CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
When can the code official enter property and obtain an inspection warrant
If a code official reasonably believes a property is unsafe or needs inspection under the CWUIC, they can request entry (showing ID); if you refuse, they can seek legal remedies such as an inspection warrant — and once a proper warrant is issued you must allow the inspection (see § 104.4 and § 104.4.1).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
The code official may enter a structure or premises at all reasonable times to inspect when it is necessary to enforce the California Wildland‑Urban Interface Code or when the official has reasonable cause to believe a condition exists that makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous, or hazardous. This authority and the required steps for occupied versus unoccupied property are set out in § 104.4.
If entry is refused after the required request/attempt, the code official may pursue legal remedies (including obtaining an inspection warrant); once a proper inspection warrant or other legal remedy is obtained, occupants or owners must permit entry for inspection per § 104.4.1.
The single most important rule: if the code official has reasonable cause that a property is unsafe, they may seek entry and — if you refuse — get a warrant; after a proper warrant is issued you must allow the inspection. § 104.4 and § 104.4.1 govern this.
Requirements in detail
1) When the official is authorized to enter
- Trigger: necessary to make an inspection to enforce this code, or the official has reasonable cause to believe a violation exists that makes the place unsafe, dangerous or hazardous. See § 104.4.
- Timing: entry is authorized at all reasonable times (no special hours are specified in the CWUIC). See § 104.4.
2) Minimum procedural steps before forcible entry
- If the structure/premises is occupied: the code official must present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry. See § 104.4.
- If the structure/premises is unoccupied: the code official must first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner, the owner’s authorized agent, or other person having charge or control and request entry. See § 104.4.
3) If entry is refused
- The code official “shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.” That language authorizes seeking an inspection warrant or other legal remedies but does not spell out court procedures or timelines — those follow other laws and court rules beyond the CWUIC. See § 104.4 and § 104.4.1.
4) Effect of a warrant
- Once the code official has first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, an owner/agent/occupant shall not fail or neglect to permit entry after a proper request. This obligation is in § 104.4.1.
5) Identification and records (supporting duties)
- The code official must carry proper identification when inspecting (see § 104.5) and keep inspection records (§ 104.7). These support the entry process and provide evidence of proper procedure.
Decision matrix (quick reference table)
| Decision dimension | Value / Action required | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Why enter? | Necessary for enforcement OR reasonable cause to believe condition is unsafe/dangerous/hazardous | § 104.4 |
| When? | At all reasonable times | § 104.4 |
| Occupied property | Present proper credentials to the occupant and request entry | § 104.4 |
| Unoccupied property | Make reasonable effort to locate owner/agent or person in control and request entry | § 104.4 |
| If entry refused | Use every remedy provided by law (e.g., obtain inspection warrant) to secure entry | § 104.4 |
| After warrant obtained | Owner/occupant must permit the code official to enter after proper request | § 104.4.1 |
| Identification | Code official must carry proper identification during inspections | § 104.5 |
Exceptions & special cases
- The CWUIC itself does not supply the procedural mechanics (forms, court rules, timelines) for obtaining an inspection warrant; it authorizes seeking “every remedy provided by law” but you must look to the applicable civil/criminal procedure statutes and local rules for how warrants are obtained. The CWUIC text for § 104.4 and § 104.4.1 does not describe warrant application procedures.
- The code recognizes a difference between occupied and unoccupied premises and imposes distinct pre‑entry efforts for each; if property is unoccupied, the official must attempt to contact owners/agents before seeking forced entry (but what counts as a “reasonable effort” is fact‑specific and not numerically defined in the CWUIC). See § 104.4.
- Local ordinances, state statutes (for example, Penal Code or Code of Civil Procedure provisions about warrants and searches), or emergency declarations can affect timing and available remedies. These are outside the CWUIC text and must be consulted separately.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the code official can force entry without identification or a request: the official must present credentials and ask for entry when the place is occupied (§ 104.4).
- Treating “reasonable cause” as a fixed checklist item — it is a legal standard requiring facts supporting a reasonable belief of unsafe/dangerous/hazardous conditions; the code does not convert it to a numeric threshold. See § 104.4.
