CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code

Board composition, qualifications, alternates, vacancies and conflicts of interest

Your local appeals board should be five appointed, qualified non‑employees with staggered terms; the chief appoints up to two qualified alternates; vacancies are filled the same way; any member with a personal/professional/financial interest must declare it and not participate (CWUIC Appendix I, §§ I101.3, I101.3.1–.3, I101.3.6) .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The board must be a five‑member appeals board of voting members appointed by the chief appointing authority; terms are staggered and the code official is an ex‑officio (nonvoting) member. This framework is established in § I101.3. Members must be qualified by experience and training and must not be employees of the jurisdiction (see § I101.3.1). The jurisdiction may appoint up to two alternate members to sit when regular members are absent or disqualified (see § I101.3.2); vacancies are filled the same way as original appointments (see § I101.3.3) .

The single most important rule: the appeals board is a five‑voting‑member body appointed by the chief appointing authority, using qualified non‑employees; alternates and vacancy procedures follow the same appointment rules (see § I101.3 and § I101.3.1–.3) .

Requirements in detail

Board composition (who, how many, appointing authority)

  • Board size: Five voting members (required). See § I101.3 .
  • Appointing authority: Appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction (see § I101.3) .
  • Ex‑officio member: The code official (or building/fire official depending on context) is an ex‑officio (nonvoting) member (see § I101.3) .
  • Terms: Members “serve for [NUMBER OF YEARS] years or until a successor has been appointed” and must be staggered to provide continuity; the CWUIC text shows this as a term placeholder and does not fix a specific number of years in the model language (see § I101.3) .

Qualifications

  • Members must be qualified by experience and training to pass on building‑construction (or subject‑matter) matters and must not be employees of the jurisdiction (see § I101.3.1) .
  • This means jurisdictions should document candidate experience/training relevant to appeals (e.g., building, fire, WUI expertise) consistent with local adoption.

Alternate members

  • The chief appointing authority may appoint two alternate members. Alternates are called by the board chair to hear appeals during the absence or disqualification of a regular member (see § I101.3.2) .
  • Alternates must meet the same qualifications required of regular members and are appointed for the same term or until a successor is appointed (see § I101.3.2) .

Vacancies

  • Vacancies shall be filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment (see § I101.3.3) .
  • Practically: follow the same nomination/appointment process and document the appointment in records.

Conflicts of interest; recusal

  • A member with any personal, professional or financial interest in a matter before the board must declare the interest and refrain from participating in discussions, deliberations and voting on that matter (see § I101.3.6) .
  • The code’s model text requires declaration and nonparticipation; local policy should add forms/recording procedures to track recusals.

Decision‑relevant matrix (quick reference)

Dimension Value / Rule Code Reference
Board size 5 voting members § I101.3
Appointment authority Chief appointing authority § I101.3
Term length "[NUMBER OF YEARS]" placeholder — staggered terms required (model language; jurisdiction to set years) § I101.3
Membership qualification Qualified by experience and training; not employees of jurisdiction § I101.3.1
Alternates permitted Up to 2 alternates; same qualifications and term as regular members § I101.3.2
Vacancy filling Filled for unexpired term same manner as original appointments § I101.3.3
Conflict of interest rule Declare interest; refrain from participation & voting § I101.3.6
Ex‑officio nonvoting member Code official is ex‑officio and does not vote § I101.3

Exceptions & special cases

  • Model language: Appendix provisions are not mandatory unless specifically adopted by the jurisdiction; where adopted, they apply as written. Appendix I is model guidance; jurisdictions may adjust appointment details (such as term length) when adopting the appendix into local ordinance (see Appendix I introductory notes and § I101.1 context) .
  • The code does not fix the numeric term length in the model text — the bracketed [NUMBER OF YEARS] is a placeholder; jurisdictions must specify actual term length when adopting § I101.3 .
  • The ex‑officio code official is explicitly nonvoting; that is not an exception but a specific limitation in § I101.3 .

Common mistakes

  • Treating the appendix as mandatory: many assume Appendix I is automatic; in fact Appendix provisions only apply where the jurisdiction adopts them — check local ordinance (see Appendix I note) .
  • Not documenting qualifications: the code requires members be “qualified by experience and training” ( § I101.3.1 ); failing to document resumes/training can lead to procedural challenges .
  • Using employees as voting members: the model language prohibits members who are employees of the jurisdiction — do not appoint staff as voting members (see § I101.3.1 ) .
  • Forgetting to appoint alternates or to record their qualifications and terms: alternates must meet the same qualifications and have the same term appointments as regular members (see § I101.3.2 ) .
  • Mishandling recusals: when a member has a personal/professional/financial interest they must declare it and not participate; failure to do so can invalidate actions (see § I101.3.6 ) .

