CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
How are stop-work orders issued and how can decisions be appealed?
If a code official finds work unsafe or contrary to the CWUIC, they can issue a written stop-work order that must be immediately obeyed and must state the reason and when work may resume; you can appeal that order to the jurisdiction’s board of appeals, but the board cannot waive code requirements — optional appendix procedures (if adopted locally) may set appeal deadlines and whether appeals stay enforcement.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
A code official is authorized to issue a written stop work order whenever work is being done contrary to this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner (§ 113.1; § 113.2) . The order must be delivered to the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work, require that the cited work immediately cease, and state the reason and the conditions under which work may resume (§ 113.2) . Appeals of orders, decisions or determinations by the code official are heard by a board of appeals created by the jurisdiction; the board’s authority and limits are set out in § 112 (see § 112.1) .
The bottom line: a stop-work order halts the cited work immediately in writing and must state why and when work can resume; if you disagree you may appeal to the jurisdiction’s board of appeals, but the board cannot waive code requirements. § 113.2; § 112.2
Requirements in detail
Who may issue a stop-work order
- The code official has authority to issue a stop-work order when work is being performed contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner (§ 113.1) .
How a stop-work order must be issued and served
- The stop-work order must be in writing and given to the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, or the person performing the work (§ 113.2) .
- Upon issuance, the cited work must immediately cease; the order must state the reason for the order and conditions under which work may resume (§ 113.2) .
Emergency situations
- If an emergency exists, the code official is not required to give written notice prior to stopping the work; immediate action is permitted (§ 113.3) .
Failure to comply
- Continuing work after being served a stop-work order (except work directed to remove the violation or unsafe condition) subjects the person to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction (§ 113.4) .
How to appeal a stop-work order (board of appeals)
- A board of appeals is created to hear appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the code official relative to the application and interpretation of the code (§ 112.1) .
- The board must be appointed by the applicable governing authority, adopt rules of procedure, and render decisions and findings in writing to the appellant and the code official (§ 112.1) .
- Appeals must be based on a limited set of grounds: that the true intent of the code or legally adopted rules have been incorrectly interpreted, that the provisions do not fully apply, or that an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed; the board may not waive code requirements (§ 112.2) .
- The board must consist of members qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of the code and not employees of the jurisdiction; the code official must act on the board decision without delay (§ 112.3; § 112.4) .
Decision‑relevant dimensions — quick reference table
| Decision dimension | Typical values / rule | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Who may issue | Code official | § 113.1 |
| Form of order | In writing; must state reason and conditions to resume | § 113.2 |
| Who must receive order | Owner, owner’s authorized agent, or person performing work | § 113.2 |
| Immediate effect | Work must immediately cease upon issuance | § 113.2 |
| Emergency authority | Written notice not required where an emergency exists | § 113.3 |
| Penalty for non‑compliance | Fines established by AHJ for continuing work | § 113.4 |
| Appeal body | Board of appeals appointed by governing authority | § 112.1 |
| Grounds for appeal | Incorrect interpretation, not applicable provisions, or equivalent alternative; board may not waive code | § 112.2 |
| Board makeup | Members qualified by experience and training; not employees | § 112.3 |
Exceptions & special cases
- Emergency stops: when an emergency exists, the code official may stop work immediately without prior written notice (§ 113.3) . That is an explicit exception to the written‑notice rule.
- Optional local procedures: the CWUIC includes appendices (non‑mandatory unless adopted) that jurisdictions often adopt to add detail. For example, Appendix I (Board of Appeals) contains procedural details such as a 20‑day filing period for appeals where adopted and states that appeals (except for Imminent Danger notices) stay enforcement until heard — but these are optional and apply only where the jurisdiction adopts the appendix provisions (see Appendix I101.2 and I101.2.2) .
- Penalty amounts and exact appeal filing deadlines are not specified in Sections 112 and 113 themselves — they are set by the adopting jurisdiction or by optional appendix procedures if adopted (§ 112; § 113) .
