CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Code official authority & duties
This hub explains the CWUIC rules that create the code compliance agency, appoint the code official, and define the official’s inspection, interpretation, permitting and enforcement powers.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
Overview
This hub covers the CWUIC provisions that create the code compliance agency and define the authority, duties and enforcement tools of the code official. Chapter 1 (Scope & Administration) and Part 2 (Administration & Enforcement) set the framework; see §103 (creation, appointment, deputies) and §104 (duties and powers) for the core rules. Chapter structure and scope are described in the CWUIC front material and Chapter 1 overview ; the creation and appointment language appears at §103 and related subsections and the duties/powers are codified in §104 and its subsections .
Why this matters: the code official is the jurisdiction’s enforcement point for WUI requirements — interpreting the code, issuing permits, requiring technical reports, approving alternative materials or methods, granting modifications, and taking enforcement actions. Key authorities include determination of compliance and technical-assistance powers (§104.2, §104.2.1), alternative materials/modifications (§104.2.2–.3), right of entry for inspections (§104.4), recordkeeping and notices (§104.7, §104.6), and the procedural tools for appeals and stopping unsafe work (§112, §113) — these provisions spell out both the scope and limits of the official’s discretion and remedies available to the public and applicants .
In this section
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CWUIC § 104.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL
[A] 104.1 Powers and duties of the code official. The code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
- Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
- Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
[A] 104.2.1 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the code official is authorized to require the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the person in possession or control of the building or premises to provide a technical opinion and report.
[A] 104.2.1.1 Costs. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.
[A] 104.2.1.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official. The code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.
[A] 104.2.1.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises, the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon and fuel management to identify and propose necessary recommendations.
[A] 104.2.1.4 Tests. Where there is insufficient evidence of compliance with the provisions of this code, the code official shall have the authority to require tests as evidence of compliance. Test methods shall be as specified in this code or by other recognized test standards. In the absence of recognized test standards, the code official shall approve the testing procedures. Such tests shall be performed by a party acceptable to the code official.
[A] 104.2.2 Alternative materials, design and methods. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code, provided that any such alternative has been approved.
[A] 104.2.2.1 Approval authority. An alternative material, design or method shall be approved where the code official finds that the proposed alternative is satisfactory and complies with Sections 104.2.2.2 through 104.2.2.7, as applicable.
[A] 104.2.2.2 Application and disposition. Where required, a request to use an alternative material, design or method of construction shall be submitted in writing to the code official for approval. Where the alternative material, design or method of construction is not approved, the code official shall respond in writing, stating the reasons the alternative was not approved.
[A] 104.2.2.3 Compliance with code intent. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall comply with the intent of the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.2.2.4 Equivalency criteria. An alternative material, design or method of construction shall, for the purpose intended, be not less than the equivalent of that prescribed in this code with respect to all of the following, as applicable:
Quality.
Strength.
Effectiveness.
Durability.
Safety, other than fire safety.
Fire safety.
CWUIC § 102.7 High relevance — show source text
[A] 102.7 Partial invalidity. In the event that any part or provision of this code is held to be illegal or void, this shall not have the effect of making void or illegal any of the other parts or provisions.
[A] 102.8 Existing conditions. The legal occupancy or use of any structure or condition existing on the date of adoption of this code shall be permitted to continue without change, except as is specifically covered in this code or the California Fire Code, California Building Code, California Existing Building Code or the California Residential Code, or as is deemed necessary by the code official for the general safety and welfare of the occupants and the public.
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ADMINISTRATION
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT
SECTION 103—CODE COMPLIANCE AGENCY
[A] 103.1 Creation of agency. The [ INSERT NAME OF DEPARTMENT ] is hereby created and the official in charge thereof shall be known as the code official. The function of the agency shall be the implementation, administration and enforcement of the provisions of this code.
[A] 103.2 Appointment. The code official shall be appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction.
[A] 103.3 Deputies. In accordance with the prescribed procedures of this jurisdiction and with the concurrence of the appointing authority, the code official shall have the authority to appoint a deputy code official, other related technical officers, inspectors and other employees. Such employees shall have powers as delegated by the code official.
