming the code official can grant broad variances: modifications are case‑by‑case and must not lessen life, health, or fire safety; they must be recorded (§ 104.2.3) .
Entering a property without presenting credentials or without seeking a warrant when entry is refused — the official must present credentials and may obtain a warrant or other remedy to secure entry (§ 104.4, § 104.4.1) .

Worked example — roof covering alternative (concrete scenario with steps and numbers)

Scenario: A homeowner in a designated WUI proposes replacing a Class C roof with a new, non‑standard composite roof product. The homeowner requests approval as an alternative material.

Owner submits written request for alternative material and supporting data (manufacturer literature, fire test data): required by § 104.2.2.2 (application in writing) .
Code official reviews for equivalency against the six criteria (quality, strength, effectiveness, durability, safety, fire safety) in § 104.2.2.4. Suppose the product has certified fire testing showing equivalent or better fire performance but lacks durability data. The code official may:
- Approve if evidence satisfies all criteria; or
- Request additional technical opinion and report from a registered design professional or qualified lab focusing on durability (per § 104.2.1.2–.3). The owner hires an engineer who produces the report. The report is submitted without charge to the jurisdiction (owner pays preparation cost) as required by § 104.2.1.1 .
If the code official still has doubts, they may require tests according to an accepted standard; the tests are performed by a party acceptable to the official (§ 104.2.1.4) .
If the owner’s submittal meets equivalency, the official approves. If denied, the official must provide a written reason for denial (§ 104.2.2.2). If the owner disagrees with the interpretation, the owner may appeal to the board of appeals under § 112 (appeal limited to interpretation/application) .

(Concrete numbers: if the code official requested 3 test cycles or a sample period, those test procedures must follow code or recognized standards per § 104.2.1.4; the code does not set a dollar cap or timeline — those are handled locally) .

Related provisions

§ 103.1–103.3 — Creation of code compliance agency and appointment/deputies (who the code official is and who may act for them) .
§ 104.3 — Applications, permits, inspections and enforcement authority related to permits .
§ 104.4 / § 104.4.1 — Right of entry and warrants for inspections .
§ 104.2.2.7 — Peer review authority on alternatives .
§ 104.2.3 — Authority to grant modifications (practical difficulties) with recordkeeping requirement .
§ 109 — Inspection and enforcement procedures (including abatement) referenced throughout Chapter 1 index .
§ 112 — Means of appeals (board of appeals) available when disputing a code official’s decision; board cannot waive code requirements .
§ 113 — Stop work order authority when work is unsafe or contrary to code; includes emergency stop work procedures .

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

CWUIC § 104.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL

[A] 104.1 Powers and duties of the code official. The code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.

[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
[A] 104.2.1 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the code official is authorized to require the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the person in possession or control of the building or premises to provide a technical opinion and report.

[A] 104.2.1.1 Costs. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.

[A] 104.2.1.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official. The code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.

[A] 104.2.1.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises, the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon and fuel management to identify and propose necessary recommendations.

[A] 104.2.1.4 Tests. Where there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code, the code official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized test standards, the code official shall approve the testing procedures. Such tests shall be performed by a party acceptable to the code official.

[A] 104.2.2 Alternative materials, design and methods. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved.

[A] 104.2.2.1 Approval authority. An alternative material, design or method shall be approved where the code official finds that the proposed alternative is satisfactory and complies with Sections 104.2.2.2 through 104.2.2.7, as applicable.

[A] 104.2.2.2 Application and disposition. Where required, a request to use an alternative material, design or method of construction shall be submitted in writing to the code official for approval. Where the alternative material, design or method of construction is not approved, the code official shall respond in writing, stating the reasons the alternative was not approved.

[A] 104.2.2.3 Compliance with code intent. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall comply with the intent of the provisions of this code.

[A] 104.2.2.4 Equivalency criteria. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall, for the purpose intended, be not less than the equivalent of that prescribed in this code with respect to all of the following, as applicable:
1. Quality.
2. Strength.
3. Effectiveness.
4. Durability.
5. Safety, other than fire safety.
6. Fire safety.
CWUIC § 102.7 High relevance — show source text
[A] 102.7 Partial invalidity. In the event that any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.

