CWUIC · California Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Where are inspection, enforcement and appeals procedures for vegetation rules?
The CWUIC gives the code official the authority to inspect vegetation and enforce defensible‑space rules (see § 109) and the right to enter premises with credentials or, if refused, after obtaining a warrant (§ 104.4). Notices, enforcement tools (citations, abatement, placarding, prosecution) and appeals are handled under the code’s enforcement and appeals sections; consult those sections and local implementing rules for timing and procedural details.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The California Wildland‑Urban Interface Code gives the code official authority to inspect properties and enforce vegetation/defensible‑space requirements and establishes a right of entry when inspection is necessary. See § 109 (Inspection and Enforcement) for the inspection and enforcement framework and § 104.4 (Right of Entry) for entry, warrants and recordkeeping requirements.
The code official may enter premises at reasonable times to inspect for vegetation or other hazardous conditions, and if entry is refused must obtain a warrant or other legal remedy before forcing entry.
Key defined terms (first use bolded)
- code official — the official charged with administration/enforcement of the CWUIC. § 109.
- right of entry / warrant — authority to enter occupied or unoccupied premises for inspection and the requirement to seek a warrant when entry is refused. § 104.4, § 104.4.1.
Requirements in detail
What the code official may do
- Inspect structures and premises to determine compliance with vegetation and other CWUIC requirements (§ 109.1.2).
- Reinspect after violations or corrections as provided in the inspection rules (§ 109.1.3).
- Use the enforcement tools listed in Chapter 1 enforcement provisions (enforcement, citations, placarding, abatement, prosecution) under § 109 and its enforcement subsections.
Right of entry, identification and records
- The code official is authorized to enter structures/premises at reasonable times to inspect; if occupied, present credentials and request entry; if unoccupied, make reasonable effort to locate the owner/agent and request entry (§ 104.4).
- If entry is refused, the code official must seek a proper inspection warrant or other legal remedy to secure entry (§ 104.4.1).
- The code official must carry proper identification and must keep official inspection records (inspections, notices/orders, dispositions) for the retention period required by the code (§ 104.5, § 104.7, § 104.7.2).
Notices, orders and appeals
- Notices and orders for violations are to be issued by the code official; the code directs that notices of violations be handled in accordance with § 110.2 (see cross‑reference in § 104.6).
- Appeals from code official decisions are handled under § 112, Means of Appeals (and jurisdictions may adopt more detailed Board of Appeals procedures in Appendix I).
Decision table — quick reference
| Decision / action | Typical value / trigger | What it means for a property owner | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Authority to inspect | When necessary to enforce code | Code official may inspect at reasonable times | § 109.1.2 |
| Right to enter | Occupied: present credentials; Unoccupied: attempt to locate owner; Refusal: obtain warrant | Owner should permit entry or expect a warrant to be sought | § 104.4, § 104.4.1 |
| Reinspection | After violations / correction attempts | May be charged or scheduled by code official | § 109.1.3 |
| Notices & orders | Issued to secure compliance; follows notice rules | Formal notice precedes many enforcement actions | § 104.6 (notes § 110.2) |
| Enforcement tools | Citations, placarding, abatement, prosecution (subsections) | Tools used if owner fails to comply | § 109.2; see enforcement subsections (109.3.*) |
| Records retention | Official records of inspections and orders | Public inspection of approvals; records retained as required | § 104.7 & § 104.7.2 |
| Appeals | Filing an appeal stays enforcement (per appeals rules where adopted) | Owner may appeal code official decisions under § 112 | § 112; Appendix I for board procedures (optional) |
Exceptions & special cases
- If the owner refuses entry, the code official cannot forcibly enter without first obtaining a warrant or another legal remedy — § 104.4.1. Do not assume a code official may break in without legal process.
- Appendix sections (for example, Appendix I Board of Appeals) are optional and only apply where adopted by the local jurisdiction; the State Fire Marshal’s adoption choices are shown in the code matrix and may differ. Check whether Appendix I has been locally adopted before relying on its procedural details.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the CWUIC sets a single statewide compliance period or single fine schedule for vegetation violations — the CWUIC establishes inspection/enforcement authority but specific timelines, fines or local procedures are often set by implementing jurisdiction or cross‑referenced sections (e.g., § 110.2, local ordinances). Check the notice/order text and local rules rather than assuming fixed timeframes.
