CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Records, identification, liability and legal defense for the code official
If you’re a homeowner: the inspector must show ID, the jurisdiction keeps inspection and approval records for at least five years, and when a code official lawfully enforces the wildland‑urban interface rules in good faith they are protected from personal lawsuits and will be defended by the jurisdiction’s attorneys.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The code official must carry proper identification while performing inspections (§ 104.5) and must maintain official records (approvals, inspections, alternatives/modifications, tests, fees) retained for not less than 5 years or until the related structure/activity no longer exists (§ 104.7) . When enforcing the CWUIC in good faith and without malice, the code official (and board of appeals members or employees) is relieved from personal civil or criminal liability for acts or omissions within their duties (§ 104.8), and the jurisdiction must provide legal defense for suits or criminal complaints arising from lawful enforcement actions until final termination of the proceedings (§ 104.8.1) .
The single most important rule: carry identification when inspecting, keep official records for at least 5 years, and enforcement actions taken in good faith are immune from personal liability and defended by the jurisdiction (see § 104.5, § 104.7, § 104.8, § 104.8.1) .
Requirements in detail
Identification (what to carry)
- The code official must carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises while performing duties under this code (§ 104.5) .
- Purpose: verify authority to occupants/owners and reduce disputes at point of inspection.
Official records (what to keep and retention)
The code requires keeping a set of official records and specifies minimum retention period and record types in § 104.7 and its subsections .
| Decision-relevant dimension | Required value / content | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum retention period | Not less than 5 years, or for as long as the structure/activity exists | § 104.7 |
| Record: approvals | Maintain a record of approvals; must be available for public inspection during business hours (as applicable) | § 104.7.1 |
| Record: inspections | Record each inspection, including notices and orders, findings and disposition | § 104.7.2 |
| Record: alternatives/modifications | Written documentation of applications and final decisions for alternative materials/designs and modifications | § 104.7.3 |
| Record: tests | Records of tests conducted to comply with specified test provisions | § 104.7.4 |
| Record: fees | Records of fees collected and refunded per the fee provisions | § 104.7.5 |
Practical points:
- Make inspection records include date, inspector name, findings, corrective actions, notice/order identifiers and final disposition to satisfy § 104.7.2 .
- Retain approvals, alternative requests, and test reports with project files as required by § 104.7.1, § 104.7.3, § 104.7.4 .
Liability (when immunity applies)
- The code official, board of appeals member, or employee acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice, is not personally liable (civilly or criminally) for damage resulting from acts or omissions in discharge of official duties (§ 104.8) .
- Key elements for immunity: (1) acting for the jurisdiction, (2) acting in good faith, and (3) absence of malice.
Legal defense (who defends and cost immunity)
- The jurisdiction’s legal representatives must defend any civil suit or criminal complaint instituted against an officer/employee for acts performed lawfully under this code until final termination of the proceedings (§ 104.8.1) .
- The code official or subordinate is not liable for costs in such actions instituted in pursuance of the code (§ 104.8.1) .
Exceptions & special cases
- The immunity in § 104.8 applies only when the official acts in good faith and without malice; acts outside authority, fraudulent conduct, or malicious acts are not protected — the text itself ties immunity to good-faith performance of duties (§ 104.8) .
- The retention period is not less than 5 years unless other regulations require a longer retention period; local, state, or agency rules may supersede the 5-year floor in § 104.7 .
- Public inspection of approvals must follow “applicable laws” — privacy, record-sealing, or other statutes can limit access even though § 104.7.1 directs availability during business hours .
Common mistakes
- Treating the 5-year retention as optional — the code establishes 5 years as the minimum floor (or the life of the structure/activity), so do not purge files earlier (§ 104.7) .
- Failing to document inspections comprehensively (date, findings, notices/orders, disposition) — inspection records are explicitly required (§ 104.7.2) .
- Relying on immunity for willful or malicious acts — immunity is limited to acts done in good faith and without malice (§ 104.8) .
- Assuming legal defense is discretionary — § 104.8.1 requires the jurisdiction to defend until final termination when the act was performed lawfully under the code .
- Not carrying identification in the field — the requirement to carry proper identification during inspections is explicit and minimal; failing to present it can escalate encounters unnecessarily (§ 104.5) .