Common mistakes
- Assuming the board can “waive” the code: the board does not have authority to waive code requirements (§ 112.2) .
- Ignoring an immediate stop: the stop‑work order requires immediate cessation of the cited work; continuing work can trigger fines under the AHJ’s enforcement rules (§ 113.2; § 113.4) .
- Relying on an appendix procedure that the jurisdiction has not adopted: optional appendix provisions (for example, the 20‑day filing window and stay‑of‑enforcement rule) apply only if the jurisdiction adopts them — check local adoption documents before assuming those procedures apply (Appendix I) .
- Expecting the code official to delay action: where imminent danger exists, the code official may act immediately without written notice (§ 113.3) .
Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers
Scenario: A contractor is replacing a house roof in a WUI area. The code official observes that the contractor is installing non‑compliant combustible roofing material during high hazard conditions and determines the work is being performed contrary to the code.
- The code official issues a written stop work order to the owner and the contractor — the order states the reason (non‑compliant combustible roofing) and the conditions to resume (remove combustible material and propose approved non‑combustible roof covering) (§ 113.2) .
- Work must immediately cease upon service of that order; if the contractor continues work, the jurisdiction may impose fines as established by the local authority (§ 113.2; § 113.4) .
- The owner wishes to appeal the code official’s determination. The owner files an appeal to the board of appeals (created under § 112.1) — assume the jurisdiction has adopted Appendix I procedures, which provide a 20‑day filing window and say appeals (other than Imminent Danger notices) stay enforcement until the appeal is heard; the owner files on day 12, so the stop‑work enforcement is stayed while the board considers the matter (only if that appendix procedure is adopted locally) (Appendix I101.2 / I101.2.2) .
- The board, consisting of five qualified members (if Appendix I is adopted), hears the evidence. The board may find the code was misinterpreted and allow an equivalent roofing method, or it may uphold the stop‑work order; the board cannot waive the code requirements — it can only interpret or allow an equivalent construction (§ 112.2; Appendix I) .
- The board issues a written decision to the appellant and the code official; the code official must act without delay on the board’s decision (§ 112.1; § 112.4) .
(Notes: the CWUIC text provides the process and limits but does not set a statewide numeric penalty or mandatory appeal deadlines in Sections 112/113 — these are governed locally or by optional appendices where adopted) .
Related provisions
- § 112 — Means of Appeals (creation and duties of the board of appeals)
- § 112.1 — General (board of appeals created; written decisions to appellant and code official)
- § 112.2 — Limitations on authority (grounds for appeal; board may not waive code)
- § 112.3 — Qualifications of the board of appeals (members qualified, not employees)
- § 112.4 — Administration (code official must act without delay on board decisions)
- § 113.1 — Authority to issue stop work orders (code official finds work contrary/dangerous)
- § 113.2 — Issuance (written order; served on owner/agent/person; must state reason and resumption conditions)
- § 113.3 — Emergencies (no written notice required where emergency exists)
- § 113.4 — Failure to comply (continuing work after order may result in fines)
- Appendix I (Board of Appeals) — Optional procedures including 20‑day filing and stay of enforcement for appeals except Imminent Danger notices (apply only if adopted locally) (Appendix I101.2; I101.2.2)
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CWUIC § 112.1 High relevance — show source text
The code official shall notify the serving utility and, where possible, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and the occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection, the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.
SECTION 112—MEANS OF APPEALS
[A] 112.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the code official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant, with a duplicate copy to the code official.
[A] 112.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.
[A] 112.4 Administration. The code official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.
SECTION 113—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 113.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 113.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 113.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 113.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
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CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS
CWUIC § 113.1 High relevance — show source text
[A] 113.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the building official.
[A] 113.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.
[A] 113.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and who are not employees of the jurisdiction.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 113.4 Administration. The building official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.
