CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code

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

If you appeal a code official’s decision under the CWUIC (when your jurisdiction has adopted Appendix I), the board must meet within 10 days, hold an open hearing where affected parties can speak, have at least three members present to act, and need at least three votes to reverse the official’s decision; the written decision (a resolution) must be filed and made public within three days (see §§ I101.4, I101.5, I101.5.1, I101.5.2, I101.7, I101.7.1) .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The jurisdictional board of appeals must adopt reasonable rules and procedures to run appeals consistent with the code and state law (§ I101.4) . The board must be called to meet within 10 days after an appeal is filed (§ I101.5) ; all hearings are open to the public and interested parties must be heard (§ I101.5.1) . A quorum of three members is required to transact business (§ I101.5.2) , and the board may only modify or reverse the code official’s decision by a concurring vote of three or more members (§ I101.7) . Every board decision must be issued by resolution and filed in writing within three days, with a certified copy provided to the appellant and the code official (§ I101.7.1) .

The single most important rule: a board cannot reverse a code official unless at least three members concur; all hearings must be public and decisions must be filed in writing promptly (§ I101.7, § I101.5.1, § I101.7.1) .

Requirements in detail

1) Governance framework

  • The board must adopt internal policies and procedures to carry out appeals consistent with the code and state law (§ I101.4) .
  • The procedures should allow relevant evidence but need not follow strict rules of evidence (summary-administrative standard) (§ I101.4) .

2) Notice and scheduling

  • The board “shall meet upon notice from the chairperson, within 10 days of the filing of an appeal or at stated periodic intervals” (§ I101.5) .
  • That means the chair must schedule a hearing so the meeting occurs within 10 calendar days of the appeal filing unless the jurisdiction’s adopted procedure (if any) provides otherwise.

3) Open hearings and who may speak

  • All hearings are open to the public; the appellant, the appellant’s representative, the code official and any person whose interests are affected must be given an opportunity to be heard (§ I101.5.1) .
  • The board’s procedures should specify how comments are taken (time limits, order of testimony) consistent with the open-hearing requirement.

4) Quorum and voting

  • A quorum for the board is three members (§ I101.5.2) .
  • To modify or reverse the code official’s decision, the board needs a concurring vote of three or more members (i.e., at least three affirmative votes) (§ I101.7) .
  • If fewer than three members vote in favor, the code official’s decision stands.

5) Decision form and recordkeeping

  • Every decision must be issued by resolution and filed in writing in the office of the code official within three days; the file must be accessible to the public and a certified copy furnished to the appellant and the code official (§ I101.7.1) .
  • The board’s records should show the reasons for the decision, the vote of each member, any absence, and any failure to vote (see related recordkeeping duties for board secretary in Appendix I) .

Quick reference table — decision-relevant dimensions

Decision dimension Value / threshold Code Reference
Required internal rules/procedures Adopt policies consistent with code & state law; no strict rules of evidence required § I101.4 —
Hearing scheduling after appeal filed Meet within 10 days of filing (or at stated periodic intervals) § I101.5 —
Hearing openness Open to the public; parties affected must be heard § I101.5.1 —
Quorum Three members § I101.5.2 —
Vote to modify/reverse code official Concurring vote of three or more members § I101.7 —
Decision format & filing deadline Decision by resolution; filed in writing within 3 days; public and certified copy to parties § I101.7.1 —

Exceptions & special cases

  • Appendix I (the Board of Appeals provisions) is optional: these specific procedures are not mandatory statewide unless the adopting jurisdiction incorporates Appendix I into local law. The CWUIC text notes these appendix provisions are not mandatory unless adopted by the jurisdiction (appendix preface) .
  • The code does not require strict rules of evidence; adopt procedures that permit only relevant information but keep hearings informally evidentiary in nature (§ I101.4) .
  • The code official sits as an ex officio member in other appendices but does not vote; see related membership rules if your local adoption includes them.

If you need an interpretation about a local ordinance’s interplay with these appendix provisions, the jurisdiction’s legal counsel or the local code official should be consulted (Appendix I contemplates legal counsel for the board) .

