CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code

When is a permit required and what are permit application rules?

In the CWUIC you generally must get a separate permit for each building or structure before you build, alter, move, demolish or change occupancy (see § 105.2). Applications must be written, include a description, site identification, intended use, plans per Section 106, the project valuation and the applicant’s signature; the code official may require inspections or deny permits where public safety is at risk (see §§ 105.1, 105.2, 105.3, 105.4).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Wildland‑Urban Interface Code requires a permit for any building or structure regulated by this code that will be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished, or changed in use or occupancy — unless the work is otherwise exempted. This baseline rule appears in § 105.2. The code also establishes the general permit framework in § 105.1 and sets the application content requirements in § 105.4. § 105.3 addresses exemptions and the code official’s authority to condition or deny permits.

The single most important rule: you must obtain a separate permit for each building or structure regulated by the CWUIC before doing work on it, unless a specific exemption applies. § 105.2

Requirements in detail

1) When a permit is required (plain test)

  • The code says: “Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official.” — § 105.2
  • The code gives a specific (non‑exclusive) list of activities for which a permit shall be obtained when required by the code official (examples include automobile wrecking yards, open burning, flammable or combustible liquids, tents/canopies, welding and cutting). See § 105.2 for the enumerated activities.
  • The general statement that permits are required “in accordance with Sections 105.2 through 105.10” is in § 105.1.

2) What must an application include

Every permit application must be filed in writing on the agency form and must, at minimum:

  • Identify and describe the work, activity, operation, practice or function to be covered by the permit. — § 105.4.1 (list item 1)
  • Describe the land (legal description, street address or similar). — § 105.4 (list item 2)
  • Indicate the intended use or occupancy. — § 105.4 (list item 3)
  • Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computations and specifications as required by Section 106. — § 105.4 (list item 4)
  • State the valuation of the new building/structure or of the work. — § 105.4 (list item 5)
  • Be signed by the applicant or authorized agent. — § 105.4 (list item 6)
  • Give other information the code official requires. — § 105.4 (list item 7)

The code also authorizes a preliminary inspection by the code official before a permit is issued. See § 105.4.1.

3) Who decides and special authority

  • The code official is the decision maker for permit issuance, and is authorized to stipulate conditions on permits and to deny permits where public safety would be at risk. (Text near § 105.3.)
  • The CWUIC frames the permit program as part of the code’s administration (see § 105.1 and § 105.2).

Decision table — at a glance

Decision question Typical values / examples Result under CWUIC Code Reference
Is the work on a building or structure regulated by CWUIC? New building; alteration; demolition; change of occupancy Permit required unless exempt § 105.2
Is the activity one of the high‑risk list? Open burning; tents/canopies; welding; LP‑gas; fireworks; hazardous materials Permit required where code official requires § 105.2
Is the work exempt? (Exemptions handled elsewhere or by code official) Exemption may relieve permit requirement — but does not legalize unsafe work § 105.3
What must be on the application? Description, site, use, plans, valuation, applicant signature, other data Application must contain all required items § 105.4
Does the code allow inspection prior to issuance? Yes / preliminary inspection Code official may inspect before issuing permit § 105.4.1

Exceptions & special cases

  • The CWUIC text uses the phrase “unless otherwise exempted” — meaning some work may be exempt from permit requirements, but the exemption does not allow work that violates the code or other laws. See § 105.2 and § 105.3.
  • The code official may require permits for the listed activities “where required by the code official” — permitting is not always an automatic yes/no for every listed activity; local enforcement discretion applies. See § 105.2.
  • Preliminary inspection: the code official “is authorized to inspect and approve the systems, equipment, buildings, devices, premises and spaces or areas to be used” before issuing a permit. This is not optional for the official — it’s an authorized action. See § 105.4.1.