SECTION 114—VIOLATIONS
[A] 114.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish or occupy any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
[A] 114.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
[A] 114.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
[A] 114.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION 115—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 115.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
CWUIC § 1-25 High relevance — show source text
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
R112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.
R112.4 Administration. The building official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.
SECTION R113—VIOLATIONS
R113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to erect, construct, alter, extend, repair, move, remove, demolish or occupy any building, structure or equipment regulated by this code, or cause same to be done, in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
R113.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a detail statement or a plan approved thereunder, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
R113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with in the time prescribed by such notice, the building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
R113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION R114—STOP WORK ORDER
R114.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
R114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
R114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the building official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
R114.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
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CWUIC § 105.3. High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits under Section 105.3.
Accessory structures.
[A] 110.3 Temporary occupancy. The code official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The code official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.
[A] 110.4 Revocation. The code official is authorized to, in writing, suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy or completion issued under the provisions of this code wherever the certificate is issued in error, on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or where it is determined that the building or structure, premise or portion thereof is in violation of any ordinance or regulation or any of the provisions of this code.
SECTION 111—SERVICE UTILITIES
[A] 111.1 Connection of service utilities. A person shall not make connections from a utility, source of energy, fuel, power, water system or sewer system to any building or system that is regulated by this code for which a permit is required until authorized by the code official.
[A] 111.2 Temporary connection. The code official shall have the authority to authorize the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility, source of energy, fuel, power, water system or sewer system for the purpose of testing systems or for use under a temporary approval.
[A] 111.3 Authority to disconnect service utilities. The code official shall have the authority to authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this code and the referenced codes and standards in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property or where such utility connection has been made without the approval required by Sections 111.1 and 111.2. The code official shall notify the serving utility and, where possible, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and the occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection, the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.
SECTION 112—MEANS OF APPEALS
[A] 112.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the code official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant, with a duplicate copy to the code official.
[A] 112.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.
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ADMINISTRATION
CWUIC § 112.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 112.2 Limitations on authority. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the true intent of this code or the rules legally adopted thereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equivalent or better form of construction is proposed. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code.
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 112.3 Qualifications. The board of appeals shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training on matters pertaining to the provisions of this code and are not employees of the jurisdiction.
[A] 112.4 Administration. The code official shall take action without delay in accordance with the decision of the board.
SECTION 113—VIOLATIONS
[A] 113.1 Unlawful acts. It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to repair, alter, extend, add, move, remove, demolish or change the occupancy of any building or equipment regulated by this code or cause same to be done in conflict with or in violation of any of the provisions of this code.
[A] 113.2 Notice of violation. The code official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the repair, alteration, extension, addition, moving, removal, demolition or change in the occupancy of a building in violation of the provisions of this code or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
[A] 113.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the code official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
[A] 113.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who repairs or alters or changes the occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the code official or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION 114—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 114.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 114.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 114.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
CWUIC § 113.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 113—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 113.1 Authority. Where the code official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the code official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 113.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 113.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the code official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 113.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
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CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGT-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt Entire Chapter Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X Adopt only those sections that
are listed below[California Code of Regulations,
Title 19, Division 1]Chapter / Section 201.3 X Applicable Building X Defensible Space X _Exterior Wall CWUIC § 106.2 High relevance — show source text
106.2 Notices of Correction or Violation. Notices of correction or violation shall be written by the Authority Having Jurisdiction and shall be permitted to be posted at the site of the work or mailed or delivered to the permittee or their authorized representative.
2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 25
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
Refusal, failure, or neglect to comply with such notice or order within 10 days of receipt thereof, shall be considered a violation of this code and shall be subject to the penalties set forth by the governing laws of the jurisdiction.
106.3 Penalties. A person, firm, or corporation violating a provision of this code shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both set forth by the governing laws of the jurisdiction. Each separate day or a portion thereof, during which a violation of this code occurs or continues, shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense.