- Letting an inspector onto property without asking for credentials — the code official must present identification during inspection (§ 104.5).
- Assuming Appendix appeal procedures automatically apply — Appendix I is optional; appeals are governed centrally by § 112 unless a jurisdiction adopts Appendix I.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: An inspector observes dense ladder fuels within 30 feet of a dwelling during a drive‑by in a designated wildland‑urban interface area.
- The inspector (code official) presents credentials and requests entry to inspect closer and document the condition. This authority and credential requirement arises under § 104.4 and § 104.5.
- If the occupant refuses entry, the code official documents the refusal and then pursues a legal inspection warrant before re‑entering (§ 104.4.1).
- If entry is allowed and the inspector finds a violation, the code official issues a notice/order following the code’s notice procedures (see § 104.6 referencing § 110.2 for notices). The owner will receive a formal notice describing the violation and required corrective action.
- If the owner does not correct the hazardous vegetation, the code official may proceed with enforcement actions identified in § 109 (reinspection, citations, placarding, abatement or prosecution where authorized). The owner may have the right to appeal under § 112; the appeal process may stay enforcement as described in appeals rules where adopted.
Note: The CWUIC text indexes the enforcement subsections (e.g., § 109.3 placarding, § 109.3.6 prosecution, § 109.3.8 abatement) — consult those subsections and local implementing ordinances for details on timing, fines and abatement procedures.
Related provisions
- § 104.4 Right of entry (identification, warrant, records).
- § 109 Inspection and Enforcement (inspection authority, reinspections, testing, enforcement tools).
- § 110.2 Notices of violations (procedures referenced from § 104.6).
- § 112 Means of Appeals (appeal rights and process).
- Appendix I — Board of Appeals (optional detailed appeals procedures; not automatically adopted statewide).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Wildland-Urban Interface Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CWUIC § 1-21 Medium relevance — show source text
107 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems . . . . . . 1-21
108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
109 Inspection and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
110 Certificate of Completion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
112 Means of Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
113 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
CHAPTER 3 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREAS . . . . 3-3
301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3
302 Wildland-Urban Interface Area Designations . . . . . .3-3
CHAPTER 4 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREA
REQUIREMENTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
401 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3
402 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3
403 Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3
404 Water Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7
CHAPTER 5 SPECIAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTION
REGULATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-3
501 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3
CWUIC § 1-4 Medium relevance — show source text
1.11 Office of the State Fire Marshal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-4
1.12 Board of Forestry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
DIVISION II SCOPE AND ADMINISTRATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
PART 1—GENERAL PROVISIONS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
101 Scope and General Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-15
102 Applicability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-16
PART 2—ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
103 Code Compliance Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-17
104 Duties and Powers of the Code Official . . . . . . . . . 1-17
105 Permits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-19
106 Construction Documents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-20
107 Temporary Uses, Equipment and Systems . . . . . . 1-21
108 Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-21
109 Inspection and Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-22
110 Certificate of Completion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
111 Service Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
112 Means of Appeals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-24
113 Stop Work Order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-25
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
202 Definitions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
CHAPTER 3 WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE AREAS . . . . 3-3
CWUIC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
- 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.
The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX A-1
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APPENDIX A-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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A GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance.
User notes:
About this appendix: Appendix A, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide fire protection measures supplemental to those found in Chapter 6 to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability for controlling such fires. This appendix includes detailed requirements for vegetation control; the code official’s authority to close wildland-interface areas in times of high fire danger; control of fires, fireworks usage and other sources of ignition; storage of hazardous materials and combustibles; bans on the dumping of waste materials and ashes and coals in wildland-urban interface areas; protection of pumps and water supplies; and limits on temporary uses within the wildland-urban interface area.
SECTION A101—GENERAL
A101.1 Scope. The provisions of this appendix establish general requirements applicable to new and existing properties located within wildland-urban interface areas .