If you need a specific exemption (for example for a small accessory building), that exemption text may be located in other CWUIC sections (or in the California Building Code) — it is not fully spelled out inside § 105.2 / § 105.4; consult the applicable exemption section or local enforcement agency.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming a single permit covers multiple buildings or structures. The code requires a separate permit for each building or structure unless an exemption or special arrangement applies. § 105.2
  • Filing an application without the required plans/diagrams/computations or without stating the valuation — those are explicit items required by § 105.4 and are common causes of delays.
  • Relying on an “exemption” as permission to perform work that still violates other provisions of the code — § 105.3 warns that exemptions do not authorize work that violates the code or other laws.
  • Failing to anticipate that the code official can set conditions or refuse to issue a permit where public safety would be at risk (this is discretionary and must be respected). § 105.3

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: You plan to construct a 200‑ft² detached accessory storage shed on your lot inside a designated WUI area. You will use the shed to store lawn equipment (no hazardous liquids).

Apply the CWUIC text:

  1. Is a permit required? The CWUIC states a separate permit is required for each building or structure that will be erected or constructed unless exempted. A 200‑ft² storage shed is a structure subject to the permit rule, so a permit will be required unless a specific exemption applies. § 105.2
  2. What must you submit with the application? At minimum: a description of the work, the lot legal description or address, the intended use (storage), plans/diagrams as required by Section 106, the valuation of the shed (for example, if construction valuation = $6,000 state that amount), and the applicant’s signature. § 105.4
  3. Additional steps: Expect the code official may perform a preliminary inspection of the site or proposed systems before issuing the permit. § 105.4.1
  4. Watch for exemptions elsewhere: some accessory structures may be exempt from building permits in other codes or sections; the CWUIC’s requirement is “unless otherwise exempted.” Check the applicable exemption section (not found in § 105.2/105.4 text excerpt) or ask the local code official. § 105.2

Related provisions

  • § 105.1 — General permit rule and scope (CWUIC)
  • § 105.2 — Permits required; enumerated activities for which permits shall be obtained
  • § 105.3 — Work exempt from permit; code official authority to stipulate conditions or deny permits when public safety is at risk
  • § 105.4 — Permit application content and required attachments (plans, valuation, signature, etc.)
  • § 105.4.1 — Preliminary inspection before permit issuance

Code references

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

  • CWUIC § 104.7.5 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.7.5 Fees. The code official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 108.

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.

    [A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances

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    implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until final termination of the proceedings. The code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the code official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.

    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working order and approved.

    [A] 104.10 Other agencies. When requested to do so by the code official, other officials of this jurisdiction shall assist and cooperate with the code official in the discharge of the duties required by this code.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 General. Where not otherwise provided in the requirements of the California Building Code or California Fire Code, permits are required in accordance with Sections 105.2 through 105.10.

    [A] 105.2 Permits required. Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official.

    For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3.

    Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities, operations, practices or functions within a wildland-urban interface area:

    1. Automobile wrecking yard.

    2. Candles and open flames in assembly areas.

    3. Explosives or blasting agents.

    4. Fireworks.

    5. Flammable or combustible liquids.

    6. Hazardous materials.

    7. Liquefied petroleum gases.

    8. Lumberyards.

    9. Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations.

    10. Open burning.

    11. Pyrotechnical special effects material.

    12. Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures.

    13. Tire storage.

    14. Welding and cutting operations.

  • CWUIC § 104.9.1 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working order and approved.

    [A] 104.10 Other agencies. When requested to do so by the code official, other officials of this jurisdiction shall assist and cooperate with the code official in the discharge of the duties required by this code.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 General. Where not otherwise provided in the requirements of the California Building Code or California Fire Code, permits are required in accordance with Sections 105.2 through 105.10.

    [A] 105.2 Permits required. Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official.

    For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3.

    Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities, operations, practices or functions within a wildland-urban interface area:

    1. Automobile wrecking yard.

    2. Candles and open flames in assembly areas.

    3. Explosives or blasting agents.

    4. Fireworks.

    5. Flammable or combustible liquids.

    6. Hazardous materials.

    7. Liquefied petroleum gases.

    8. Lumberyards.

    9. Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations.