- Failing to pursue or rely on the proper legal remedy: if entry is refused, the code official must seek judicial or statutory remedies (e.g., inspection warrant); owners who refuse after a proper warrant is issued are violating § 104.4.1.
- Assuming the CWUIC lays out warrant application process or timelines — it does not. Practitioners must follow the applicable court/statutory process in addition to CWUIC requirements.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: A code official inspects a neighborhood after receiving multiple reports of heavy, dried vegetation against a home’s exterior that could cause rapid fire spread.
- The official visits House A at 10:30 a.m. and has reasonable cause to suspect an unsafe condition (overgrown, dried brush against structure). Under § 104.4, the official is authorized to inspect.
- House A is occupied. The official presents credentials to the occupant and requests entry to inspect the defensible‑space area and the roof. The occupant refuses entry. § 104.4 requires the credential/ request step first.
- The official documents the refusal, offers a written notice, and makes a good‑faith attempt to schedule a time or contact the owner’s agent. Because entry is refused, the official pursues every remedy provided by law (for example, seeking an inspection warrant from a court). The CWUIC authorizes using legal remedies but does not set the court’s procedures. § 104.4 and § 104.4.1 apply.
- A judge issues an inspection warrant (process outside CWUIC). After the warrant is issued and the official makes a proper request under the warrant, the owner/occupant is required to permit entry per § 104.4.1. The official proceeds with the inspection and documents findings under § 104.7.
(Note: the number of phone calls or how long to wait are fact‑specific and not prescribed by the CWUIC; the official should reasonably document attempts to contact the owner/agent.)
Related provisions (CWUIC)
- § 104.5 — Identification: code official must carry proper identification when inspecting.
- § 104.6 — Notices and orders: issuing notices to ensure compliance.
- § 104.7 — Official records: recordkeeping for inspections, notices and orders.
- Appendix and other parts of CWUIC addressing vegetation, fuels management, and defensible space (see the CWUIC appendices for related vegetation standards).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
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 § 104.3.2 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.3.2 Preliminary meeting. When requested by the permit applicant or the code official, the code official shall meet with the permit applicant prior to the application for a construction permit to discuss plans for the proposed work or change of occupancy in order to establish the specific applicability of the provisions of this code.
Exception: Repairs and Level 1 alterations.
[A] 104.3.3 Building evaluation. The code official is authorized to require an existing building to be investigated and evaluated by a registered design professional based on the circumstances agreed on at the preliminary meeting. The design professional shall notify the code official if any potential noncompliance with the provisions of this code is identified.
[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 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 entry is refused, 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 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 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 104.2.3; modifications in accordance with Section 104.2.4; and documentation of the final decision of the code official for either shall be in writing and shall be retained in the official records.
CWUIC § 1-26 High relevance — show source text
1-26 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 104.4 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the building official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or on a premises a condition that is contrary to or in violation of this code that makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the building 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 building official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the building 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 entry is refused, the building official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
[A] 104.4.1 Warrant. Where the building 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 building official for the purposes of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.
[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.
CWUIC § 4.1 High relevance — show source text
If the building official finds that the value of proposed work equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the building or structure before the damage has occurred or the improvement is started, the proposed work is a substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage and the building official shall require existing portions of the entire building or structure to meet the requirements of Section R306.
R104.4 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the building 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 building 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 building official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the building 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 entry is refused, the building official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
R104.4.1 Warrant. Where the building 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 building code official for the purposes of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.
R104.5 Identification. The building official shall carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises in the performance of duties under this code.
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.
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 1-19
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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.
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 § 2.3.1 High relevance — show source text
R104.2.3.1 Flood hazard areas. The building official shall not grant modifications to any provisions required in flood hazard areas as established by Table R301.2 unless a determination has been made that:
- There is good and sufficient cause showing that the unique characteristics of the size, configuration or topography of the site render the elevation standards of Section R306 inappropriate.
- Failure to grant the modification would result in exceptional hardship by rendering the lot undevelopable.