SECTION 104—DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE CODE OFFICIAL
[A] 104.1 Powers and duties of the code official. The code official is hereby authorized to enforce the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.2 Determination of compliance. The code official shall have the authority to determine compliance with this code, to render interpretations of this code and to adopt policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures:
- Shall be in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code.
- Shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided for in this code.
[A] 104.2.1 Technical assistance. To determine compliance with this code, the code official is authorized to require the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or the person in possession or control of the building or premises to provide a technical opinion and report.
[A] 104.2.1.1 Costs. A technical opinion and report shall be provided without charge to the jurisdiction.
[A] 104.2.1.2 Preparer qualifications. The technical opinion and report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official. The code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.
[A] 104.2.1.3 Content. The technical opinion and report shall analyze the properties of the design, operation or use of the building or premises, the facilities and appurtenances situated thereon and fuel management to identify and propose necessary recommendations.
CWUIC § 1-2 High relevance — show source text
Population growth and the expanding urban development into traditionally nonurban areas have increasingly brought humans into contact with wildfires. According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA), every year, wildfires burn across the United States and a growing number of people are living where wildfires are a real risk. In 2018 more than 58,000 fires burned nearly 9 million acres across the US. More than 25,000 structures were destroyed, including 18,137 residences and 229 commercial structures. California accounted for the highest number of structures lost in one state due to the number of significant fires, including the Mendocino Complex, Carr, Camp and Woolsey fires.
The IWUIC is a model code that is intended to be adopted and used supplemental to the adopted building and fire codes of a jurisdiction. The unrestricted use of property in wildland-urban interface areas is a potential threat to life and property from fire and resulting erosion. The IWUIC has as its objective the establishment of minimum special regulations for the safeguarding of life and
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property from the intrusion of fire from wildland fire exposures and fire exposures from adjacent structures and to prevent structure fires from spreading to wildland fuels, even in the absence of fire department intervention.
Safeguards to prevent the occurrence of fires and to provide adequate fire protection facilities to control the spread of fire in wildland-urban interface areas are provided in a tiered manner commensurate with the relative level of hazard present.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CWUIC
The format of the CWUIC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CWUIC is divided. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CWUIC.
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTER SUBJECT 1-2 Administration and Definitions 3-4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designation and Requirements 5 Building Construction Regulations 6 Fire Protection Requirements 7 Referenced Standards Appendices A-I Adoptable and Informational Appendices Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Chapter 2 Definitions.
Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.
Chapter 3 Wildland-Urban Interface Areas.
Chapter 3 provides for the fundamental aspect of applying the code—the legal declaration and establishment of wildland-urban interface areas within the adopting jurisdiction, mapping of the area, periodic review and updates.
Chapter 4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Requirements.
The requirements of Chapter 4 apply to all occupancies in the wildland-urban interface and pertain to all of the following:
Fire service access to the property that is to be protected, including fire apparatus access roads and off-road driveways.
Premises identification.
CWUIC § 104.4 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.4 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or on any premises a condition that is contrary to or in violation of this code that makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the code official is authorized to enter the structure or premises at all reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by this code. If such structure or premises is occupied, the code official shall present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or other person having charge or control of the structure or premises and request entry. If such entry is refused, then the code official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
[A] 104.4.1 Warrant. Where the code official has first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, an owner, the owner’s authorized agent, occupant or person having charge, care or control of the structure or premises shall not fail or neglect, after a proper request is made as herein provided, to permit entry therein by the code official for the purposes of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.
[A] 104.5 Identification. The code official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.
[A] 104.6 Notices and orders. The code official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 110.2.
[A] 104.7 Official records. The code official shall keep official records as required by Sections 104.7.1 through 104.7.5. Such official records shall be retained for not less than 5 years or for as long as the structure or activity to which such records relate remains in existence, unless otherwise provided by other regulations.