[A] 102.8 Existing conditions. The legal occupancy or use of any structure or condition existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code or the California Fire Code, California Building Code, California Existing Building Code or the California Residential Code, or as is deemed necessary by the code official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.

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ADMINISTRATION

PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY

[A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

[A] 103.2 Appointment. The code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

[A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the code official.

SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL

[A] 104.1 Powers and duties of the code official. The code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.

[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
[A] 104.2.1 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the code official is authorized to require the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the person in possession or control of the building or premises to provide a technical opinion and report.

[A] 104.2.1.1 Costs. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.

[A] 104.2.1.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official. The code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.

[A] 104.2.1.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises, the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon and fuel management to identify and propose necessary recommendations.
CWUIC § 103.1 High relevance — show source text
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY

[A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the fire code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

[A] 103.2 Appointment. The fire code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

[A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the fire code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy fire code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the fire code official.

SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE FIRE CODE OFFICIAL

[A] 104.1 General. The fire code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.

[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The fire code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION

[A] 104.2.1 Listed compliance. Where this code or a referenced standard requires equipment, materials, products or services to be listed and a listing standard is specified, the listing shall be based on the specified standard. Where a listing standard is not specified, the listing shall be based on an approved listing criteria. Listings shall be germane to the provision requiring the listing. Installation shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions, and where required to verify compliance, the listing standard and manufacturer’s instructions shall be made available to the fire code official.

[A] 104.2.2 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the fire code official is authorized to require the owner or owner’s authorized agent to provide a technical opinion and report.

[A] 104.2.2.1 Cost. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.

[A] 104.2.2.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the fire code official. The fire code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.

[A] 104.2.2.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises and the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon to identify and propose necessary recommendations.
CWUIC § 102.6.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 102.6.2 Buildings previously occupied. The legal occupancy of any building existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as otherwise specifically provided in this code, the California Fire Code or California Existing Building Code, or as is deemed necessary by the building official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.

PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY

[A] 103.1 Creation of enforcement agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

[A] 103.2 Appointment. The building official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

[A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the building official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy building official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the building official.

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ADMINISTRATION

SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF BUILDING OFFICIAL

[A] 104.1 General. The building official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this code.

[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The building official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
[A] 104.2.1 Listed compliance. Where this code or a referenced standard requires equipment, materials, products or services to be listed and a listing standard is specified, the listing shall be based on the specified standard. Where a listing standard is not specified, the listing shall be based on an approved listing criteria. Listings shall be germane to the provision requiring the listing. Installation shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions, and where required to verify compliance, the listing standard and manufacturer’s instructions shall be made available to the building official.

[A] 104.2.2 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the building official is authorized to determine compliance with this code, to require the owner or owner’s authorized agent to provide a technical opinion and report.

[A] 104.2.2.1 Cost. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.

[A] 104.2.2.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or specialty organization acceptable to the building official. The building official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.
CWUIC § 1-4 High 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
CWUIC § 504.7 High relevance — show source text
Ignition Source Control Appendix A, A104 Ignition-Resistant Building Material 202, 503 Ignition-Resistant Construction 504 Appendages 504.7 Detached accessory structures 504.11 Eaves 504.3

Exterior doors 504.9

Exterior walls 504.5

Gutters and downspouts 504.4 Protection of eaves 504.3 Roof covering 504.2 Underfloor protection 504.6 Vents 504.10

Windows 504.8 Ignition-Resistant Construction and Material 503 Inspection and Enforcement 109 Abatement 109.3.8 Authority to inspect 109.1.2 Citations 109.3.4

Enforcement 109.2 Placarding 109.3.5.3 Prosecution 109.3.6

Reinspections 109.1.3 Right of entry 104.4 Testing 109.1.4 Unsafe conditions 109.3.5

Key Box 403.1

Land Use Limitations Appendix A, A108 Legal Defense of the Code Official 104.8.1 Liability of the Code Official 104.8

Log Wall Construction 202 LP-Gas Installations 606

Maintenance 101.6 Maintenance of Defensible Space 604 Modified area 604.2 Responsibility 604.3 Trees 604.4 Mapping of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.2 Multilayered Glazed Panels 202