- The granting of modification will not result in increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety or extraordinary public expense; cause fraud on or victimization of the public; or conflict with existing laws or ordinances.
- The modification is the minimum necessary to afford relief, considering the flood hazard.
- Written notice specifying the difference between the design flood elevation and the elevation to which the building is to be built, stating that the cost of flood insurance will be commensurate with the increased risk resulting from the reduced floor elevation and stating that construction below the design flood elevation increases risks to life and property, has been submitted to the applicant.
R104.3 Applications and permits. The building official shall receive applications, review construction documents, issue permits, inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.
R104.3.1 Determination of substantially improved or substantially damaged existing buildings in flood hazard areas. For applications for reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, alteration, repair or other improvement of existing buildings or structures located in a flood hazard area as established by Table R301.2, the building official shall examine or cause to be examined the construction documents and shall make a determination with regard to the value of the proposed work. For buildings that have sustained damage of any origin, the value of the proposed work shall include the cost to repair the building or structure to its predamaged condition. If the building official finds that the value of proposed work equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the building or structure before the damage has occurred or the improvement is started, the proposed work is a substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage and the building official shall require existing portions of the entire building or structure to meet the requirements of Section R306.
R104.4 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the building 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 building 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 building official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the building 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 entry is refused, the building official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
R104.4.1 Warrant. Where the building 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 building code official for the purposes of inspec
CWUIC § 104.2.4.1 High relevance — show source text
[A] 104.2.4.1 Flood hazard areas. The building official shall not grant modifications to any provision required in flood hazard areas as established by Section 1612.3 unless a determination has been made that:
A showing of good and sufficient cause that the unique characteristics of the size, configuration or topography of the site render the elevation standards of Section 1612 inappropriate.
A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship by rendering the lot undevelopable.
A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety or extraordinary public expense; cause fraud on or victimization of the public; or conflict with existing laws or ordinances.
A determination that the variance is the minimum necessary to afford relief, considering the flood hazard.
Submission to the applicant of written notice specifying the difference between the design flood elevation and the elevation to which the building is to be built, stating that the cost of flood insurance will be commensurate with the increased risk resulting from the reduced floor elevation, and stating that construction below the design flood elevation increases risks to life and property.
[A] 104.3 Applications and permits. The building official shall receive applications, review construction documents, issue permits, inspect the premises for which such permits have been issued and enforce compliance with the provisions of this code.
[A] 104.3.1 Determination of substantially improved or substantially damaged existing buildings and structures in flood hazard areas. For applications for reconstruction, rehabilitation, repair, alteration, addition or other improvement of existing buildings or structures located in flood hazard areas, the building official shall determine if the proposed work constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage. Where the building official determines that the proposed work constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage, and where required by this code, the building official shall require the building to meet the requirements of Section 1612, or Section R306 of the California Residential Code, as applicable.
1-26 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
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ADMINISTRATION
[A] 104.4 Right of entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the building official has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a structure or on a premises a condition that is contrary to or in violation of this code that makes the structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the building 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 building official shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. If such structure or premises is unoccupied, the building 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 entry is refused, the building official shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
[A] 104.4.1 Warrant. Where the building 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 building official for the purposes of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.
CWUIC § 51178 High relevance — show source text
as identified by the Director of Forestry and Fire Protection pursuant to Section 51178 of the Government Code or_ Article 9 (commencing with Section 4201) of Chapter 1 of Part 2 of Division 4 of the Public Resources Code, shall provide to the buyer documentation stating that the property is in compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or local vegeta- tion management ordinances, as follows: (1) In a local jurisdiction that has enacted an ordinance requiring an owner of real property to obtain documentation that the property is in compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or a local vegetation management ordinance, the seller shall provide the buyer with a copy of the documentation that complies with the requirements of that local ordinance and information on the local agency from which a copy of that documentation may be obtained. (2) In a local jurisdiction that has not enacted an ordinance for an owner of real property to obtain documentation that a property is in compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or a local vegetation management ordinance, and if a state or local agency, or other government entity, or other qualified nonprofit entity, provides an inspection with documentation for the jurisdiction in which the property is located, the seller shall provide the buyer with the documentation obtained in the six- month period preceding the date the seller enters into a transaction to sell that real property and provide information on the local agency from which a copy of that documentation may be obtained.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-3
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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
(b) On and after July 1, 2021, if the seller of a real property described in subdivision (a) has not obtained documentation of compli- ance in accordance with paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (a), the seller and the buyer shall enter into a written agreement pursuant to which the buyer agrees to obtain documentation of compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or a local vegetation management ordinance as follows: (1) In a local jurisdiction that has enacted an ordinance requiring an owner or buyer to obtain documentation of compliance with Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code or a local vegetation management ordinance, the buyer shall comply with that ordinance.