[A] 104.7.1 Approvals. A record of approvals shall be maintained by the code official and shall be available for public inspection during business hours in accordance with applicable laws.
[A] 104.7.2 Inspections. The code official shall keep a record of each inspection made, including notices and orders issued, showing the findings and disposition of each.
[A] 104.7.3 Code alternatives and modifications. Application for alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment in accordance with Section 104.2.2; modifications in accordance with Section 104.2.3; and documentation of the final decision of the code official for either shall be in writing and shall be retained in the official records.
[A] 104.7.4 Tests. The code official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.1.4 and 104.2.2.5.
[A] 104.7.5 Fees. The code official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 108.
CWUIC § 104.2.2.6.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.2.2.6.2 Other reports. Reports not complying with Section 104.2.2.6.1 shall describe criteria, including but not limited to any referenced testing or analysis, used to determine compliance with code intent and justify code equivalence. The report shall be prepared by a qualified engineer, specialist, laboratory or fire safety specialty organization acceptable to the code official. The code official is authorized to require design submittals to be prepared by, and bear the stamp of, a registered design professional.
[A] 104.2.2.7 Peer review. The code official is authorized to require submittal of a peer review report in conjunction with a request to use an alternative material, design or method of construction, prepared by a peer reviewer that is approved by the code official.
[A] 104.2.3 Modifications. Where there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, provided that the code official shall first find that one or more special individual reasons make the strict letter of this code impractical, that the modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of this code, and that such modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of the written request and action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered into the files of the code enforcement
agency.
[A] 104.3 Applications and permits. The code official is authorized to receive applications, review construction documents and issue permits for construction regulated by this code, issue permits for operations regulated by this code, inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.4 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the code official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or on any premises a condition that is contrary to or in violation of this code that makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the code official is authorized to enter the structure or premises at all reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed by this code. If such structure or premises is occupied, the code official shall present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the code official shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or other person having charge or control of the structure or premises and request entry. If such entry is refused, then the code official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
[A] 104.4.1 Warrant. Where the code official has first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, an owner, the owner’s authorized agent, occupant or person having charge, care or control of the structure or premises shall not fail or neglect, after a proper request is made as herein provided, to permit entry therein by the code official for the purposes of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.
[A] 104.5 Identification. The code official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.
[A] 104.6 Notices and orders. The code official shall issue all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 110.2.
CWUIC § 1-2 High relevance — show source text
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTER SUBJECT 1-2 Administration and Definitions 3-4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designation and Requirements 5 Building Construction Regulations 6 Fire Protection Requirements 7 Referenced Standards Appendices A-I Adoptable and Informational Appendices Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Chapter 2 Definitions.
Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.
Chapter 3 Wildland-Urban Interface Areas.
Chapter 3 provides for the fundamental aspect of applying the code—the legal declaration and establishment of wildland-urban interface areas within the adopting jurisdiction, mapping of the area, periodic review and updates.
Chapter 4 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Requirements.
The requirements of Chapter 4 apply to all occupancies in the wildland-urban interface and pertain to all of the following:
Fire service access to the property that is to be protected, including fire apparatus access roads and off-road driveways.
Premises identification.
Key boxes to provide ready access to properties secured by gated roadways or other impediments to rapid fire service access.
Fire protection water supplies, including adequate water sources, pumper apparatus drafting sites, fire hydrant systems and system reliability.
Fire department access to equipment such as fire suppression equipment and fire hydrants.
Chapter 5 Special Building Construction Regulations.
The regulations in Chapter 5 establish minimum standards for the location, design and construction of buildings and structures based on construction within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone or a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Area.
The construction provisions of Chapter 5 are intended to supplement the requirements of the California Building Code and Califor- nia Residential Code and address mitigation of the unique hazards posed to buildings by wildfire and to reduce the hazards of building fires spreading to wildland fuels. This is accomplished by requiring ignition-resistant construction materials.
Chapter 6 Fire Protection Requirements.