Common mistakes

  • Treating Appendix I as automatically mandatory statewide — it is optional unless adopted locally (see appendix preface) .
  • Scheduling hearings later than 10 days after filing without a local rule authorizing later dates (§ I101.5) .
  • Allowing fewer than three members to decide appeals that attempt to modify code official actions (quorum or concurrence mistakes) (§ I101.5.2, § I101.7) .
  • Failing to file the board’s written resolution within three days or not providing a certified copy to the appellant and code official (§ I101.7.1) .
  • Confusing “open hearing” with “no time or process limits” — the code requires the opportunity to be heard but allows the board to adopt reasonable procedural controls (§ I101.5.1, § I101.4) .

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Facts:

  • A homeowner files an appeal on March 1. The local jurisdiction has adopted Appendix I procedures as written. The board has five voting members.

Step‑by‑step application:

  1. The chairperson must give notice so the board meets within 10 days of March 1 — the hearing should be scheduled on or before March 11 (§ I101.5) .
  2. At the hearing, the session is open to the public; the homeowner (appellant), the homeowner’s representative, the code official and any affected third parties must be allowed to present (oral or written) relevant information (§ I101.5.1) .
  3. At least three members must be present to meet the quorum requirement (§ I101.5.2) . If only two members attend and the appellant requests postponement, the hearing may be postponed (see related postponed-hearing rule in Appendix I) .
  4. After deliberation, to overturn the code official the board needs at least three concurring votes. If the vote is 3–2 in favor of reversal, the code official’s decision is modified; if it is 2–3 against, the decision stands (§ I101.7) .
  5. The board’s decision must be issued by resolution and filed in writing within three days in the code official’s office. A certified copy must be delivered to the homeowner/appellant and the code official (§ I101.7.1) .

Related provisions (appendix & code cross‑references)

  • § I101.3 — Membership of the board (five members, qualifications) .
  • § I101.3.5 — Secretary / record duties (detailed recordkeeping of proceedings) .
  • § I101.5.3 — Postponed hearing (right to request postponement when five members are not present) .
  • § I101.6 — Legal counsel for the board (jurisdiction to furnish counsel) .
  • § I101.8 — Court review (right to seek certiorari) — see Appendix I for related process if adopted locally .
  • Appendix preface — Appendix provisions are not mandatory unless adopted by the jurisdiction (see Appendix I preface) .

If any specific subsection text is needed verbatim for local ordinance drafting, the jurisdiction should consult the official CWUIC Appendix I language and local counsel; the summaries above are grounded in the cited sections of Appendix I of the CWUIC .

Code references

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

  • 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

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    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 § 3.6 High relevance — show source text

    [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.

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE APPENDIX D-3

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    APPENDIX D—BOARD OF APPEALS

    [A] D101.5.3 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.

    [A] D101.6 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] D101.7 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] D101.7.1 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] D101.7.2 Administration. The code official shall take immediate action in accordance with the decision of the board.

    [A] D101.8 Court review. Any person, whether or not a previous party of the appeal, shall have the right to apply to the appropriate court for a writ of certiorari to correct errors of law. Application for review shall be made in the manner and time required by law following the filing of the decision in the office of the chief administrative officer.

    APPENDIX D-4 2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE

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    CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX E

  • CWUIC § 5.2 High relevance — show source text

    [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

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    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.

    [A] I101.8 Court review. Any person, whether or not a previous party of the appeal, shall have the right to apply to the appropriate court for a writ of certiorari to correct errors of law. Application for review shall be made in the manner and time required by law following the filing of the decision in the office of the chief administrative officer.

    APPENDIX I-4 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    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

  • CWUIC § 3.6 High relevance — show source text

    [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.

    APPENDIX B-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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    APPENDIX B—BOARD OF APPEALS

    [A] B101.5.3 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.

    [A] B101.6 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] B101.7 Board decision. The board shall only modify or reverse the decision of the building official by a concurring vote of three or more members.

    [A] B101.7.1 Resolution. The decision of the board shall be by resolution. Every decision shall be promptly filed in writing in the office of the building 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 building official.