    10. Open burning.

    11. Pyrotechnical special effects material.

    12. Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures.

    13. Tire storage.

    14. Welding and cutting operations.

    [A] 105.3 Work exempt from permit. Exemption from the permit requirements of this code or in other Parts of Title 24 shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.

    The code official is authorized to stipulate conditions for permits. Permits shall not be issued where public safety would be at risk, as determined by the code official.

    [A] 105.4 Permit application. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefor in writing on a form furnished by the code enforcement agency for that purpose. Every such application shall:

    1. Identify and describe the work, activity, operation, practice or function to be covered by the permit for which application is made.

    2. Describe the land on which the proposed work, activity, operation, practice or function is to be done by legal description, street address or similar description that will readily identify and definitely locate the proposed building, work, activity, operation, practice or function.

    3. Indicate the use or occupancy for which the proposed work, activity, operation, practice or function is intended.

    4. Be accompanied by plans, diagrams, computation and specifications and other data as required in Section 106 of this code.

    5. State the valuation of any new building or structure or any addition, remodeling or alteration to an existing building.

    6. Be signed by the applicant or the applicant’s authorized agent.

    7. Give such other data and information as required by the code official.

    [A] 105.4.1 Preliminary inspection. Before a permit is issued, the code official is authorized to inspect and approve the systems, equipment, buildings, devices, premises and spaces or areas to be used.

  • CWUIC § 104.11.1 High relevance — show source text

    In the exercise of such power, the fire chief is authorized to prohibit any person, vehicle, vessel or thing from approaching the scene, and is authorized to remove, or cause to be removed or kept away from the scene, any vehicle, vessel or thing that could impede or interfere with the operations of the fire department and, in the judgment of the fire chief, any person not actually and usefully employed in the extinguishing of such fire or in the preservation of property in the vicinity thereof.

    104.11.1 Barricades. The fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge at the scene of an emergency is authorized to place ropes, guards, barricades or other obstructions across any street, alley, place or private property in the vicinity of such operation so as to prevent accidents or interference with the lawful efforts of the fire department to manage and control the situation and to handle fire apparatus.

    104.11.2 Obstructing operations. Persons shall not obstruct the operations of the fire department in connection with extinguishment or control of any fire, or actions relative to other emergencies, or disobey any lawful command of the fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge of the emergency, or any part thereof, or any lawful order of a police officer assisting the fire department.

    104.11.3 Systems and devices. Persons shall not render a system or device inoperative during an emergency unless by direction of the fire chief or fire department official in charge of the incident.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 General. Permits shall be in accordance with Sections 105.1.1 through 105.6.25.

    [A] 105.1.1 Permits required. A property owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to conduct an operation or business, or install or modify systems and equipment that are regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the fire code official and obtain the required permit.

    105.1.2 Types of permits. There shall be two types of permits as follows:

    1. Operational permit. An operational permit allows the applicant to conduct an operation or a business for which a permit is required by Section 105.5 for either: 1.1. A prescribed period.

    1.2. Until renewed or revoked.

    1. Construction permit. A construction permit allows the applicant to install or modify systems and equipment for which a permit is required by Section 105.6.

    105.1.3 Multiple permits for the same location. Where more than one permit is required for the same location, the fire code offi- cial is authorized to consolidate such permits into a single permit provided that each provision is listed in the permit.

    [A] 105.1.4 Emergency repairs. Where equipment replacement and repairs must be performed in an emergency situation, the permit application shall be submitted within the next working business day to the fire code official.

    [A] 105.1.5 Repairs. Application or notice to the fire code official is not required for ordinary repairs to structures, equipment or systems. Such repairs shall not include the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof, the removal or change of any required means of egress, or rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the egress requirements; nor shall any repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, fire protection water supply, automatic sprinkler system, fire alarm system or other work affecting fire protection or life safety.