106.4 Stop Orders. Where work is being done contrary to the provisions of this code, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to order the work stopped by notice in writing served on persons engaged in the doing or causing such work to be done, and such persons shall forthwith stop work until authorized by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to proceed with the work.
106.5 Authority to Disconnect Utilities in Emergen- cies. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to disconnect a mechanical system to a building, structure, or equipment regulated by this code in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property. 106.6 Authority to Condemn. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction ascertains that a mechanical system or portion thereof, regulated by this code, has become hazardous to life, health, or property, or has become insanitary, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall order in writing that such mechanical system either be removed or placed in a safe or sanitary condition. The order shall fix a reasonable time limit for compliance. No person shall use or maintain a defective mechanical system after receiving such notice.
Where such mechanical system is to be disconnected, written notice shall be given. In cases of immediate danger to life or property, such disconnection shall be permitted to be made immediately without such notice.
107.0 Board of Appeals.
107.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions, or determinations made by the Authority Having Jurisdiction relative to the application and interpretations of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a Board of Appeals consisting of members who are qualified by experience and training to pass upon matters pertaining to mechanical system design, construction, and maintenance and the public health aspects of mechanical systems and who are not employees of the jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be an ex-officio member and shall act as secretary to said board but shall have no vote upon a matter before the board. The Board of Appeals shall be appointed by the governing body and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business and shall render decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
107.2 Limitations of Authority. The Board of Appeals shall have no authority relative to interpretation of the administrative provisions of this code, nor shall the board be empowered to waive requirements of this code.
CWUIC § 114.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 114.2 Notice of violation. The building official is authorized to serve a notice of violation or order on the person responsible for the erection, construction, alteration, extension, repair, moving, removal, demolition or occupancy of a building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code, or in violation of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code. Such order shall direct the discontinuance of the illegal action or condition and the abatement of the violation.
[A] 114.3 Prosecution of violation. If the notice of violation is not complied with promptly, the building official is authorized to request the legal counsel of the jurisdiction to institute the appropriate proceeding at law or in equity to restrain, correct or abate such violation, or to require the removal or termination of the unlawful occupancy of the building or structure in violation of the provisions of this code or of the order or direction made pursuant thereto.
[A] 114.4 Violation penalties. Any person who violates a provision of this code or fails to comply with any of the requirements thereof or who erects, constructs, alters or repairs a building or structure in violation of the approved construction documents or directive of the building official, or of a permit or certificate issued under the provisions of this code, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by law.
SECTION 115—STOP WORK ORDER
[A] 115.1 Authority. Where the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner contrary to the provisions of this code or in a dangerous or unsafe manner, the building official is authorized to issue a stop work order.
[A] 115.2 Issuance. The stop work order shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, the owner’s authorized agent or the person performing the work. Upon issuance of a stop work order, the cited work shall immediately cease. The stop work order shall state the reason for the order and the conditions under which the cited work is authorized to resume.
[A] 115.3 Emergencies. Where an emergency exists, the building official shall not be required to give a written notice prior to stopping the work.
[A] 115.4 Failure to comply. Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to fines established by the authority having jurisdiction.
SECTION 116—UNSAFE STRUCTURES AND EQUIPMENT
[A] 116.1 Unsafe conditions. Structures or existing equipment that are or hereafter become unsafe, insanitary or deficient because of inadequate means of egress facilities, inadequate light and ventilation, or that constitute a fire hazard, or are otherwise dangerous to human life or the public welfare, or that involve illegal or improper occupancy or inadequate maintenance, shall be deemed an unsafe condition. Unsafe structures shall be taken down and removed or made safe, as the building official deems necessary and as provided for in this section. A vacant structure that is not secured against unauthorized entry shall be deemed unsafe.
[A] 116.2 Record. The building official shall cause a report to be filed on an unsafe condition. The report shall state the occupancy of the structure and the nature of the unsafe condition.
CWUIC § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.
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APPENDIX I-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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I BOARD OF APPEALS
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance or legislation of the jurisdiction.