    [A] B101.7.2 Administration. The building official shall take immediate action in accordance with the decision of the board.

    [A] B101.8 Court review. Any person, whether or not a previous party of the appeal, shall have the right to apply to the appropriate court for a writ of certiorari to correct errors of law. Application for review shall be made in the manner and time required by law following the filing of the decision in the office of the chief administrative officer.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE APPENDIX B-3

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    APPENDIX B-4 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

  • CWUIC § 1.5 High 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

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    APPENDIX I-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

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    I BOARD OF APPEALS

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

    User notes:

    About this appendix: Appendix I contains optional criteria that, where adopted, provide jurisdictions with detailed appeals board member qualifications and administrative procedures to supplement the basic requirements found in Section 112.

    SECTION I101—GENERAL

    [A] I101.1 Scope. A board of appeals shall be established within the jurisdiction for the purpose of hearing applications for modification of the requirements of this code pursuant to the provisions of Section 112, Means of Appeals. The board shall be established and operated in accordance with this section, and shall be authorized to hear evidence from appellants and the building official pertaining to the application and intent of this code for the purpose of issuing orders pursuant to these provisions.

    [A] I101.2 Application for appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the code official to the board. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the intent of this code or the rules legally adopted hereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equally good or better form of construction is proposed. The application shall be filed on a form obtained from the code official within 20 days after the notice was served.

    [A] I101.2.1 Limitation of authority. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.

    [A] I101.2.2 Stays of enforcement. Appeals of notice and orders, other than Imminent Danger notices, shall stay the enforcement of the notice and order until the appeal is heard by the board.

    [A] I101.3 Membership of board. The board shall consist of five voting members appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction. Each member shall serve for [ NUMBER OF YEARS ] years or until a successor has been appointed. The board members’ terms shall be staggered at intervals, so as to provide continuity. The code official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not vote on any matter before the board.

    [A] I101.3.1 Qualifications. The board shall consist of five individuals, who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction and are not employees of the jurisdiction.

  • CWUIC § 3.6 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    A101.5.2 Quorum. Three members of the board shall constitute a quorum.

    A101.5.3 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.

    A101.6 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.

    A101.7 Board decision. The board shall only modify or reverse the decision of the fire code official by a concurring vote of three or more members.

    A101.7.1 Resolution. The decision of the board shall be by resolution. Every decision shall be promptly filed in writing in the office of the fire 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 fire code official.

    A101.7.2 Administration. The fire code official shall take immediate action in accordance with the decision of the board.

    A101.8 Court review. Any person, whether or not a previous party of the appeal, shall have the right to apply to the appropriate court for a writ of certiorari to correct errors of law. Application for review shall be made in the manner and time required by law following the filing of the decision in the office of the chief administrative officer.

    APPENDIX A-4 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

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    CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX B – FIRE-FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR BUILDINGS

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

  • 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 § 5.1 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    AA101.7.1 Resolution. The decision of the board shall be by resolution. Every decision shall be promptly filed in writing in the office of the building official within 3 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 building official.

    AA101.7.2 Administration. The building official shall take immediate action in accordance with the decision of the board.

    AA101.8 Court review. Any person, whether or not a previous party of the appeal, shall have the right to apply to the appropriate court for a writ of certiorari to correct errors of law. Application for review shall be made in the manner and time required by law following the filing of the decision in the office of the chief administrative officer.

    APPENDIX AA-4 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

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    CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX AB – PERMIT FEES