Worked example — concrete scenario applying the rule with numbers

Scenario (illustrative; the code does not set the term length): A county adopts Appendix I and sets member terms at 4 years, staggered so roughly 1–2 seats expire each year.

  1. The county’s chief appointing authority appoints 5 voting members (A–E) for 4‑year staggered terms and the county code official is ex‑officio (nonvoting) (per § I101.3). The adoption specifies 4‑year terms where the model text uses [NUMBER OF YEARS] (see § I101.3) .
  2. The authority also appoints 2 alternates (Alt‑1 and Alt‑2) with the same qualifications and terms as the regular members (per § I101.3.2) .
  3. At a hearing, Member C has a financial interest in the project under appeal. Member C declares the interest and does not participate. The chair calls Alt‑1 to sit in C’s stead for that hearing (per § I101.3.6 and § I101.3.2) .
  4. If Member B resigns mid‑term, the chief appointing authority fills the vacancy to complete B’s unexpired term using the same appointment procedure as the original appointment (per § I101.3.3) .

Note: the example’s specific 4‑year term is a jurisdictional choice for illustration; the model language in CWUIC contains a bracketed placeholder for term length (see § I101.3) and therefore the actual term must be set by local action .

Related provisions

  • § I101.2 — Application for appeal (appeal filing and timeframe) .
  • § I101.3.4 — Chairperson (board annually selects a chairperson) .
  • § I101.3.5 — Secretary (chief appointing authority designates a clerk/secretary to keep records) .
  • § I101.3.6 — Conflict of interest (declare and refrain from participation) .
  • § I101.5.2 — Quorum rules (three members constitute a quorum; relevant for hearings) .
  • Appendix I introductory notes — explains Appendix I is model (not mandatory unless adopted) and its relationship to Chapter 1 and local adoption .

Code references

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

  • CWUIC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    [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.

    [A] I101.3.2 Alternate members. The chief appointing authority is authorized to appoint two alternate members who shall be called by the board chairperson to hear appeals during the absence or disqualification of a member. Alternate members shall possess the qualifications required for board membership, and shall be appointed for the same term or until a successor has been appointed.

    [A] I101.3.3 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner in which original appointments are required to be made.

    [A] I101.3.4 Chairperson. The board shall annually select one of its members to serve as chairperson.

    [A] I101.3.5 Secretary. The chief appointing authority shall designate a qualified clerk to serve as secretary to the board. The secretary shall file a detailed record of all proceedings, which shall set forth the reasons for the board’s decision, the vote of each member, the absence of a member and any failure of a member to vote.

    [A] I101.3.6 Conflict of interest. A member with any personal, professional or financial interest in a matter before the board shall declare such interest and refrain from participating in discussions, deliberations and voting on such matters.

    [A] I101.3.7 Compensation of members. Compensation of members shall be determined by law.

    [A] I101.3.8 Removal from the board. A member shall be removed from the board prior to the end of their terms only for cause. Any member with continued absence from regular meeting of the board may be removed at the discretion of the chief appointing authority.

    [A] I101.4 Rules and procedures. The board shall establish policies and procedures necessary to carry out its duties consistent with the provisions of this code and applicable state law. The procedures shall not require compliance with strict rules of evidence, but shall mandate that only relevant information be presented.

  • CWUIC § 3.3 High relevance — show source text

    [A] I101.3.3 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner in which original appointments are required to be made.

    [A] I101.3.4 Chairperson. The board shall annually select one of its members to serve as chairperson.

    [A] I101.3.5 Secretary. The chief appointing authority shall designate a qualified clerk to serve as secretary to the board. The secretary shall file a detailed record of all proceedings, which shall set forth the reasons for the board’s decision, the vote of each member, the absence of a member and any failure of a member to vote.

    [A] I101.3.6 Conflict of interest. A member with any personal, professional or financial interest in a matter before the board shall declare such interest and refrain from participating in discussions, deliberations and voting on such matters.

    [A] I101.3.7 Compensation of members. Compensation of members shall be determined by law.

    [A] I101.3.8 Removal from the board. A member shall be removed from the board prior to the end of their terms only for cause. Any member with continued absence from regular meeting of the board may be removed at the discretion of the chief appointing authority.