  • CWUIC § 104.9.1 High relevance — show source text

    ADMINISTRATION

    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to repair, add to, alter, relocate, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or to repair, install, add, alter, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required permit.

    [A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing installation, the code official is authorized to issue an annual permit on application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified trade persons in the building, structure, or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.

    [A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The code official shall have access to such records at all times, or such records shall be filed with the code official as designated.

    [A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

    Building:

    1. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above grade and not over any basement or story below and that are not part of an accessible route.
    2. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, counter tops and similar finish work.
    3. Temporary motion picture, television, and theater stage sets and scenery.
    4. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, and not including service systems.
    5. Window awnings supported by an exterior wall of Group R-3 or Group U occupancies.
    6. Nonfixed and movable cases, counters and partitions not over 5 feet 9 inches (1753 mm) in height.

    Electrical:

    1. Repairs and maintenance: Minor repair work, including the replacement of lamps or the connection of approved portable electrical equipment to approved permanently installed receptacles.

    2. Radio and television transmitting stations: The provisions of this code shall not apply to electrical equipment used for radio and television transmissions, but do apply to equipment and wiring for power supply, the installations of towers and antennas.

    3. Temporary testing systems: A permit shall not be required for the installation of any temporary system required for the testing or servicing of electrical equipment or apparatus.

    Gas:

    1. Portable heating appliance.
    2. Replacement of any minor part that does not alter approval of equipment or make such equipment unsafe.

    Mechanical:

    1. Portable heating appliance.
    2. Portable ventilation equipment.
    3. Portable cooling unit.
    4. Steam, hot or chilled water piping within any heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
    5. Replacement of any part that does not alter its approval or make it unsafe.
    6. Portable evaporative cooler.
    7. Self-contained refrigeration system containing 10 pounds (4.54 kg) or less of refrigerant and actuated by motors of 1 horsepower (746 W) or less.
  • CWUIC § 105.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.

    [A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing installation, the building official is authorized to issue an annual permit upon application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified tradespersons in the building, structure or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.

    [A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The building official shall have access to such records at all times or such records shall be filed with the building official as designated.

    [A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

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    Building:

    1. One-story detached accessory structures used as tool and storage sheds, playhouses and similar uses, provided that the floor area does not exceed than 120 square feet (11.15 m [2] ). It is permissible that these structures still be regulated by Section 710A, despite exemption from permit.

    2. Fences, other than swimming pool barriers, not over 7 feet (2134 mm) high.

    3. Oil derricks.

    4. Retaining walls that are not over 4 feet (1219 mm) in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall, unless supporting a surcharge or impounding Class I, II or IIIA liquids.

    5. Water tanks supported directly on grade if the capacity is not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) and the ratio of height to diameter or width is not greater than 2:1.

    6. Sidewalks and driveways not more than 30 inches (762 mm) above adjacent grade, and not over any basement or story below and are not part of an accessible route.

    7. Painting, papering, tiling, carpeting, cabinets, countertops and similar finish work.

    8. Temporary motion picture, television and theater stage sets and scenery.

    9. Prefabricated swimming pools accessory to a Group R-3 occupancy that are less than 24 inches (610 mm) deep, are not greater than 5,000 gallons (18 925 L) and are installed entirely above ground.

    10. Shade cloth structures constructed for nursery or agricultural purposes, not including service systems.

    11. Swings and other playground equipment accessory to detached one- and two-family dwellings.

  • CWUIC § 104.8 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the Board of Appeals, officer or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties.

    [A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for cost in any action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the code official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.

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    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to repair, add to, alter, relocate, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or to repair, install, add, alter, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the code official and obtain the required permit.

    [A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical, or plumbing installation, the code official is authorized to issue an annual permit on application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified trade persons in the building, structure, or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.

    [A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The code official shall have access to such records at all times, or such records shall be filed with the code official as designated.