Noncombustible Roof Covering 202

Outbuilding 202

Peer Review 104.2.2.7, 202 Permits

Application 105.4 Approval 105.5 Expiration 105.8 Issuance 105.6 Preliminary inspection 105.4.1 Refusal to issue 105.6.1

Required 105.2 Retention 105.9

Revocation 105.10 Validity 105.7 Work exempt from permit 105.3 Placarding as Unsafe 109.3.5.3 Powers and Duties of the Code

Official 104.1

Practical Difficulties 104.2.3 Protection of Pumps and Water Storage Facilities Appendix A, A107

Rafter Tail 202 Referenced Standards 102.4, Chapter 7 Registered Design Professional 104.2.1.2, 104.2.2.6.2, 106.1, 202 Residential Unit 202 Retroactivity 101.4 Ridgelline 202 Road 202 Roof Covering 202 Roof Covering System 202 Roof Coverings, Replacement or Repair of 507

Roof Deck 202

Scope 101 Self-Defense Mechanism Appendix G Service Utilities 111

Slope 202 Spark Arrestors 605 Stop Work Order 113 Storage of Firewood and Combustible Materials 607 Strategic Ridgeline 202 Structure 202

Subdivision 202
CWUIC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text
R102.7 Wildland-Urban Interface. The provisions of Part 7, California Wildland-Urban Interface Code shall apply to buildings and struc- tures built in the wildland-urban interface (WUI).

PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT

SECTION R103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY

R103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the building official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.

R103.2 Appointment. The building official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.

R103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the building official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy building official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the building official.

SECTION R104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE BUILDING OFFICIAL

R104.1 General. The building official is hereby authorized and directed to enforce the provisions of this code.

R104.2 Determination of compliance. The building official shall have the authority to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of this code’s provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
1. Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
2. Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
R104.2.1 Listed compliance. Where this code or a referenced standard requires equipment, materials, products or services to be listed and a listing standard is specified, the listing shall be based on the specified standard. Where a listing standard is not specified, the listing shall be based on an approved listing criteria. Listings shall be germane to the provision requiring the listing. Installation shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s instructions, and where required to verify compliance, the listing standard and manufacturer’s instructions shall be made available to the building official.

R104.2.2 Alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved.

R104.2.2.1 Approval authority. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall be approved where the building official finds that the proposed alternative is satisfactory and complies with Sections R104.2.2 through R104.2.2.6.2, as applicable.

R104.2.2.2 Application and disposition. Where required, a request to use an alternative material, design or method of construction shall be submitted in writing to the building official for approval. Where the alternative material, design or method of construction is not approved, the building official shall respond in writing, stating the reasons the alternative was not approved.

R104.2.2.3 Compliance with code intent. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall comply with the intent of the provisions of this code.

R104.2.2.4 Equivalency criteria. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall, for the purpose intended, be not less than the equivalent of that prescribed in this code with respect to all the following, as applicable:
1. Quality.
2. Strength.
CWUIC § 104.2.2.6.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.2.2.6.2 Other reports. Reports not complying with Section 104.2.2.6.1 shall describe criteria, including but not limited to any referenced testing or analysis, used to determine compliance with code intent and justify code equivalence. The report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official. The code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.

[A] 104.2.2.7 Peer review. The code official is authorized to require submittal of a peer review report in conjunction with a request to use an alternative material, design or method of construction, prepared by a peer reviewer that is approved by the code official.

[A] 104.2.3 Modifications. Where there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, provided that the code official shall first find that one or more special individual reasons make the strict letter of this code impractical, that the modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of this code, and that such modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of the written request and action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered into the files of the code enforcement

agency.

[A] 104.3 Applications and permits. The code official is authorized to receive applications, review construction documents and issue permits for construction regulated by this code, issue permits for operations regulated by this code, inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.

[A] 104.4 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or on any premises a condition that is contrary to or in violation of this code that makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the code official is authorized to enter the structure or premises at all reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by this code. If such structure or premises is occupied, the code official shall present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or other person having charge or control of the structure or premises and request entry. If such entry is refused, then the code official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.