    [A] I101.4 Rules and procedures. The board shall establish policies and procedures necessary to carry out its duties consistent with the provisions of this code and applicable state law. The procedures shall not require compliance with strict rules of evidence, but shall mandate that only relevant information be presented.

    [A] I101.5 Notice of meeting. The board shall meet upon notice from the chairperson, within 10 days of the filing of an appeal or at stated periodic intervals.

    [A] I101.5.1 Open hearing. All hearings before the board shall be open to the public. The appellant, the appellant’s representative, the code official and any person whose interests are affected shall be given an opportunity to be heard.

    [A] I101.5.2 Quorum. Three members of the board shall constitute a quorum.

    [A] I101.5.3 Postponed hearing. When five members are not present to hear an appeal, either the appellant or the appellant’s representative shall have the right to request a postponement of the hearing.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX I-3

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

    APPENDIX I—BOARD OF APPEALS

    [A] I101.6 Legal counsel. The jurisdiction shall furnish legal counsel to the board to provide members with general legal advice concerning matters before them for consideration. Members shall be represented by legal counsel at the jurisdiction’s expense in all matters arising from service within the scope of their duties.

    [A] I101.7 Board decision. The board shall only modify or reverse the decision of the code official by a concurring vote of three or more members.

    [A] I101.7.1 Resolution. The decision of the board shall be by resolution. Every decision shall be promptly filed in writing in the office of the code official within three days and shall be open to the public for inspection. A certified copy shall be furnished to the appellant or the appellant’s representative and to the code official.

    [A] I101.7.2 Administration. The code official shall take immediate action in accordance with the decision of the board.

  • CWUIC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    [A] D101.2.1 Limitation of authority. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.

    [A] D101.2.2 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] D101.3 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 [ INSERT NUMBER OF YEARS ] years or until a successor has been appointed. The board member’s 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] D101.3.1 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.

    [A] D101.3.2 Alternate members. The chief appointing authority is authorized to appoint two alternate members who shall be called by the board chairperson to hear appeals during the absence or disqualification of a member. Alternate members shall possess the qualifications required for board membership, and shall be appointed for the same term or until a successor has been appointed.

    [A] D101.3.3 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner in which original appointments are required to be made.

    [A] D101.3.4 Chairperson. The board shall annually select one of its members to serve as chairperson.

    [A] D101.3.5 Secretary. The chief appointing authority shall designate a qualified clerk to serve as secretary to the board. The secretary shall file a detailed record of all proceedings, which shall set forth the reasons for the board’s decision, the vote of each member, the absence of a member and any failure of a member to vote.

    [A] D101.3.6 Conflict of interest. A member with any personal, professional or financial interest in a matter before the board shall declare such interest and refrain from participating in discussions, deliberations and voting on such matters.

    [A] D101.3.7 Compensation of members. Compensation of members shall be determined by law.

    [A] D101.3.8 Removal from the board. A member shall be removed from the board prior to the end of their terms only for cause. Any member with continued absence from regular meeting of the board may be removed at the discretion of the chief appointing authority.

    [A] D101.4 Rules and procedures. The board shall establish policies and procedures necessary to carry out its duties consistent with the provisions of this code and applicable state law. The procedures shall not require compliance with strict rules of evidence, but shall mandate that only relevant information be presented.

    [A] D101.5 Notice of meeting. The board shall meet upon notice from the chairperson, within 10 days of the filing of an appeal or at stated periodic intervals.

    [A] D101.5.1 Open hearing. All hearings before the board shall be open to the public. The appellant, the appellant’s representative, the code official and any person whose interests are affected shall be given an opportunity to be heard.

    [A] D101.5.2 Quorum. Three members of the board shall constitute a quorum.

  • CWUIC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    [A] B101.2.1 Limitation of authority. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.

    [A] B101.2.2 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] B101.3 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 [ INSERT 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 building official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not vote on any matter before the board.

    [A] B101.3.1 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.

    [A] B101.3.2 Alternate members. The chief appointing authority is authorized to appoint two alternate members who shall be called by the board chairperson to hear appeals during the absence or disqualification of a member. Alternate members shall possess the qualifications required for board membership, and shall be appointed for the same term or until a successor has been appointed.

    [A] B101.3.3 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner in which original appointments are required to be made.

    [A] B101.3.4 Chairperson. The board shall annually select one of its members to serve as chairperson.