Chapter 6 contains additional requirements for development and construction in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and areas designated by the State Fire Marshal as State Responsibility Areas (SRA). While many of these provisions are found in Title 14 and Title 19 of the California Code of Regulations, they are replicated here for the code user. The local jurisdiction has the authority to apply the same regulations to LRA when the regulations are adopted by local ordinance.
The requirements in this chapter reference the process for adoption of Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the LRA; criteria for evaluating existing subdivisions that are at significant fire risk and are without an adequate secondary egress; and criteria for fire safety provisions required in the Safety Element of a city or county General Plan.
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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.
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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.
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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 § 7.1 High relevance — show source text
R104.6 Notices and orders. The building official shall issue necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section R113.2.
R104.7 Official records. The building official shall keep official records as required in Sections R104.7.1 through R104.7.5. Such official records shall be retained for not less than 5 years or for as long as the building or structure to which such records relate remains in existence, unless otherwise provided by other regulations.
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DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
R104.7.1 Approvals. A record of approvals shall be maintained by the building official and shall be available for public inspection during business hours in accordance with applicable laws.
R104.7.2 Inspections. The code official shall have the authority to conduct inspections, or shall accept reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. Reports of such inspections shall be in writing and be certified by a responsible officer of such approved agency or by the responsible individual. The building official shall keep a record of each inspection made, including notices and orders issued, showing the findings and disposition of each.
R104.7.3 Code alternatives and modifications. Application for alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment in accordance with Section R104.2.2; modifications in accordance with Section R104.2.3; and documentation of the final decision of the building official for either shall be in writing and shall be retained in the official records.
R104.7.4 Tests. The building official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Section R104.2.2.5.
R104.7.5 Fees. The building official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section R108.
R104.8 Liability. The building official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
R104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against an officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The building official or any subordinate shall not be liable for cost in any action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.
R104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
R104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.
SECTION R105—PERMITS
CWUIC § 701A.1 High relevance — show source text
1_|Title|Y||||||||| |101.2|Scope|Y||701A.1|4901.1|||||| |101.2.1|Appendices|N||||||||| |101.3|Purpose|N||701A.2|4901.2|||||| |101.3.1|Application|Y||701A.3||||||| |101.3.1.1|Application date and
where required|Y||701A.3.1||||||| |101.4|Retroactivity|N||||||||| |101.5|Additions or
alterations|N||||||||| |101.6|Maintenance|Y||||||||| |102|Applicability|Y||||||||| |102.1|General|Y||||||||| |102.2|Other laws|Y||||||||| |102.3|Application of
references|N||||||||| |102.4|Referenced codes
and standards|N||||||||| |102.4.1|Conflicts|N||||||||| |102.4.2|Provisions in
referenced codes and
standards|N||||||||| |102.5|Subjects not
regulated by this code|N|||102.8|||||| |102.6|Matters not provided
for|Y|||102.9|||||| |102.7|Partial invalidity|N||||||||| |102.8|Existing conditions|N||||||||| |103|Code compliance
agency|N||||||||| |103.1|Creation of agency|N||||||||| |103.2|Appointment|N||||||||| |103.3|Deputies|N||||||||| |104|Duties and powers of
the code official|N||||||||| |104.1|Powers and duties of
the code official|N||||||||| |104.2|Determination of
compliance|N||||||||| |104.2.1|Technical assistance|N||||||||| |104.2.1.1|Cost|N|||||||||2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-21
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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
2025 CWUIC—continued Col2 Adopted
Yes/NoIWUIC
SectionCBC
SectionCFC
SectionTitle 14,
Division 1.5
SectionTitle 19,
Division 1
SectionGov Code
SectionPRC
SectionHSC
SectionSection Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Title Chapter 1 _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration _Division II—_Scope and Administration 104.2.1. CWUIC § 1270.01 High relevance — show source text
[A] BUILDING OFFICIAL. The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of the California Building Code, or the building official’s duly authorized representative.
CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION. Written documentation that the project or work for which a permit was issued has been completed in conformance with requirements of this code.
[A] CODE OFFICIAL. The official designated by the jurisdiction to interpret and enforce this code, or the code official’s authorized representative.
CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER. A set of weather conditions (usually a combination of low relative humidity and wind) whose effects on fire behavior make control difficult and threaten firefighter safety.
DEAD-END ROAD (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). A road that has only one point of vehicular ingress/egress, including cul-de- sacs and roads that loop back on themselves. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(e)]
DEFENSIBLE SPACE. See Sections 403.1.1 and 601.3.
DRIVEWAY (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). A vehicular pathway route that serves not more than four (4) Residential Units and any number of noncommercial or nonindustrial Utility or Miscellaneous Group U Buildings. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(i)]
[BG] DWELLING. A building that contains one or two dwelling units used, intended or designed to be used, rented, leased, let or hired out to be occupied for living purposes.
EXTERIOR WALL ASSEMBLY. A system, including the exterior wall covering, framing and components such as weather-resistive barriers and insulating materials. This system provides protection of the building structural members and conditioned interior space from the detrimental effects of the exterior environment.
EXTERIOR WALL COVERING. A material or assembly of materials applied on the exterior side of exterior walls for the purpose of providing a weather-resisting barrier, insulation or for aesthetics, including but not limited to veneers, siding, exterior insulation and finish systems, rainscreen systems, architectural trim, and embellishments such as cornices, soffits, facias, gutters and leaders.
[F] FIRE CHIEF. The chief officer or the chief officer’s authorized representative of the fire department serving the jurisdiction.
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DEFINITIONS
FIRE CODE OFFICIAL. The fire chief or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of the California Fire Code, or a duly authorized representative.
FIRE FLOW CALCULATION AREA. The floor area, in square feet (square meters), used to determine the adequate water supply.
FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES. Geographical areas designated pursuant to California Public Resources Codes, Sections 4201 through 4204 California Government Code, Sections 51175 through 51189.
The map, approved by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, is hereby incorporated by reference and entitled “State Responsibility Area Fire Hazard Severity Zones,” dated September 29, 2023.
FIRE PROTECTION PLAN. A document prepared for a specific project or development proposed for the wildland-urban interface area. It describes ways to minimize and mitigate potential for loss from wildfire exposure.
CWUIC § 104.7.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.7.5 Tests. The fire code official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.2.4 and 104.2.3.5.
[A] 104.7.6 Fees. The fire code official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 108.
[A] 104.8 Liability. The fire code official, member of the board of appeals, officer or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
[A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by the legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The fire code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code; and any officer of the department of fire prevention, acting in
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DIVISION II—SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
good faith and without malice, shall be free from liability for acts performed under any of its provisions or by reason of any act or omission in the performance of official duties in connection therewith.
104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the fire code official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
[A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working order and approved.
104.10 Fire investigations. The fire code official, the fire department or other responsible authority shall have the authority to investigate the cause, origin and circumstances of any fire, explosion or other hazardous condition. Information that could be related to trade secrets or processes shall not be made part of the public record, except as directed by a court of law.
104.10.1 Assistance from other agencies. Police and other enforcement agencies shall have authority to render necessary assistance in the investigation of fires when requested to do so.
104.11 Authority at fires and other emergencies. The fire chief or officer of the fire department in charge at the scene of a fire or other emergency involving the protection of life or property, or any part thereof, shall have the authority to direct such operation as necessary to extinguish or control any fire, perform any rescue operation, investigate the existence of suspected or reported fires, gas leaks or other hazardous conditions or situations, or take any other action necessary in the reasonable performance of duty.
CWUIC § 5.1 High relevance — show source text
A103.4 Use of motorcycles, motor scooters, ultralight aircraft and motor vehicles. Motorcycles, motor scooters, ultralight aircraft and motor vehicles shall not be operated within wildland-urban interface areas, without a permit by the code official, except on clearly established public or private roads. Permission from the property owner shall be presented when requesting a permit.
APPENDIX A-4 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A—GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
A103.5 Tampering with locks, barricades, signs and address markers. Locks, barricades, seals, cables, signs and address markers installed within wildland-urban interface areas, by or under the control of the code official, shall not be tampered with, mutilated, destroyed or removed.