A101.2 Objective. The objective of this appendix is to provide necessary fire protection measures to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability of controlling such fires.
SECTION A102—VEGETATION CONTROL
A102.1 General. Vegetation control shall comply with Sections A102.2 through A102.4.
A102.2 Clearance of brush or vegetative growth from roadways. The code official is authorized to require areas within 10 feet (3048 mm) on each side of portions of fire apparatus access roads and driveways to be cleared of nonfire-smart vegetation growth.
Exception: Single specimens of trees, ornamental vegetative fuels or cultivated ground cover, such as green grass, ivy, succulents or similar plants used as ground cover, provided they do not form a means of readily transmitting fire.
CWUIC § 105.10 Medium relevance — show source text
Division 1
Section|Gov Code
Section|PRC
Section|HSC
Section| |---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---| |Section|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
documents|Y||||||||| |106.1|General|Y||107.1||||||| |106.2|Information on plans
and specifications|Y||||||||| |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
substantiation|N||||||||| |106.7|Vicinity plan|Y||||||||| |106.8|Retention of plans|Y||1.11.3.5||||||| |106.9|Examination of
documents|N||||||||| |106.10|Amended construc-
tion documents|Y||||||||| |106.11|Previous approvals|N||||||||| |106.12|Phased approval|N||||||||| |107|Temporary structures
and uses|Y||||||||| |107.1|General|Y||||||||| |107.2|Conformance|Y||||||||| |107.3|Temporary service
utilities|Y||||||||| |107.4|Termination of
approval|Y||||||||| |108|Fees|N||||||||| |108.1|Payment of fees|N||||||||| |108.2|Schedule of permit
fees|N||||||||| |108.3|Permit valuations|N||||||||| |108.4|Work commencing
before permit
issuance|N||||||||| |108.5|Related fees|N||||||||| |108.6|Refunds|N||||||||| |109|Inspection and
enforcement|N||||||||| |109.1|Inspection|Y||||||||| |109.1.1|General|Y||||||||| |109.1.2|Authority to inspect|Y||||||||| |109.1.2.1|Approved inspection
agencies|Y||||||||| |109.1.2.2|Inspection requests|Y||||||||| |109.1.2.3|Approval required|Y||||||||| |109.1.3|Reinspections|N||||||||| |109.1.4|Testing|N||||||||| |109.1.4.1|New, altered,
extended or repaired
installations|N||||||||| |109.1.4.2|Apparatus, instru-
ments,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 § 106.11 Medium relevance — show source text
10|Amended construc-
tion documents|Y||||||||| |106.11|Previous approvals|N||||||||| |106.12|Phased approval|N||||||||| |107|Temporary structures
and uses|Y||||||||| |107.1|General|Y||||||||| |107.2|Conformance|Y||||||||| |107.3|Temporary service
utilities|Y||||||||| |107.4|Termination of
approval|Y||||||||| |108|Fees|N||||||||| |108.1|Payment of fees|N||||||||| |108.2|Schedule of permit
fees|N||||||||| |108.3|Permit valuations|N||||||||| |108.4|Work commencing
before permit
issuance|N||||||||| |108.5|Related fees|N||||||||| |108.6|Refunds|N||||||||| |109|Inspection and
enforcement|N||||||||| |109.1|Inspection|Y||||||||| |109.1.1|General|Y||||||||| |109.1.2|Authority to inspect|Y||||||||| |109.1.2.1|Approved inspection
agencies|Y||||||||| |109.1.2.2|Inspection requests|Y||||||||| |109.1.2.3|Approval required|Y||||||||| |109.1.3|Reinspections|N||||||||| |109.1.4|Testing|N||||||||| |109.1.4.1|New, altered,
extended or repaired
installations|N||||||||| |109.1.4.2|Apparatus, instru-
ments, material and
labor for tests|N||||||||| |109.1.4.3|Reinspection and
testing|N|||||||||2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-23
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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 109.2 Enforcement N 109.2. CWUIC § 51186 Medium relevance — show source text
or if there is_ not an occupant, the owner of the structure, files with the State Fire Marshal, in a form as the State Fire Marshal shall prescribe, a written consent to the inspection of the interior and contents of the structure to ascertain whether this section and the regulations adopted under this section are complied with at all times. (d) The State Fire Marshal may authorize the removal of vegetation that is not consistent with the standards of this section. The State Fire Marshal may prescribe a procedure for the removal of that vegetation and make the expense a lien upon the build- ing, structure, or grounds, in the same manner that is applicable to a legislative body under Section 51186 of the Government Code.