User notes:
About this appendix: Appendix I contains optional criteria that, where adopted, provide jurisdictions with detailed appeals board member qualifications and administrative procedures to supplement the basic requirements found in Section 112.
SECTION I101—GENERAL
[A] I101.1 Scope. A board of appeals shall be established within the jurisdiction for the purpose of hearing applications for modification of the requirements of this code pursuant to the provisions of Section 112, Means of Appeals. The board shall be established and operated in accordance with this section, and shall be authorized to hear evidence from appellants and the building official pertaining to the application and intent of this code for the purpose of issuing orders pursuant to these provisions.
[A] I101.2 Application for appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the code official to the board. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the intent of this code or the rules legally adopted hereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equally good or better form of construction is proposed. The application shall be filed on a form obtained from the code official within 20 days after the notice was served.
[A] I101.2.1 Limitation of authority. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.
[A] I101.2.2 Stays of enforcement. Appeals of notice and orders, other than Imminent Danger notices, shall stay the enforcement of the notice and order until the appeal is heard by the board.
[A] I101.3 Membership of board. The board shall consist of five voting members appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction. Each member shall serve for [ NUMBER OF YEARS ] years or until a successor has been appointed. The board members’ terms shall be staggered at intervals, so as to provide continuity. The code official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not vote on any matter before the board.
[A] I101.3.1 Qualifications. The board shall consist of five individuals, who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction and are not employees of the jurisdiction.
CWUIC § 105.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
No test or inspection shall be required where a mechanical system, or part thereof, is set up for exhibition purposes and has no connection with water or an energy fuel supply. In cases where it would be impractical to provide the required water or air tests, or for minor installations and repairs, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to make such inspection as deemed advisable in order to be assured that the work has been performed in accordance with the intent of this code. Joints and connections in the mechanical system shall be airtight, gastight, or watertight for the pressures required by the test.
105.3.1 Defective Systems. In buildings or premises condemned by the Authority Having Jurisdiction because of an insanitary condition of the mechanical system, or part thereof, the alterations in such system shall be in accordance with the requirements of this code.
105.3.2 Retesting. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the work will not pass the test, necessary corrections shall be made, and the work shall be resubmitted for test or inspection.
105.3.3 Approval. Where prescribed tests and inspections indicate that the work is in accordance with this code, a certificate of approval shall be issued by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to the permittee on demand.
105.4 Connection to Service Utilities. No person shall make connections from a source of energy or fuel to a mechanical system or equipment regulated by this code and for which a permit is required until approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to authorize temporary connection of the mechanical system equipment to the source of energy or fuel for the purpose of testing the equipment.
106.0 Violations and Penalties.
106.1 General. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm, or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, demolish, equip, use, or maintain a mechanical system or permit the same to be done in violation of this code.
106.2 Notices of Correction or Violation. Notices of correction or violation shall be written by the Authority Having Jurisdiction and shall be permitted to be posted at the site of the work or mailed or delivered to the permittee or their authorized representative.
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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
Refusal, failure, or neglect to comply with such notice or order within 10 days of receipt thereof, shall be considered a violation of this code and shall be subject to the penalties set forth by the governing laws of the jurisdiction.
106.3 Penalties. A person, firm, or corporation violating a provision of this code shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both set forth by the governing laws of the jurisdiction. Each separate day or a portion thereof, during which a violation of this code occurs or continues, shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense.
106.4 Stop Orders. Where work is being done contrary to the provisions of this code, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to order the work stopped by notice in writing served on persons engaged in the doing or causing such work to be done, and such persons shall forthwith stop work until authorized by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to proceed with the work.