[A] 104.4.1 Warrant. Where the code official has first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, an owner, the owner’s authorized agent, occupant or person having charge, care or control of the structure or premises shall not fail or neglect, after a proper request is made as herein provided, to permit entry therein by the code official for the purposes of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.

[A] 104.5 Identification. The code official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.

[A] 104.6 Notices and orders. The code official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 110.2.

CWUIC § 1-2 High relevance — show source text

Population growth and the expanding urban development into traditionally nonurban areas have increasingly brought humans into contact with wildfires. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), every year, wildfires burn across the United States and a growing number of people are living where wildfires are a real risk. In 2018 more than 58,000 fires burned nearly 9 million acres across the US. More than 25,000 structures were destroyed, including 18,137 residences and 229 commercial structures. California accounted for the highest number of structures lost in one state due to the number of significant fires, including the Mendocino Complex, Carr, Camp and Woolsey fires.

The IWUIC is a model code that is intended to be adopted and used supplemental to the adopted building and fire codes of a jurisdiction. The unrestricted use of property in wildland-urban interface areas is a potential threat to life and property from fire and resulting erosion. The IWUIC has as its objective the establishment of minimum special regulations for the safeguarding of life and

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property from the intrusion of fire from wildland fire exposures and fire exposures from adjacent structures and to prevent structure fires from spreading to wildland fuels, even in the absence of fire department intervention.

Safeguards to prevent the occurrence of fires and to provide adequate fire protection facilities to control the spread of fire in wildland-urban interface areas are provided in a tiered manner commensurate with the relative level of hazard present.

ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CWUIC

The format of the CWUIC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CWUIC is divided. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CWUIC.

CHAPTER TOPICS	Col2
CHAPTER	SUBJECT
1-2	Administration and Definitions
3-4	Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designation and Requirements
5	Building Construction Regulations
6	Fire Protection Requirements
7	Referenced Standards
Appendices A-I	Adoptable and Informational Appendices

Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.

Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.

Chapter 2 Definitions.

Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.

Chapter 3 Wildland-Urban Interface Areas.

Chapter 3 provides for the fundamental aspect of applying the code—the legal declaration and establishment of wildland-urban interface areas within the adopting jurisdiction, mapping of the area, periodic review and updates.

Chapter 4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Requirements.

The requirements of Chapter 4 apply to all occupancies in the wildland-urban interface and pertain to all of the following:

Fire service access to the property that is to be protected, including fire apparatus access roads and off-road driveways.
Premises identification.

CWUIC § 701A.1 High relevance — show source text

1_|Title|Y||||||||| |101.2|Scope|Y||701A.1|4901.1|||||| |101.2.1|Appendices|N||||||||| |101.3|Purpose|N||701A.2|4901.2|||||| |101.3.1|Application|Y||701A.3||||||| |101.3.1.1|Application date and
where required|Y||701A.3.1||||||| |101.4|Retroactivity|N||||||||| |101.5|Additions or
alterations|N||||||||| |101.6|Maintenance|Y||||||||| |102|Applicability|Y||||||||| |102.1|General|Y||||||||| |102.2|Other laws|Y||||||||| |102.3|Application of
references|N||||||||| |102.4|Referenced codes
and standards|N||||||||| |102.4.1|Conflicts|N||||||||| |102.4.2|Provisions in
referenced codes and
standards|N||||||||| |102.5|Subjects not
regulated by this code|N|||102.8|||||| |102.6|Matters not provided
for|Y|||102.9|||||| |102.7|Partial invalidity|N||||||||| |102.8|Existing conditions|N||||||||| |103|Code compliance
agency|N||||||||| |103.1|Creation of agency|N||||||||| |103.2|Appointment|N||||||||| |103.3|Deputies|N||||||||| |104|Duties and powers of
the code official|N||||||||| |104.1|Powers and duties of
the code official|N||||||||| |104.2|Determination of
compliance|N||||||||| |104.2.1|Technical assistance|N||||||||| |104.2.1.1|Cost|N|||||||||

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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

2025 CWUIC—continued	Col2	Adopted Yes/No	IWUIC Section	CBC Section	CFC Section	Title 14, Division 1.5 Section	Title 19, Division 1 Section	Gov Code Section	PRC Section	HSC Section
Section	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title	Title
Chapter 1	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration	_Division II—_Scope and Administration
104.2.1.