A103.5.1 Gates, doors, barriers and locks. Gates, doors, barriers and locks installed by or under the control of the code official shall not be unlocked.
SECTION A104—IGNITION SOURCE CONTROL
A104.1 General. Ignition sources shall be controlled in accordance with Sections A104.2 through A104.10.
A104.2 Objective. Regulations in this section are intended to provide the minimum requirements to prevent the occurrence of wildfires.
A104.3 Clearance from ignition sources. Clearance between ignition sources and grass, brush or other combustible materials shall be maintained at not less than 30 feet (9144 mm).
A104.4 Smoking. Where required by the code official, signs shall be posted stating NO SMOKING. Persons shall not smoke within 15 feet (4572 mm) of combustible materials or nonfire-smart vegetation.
Exception: Places of habitation or in the boundaries of established smoking areas or campsites as designated by the code official.
A104.5 Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames. Equipment and devices generating heat, sparks or open flames capable of igniting nearby combustibles shall not be used in wildland-urban interface areas without a permit from the code official.
Exception: Use of approved equipment within inhabited premises or designated campsites that are not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from grass-, grain-, brush- or forest-covered areas.
A104.6 Fireworks. Fireworks shall not be used or possessed in wildland-urban interface areas.
Exception: Fireworks allowed by the code official under permit in accordance with the California Fire Code where not prohibited by applicable local or state laws, ordinances and regulations.
A104.6.1 Authority to seize. The code official is authorized to seize, take, remove or cause to be removed fireworks in violation of this section.
A104.7 Outdoor fires. Outdoor fires in wildland-urban interface areas shall comply with Sections A104.7.1 through A104.7.3.
A104.7.1 General. Persons shall not build, ignite or maintain any outdoor fire of any kind for any purpose in or on any wildland- urban interface area, except by the authority of a written permit from the code official.
Exception: Outdoor fires within inhabited premises or designated campsites where such fires are in a permanent barbecue, portable barbecue, outdoor fireplace, incinerator or grill and are not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from any combustible material or nonfire-smart vegetation.
Frequently asked questions
Who appoints the code official?
The code official is appointed by the chief appointing authority of the adopting jurisdiction, as set out in §103.2 of the CWUIC .
May the code official require technical reports or tests?
Yes. §104.2.1 authorizes the code official to require a technical opinion and report (prepared by qualified professionals) and §104.2.1.4 authorizes tests when evidence of compliance is insufficient; costs and preparer qualifications are addressed in those subsections .
Can the code official enter private property to inspect for compliance?
Yes. §104.4 gives the code official a right of entry at reasonable times to inspect or perform duties; if entry is refused the official may pursue legal remedies or obtain a warrant as described in §104.4.1. The code official must present credentials when the premises are occupied .
More in California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
- Administration and Definitions
- Board of Appeals, Administration & Enforcement (permits, code official duties, appeals process)
- Wildland‑Urban Interface Area Designation & Mapping
- Fire Service Access & Water Supply (fire apparatus roads, driveways, hydrants, draft sites, standby power)
- Wildland‑Urban Interface Area Requirements (access, water, premises identification, key boxes)
- Referenced Standards & Test Methods
- Special Building Construction Regulations (ignition‑resistant construction, roof/vent/assembly requirements)
- Appendices and Model Ordinances (vegetation plans, severity‑zone adoption, home‑hardening guidance)
- Fire Protection Requirements (fire protection plans, systems, safety element provisions)
- Referenced California Documents & Matrix (CCR/Title 14 & 19 cross‑references, statutory references)
- Vegetation Management & Defensible Space (vegetation plans, maintenance, fire‑smart characteristics)
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Permits, applications, construction documents & certificates
Appeals process and Board of Appeals (means of appeals & Appendix I)
Inspection, enforcement tools, stop work orders and other remedies
Board of Appeals, Administration & Enforcement (permits, code official duties, appeals process)
California Wildland-Urban Interface Code