    [A] B101.3.5 Secretary. The chief appointing authority shall designate a qualified clerk to serve as secretary to the board. The secretary shall file a detailed record of all proceedings, which shall set forth the reasons for the board’s decision, the vote of each member, the absence of a member and any failure of a member to vote.

    [A] B101.3.6 Conflict of interest. A member with any personal, professional or financial interest in a matter before the board shall declare such interest and refrain from participating in discussions, deliberations and voting on such matters.

    [A] B101.3.7 Compensation of members. Compensation of members shall be determined by law.

    [A] B101.3.8 Removal from the board. A member shall be removed from the board prior to the end of their term only for cause. Any member with continued absence from regular meeting of the board may be removed at the discretion of the chief appointing authority.

    [A] B101.4 Rules and procedures. The board shall establish policies and procedures necessary to carry out its duties consistent with the provisions of this code and applicable state law. The procedures shall not require compliance with strict rules of evidence, but shall mandate that only relevant information be presented.

    [A] B101.5 Notice of meeting. The board shall meet upon notice from the chairperson, within 10 days of the filing of an appeal or at stated periodic intervals.

    [A] B101.5.1 Open hearing. All hearings before the board shall be open to the public. The appellant, the appellant’s representative, the building official and any person whose interests are affected shall be given an opportunity to be heard.

    [A] B101.5.2 Quorum. Three members of the board shall constitute a quorum.

  • CWUIC § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    A101.2.1 Limitation of authority. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.

    A101.2.2 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.

    A101.3 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 member’s terms shall be staggered at intervals, so as to provide continuity. The fire code official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not vote on any matter before the board.

    A101.3.1 Qualifications. The board shall consist of members who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to hazards of fire, explosions, hazardous conditions or fire protection systems, and are not employees of the jurisdiction.

    A101.3.2 Alternate members. The chief appointing authority is authorized to appoint two alternate members who shall be called by the board chairperson to hear appeals during the absence or disqualification of a member. Alternate members shall possess the qualifications required for board membership, and shall be appointed for the same term or until a successor has been appointed.

    A101.3.3 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner in which original appointments are required to be made.

    A101.3.4 Chairperson. The board shall annually select one of its members to serve as chairperson.

    A101.3.5 Secretary. The chief appointing authority shall designate a qualified clerk to serve as secretary to the board. The secretary shall file a detailed record of all proceedings, which shall set forth the reasons for the board’s decision, the vote of each member, the absence of a member and any failure of a member to vote.

    A101.3.6 Conflict of interest. A member with any personal, professional or financial interest in a matter before the board shall declare such interest and refrain from participating in discussions, deliberations and voting on such matters.

    A101.3.7 Compensation of members. Compensation of members shall be determined by law.

    A101.3.8 Removal from the board. A member shall be removed from the board prior to the end of their terms only for cause. Any member with continued absence from regular meetings of the board may be removed at the discretion of the chief appointing authority.

    A101.4 Rules and procedures. The board shall establish policies and procedures necessary to carry out its duties consistent with the provisions of this code and applicable state law. The procedures shall not require compliance with strict rules of evidence, but shall mandate that only relevant information be presented.

    A101.5 Notice of meetings. The board shall meet upon notice from the chairperson within 10 days of the filing of an appeal or at stated periodic intervals.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE APPENDIX A-3

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    APPENDIX A — BOARD OF APPEALS

    A101.5.1 Open hearing. All hearings before the board shall be open to the public. The appellant, the appellant’s representative, the fire code official and any person whose interests are affected shall be given an opportunity to be heard.

  • CWUIC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text

    AA101.3.1 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.

    AA101.3.2 Alternate members. The chief appointing authority is authorized to appoint two alternate members who shall be called by the board chairperson to hear appeals during the absence or disqualification of a member. Alternate members shall possess the qualifications required for board membership, and shall be appointed for the same term or until a successor has been appointed.

    AA101.3.3 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner in which original appointments are required to be made.

    AA101.3.4 Chairperson. The board shall annually select one of its members to serve as chairperson.

    AA101.3.5 Secretary. The chief appointing authority shall designate a qualified clerk to serve as secretary to the board. The secretary shall file a detailed record of all proceedings which shall set forth the reasons for the board’s decision, the vote of each member, the absence of a member and any failure of a member to vote.

    AA101.3.6 Conflict of interest. A member with any personal, professional or financial interest in a matter before the board shall declare such interest and refrain from participating in discussions, deliberations and voting on such matters.

    AA101.3.7 Compensation of members. Compensation of members shall be determined by law.