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario:
- A code official inspects a property on 6/1/2026, issues a notice of violation, orders vegetation clearing, receives a written appeal, and the owner requests alternative materials which are approved 8/15/2026. A civil suit alleging improper orders is filed against the official on 9/1/2026.
How to apply the rules:
- Identification: At the time of inspection (6/1/2026) the inspector must have carried proper identification per § 104.5; document the ID shown in the inspection log to avoid credibility issues .
- Records retention: Create and retain the inspection report (6/1/2026), the notice/order, the appeal record, the alternative-materials application, and the approval (8/15/2026). These records must be kept at least 5 years from the latest action (so until at least 8/15/2031) or longer if the structure/activity remains in existence (§ 104.7 and subsections) .
- Liability and defense: Because the official acted for the jurisdiction, documented the reasons and followed code procedures (no malice, acted in good faith), the official is protected from personal civil/criminal liability under § 104.8. The jurisdiction’s legal representatives must defend the official in the suit until final termination and the official is not liable for costs per § 104.8.1 .
- Documentation to support defense: preserve all contemporaneous notes, signed inspection forms, photos, issuance of the notice/order, and the decision record for the alternative-materials application (these are expressly required record types in § 104.7.2 and § 104.7.3) .
Related provisions
- § 104.4 — Right of entry (authority to inspect) — supports the inspection/identification requirement and is part of the same administration chapter .
- § 104.6 — Notices and orders — inspection findings and enforcement actions tie directly to records and liability .
- § 105 — Permits (application, issuance, retention) — permit records often form part of official records retained under § 104.7 .
- § 109 — Inspection and enforcement (abatement, citations, placarding, prosecution) — procedural steps that generate records and enforcement actions relevant to liability and defense .
- § 111 — Certificates of completion / occupancy — records that should be retained per § 104.7 where applicable .
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CWUIC § 104.5 High relevance — show source text
[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.
[A] 104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
[A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances
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implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until final termination of the proceedings. The code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the code official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
[A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working order and approved.
CWUIC § 104.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.5 Identification. The building 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 building official shall issue necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 114.
[A] 104.7 Official records. The building 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 building or structure 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 building official and shall be available for public inspection during business hours in accordance with applicable laws.
[A] 104.7.2 Inspections. The building 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 104.2.3; modifications in accordance with Section 104.2.4; and documentation of the final decision of the building official for either shall be in writing and shall be retained in the official records.
[A] 104.7.4 Tests. The building official shall keep a record of tests conducted to comply with Sections 104.2.2.4 and 104.2.3.5.
[A] 104.7.5 Fees. The building official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 109.
[A] 104.8 Liability. The building official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of any act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
[A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until the final termination of the proceedings. The building official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the building official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
[A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working condition and approved.
SECTION 105—PERMITS
CWUIC § 104.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.5 Identification. The fire 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 fire code official shall issue necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this code. Notices of violations shall be in accordance with Section 113.
[A] 104.7 Official records. The fire code official shall keep official records as required by Sections 104.7.1 through 104.7.6. 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.
[A] 104.7.1 Approvals. A record of approvals shall be maintained by the fire code official and shall be available for public inspection during business hours in accordance with applicable laws.
[A] 104.7.2 Inspections. The fire code official shall keep a record of each inspection made, including notices and orders issued, showing the findings and disposition of each.
104.7.3 Fire records. The fire code official shall keep a record of fires occurring within its jurisdiction and of facts concerning the same, including statistics as to the extent of such fires and the damage caused thereby, together with other information as required by the fire code official.
[A] 104.7.4 Code alternatives and modifications. Application for alternative materials, design and methods of construction and equipment in accordance with Section 104.2.3; modifications in accordance with Section 104.2.4; and documentation of the final decision of the fire code official for either shall be in writing and shall be retained in the official records.
[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
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 § 104.7.5 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.7.5 Fees. The code official shall keep a record of fees collected and refunded in accordance with Section 108.
[A] 104.8 Liability. The code official, member of the board of appeals or employee charged with the enforcement of this code, while acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable, either civilly or criminally, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of any act or omission in the discharge of official duties.
[A] 104.8.1 Legal defense. Any suit or criminal complaint instituted against any officer or employee because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful discharge of duties and under the provisions of this code or other laws or ordinances
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implemented through the enforcement of this code shall be defended by legal representatives of the jurisdiction until final termination of the proceedings. The code official or any subordinate shall not be liable for costs in an action, suit or proceeding that is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.9 Approved materials and equipment. Materials, equipment and devices approved by the code official shall be constructed and installed in accordance with such approval.