    [A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

  • CWUIC § 7.5 High relevance — show source text

    7.5|Fees|N||||||||| |104.8|Liability|Y||||||||| |104.8.1|Legal defense|Y||||||||| |104.9|Approved materials
    and equipment|N||||||||| |104.9.1|Material and
    equipment reuse|N||||||||| |104.10|Other agencies|N||||||||| |105|Permits|Y||||||||| |105.1|General|Y||||||||| |105.2|Permits required|Y||||||||| |105.3|Work exempt from
    permit|Y||||||||| |105.4|Permit application|Y||||||||| |105.4.1|Preliminary
    inspection|N||||||||| |105.4.2|Time limitation of
    application|N||||||||| |105.5|Permit approval|N||||||||| |105.6|Permit issuance|N||||||||| |105.6.1|Refusal to issue a
    permit|N||||||||| |105.7|Validity of permit|N||||||||| |105.8|Expiration|Y||105.5.1||||||| |105.9|Retention of permits|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
    105.10 Revocation of permits Y
    106 Construction
    documents    		 Y
    106.1 General Y 107.1
    106.2 Information on plans
    and specifications    		 Y
    106.3 Site plan Y
    106.4 Vegetation manage-
    ment_compliance_    		 Y 701A.5
    106.5 Fire protection plan Y
    106.6 Other data and
    substantiation    		 N
    106.7 Vicinity plan Y
    106.8 Retention of plans Y 1.11.3.5
    106.9 Examination of
    documents    		 N
    106.
  • CWUIC § 104.7.4 High relevance — show source text

    [A] 104.7.4 Tests. The building official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.2.4 and 104.2.3.5.

    [A] 104.7.5 Fees. The building official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 109.

    [A] 104.8 Liability. The building official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.

    [A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The building official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.

    [A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.

    [A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.

    SECTION 105—PERMITS

    [A] 105.1 Required. Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.

    [A] 105.1.1 Annual permit. Instead of an individual permit for each alteration to an already approved electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing installation, the building official is authorized to issue an annual permit upon application therefor to any person, firm or corporation regularly employing one or more qualified tradespersons in the building, structure or on the premises owned or operated by the applicant for the permit.

    [A] 105.1.2 Annual permit records. The person to whom an annual permit is issued shall keep a detailed record of alterations made under such annual permit. The building official shall have access to such records at all times or such records shall be filed with the building official as designated.

    [A] 105.2 Work exempt from permit. Exemptions from permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for any work to be done in any manner in violation of the provisions of this code or any other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction. Permits shall not be required for the following:

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  • CWUIC § 101.3.1 High relevance — show source text

    This code shall supplement the jurisdiction’s building and fire codes, if such codes have been adopted, to provide for special regulations to mitigate the fire- and life-safety hazards of the wildland-urban interface areas.

    101.3.1 Application. New buildings located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone or Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Area designated by the enforcing agency constructed after the application date shall comply with the provisions of this code. This shall include all new buildings with residential, commercial, educational, institutional or similar occupancy type use, which shall be referred to in this code as “applicable buildings,” as well as new buildings and structures accessory to those applicable buildings.

    Exceptions: 1. Group U occupancy accessory buildings of any size located at least 50 feet (15 240 mm) from an applicable building on the same lot.

    2. Group U occupancy agricultural buildings, as defined in Section 202 of the California Building Code of any size located at least 50 feet (15 240 mm) from an applicable building. 3. Group C occupancy special buildings conforming to the limitations specified in Section 450.4.1 of the California Building Code. 4. New accessory buildings and miscellaneous structures specified in Section 504.11 shall comply only with the requirements of that section.

    5. Additions to and remodels of buildings originally constructed prior to July 1, 2008.

    101.3.1.1 Application date and where required. New buildings for which an application for a building permit is submitted on or after July 1, 2008, located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone or Wildland-Urban Interface Area shall comply with this code, including all of the following areas:

    All unincorporated lands designated by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection as State Responsibility Area (SRA) including:

    Moderate Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

    High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

    Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

    Land designated as a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone by cities and other local agencies.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE 1-15

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ADMINISTRATION

    Land designated as a wildland-urban interface area by cities and other local agencies.