(2) In a local jurisdiction that has not enacted an ordinance requiring an owner or buyer to obtain documentation of compliance, and if a state or local agency, or other government entity, or other qualified nonprofit entity, provides an inspection with docu- mentation for the jurisdiction in which the property is located, the buyer shall obtain documentation of compliance within one year of the date of the close of escrow. (c) Nothing in this section, including the existence of an agreement between a buyer and seller pursuant to subdivision (b), shall limit the ability of a state or local agency to enforce defensible space requirements pursuant to Section 51182 of the Govern- ment Code, Section 4291 of the Public Resources Code, or other applicable statutes, regulations, and local ordinances.
SECTION H102—CALIFORNIA GOVERNMENT CODE
Sections 51175, 51176, 51178 – 51179, and 51181.
51175. The Legislature hereby finds and declares as follows: (a) _Wildfires are extremely costly, not only to property owners and residents, but also to local agencies.
CWUIC § 103.2 High relevance — show source text
In accordance with the prescribed procedures and with the approval of the appointing authority, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to appoint such number of technical officers, inspectors, and other employees as shall be authorized from time to time. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to deputize such inspectors or employees as necessary to carry out the functions of the code enforcement agency.
The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to request the assistance and cooperation of other officials of this jurisdiction so far as required in the discharge of the duties required by this code or other pertinent law or ordi nance.
103.2 Liability. The Authority Having Jurisdiction charged with the enforcement of this code, acting in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the Authority Having Jurisdiction’s duties, shall not thereby be rendered personally liable for damage that accrues to persons or property as a result of an act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge of such duties. A suit brought against the Authority Having Jurisdiction or employee because of such act or omission performed in the enforcement of provisions of this code shall be defended by legal counsel provided by this jurisdiction until final termination of such proceedings.
103.3 Applications and Permits. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to require the submission of plans, specifications, drawings, and such other information in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction, prior to the commencement of, and at a time during the progress of, work regulated by this code.
The issuance of a permit upon construction documents shall not prevent the Authority Having Jurisdiction from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said construction documents or from preventing construction operations being carried on thereunder where in violation of this code or of other pertinent ordinance or from revoking a certificate of approval where issued in error.
103.3.1 Licensing. Provision for licensing shall be determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. 103.4 Right of Entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the Authority Having Jurisdiction has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a building or upon a premises a condition or violation of this code that makes the building or premises
unsafe, insanitary, dangerous, or hazardous, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to enter the building or premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed upon the Authority Having Jurisdiction by this code, provided that where such building or premises is occupied, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. Where such building or premises is unoccupied, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. Where entry is refused, the Authority Having Jurisdiction has recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have first obtained an inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, no owner, occupant, or person having charge, care or control of a building or premises shall fail or neglect, after a request is made as herein provided, to promptly permit entry herein by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.