    AA101.3.8 Removal from the board. A member shall be removed from the board prior to the end of their term only for cause. Any member with continued absence from regular meeting of the board may be removed at the discretion of the chief appointing authority.

    AA101.4 Rules and procedures. The board shall establish policies and procedures necessary to carry out its duties consistent with the provisions of this code and applicable state law. The procedures shall not require compliance with strict rules of evidence, but shall mandate that only relevant information be presented.

    AA101.5 Notice of meeting. The board shall meet upon notice from the chairperson, within 10 days of the filing of an appeal or at stated periodic intervals.

    AA101.5.1 Open hearing. All hearings before the board shall be open to the public. The appellant, the appellant’s representative, the building official and any person whose interests are affected shall be given an opportunity to be heard.

    AA101.5.2 Quorum. Three members of the board shall constitute a quorum.

    AA101.5.3 Postponed hearing. When five members are not present to hear an appeal, either the appellant or the appellant’s representative shall have the right to request a postponement of the hearing.

    2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE APPENDIX AA-3

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    APPENDIX AA — BOARD OF APPEALS

    AA101.6 Legal counsel. The jurisdiction shall furnish legal counsel to the board to provide members with general legal advice concerning matters before them for consideration. Members shall be represented by legal counsel at the jurisdiction’s expense in all matters arising from service within the scope of their duties.

    AA101.7 Board decision. The board shall only modify or reverse the decision of the building official by a concurring vote of three or more members.

  • CWUIC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text

    3.1_|Maintenance and
    defensible space|Y||||||||| |Appendix H|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents|Referenced California Documents| ||General|N||||||||| |H101|California Civil Code|N||||||||| |H102|California Govern-
    ment Code|N||||||Various||| |H103|California Public
    Resources Code|N|||||||Various|| |H104|California Code of
    Regulations, Title 14,
    Division 1.5|N||||Various||||| |H104.1|Subchapter 2 State
    Minimum Fire Safe
    Regulations|N||||Subchapter 2||||| |H104.2|Subchapter 3 Fire
    Hazard|N||||Subchapter 3||||| |H105|California Code of
    Regulations, Title 19|N|||||2201|||| |H106|Health and Safety
    Code|N||||||||Various| |H107|Cross Reference Tool|N|||||||||

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-35

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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
    Appendix I Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals
    I101.1 Scope N
    I101.2 Application for appeal N
    I101.2.1 Limitation of
    authority    		 N
    I101.2.2 Stays of enforcement N
    I101.3 Membership of board N
    I101.3.1 Qualifications N
    I101.3.2 Alternate members N
    I101.3.3 Vacancies N
    I101.3.4 Chairperson N
    I101.3.5 Secretary N
    I101.3.6 Conflict of interest N
    I101.3.
  • CWUIC § 1.5 High relevance — show source text
    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
    Appendix I Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals
    I101.1 Scope N
    I101.2 Application for appeal N
    I101.2.1 Limitation of
    authority    		 N
    I101.2.2 Stays of enforcement N
    I101.3 Membership of board N
    I101.3.1 Qualifications N
    I101.3.2 Alternate members N
    I101.3.3 Vacancies N
    I101.3.4 Chairperson N
    I101.3.5 Secretary N
    I101.3.6 Conflict of interest N
    I101.3.7 Compensation of
    members    		 N
    I101.3.8 Removal from the
    board    		 N
    I101.4 Rules and procedures N
    I101.5 Notice of meeting N
    I101.5.1 Open hearing N
    I101.5.2 Quorum N
    I101.5.3 Postponed hearing N
    I101.6 Legal counsel N
    I101.7 Board decision N
    I101.7.1 Resolution N
    I101.8.2 Administration N
    I101.8 Court review N

    APPENDIX H-36 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX I – BOARD OF APPEALS

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    (Not adopted by the State Fire Marshal)

  • CWUIC § 3.1 High relevance — show source text

    3.1|Qualifications|N||||||||| |I101.3.2|Alternate members|N||||||||| |I101.3.3|Vacancies|N||||||||| |I101.3.4|Chairperson|N||||||||| |I101.3.5|Secretary|N||||||||| |I101.3.6|Conflict of interest|N||||||||| |I101.3.7|Compensation of
    members|N||||||||| |I101.3.8|Removal from the
    board|N||||||||| |I101.4|Rules and procedures|N||||||||| |I101.5|Notice of meeting|N||||||||| |I101.5.1|Open hearing|N||||||||| |I101.5.2|Quorum|N||||||||| |I101.5.3|Postponed hearing|N||||||||| |I101.6|Legal counsel|N||||||||| |I101.7|Board decision|N||||||||| |I101.7.1|Resolution|N||||||||| |I101.8.2|Administration|N||||||||| |I101.8|Court review|N|||||||||