    Exceptions: 1. New buildings located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone within a State Responsibility Area, for which an application for a building permit is submitted on or after January 1, 2008, shall comply with this code. 2. New buildings located in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone within a State Responsibility Area or any wildland-urban interface area designated by cities and other local agencies for which an application for a building permit is submit- ted on or after December 1, 2005, but prior to July 1, 2008, shall only comply with the following sections of this chapter: 2.1. Section 507 – Replacement or Repair of Roof Coverings.

    2.2. Section 504.10 – Vents.

    [A] 101.4 Retroactivity. The provisions of the code shall apply to conditions arising after the adoption thereof, conditions not legally in existence at the adoption of this code and conditions that, in the opinion of the code official, constitute a distinct hazard to life or property.

    Exception: Provisions of this code that specifically apply to existing conditions are retroactive.

  • CWUIC § 2.3 High relevance — show source text

    **_ Refer to the Special Occupancy Parks Act, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.3, commencing with Section 18860 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 2.2, commencing with Section 2000 for special occupancy park administra- tive and enforcement authority, permits, fees, viola- tions, inspections, and penalties both within and outside of special occupancy parks. Exception: Special occupancy parks where the Department of Housing and Community Develop- ment is the enforcing agency. 1.8.3.2.4 Employee Housing Act. Refer to the Employee Housing Act, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 1, commencing with Section 17000 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 1, Subchapter 3, commencing with Section 600 for employee housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections, and penalties. 1.8.3.2.5 Factory-Built Housing Law. Refer to the Factory-Built Housing Law, California Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 6, commencing with Section 19960 and California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, Subchapter 1, commencing with Section 3000 for factory-built housing administrative and enforcement authority, permits, fees, violations, inspections, and penalties. 1.8.4 Permits, Fees, Applications, and Inspections. 1.8.4.1 Permits. A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcing agency prior to the erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, relocation, or alteration of any mechanical system. Exceptions: (1) Work exempt from permits as specified in Chapter 1, Scope and Administration, Division II, Section 104.2 Items (1) through (5) of this code. (2) Changes, alterations, or repairs of a minor nature not affecting structural features, egress, sanitation, safety, or accessibility as determined by the enforcing agency.

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

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

    _**1.8.4.3 Plan Review and Time Limitations.

  • CWUIC § 2.1.3 High relevance — show source text

    2.1.3|Content|N||||||||| |104.2.1.4|Tests|N||||||||| |104.2.2|Alternative
    materials, design and
    methods|Y||1.11.2.4
    1.11.2.5||||||| |104.2.2.1|Approval authority|N||||||||| |104.2.2.2|Application and
    disposition|N||1.11.2.4
    1.11.2.5||||||| |104.2.2.3|Compliance with
    code intent|N||||||||| |104.2.2.4|Equivalency criteria|N||||||||| |104.2.2.5|Tests|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6|Reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6.1|Evaluation reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6.2|Other reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.7|Peer review|N||||||||| |104.2.3|Modifications|N||||||||| |104.3|Applications and
    permits|Y||||||||| |104.4|Right of entry|N||||||||| |104.4.1|Warrant|N||||||||| |104.5|Identification|N||||||||| |104.6|Notices and orders|Y||||||||| |104.7|Official records|N||||||||| |104.7.1|Approvals|N||||||||| |104.7.2|Inspections|N||||||||| |104.7.3|Code alternatives
    and modifications|N||||||||| |104.7.4|Tests|N||||||||| |104.7.5|Fees|N||||||||| |104.8|Liability|Y||||||||| |104.8.1|Legal defense|Y||||||||| |104.9|Approved materials
    and equipment|N||||||||| |104.9.1|Material and
    equipment reuse|N||||||||| |104.10|Other agencies|N||||||||| |105|Permits|Y||||||||| |105.1|General|Y||||||||| |105.2|Permits required|Y||||||||| |105.3|Work exempt from
    permit|Y||||||||| |105.4|Permit application|Y||||||||| |105.4.1|Preliminary
    inspection|N||||||||| |105.4.2|Time limitation of
    application|N||||||||| |105.5|Permit approval|N||||||||| |105.6|Permit issuance|N||||||||| |105.6.1|Refusal to issue a
    permit|N||||||||| |105.7|Validity of permit|N||||||||| |105.8|Expiration|Y||105.5.1||||||| |105.9|Retention of permits|N|||||||||