104.0 Permits.
CWUIC § 51189 High relevance — show source text
the construction or rebuilding of which requires a building permit, the owner_ shall obtain a certification from the local building official that the dwelling or structure, as proposed to be built, complies with all applicable state and local building standards, including those described in subdivision (b) of Section 51189, and shall provide a copy of the certification, upon request, to the insurer providing course of construction insurance coverage for the building or structure. Upon completion of the construction or rebuilding, the owner shall obtain from the local building official, a copy of the final inspection report that demonstrates that the dwelling or structure was constructed in compliance with all applicable state and local building standards, including those described in subdivision (b) of Section 51189, and shall provide a copy of the report, upon request, to the property insurance carrier that insures the dwelling or structure.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
(b) A person is not required under this section to manage fuels on land if that person does not have the legal right to manage fuels, nor is a person required to enter upon or to alter property that is owned by any other person without the consent of the owner of the property. (c)(1) The State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, in consultation with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, shall develop, periodi- cally update, and post on its internet website a guidance document on fuels management pursuant to this chapter. The guidance document shall include, but not be limited to, regionally appropriate vegetation management suggestions that preserve and restore native species that are fire resistant or drought tolerant, or both, minimize erosion, minimize the spread of flammable nonnative grasses and weeds, minimize water consumption, and permit trees and shrubs near homes for shade, aesthetics, and habitat; and suggestions to minimize or eliminate the risk of flammability of nonvegetative sources of combus- tion such as woodpiles, propane tanks, decks, and outdoor lawn furniture. (2) On or before January 1, 2023, the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, in consultation with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, shall update the guidance document to include suggestions for creating an ember-resistant zone within five feet of a structure based on regulations promulgated by the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection, in consultation with the Office of the State Fire Marshal, to consider the elimination of materials in the ember-resistant zone that would likely be ignited by embers.
(d) For purposes of this section, a structure for the purpose of an ember-resistant zone shall include any attached deck. This section does not limit the authority of the State Board of Forestry and Fire Protection or the Office of the State Fire Marshal to require the removal of fuel or vegetation on top of or underneath a deck pursuant to this section.
SECTION H103—CALIFORNIA PUBLIC RESOURCES CODE
Sections 4201–4204; 4290–4291.
CWUIC § 103.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
The issuance of a permit upon construction documents shall not prevent the Authority Having Jurisdiction from thereafter requiring the correction of errors in said construction documents or from preventing construction operations being carried on thereunder where in violation of this code or of other pertinent ordinance or from revoking a certificate of approval where issued in error.
103.3.1 Licensing. Provision for licensing shall be determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. 103.4 Right of Entry. Where it is necessary to make an inspection to enforce the provisions of this code, or where the Authority Having Jurisdiction has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in a building or upon a premises a condition or violation of this code that makes the building or premises
unsafe, insanitary, dangerous, or hazardous, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be permitted to enter the building or premises at reasonable times to inspect or to perform the duties imposed upon the Authority Having Jurisdiction by this code, provided that where such building or premises is occupied, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall present credentials to the occupant and request entry. Where such building or premises is unoccupied, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other person having charge or control of the building or premises and request entry. Where entry is refused, the Authority Having Jurisdiction has recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
Where the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have first obtained an inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, no owner, occupant, or person having charge, care or control of a building or premises shall fail or neglect, after a request is made as herein provided, to promptly permit entry herein by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this code.
104.0 Permits.
104.1 Permits Required. It shall be unlawful for a person, firm, or corporation to make an installation, alteration, repair, replacement, or remodel a mechanical system regulated by this code except as permitted in Section 104.2, or to cause the same to be done without first obtaining a separate mechanical permit for each separate building or structure.
104.2 Exempt Work. A permit shall not be required for the following:
(1) A portable heating appliance, portable ventilating equipment, a portable cooling unit, or a portable evaporative cooler.
(2) A closed system of steam, hot, or chilled water piping within heating or cooling equipment regulated by this code.
(3) Replacement of a component part that does not alter its original approval and is in accordance with other applicable requirements of this code.
(4) Refrigerating equipment that is part of the equipment for which a permit has been issued pursuant to the requirements of this code.
(5) A unit refrigerating system.
Exemption from the permit requirements of this code shall not be deemed to grant authorization for work to be done in violation of the provisions of the code or other laws or ordinances of this jurisdiction.
104.3 Application for Permit. To obtain a permit, the applicant shall first file an application therefore in writing on a form furnished by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for that purpose. Such application shall:
(1) Identify and describe the work to be covered by the permit for which application is made.