    APPENDIX H-36 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX I – BOARD OF APPEALS

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    (Not adopted by the State Fire Marshal)

    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 T-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)
    Adopt only those sections that
    are listed below
    [California Code of Regulations,
    Title 19, Division 1]
    Chapter / Section
  • 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.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX I-1

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

    APPENDIX I-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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

    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 § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

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

    AA BOARD OF APPEALS

    The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically adopted by a state agency or referenced in the adopting ordinance.

    User notes:

    About this appendix: Appendix AA provides criteria for Board of Appeals members. Also provided are procedures by which the Board of Appeals should conduct its business.

    SECTION AA101—GENERAL

    AA101.1 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 R112. 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.

    AA101.2 Application for appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the building 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 building official within 20 days after the notice was served.

    AA101.2.1 Limitation of authority. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.

    AA101.2.2 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.

    AA101.3 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 [ INSERT NUMBER OF YEARS ] years or until a successor has been appointed. The board member’s terms shall be staggered at intervals, so as to provide continuity. The building official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not vote on any matter before the board.

    AA101.3.1 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.

    AA101.3.2 Alternate members. The chief appointing authority is authorized to appoint two alternate members who shall be called by the board chairperson to hear appeals during the absence or disqualification of a member. Alternate members shall possess the qualifications required for board membership, and shall be appointed for the same term or until a successor has been appointed.

    AA101.3.3 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner in which original appointments are required to be made.

    AA101.3.4 Chairperson. The board shall annually select one of its members to serve as chairperson.

    AA101.3.5 Secretary. The chief appointing authority shall designate a qualified clerk to serve as secretary to the board. The secretary shall file a detailed record of all proceedings which shall set forth the reasons for the board’s decision, the vote of each member, the absence of a member and any failure of a member to vote.

    AA101.3.6 Conflict of interest. A member with any personal, professional or financial interest in a matter before the board shall declare such interest and refrain from participating in discussions, deliberations and voting on such matters.

  • CWUIC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE APPENDIX D-1

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

    APPENDIX D-2 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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

    D BOARD OF APPEALS

    The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.

    User notes:

    About this appendix: Appendix D provides criteria for Board of Appeals members. Also provided are procedures by which the Board of Appeals should conduct its business.

    ICC code development note: Code change proposals to this appendix will be considered by the Administrative Code Development Committee during the

    2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.

    SECTION D101—GENERAL

    [A] D101.1 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. The board shall be established and operated in accordance with this section, and shall be authorized to hear evidence from appellants and the code official pertaining to the application and intent of this code for the purpose of issuing orders pursuant to these provisions.

    [A] D101.2 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] D101.2.1 Limitation of authority. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.

    [A] D101.2.2 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] D101.3 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 [ INSERT NUMBER OF YEARS ] years or until a successor has been appointed. The board member’s 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] D101.3.1 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.

    [A] D101.3.2 Alternate members. The chief appointing authority is authorized to appoint two alternate members who shall be called by the board chairperson to hear appeals during the absence or disqualification of a member. Alternate members shall possess the qualifications required for board membership, and shall be appointed for the same term or until a successor has been appointed.

    [A] D101.3.3 Vacancies. Vacancies shall be filled for an unexpired term in the same manner in which original appointments are required to be made.

    [A] D101.3.4 Chairperson. The board shall annually select one of its members to serve as chairperson.

Frequently asked questions

Who appoints the board?

The chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction appoints the five voting members (see § I101.3) .

Can the code official vote on appeals?

No — the code official serves as an ex‑officio member and shall not vote on matters before the board (see § I101.3) .

How many alternates can be appointed?

Up to two alternate members may be appointed; they must meet the same qualifications and term requirements as regular members (see § I101.3.2) .

What must a member do if they have a personal or financial interest in a case?

They must declare the interest and refrain from participation in discussions, deliberations and voting on that matter (see § I101.3.6) .

If a member resigns, how is the vacancy filled?

Vacancies are filled for the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment (see § I101.3.3) .

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Board procedures: notice, open hearings, quorum, decision-making and recordkeeping

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California Wildland-Urban Interface Code