CWUIC § 105.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Joints and connections in the plumbing system shall be gastight and watertight for the pressures required by the test. 105.3.1 Defective Systems. An air test shall be used in testing the sanitary condition of the drainage or plumbing system of building premises where there is reason to believe that it has become defective. In buildings or premises condemned by the Authority Having Jurisdiction because of an insanitary condition of the plumbing system, or part thereof, the alterations in such system shall be in accordance with the requirements of this code. 105.3.2 Retesting. Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction finds that the work will not pass the test, necessary corrections shall be made, and the work shall be resubmitted for test or inspection. 105.3.3 Approval. Where prescribed tests and inspections indicate that the work is in accordance with this code, a certificate of approval shall be issued by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to the permittee on demand. 105.4 Connection to Service Utilities. No person shall make connections from a source of energy or fuel to a plumbing system or equipment regulated by this code and for which a permit is required until approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. No person shall make connection from a watersupply line nor shall connect to a sewer system regulated by this code and for which a permit is required until approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to authorize temporary connection of the plumbing equipment to the source of energy or fuel for the purpose of testing the equipment.
106.0 Violations and Penalties.
106.1 General. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm, or corporation to erect, construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, improve, remove, convert, demolish, equip, use, or maintain plumbing or permit the same to be done in violation of this code.
106.2 Notices of Correction or Violation. Notices of correction or violation shall be written by the Authority Having Jurisdiction and shall be permitted to be posted at the site of the work or mailed or delivered to the permittee or their authorized representative.
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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
Refusal, failure, or neglect to comply with such notice or order within 10 days of receipt thereof, shall be considered a violation of this code and shall be subject to the penalties set forth by the governing laws of the jurisdiction.
106.3 Penalties. A person, firm, or corporation violating a provision of this code shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be punishable by a fine, imprisonment, or both set forth by the governing laws of the jurisdiction. Each separate day or portion thereof, during which a violation of this code occurs or continues, shall be deemed to constitute a separate offense.
106.4 Stop Orders. Where work is being done contrary to the provisions of this code, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to order the work stopped by notice in writing served on persons engaged in the doing or causing such work to be done, and such persons shall forthwith stop work until authorized by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to proceed with the work.
Frequently asked questions
Who can I appeal to if I disagree with a stop-work order?
You can appeal to the jurisdiction’s board of appeals, which is established to hear appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the code official (§ 112.1) .
Does an appeal automatically stop the stop-work order from being enforced?
The basic CWUIC Sections 112/113 do not themselves create an automatic stay. Optional appendix procedures (for example Appendix I) provide that appeals — except Imminent Danger notices — stay enforcement until the appeal is heard, but that only applies if the jurisdiction has adopted that appendix procedure locally (Appendix I101.2.2) .
Must a stop-work order be in writing?
Yes — except when an emergency exists. In ordinary situations the stop-work order must be in writing, served on the owner/owner’s agent or person doing the work, and must state the reason and conditions under which work may resume (§ 113.2; § 113.3) .
Can the appeals board waive a CWUIC requirement?
No. The appeals board does not have authority to waive requirements of this code; appeals are limited to interpretation, applicability, or approval of an equivalent form of construction (§ 112.2) .
What happens if I keep working after a stop-work order?
Continuing the work (other than directed corrective work) after being served a stop-work order exposes the person to fines as established by the authority having jurisdiction (§ 113.4) .
More in California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
- Administration and Definitions
- Board of Appeals, Administration & Enforcement (permits, code official duties, appeals process)
- Wildland‑Urban Interface Area Designation & Mapping
- Fire Service Access & Water Supply (fire apparatus roads, driveways, hydrants, draft sites, standby power)
- Wildland‑Urban Interface Area Requirements (access, water, premises identification, key boxes)
- Referenced Standards & Test Methods
- Special Building Construction Regulations (ignition‑resistant construction, roof/vent/assembly requirements)
- Appendices and Model Ordinances (vegetation plans, severity‑zone adoption, home‑hardening guidance)
- Fire Protection Requirements (fire protection plans, systems, safety element provisions)
- Referenced California Documents & Matrix (CCR/Title 14 & 19 cross‑references, statutory references)
- Vegetation Management & Defensible Space (vegetation plans, maintenance, fire‑smart characteristics)
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