22 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION
California Wildland-Urban Interface Code Medium relevance — show source text
PG&E’s preferred PS arrangements are either: a) when the PS customer’s primary distribution line is underground (UG) and the POS is less than 500 feet from the property line, or b) when the PS customer’s primary distribution line is overhead (OH) and the protective device pole (if separate from the POS pole) is less than 50 feet from the property line.
- UG Conductor and POS < 500 Feet
If the PS customer’s primary line is underground and the POS is 500 feet or less from the property line, refer to Figure 1 on Page 12 and Figure 2 on Page 13. The following requirements apply:
A. The PS customer must provide a PG&E approved pad−mounted switchgear enclosure for PG&E’s revenue−metering equipment. See Section 12 on Page 13 for detailed revenue− metering requirements.
B. The PS customer must install primary protection at the POS. This protection may consist of a circuit breaker with phase and ground relays or, depending on the customer’s load, fuses may suffice. If PG&E determines that fuses will not coordinate with PG&E’s source−side protection, then the customer must use a circuit breaker. See Section 8A on Page 6 and Section 8C on Page 7 for circuit breaker and fuse requirements.
C. The PS customer must install conduit from the POS to PG&E’s primary distribution equipment location.
D. PG&E will pull one continuous run of cable and connect to the customer’s POS termination facility, not to exceed 500 feet (subject to an acceptable number of bends in the conduit).
- OH Conductor
If the PS customer’s primary line is overhead, then the first pole at the customer’s property line is the POS. Refer to Figure 3. The following requirements apply:
A. PG&E will install pole−top revenue−metering on the first pole on the PS customer’s property. See Engineering Standard 058779 Pole−Top Primary Metering Installation, (12 or 21 kV Line) for pole−top revenue− metering requirements.
B. The PS customer must install primary protection on the second pole on their property, not to exceed 50 feet from the revenue metering pole. This protection may consist of a recloser or, depending on the customer’s load, fuses may suffice. If PG&E determines that fuses will not coordinate with PG&E’s source−side protection, then the customer must use a recloser. See Section 8C on Page 7 for recloser requirements.
C. The PS customer second pole and the equipment installed on it, must maintain a minimum clearance of 10 feet from the PG&E revenue metering pole and any equipment, crossarms, and wires installed on it.
D. PG&E will interconnect its system with the customer’s system at the revenue−metering pole.
Section 4 Non−Preferred PS Arrangement Proposals
PS customers may propose a non−preferred PS arrangement. This typically occurs when the PS customer’s primary distribution line is UG and the proposed location for the primary switchgear is greater than 500 feet from the property line. PG&E will consider such proposals; however, non−preferred service arrangement proposals may take longer to
094676 Page 2 of 16 Rev. #00: 3/25/2022
Frequently asked questions
When may a code official enter without a warrant?
A code official may enter after presenting credentials and requesting entry if the building is occupied, or after making a reasonable effort to locate the owner/agent if unoccupied. If entry is refused, the official must use legal remedies (including seeking a warrant) to secure entry per § 104.4.
If I refuse entry, what happens next?
If you refuse entry after the required request, the code official may pursue “every remedy provided by law” to secure entry (typically seeking an inspection warrant). Once a proper inspection warrant or other legal remedy is obtained and a proper request is made, you must permit entry under § 104.4.1.
Does CWUIC describe how to get an inspection warrant?
No. The CWUIC authorizes the use of legal remedies, including inspection warrants, but the CWUIC text does not lay out procedural steps for obtaining warrants. Those procedures come from court rules and statutory law outside the CWUIC.
Must a code official always show ID?
Yes — the code official is required to carry proper identification when inspecting structures or premises; when the place is occupied they must present credentials and request entry (see § 104.5 and § 104.4).
What does “reasonable effort” to find the owner mean?
The CWUIC requires a reasonable effort but does not define a fixed checklist or time frame. It’s fact‑specific; the official should document the attempts (phone, mail, notice, contacting agent) and proceed to legal remedies if reasonable attempts and requests are refused. See § 104.4.
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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