    APPENDIX H-22 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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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,

  • CWUIC § 403.2 High relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX I-4 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    Access Applicability 402 Driveways 403.2 Fire apparatus access roads 403.3 Grade 403.7

    Individual structures 402.2 Marking of roads 402.3, 403.4 Restricted 403.1

    Subdivisions 402.1 Accessory Buildings and Miscellaneous Structures

    Defined 202

    Detached 504.11 Exempt from permit 105.3 Additions or Alterations 101.5

    Address Markers 402.3 Agriculture 202 Alternative Materials or Methods 104.2.2

    Appeals 112 Appendices 101.2.1 Applicable Building 202 Applicability 102 Approved 202 Approved Agency 104.2.2.6.1, 202 Authority of Code Official 104

    Building 202 Building Official 202

    Certificate of Completion 111 Certificate of occupancy 111.2 Revocation 111.4

    Temporary occupancy 111.3

    Code Official 202 Code Official, Authority 104 Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework Appendix C Compliance Alternatives 105 Construction Documents 106

    Amended 106.10

    Examination of 106.9 Information on plans and specifications 106.2 Phased 106.12

    Previous approval 106.11 Retention of 106.8 Site plan 106.3 Vegetation management plans 106.4 Control of Storage Appendix A, A105 Critical Fire Weather 202

    Dead-end Road 202 Defensible Space 403, 601.3 Vegetation Plan 603 Definitions 202 Designation of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.1

    Director 202 Driveway 202 Dumping Appendix A, A106 Dwelling 202

    Exterior Covering 202

    INDEX

    Fees 109 Findings of Fact Appendix E Fire Chief 202 Fire Danger Rating System Appendix D Fire Flow Calculation Area Application 404.5 Defined 202 Fire Hazard Severity Zones 1.1.2, 202, 302.1, 302.2, Appendix D, Appendix H Fire Protection Plans 602

    Fire Weather 202

    Fire-Resistance-Rated Construction 501.3 Fire-Resistive Vegetation Appendix F Fire-Retardant-Treated Lumber or

    Wood 503.2, 504.5, 504.7, 504.11 Flame Spread Index 202 Flashing 504.2.1, 504.5.1 Fuel Break 202, 609 Fuel Models Appendix D Fuel Modification 202

    Fuel Modification Distance 603.2

    Fuel Mosaic 202 Fuel-Loading 202

    General Requirements Appendix A Green Belt 202

    Greenways 202

Frequently asked questions

Do I always need a permit to build an accessory shed in the WUI?

If the shed is a building/structure regulated by the CWUIC, a separate permit is required unless a specific exemption applies. The baseline rule is § 105.2.

What must be on the permit application?

At minimum: description of the work, property description (legal or address), intended use/occupancy, required plans/diagrams per Section 106, stated valuation, applicant signature, and any other info the code official requires. See § 105.4.

Can the code official inspect before issuing the permit?

Yes. The code official is authorized to perform a preliminary inspection and approve systems or premises prior to permit issuance. § 105.4.1

If a work type is listed in § 105.2, is the permit automatic?

No — § 105.2 lists activities for which a permit shall be obtained where required by the code official. Local enforcement discretion applies. § 105.2

Does an exemption mean I can ignore code requirements?

No. Exemptions from permits do not authorize work done in violation of the code or other laws. § 105.3 makes that clear.

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