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

  • CWUIC § 5004.2 High relevance — show source text

    Hazardous materials 5004.2, 5004.2.2, 5005.1.3, 5005.2.1.4, 5005.2.2.4, 5005.3.5, 5005.3.7 Indoor storage 5004.2.2.3 Outdoor storage 5004.2.2.4 Type II dry cleaning systems 2107.2.3 Underground tanks 5003.2.4.1 Secondary Water Supply (see Water Supply) Security Devices 316.5, 1032.2.1 Self-Luminous 202, 1013.5, 1025.4 Self-Service Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facility 202, 2304 Semiconductor Fabrication Facility 202, Chapter 27 Automatic sprinkler system 2703.10 Emergency alarm system 2703.12 Emergency power 1203.2.17, 2703.15 General safety provisions 2703 HPM room 202, 2703.12.1.3, 2703.13.1.2, 2703.14.1, 2703.3.4, 2703.7.3, 2704.3.1, 2705.3.3 Manual fire alarm system 2703.11 Permit 105.5.23 Quantity limits Table 2704.2.2.1 Storage 2704 Transportation and handling 2705.3 Use and handling 2705 Service Corridor 2703.3.8, 2703.9, 2703.12.1.1, 2705.3.3 Defined 202 Service Personnel, Certification of (see Certification of Service Personnel) Service Utilities 111

    Shafts 701.2, 1103.4 Shaftway Markings 316.2 Shelf Storage 3207 Defined 202 Specialty storage 3210 Shock Padding 5003.9.7 Shrouds, Decorative (on chimneys)

    605.2.1.3 Signs (see Placards; Placarding) Access roads 5604.6.5.1 Accessible means of egress 1009.11, 1009.8.2, 1009.9, 1013.4 Alarms and warning 904.3.4, 2305.6, 2310.5.5.1, 2507, 2603.3.1, 5703.5.1 Electrical rooms 603.4.1

    Electrostatic apparatus 2407.5.2

    Emergency 604.4, 608.8 Exit 1013, 1203.2.6, 3103.11.6 Fire alarm boxes 907.4.2.4 Fire department connection 912.5 Fire protection equipment rooms 509.1

    Fire-resistance-rated

    construction 705.2.2

    Foam plastic 808.2 Hazardous identification

    5003.11.1.1.10, 5003.5, 5003.6,

    5503.4.1

    Illumination 1013.5 Marking 503.3 No smoking 310.3, 2305.6, 2308.8.1.2.6, 2403.2.6, 5003.7.1,

  • 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

    [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 § 1.5 High relevance — show source text

    SEVERITY ZONE ADOPTION . . . . APPENDIX D-3

    D101 Model Ordinance for Designation of Fire Hazard Severity Zones in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX D-3

    APPENDIX E RESERVED . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX E-1

    APPENDIX F CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRE-SMART

    VEGETATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX F-3

    F101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX F-3

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE xiii

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

    CONTENTS

    APPENDIX G VOLUNTARY HOME-HARDENING

    RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX G-3

    G101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX G-3

    APPENDIX H REFERENCED CALIFORNIA

    DOCUMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX H-3

    H101 California Civil Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-3

    H102 California Government Code . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-4

    H103 California Public Resources Code . . . . . . APPENDIX H-6

    H104 California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Division 1.5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-10

    H105 California Code of Regulations, Title 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-17

    H106 Health and Safety Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-18

    H107 Cross Reference Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX H-19

    APPENDIX I BOARD OF APPEALS . . . . . . . . . . .APPENDIX I-3

    I101 General. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX I-3

    INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INDEX-1

    HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIST-1

    xiv 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE

Frequently asked questions

Who can request a postponement if not enough members are present?

If five members are not present to hear an appeal, the appellant or the appellant’s representative has the right to request postponement (see related Appendix I postponement rule) .

Does the code require strict rules of evidence at hearings?

No. The board’s procedures “shall not require compliance with strict rules of evidence” but must ensure that only relevant information is presented (§ I101.4) .

What happens if the board files the decision late?

The code requires filing within three days (§ I101.7.1) . Late filing may affect the public record and any statutory deadlines for review; consult local counsel and the jurisdiction’s procedures for remedies.

Is Appendix I automatically in force in my city or county?

Not automatically. Appendix I is optional and its provisions apply only where the adopting jurisdiction specifically incorporates them into local law (appendix preface) .

How many votes are needed to overturn the code official?

A concurring vote of three or more members is required to modify or reverse the code official’s decision (§ I101.7) .

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Related in the CWUIC

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

How to appeal a code official decision and filing timelines

Court review, writs of certiorari and when appeals stay enforcement

Appeals process and Board of Appeals (means of appeals & Appendix I)

California Wildland-Urban Interface Code