(e) (1) The board, in consultation with the State Fire Marshal, shall develop, periodically 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 water consumption, and permit trees near homes for shade, aesthetics, and habitat; and suggestions to minimize or eliminate the risk of flammability of nonvege- tative sources of combustion, such as woodpiles, propane tanks, decks, outdoor furniture, barbecue equipment, and outdoor fire pits. (2) On or before January 1, 2023, the board, in consultation with 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 promul- gated by the board, in consultation with the department, to consider the elimination of materials in the ember-resistant zone that would likely be ignited by embers. (f) The State Fire Marshal shall do both of the following: (1) Recommend to the board the types of vegetation or fuel that are to be excluded from an ember-resistant zone based on the probability that vegetation and fuel will lead to ignition by ember of a structure as a part of the update to the guid- ance document pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (e). (2) Make reasonable efforts to provide notice to affected residents describing the requirements added by the amendments to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) made in Assembly Bill 3074 of the 2019–20 Regular Session before the imposition of penalties for violating those requirements. (g) (1) The requirement for an ember-resistant zone pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall not take effect for new structures until the board updates the regulations, pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), and the guidance docu- ment, pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (e). (2) The requirement for an ember-resistant zone pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall take effect for existing structures one year after the effective date for the new structures. (h) The department shall not change defensible space inspection practices and forms or enforcement to implement the require- ment for an ember-resistant zone until the State Fire Marshal makes a written finding, which the State Fire Marshal shall post on the department’s internet website, that the Legislature has appropriated sufficient resources to do so.
APPENDIX H-8 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
CWUIC § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
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 Appendix I Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals Board of Appeals I101.1 Scope N I101.2 Application for appeal N I101.2.1 Limitation of
authorityN I101.2.2 Stays of enforcement N I101.3 Membership of board N I101.3.1 Qualifications N I101.3.2 Alternate members N I101.3.3 Vacancies N I101.3.4 Chairperson N I101.3.5 Secretary N I101.3.6 Conflict of interest N I101.3.7 Compensation of
membersN I101.3.8 Removal from the
boardN I101.4 Rules and procedures N I101.5 Notice of meeting N I101.5.1 Open hearing N I101.5.2 Quorum N I101.5.3 Postponed hearing N I101.6 Legal counsel N I101.7 Board decision N I101.7.1 Resolution N I101.8.2 Administration N I101.8 Court review N APPENDIX H-36 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX I – BOARD OF APPEALS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
(Not adopted by the State Fire Marshal)
CWUIC § 4291.1. Medium relevance — show source text
_ (f) The State Fire Marshal shall do both of the following: (1) Recommend to the board the types of vegetation or fuel that are to be excluded from an ember-resistant zone based on the probability that vegetation and fuel will lead to ignition by ember of a structure as a part of the update to the guid- ance document pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (e). (2) Make reasonable efforts to provide notice to affected residents describing the requirements added by the amendments to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) made in Assembly Bill 3074 of the 2019–20 Regular Session before the imposition of penalties for violating those requirements. (g) (1) The requirement for an ember-resistant zone pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall not take effect for new structures until the board updates the regulations, pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), and the guidance docu- ment, pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (e). (2) The requirement for an ember-resistant zone pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) shall take effect for existing structures one year after the effective date for the new structures. (h) The department shall not change defensible space inspection practices and forms or enforcement to implement the require- ment for an ember-resistant zone until the State Fire Marshal makes a written finding, which the State Fire Marshal shall post on the department’s internet website, that the Legislature has appropriated sufficient resources to do so.