[A] 104.9.1 Materials and equipment reuse. Materials, equipment and devices shall not be reused unless such elements are in good working order and approved.
[A] 104.10 Other agencies. When requested to do so by the code official, other officials of this jurisdiction shall assist and cooperate with the code official in the discharge of the duties required by this code.
SECTION 105—PERMITS
[A] 105.1 General. Where not otherwise provided in the requirements of the California Building Code or California Fire Code, permits are required in accordance with Sections 105.2 through 105.10.
[A] 105.2 Permits required. Unless otherwise exempted, buildings or structures regulated by this code shall not be erected, constructed, altered, repaired, moved, removed, converted, demolished or changed in use or occupancy unless a separate permit for each building or structure has first been obtained from the code official.
For buildings or structures erected for temporary uses, see Section A108.3.
Where required by the code official, a permit shall be obtained for the following activities, operations, practices or functions within a wildland-urban interface area:
Automobile wrecking yard.
Candles and open flames in assembly areas.
Explosives or blasting agents.
Fireworks.
Flammable or combustible liquids.
Hazardous materials.
Liquefied petroleum gases.
Lumberyards.
Motor vehicle fuel-dispensing stations.
Open burning.
Pyrotechnical special effects material.
Tents, canopies and temporary membrane structures.
Tire storage.
Welding and cutting operations.
CWUIC § 504.7 High relevance — show source text
Ignition Source Control Appendix A, A104 Ignition-Resistant Building Material 202, 503 Ignition-Resistant Construction 504 Appendages 504.7 Detached accessory structures 504.11 Eaves 504.3
Exterior doors 504.9
Exterior walls 504.5
Gutters and downspouts 504.4 Protection of eaves 504.3 Roof covering 504.2 Underfloor protection 504.6 Vents 504.10
Windows 504.8 Ignition-Resistant Construction and Material 503 Inspection and Enforcement 109 Abatement 109.3.8 Authority to inspect 109.1.2 Citations 109.3.4
Enforcement 109.2 Placarding 109.3.5.3 Prosecution 109.3.6
Reinspections 109.1.3 Right of entry 104.4 Testing 109.1.4 Unsafe conditions 109.3.5
Key Box 403.1
Land Use Limitations Appendix A, A108 Legal Defense of the Code Official 104.8.1 Liability of the Code Official 104.8
Log Wall Construction 202 LP-Gas Installations 606
Maintenance 101.6 Maintenance of Defensible Space 604 Modified area 604.2 Responsibility 604.3 Trees 604.4 Mapping of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.2 Multilayered Glazed Panels 202
Noncombustible Roof Covering 202
Outbuilding 202
Peer Review 104.2.2.7, 202 Permits
Application 105.4 Approval 105.5 Expiration 105.8 Issuance 105.6 Preliminary inspection 105.4.1 Refusal to issue 105.6.1
Required 105.2 Retention 105.9
Revocation 105.10 Validity 105.7 Work exempt from permit 105.3 Placarding as Unsafe 109.3.5.3 Powers and Duties of the Code
Official 104.1
Practical Difficulties 104.2.3 Protection of Pumps and Water Storage Facilities Appendix A, A107
Rafter Tail 202 Referenced Standards 102.4, Chapter 7 Registered Design Professional 104.2.1.2, 104.2.2.6.2, 106.1, 202 Residential Unit 202 Retroactivity 101.4 Ridgelline 202 Road 202 Roof Covering 202 Roof Covering System 202 Roof Coverings, Replacement or Repair of 507
Roof Deck 202
Scope 101 Self-Defense Mechanism Appendix G Service Utilities 111
Slope 202 Spark Arrestors 605 Stop Work Order 113 Storage of Firewood and Combustible Materials 607 Strategic Ridgeline 202 Structure 202
Subdivision 202
CWUIC § 7.5 Medium relevance — show source text
7.5|Fees|N||||||||| |104.8|Liability|Y||||||||| |104.8.1|Legal defense|Y||||||||| |104.9|Approved materials
and equipment|N||||||||| |104.9.1|Material and
equipment reuse|N||||||||| |104.10|Other agencies|N||||||||| |105|Permits|Y||||||||| |105.1|General|Y||||||||| |105.2|Permits required|Y||||||||| |105.3|Work exempt from
permit|Y||||||||| |105.4|Permit application|Y||||||||| |105.4.1|Preliminary