CWUIC § 1-5 High relevance — show source text
1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-5

DIVISION II— SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-13

Part 1—General Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

101 Scope and General Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13 102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-13

Part 2—Administration and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14

103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-14 104 Duties and Powers of the Fire Code Official . . . . . . . 1-14

105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17

106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

107 Temporary Structures, Uses, Equipment and Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-26

109 Inspections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27

110 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-27

111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

112 Means of Appeals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28 113 Violations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-28

114 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29 115 Unsafe Structures or Equipment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-29

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
CWUIC § 104.2.2.7 High relevance — show source text
Outbuilding 202

Peer Review 104.2.2.7, 202 Permits

Application 105.4 Approval 105.5 Expiration 105.8 Issuance 105.6 Preliminary inspection 105.4.1 Refusal to issue 105.6.1

Required 105.2 Retention 105.9

Revocation 105.10 Validity 105.7 Work exempt from permit 105.3 Placarding as Unsafe 109.3.5.3 Powers and Duties of the Code

Official 104.1

Practical Difficulties 104.2.3 Protection of Pumps and Water Storage Facilities Appendix A, A107

Rafter Tail 202 Referenced Standards 102.4, Chapter 7 Registered Design Professional 104.2.1.2, 104.2.2.6.2, 106.1, 202 Residential Unit 202 Retroactivity 101.4 Ridgelline 202 Road 202 Roof Covering 202 Roof Covering System 202 Roof Coverings, Replacement or Repair of 507

Roof Deck 202

Scope 101 Self-Defense Mechanism Appendix G Service Utilities 111

Slope 202 Spark Arrestors 605 Stop Work Order 113 Storage of Firewood and Combustible Materials 607 Strategic Ridgeline 202 Structure 202

Subdivision 202

Technical Assistance 104.2.1 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems 107 Tree Crown 202

Trees 603.4.2

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INDEX

Undeveloped Ridgeline 202 Unenclosed Accessory Structure 202

Vegetation Control Appendix A, A102 Vegetation management compliance 106.4 Vegetation Management Plan Appendix B Vents 504.10

Vertical Curve 202

Water Supply Adequate water supply 404.5 Applicability 402 Draft sites 404.3 Hydrants 404.4 Identification 404.8

Obstructions 404.7 Reliability 404.10 Required water supply 404.2 Subdivisions 402.1 Testing and maintenance 404.9 Water sources 404.2

Wildfire 202

Wildland 202

Wildland-Urban Interface Area 202

Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designations 302 Declaration 302.1

Mapping 302.2 Review 302.3

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HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX

2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 7

HISTORY:

Frequently asked questions

Who is the "code official" and how are they appointed?

The code official is the head of the enforcement agency appointed by the jurisdiction’s chief appointing authority; deputies and staff may be appointed with delegated powers (§ 103.1–103.3) .

Can the code official waive a specific code requirement?

No. Interpretations and policies adopted by the code official shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in the code (§ 104.2) .

If the code official requires a technical report, who pays and who prepares it?

The technical opinion and report must be provided without charge to the jurisdiction (owner supplies it), and it must be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official; the official may require registered design professional stamps where appropriate (§ 104.2.1.1–.2) .

What can an owner do if an alternative method is denied?

The code official must provide a written statement of reasons for denial of an alternative. The owner can revise the submittal, provide additional evidence (tests, peer review), or appeal the decision to the board of appeals under § 112 (appeal limited to interpretation/application) .

Can the code official enter my property at any time?

The code official may enter premises at reasonable times to inspect. If entry is refused, the official must make reasonable efforts to contact the owner/agent and may then obtain a warrant or other legal remedy to secure entry (§ 104.4, § 104.4.1) .

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Related in the CWUIC

How are stop-work orders issued and how can decisions be appealed?

How is the code compliance agency created and deputies appointed?

What are inspection, enforcement and abatement authorities and procedures?

Code Official, Agency and Enforcement

California Wildland-Urban Interface Code