APPENDIX H-8 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
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APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS
(i) 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 board or the department to require the removal of fuel or vegetation on top of or underneath a deck pursuant to this section. (j) As used in this section, “person” means a private individual, organization, partnership, limited liability company, or corporation.
4291.1.
(a) Notwithstanding Section 4021, a violation of Section 4291 is an infraction punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100), nor more than five hundred dollars ($500). If a person is convicted of a second violation of Section 4291 within five years, that person shall be punished by a fine of not less than two hundred fifty dollars ($250), nor more than five hundred dollars ($500). If a person is convicted of a third violation of Section 4291 within five years, that person is guilty of a misde- meanor and shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500). If a person is convicted of a third violation of Section 4291 within five years, the department may perform or contract for the performance of work necessary to comply with Section 4291 and may bill the person convicted for the costs incurred, in which case the person convicted, upon payment of _those costs, shall not be required to pay the fine.
CWUIC § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
APPENDIX F – CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRE-SMART VEGETATION
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
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 F101.1 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.
The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX F-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX F-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
F CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRE-SMART VEGETATION
This appendix is for informational purposes and is not intended for adoption.
User notes:
CWUIC § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.
2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX I-1
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX I-2 2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
I BOARD OF APPEALS
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically referenced in the adopting ordinance or legislation of the jurisdiction.
User notes:
About this appendix: Appendix I contains optional criteria that, where adopted, provide jurisdictions with detailed appeals board member qualifications and administrative procedures to supplement the basic requirements found in Section 112.
SECTION I101—GENERAL
[A] I101.1 Scope. A board of appeals shall be established within the jurisdiction for the purpose of hearing applications for modification of the requirements of this code pursuant to the provisions of Section 112, Means of Appeals. The board shall be established and operated in accordance with this section, and shall be authorized to hear evidence from appellants and the building official pertaining to the application and intent of this code for the purpose of issuing orders pursuant to these provisions.
[A] I101.2 Application for appeal. Any person shall have the right to appeal a decision of the code official to the board. An application for appeal shall be based on a claim that the intent of this code or the rules legally adopted hereunder have been incorrectly interpreted, the provisions of this code do not fully apply or an equally good or better form of construction is proposed. The application shall be filed on a form obtained from the code official within 20 days after the notice was served.
[A] I101.2.1 Limitation of authority. The board shall not have authority to waive requirements of this code or interpret the administration of this code.
[A] I101.2.2 Stays of enforcement. Appeals of notice and orders, other than Imminent Danger notices, shall stay the enforcement of the notice and order until the appeal is heard by the board.
[A] I101.3 Membership of board. The board shall consist of five voting members appointed by the chief appointing authority of the jurisdiction. Each member shall serve for [ NUMBER OF YEARS ] years or until a successor has been appointed. The board members’ terms shall be staggered at intervals, so as to provide continuity. The code official shall be an ex officio member of said board but shall not vote on any matter before the board.
[A] I101.3.1 Qualifications. The board shall consist of five individuals, who are qualified by experience and training to pass on matters pertaining to building construction and are not employees of the jurisdiction.
Frequently asked questions
Who can inspect my property for vegetation compliance?
A code official may inspect where necessary to enforce the CWUIC; they must present identification when inspecting occupied premises. See § 109.1.2 and § 104.5.
What happens if I refuse entry to an inspector?
If entry is refused, the code official must obtain a lawful inspection warrant or another legal remedy before entering; they cannot force entry without that process. § 104.4.1.
Can I appeal a notice or order about vegetation?
Yes — appeals are provided under § 112, Means of Appeals; some jurisdictions adopt a local Board of Appeals with additional procedures (Appendix I) — check local adoption.
Will an appeal stop enforcement automatically?
Appeals may stay enforcement depending on the appeals procedure applied; the CWUIC provides means of appeals under § 112 and Appendix I explains stays where adopted. Check the local implementing rules.
Where are inspection and enforcement actions recorded?
The code official must keep official records of inspections, notices and dispositions in accordance with § 104.7 and related subsections.
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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