inspection|N||||||||| |105.4.2|Time limitation of
application|N||||||||| |105.5|Permit approval|N||||||||| |105.6|Permit issuance|N||||||||| |105.6.1|Refusal to issue a
permit|N||||||||| |105.7|Validity of permit|N||||||||| |105.8|Expiration|Y||105.5.1||||||| |105.9|Retention of permits|N|||||||||APPENDIX H-22 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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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 105.10 Revocation of permits Y 106 Construction
documentsY 106.1 General Y 107.1 106.2 Information on plans
and specificationsY 106.3 Site plan Y 106.4 Vegetation manage-
ment_compliance_Y 701A.5 106.5 Fire protection plan Y 106.6 Other data and
substantiationN 106.7 Vicinity plan Y 106.8 Retention of plans Y 1.11.3.5 106.9 Examination of
documentsN 106. CWUIC § 601.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Dead-end Road 202 Defensible Space 403, 601.3 Vegetation Plan 603 Definitions 202 Designation of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.1
Director 202 Driveway 202 Dumping Appendix A, A106 Dwelling 202
Exterior Covering 202
INDEX
Fees 109 Findings of Fact Appendix E Fire Chief 202 Fire Danger Rating System Appendix D Fire Flow Calculation Area Application 404.5 Defined 202 Fire Hazard Severity Zones 1.1.2, 202, 302.1, 302.2, Appendix D, Appendix H Fire Protection Plans 602
Fire Weather 202
Fire-Resistance-Rated Construction 501.3 Fire-Resistive Vegetation Appendix F Fire-Retardant-Treated Lumber or
Wood 503.2, 504.5, 504.7, 504.11 Flame Spread Index 202 Flashing 504.2.1, 504.5.1 Fuel Break 202, 609 Fuel Models Appendix D Fuel Modification 202
Fuel Modification Distance 603.2
Fuel Mosaic 202 Fuel-Loading 202
General Requirements Appendix A Green Belt 202
Greenways 202
Hammerhead/T 202 Hazardous Land Use 202
Hazardous Materials 202 Heavy Timber Construction 202
Ignition Source Control Appendix A, A104 Ignition-Resistant Building Material 202, 503 Ignition-Resistant Construction 504 Appendages 504.7 Detached accessory structures 504.11 Eaves 504.3
Exterior doors 504.9
Exterior walls 504.5
Gutters and downspouts 504.4 Protection of eaves 504.3 Roof covering 504.2 Underfloor protection 504.6 Vents 504.10
Windows 504.8 Ignition-Resistant Construction and Material 503 Inspection and Enforcement 109 Abatement 109.3.8 Authority to inspect 109.1.2 Citations 109.3.4
Enforcement 109.2 Placarding 109.3.5.3 Prosecution 109.3.6
Reinspections 109.1.3 Right of entry 104.4 Testing 109.1.4 Unsafe conditions 109.3.5
Key Box 403.1
Land Use Limitations Appendix A, A108 Legal Defense of the Code Official 104.8.1 Liability of the Code Official 104.8
Log Wall Construction 202 LP-Gas Installations 606
Maintenance 101.6 Maintenance of Defensible Space 604 Modified area 604.2 Responsibility 604.3 Trees 604.4 Mapping of Wildland-Urban Interface Area 302.2 Multilayered Glazed Panels 202
Noncombustible Roof Covering 202
Outbuilding 202
CWUIC § 2.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
2.1.3|Content|N||||||||| |104.2.1.4|Tests|N||||||||| |104.2.2|Alternative
materials, design and
methods|Y||1.11.2.4
1.11.2.5||||||| |104.2.2.1|Approval authority|N||||||||| |104.2.2.2|Application and
disposition|N||1.11.2.4
1.11.2.5||||||| |104.2.2.3|Compliance with
code intent|N||||||||| |104.2.2.4|Equivalency criteria|N||||||||| |104.2.2.5|Tests|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6|Reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6.1|Evaluation reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.6.2|Other reports|N||||||||| |104.2.2.7|Peer review|N||||||||| |104.2.3|Modifications|N||||||||| |104.3|Applications and
permits|Y||||||||| |104.4|Right of entry|N||||||||| |104.4.1|Warrant|N||||||||| |104.5|Identification|N||||||||| |104.6|Notices and orders|Y||||||||| |104.7|Official records|N||||||||| |104.7.1|Approvals|N||||||||| |104.7.2|Inspections|N||||||||| |104.7.3|Code alternatives
and modifications|N||||||||| |104.7.4|Tests|N||||||||| |104.7.5|Fees|N||||||||| |104.8|Liability|Y||||||||| |104.8.1|Legal defense|Y||||||||| |104.9|Approved materials
and equipment|N||||||||| |104.9.1|Material and
equipment reuse|N||||||||| |104.10|Other agencies|N||||||||| |105|Permits|Y||||||||| |105.1|General|Y||||||||| |105.2|Permits required|Y||||||||| |105.3|Work exempt from
permit|Y||||||||| |105.4|Permit application|Y||||||||| |105.4.1|Preliminary
inspection|N||||||||| |105.4.2|Time limitation of
application|N||||||||| |105.5|Permit approval|N||||||||| |105.6|Permit issuance|N||||||||| |105.6.1|Refusal to issue a
permit|N||||||||| |105.7|Validity of permit|N||||||||| |105.8|Expiration|Y||105.5.1||||||| |105.9|Retention of permits|N|||||||||APPENDIX H-22 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
|2025 CWUIC—continued|Col2|Adopted
Yes/No|IWUIC
Section|CBC
Section|CFC
Section|Title 14,
Division 1.5
Section|Title 19,CWUIC § 201.3 Medium relevance — show source text
Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
CGT-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt Entire Chapter Adopt Entire Chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X Adopt only those sections that
are listed below[California Code of Regulations,
Title 19, Division 1]Chapter / Section 201.3 X Applicable Building X Defensible Space X Exterior Wall Assembly X Exterior Wall Covering X Fire Code Official X Fire Hazard Severity Zones X Fire Protection Plan X Fire-Smart Vegetation X Flame Spread Index X Fuel X Fuel Modification X Local Responsibility Area (LRA) X Rafter Tail X Roof Eave X Roof Eave Soffit X State Responsibility Area (SRA) X Structure X Wildfire X Wildfire Exposure X Wildland-Urban Interface Area X - The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
CWUIC § 5.2 Medium 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
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.
[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
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
Access Applicability 402 Driveways 403.2 Fire apparatus access roads 403.3 Grade 403.7
Individual structures 402.2 Marking of roads 402.3, 403.4 Restricted 403.1
Subdivisions 402.1 Accessory Buildings and Miscellaneous Structures
Defined 202
Detached 504.11 Exempt from permit 105.3 Additions or Alterations 101.5
Address Markers 402.3 Agriculture 202 Alternative Materials or Methods 104.2.2
Appeals 112 Appendices 101.2.1 Applicable Building 202 Applicability 102 Approved 202 Approved Agency 104.2.2.6.1, 202 Authority of Code Official 104
Building 202 Building Official 202
Certificate of Completion 111 Certificate of occupancy 111.2 Revocation 111.4
Temporary occupancy 111.3
Code Official 202 Code Official, Authority 104 Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework Appendix C Compliance Alternatives 105 Construction Documents 106
Amended 106.10
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to show ID to every occupant during an inspection?
Yes. The code requires the code official to carry proper identification when inspecting; presenting it upon request avoids confrontation and is consistent with § 104.5 .
How long must I keep inspection reports and approval documents?
Keep them for not less than 5 years, or for as long as the structure or activity exists — whichever is longer — per § 104.7 .
If I’m sued for issuing an order, who pays my legal fees?
If the action arose from an act performed lawfully under the code, the jurisdiction’s legal representatives must defend you until final termination; the code official is not personally liable for costs under § 104.8.1 .
Does the immunity in § 104.8 protect malicious or unauthorized acts?
No. Immunity applies only when acting for the jurisdiction, in good faith and without malice; willful misconduct or acts outside lawful authority are not protected under § 104.8 .
Are alternative-material approvals required to be in writing?
Yes. Applications and final decisions for alternatives or modifications must be in writing and retained in the official records under § 104.7.3 .
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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