When a builder, inspector or plan checker questions what a code section means, the building official must make an interpretation. Here you will find an alphabetically arranged list of the interpretations we have made over the past several years.
A
Standards for . Found in 22.05.104. Approval of alternates only by fire agency. More restrictive standards may be in Area Standards.
Surface, Required. Less than 12% slope, all-weather; 12% & greater, paved & non-skid finish. See "Slope" for method of measurement.
Width, Required . Driveway : 10 ft (may be more in high hazard zone). Road (residential): 10 ft for one-way, 18 feet for two-way.
Complaint that a building did not comply when built, or has not maintained all required accessibility features, shall be obtained in writing. A Supervising Building Inspector shall investigate and take action if necessary ensure that the building in question is brought into compliance. Copies of all complaints and records of actions taken shall be given to the Assistant Building Officials and the Chief Building Official.
Site check for tenant improvement: Inspector shall fill out accessibility site check form for all proposed tenant improvement projects. Plans examiner shall require deficiencies to be corrected subject to the hardship exception.
ADA Hotline : 1-800-USA-ABLE. Note: ADA is a federal law, NOT administered by County Government.
Address
Incorrect (on permit). Give sketch showing addresses of adjacent properties and properties across street to addressing staff person (Leonard Mansell, 781-5199).
Ag Exempt Building : See Title 19 for detailed requirements.
Loft is considered to be the usable attic area above the first floor. Walls shall not extend above the first floor, no partition walls or plumbing fixtures are allowed, and only minimal electrical outlets are allowed.
Ag Well . See "Well, Water."
Air Conditioner
Inspection of . Open unit and check for grounding; check fuse (or breaker) and conductor size versus nameplate rating. NEC 440-6(a)
Anchor Bolts . See "Bolts, Foundation."
Area-Specific Requirements
Knowledge of . Inspector is responsible for knowing these requirements for any area(s) he or she works in (found under "A" in inspector manual).
Remodels and demolitions on non-residential projects and residential projects with more than four units require completion of an “Asbestos NESHAP Notification of Demolition and Renovation.” A licensed asbestos contractor must be used to perform the work if asbestos is present.
"As-Built" Structure
Inspection of . A thorough inspection will be done. Wall coverings may be removed selectively, plumbing and electrical tests may be performed, etc. Follow our written procedure for as-builts.
Plan Review . Same as for a “regular” project of the same scope.
Record Document . Where appropriate, require owner to record a covenant and agreement (we have form for this).
Standards for . Same as current standards for structure built with permit. Exception: in some cases, we may use Uniform Housing Code standards; this needs approval of Building Official and project description must clarify “meets Housing Code standards only” or equivalent.
Attic
Access, in Closet . O.K. in walk-in closet, questionable in other closets (required to be "readily accessible").
Access, in Garage Ceiling. "Drop-in" piece of " type-X drywall is acceptable.
Inspection of . Always inspect attic at final. Look for insulation coverage, vents not blocked, integrity of gas vents, attic FAU or water heater installation, etc.
Vents . See "Vents."
Available Fault Current
Required from PG & E for all new commercial services, and all residential services rated at 600 amps or greater. Equipment must be rated to operate at this current level.
B
Backwater Valve
Required for drains serving fixtures with flood level below next upstream manhole elevation.
When to Require . At site check. If not certain at site check, place miscellaneous hold to check floor elevation at foundation inspection.
Block, Concrete
Vertical Reinforcement . At footing inspection, notify builder in writing that vertical bars in wall must be tied to vertical bars from footing or secured with "spiders." Bars must also be secured at top of wall.
Bolts, Foundation
Non-Standard (holdowns, etc). Must be secured in place at time of inspection.
Plan Review . Anchor bolts & holdowns must be shown on foundation plan.
Standard . Per 97 UBC 5/8 bolts required w/2x2 washers. May be "stabbed."
Substitutes. Use judgment. Where an occasional bolt is missed at a plate splice, expansion anchors (redheads) or shot pins can be used. Caution: shot pins have required distances from edge of slab (see listing for individual pin).
Box, Electrical
Cable Secured to . Required except for single gang nonmetallic box. A bushing that does not secure cable is not sufficient. NEC 370-6 for metal boxes. Plastic boxes have allowable number of conductors printed inside box.
Conductor Fill . Check at rough inspection. For each device in box, subtract two conductors from the number allowed.
Bracing
Cripple Walls . Bracing is required. Plywood siding provides bracing; horizontal or vertical board siding does not. Let-in braces are not acceptable.
C
Cable, Electrical
Range/Dryer . Must have insulated neutral, which can no longer be used as ground (usually 8/3 w/g or 10/3 w/g is used). Some exceptions allowed.
Secured to Framing . Every 4 ½', including attics and underfloor, and within 12" of box (8" if cable is not secured to single nonmetallic box).
In Wood or Metal Studs . Cable through wood studs must be at least 1 ¼" from face of stud or have protective plate. Cable in holes through metal studs must be protected by grommets or bushings.
Lightweight canvas/cloth covers on tubular frame are portable structures and do not require a building permit. They may be covered by CC&R's (which we don't enforce).
Used for human occupancy, such as wine storage caves, are “structures” that require a building permit.
Ceiling, Suspended
Bracing, Seismic . Required within 6' of every wall, and 12' o.c.
Standards for . Installation standards are in UBC Std 25-2 (in Vol 3 of 97 UBC). Keep a copy with your handouts, etc.
Ceiling Height, Residential . Must be at least 7'6," except that kitchens, baths, and hallways may be 7'0." Check at framing inspection.
Ceiling Joist . See "Joist."
Cell Sites
Permit requirements: a land use permit and a building permit are required, with a Development Review inspection required before final approval.
Chimney
Clearance to Combustible. 1" for exterior masonry chimney, 2" for interior.
Chase/Attic Separation . Fireblock is required between the two unless the chase is fireblocked both at the ceiling and at the roof (making the chase part of the attic).
Repair of Masonry Chimneys . Use Los Angeles Regional Uniform Code Program guide for procedural and technical requirements except that an engineered design is not required.
Shrouds. for factory-built chimney terminations are not allowed unless listed by manufacturer of chimney or designed/certified by a licensed mechanical engineer who addresses both venting performance and heat transfer.
Circuits, Electrical
Required. A dwelling requires the following circuits: two 20-amp small appliance circuits, a 20-amp laundry circuit, an FAU circuit, a 20-amp GFCI bathroom circuit, 15- or 20-amp general lighting circuits for lights and plugs, plus any other circuits required for appliances or special equipment.
Circuit Breaker
Rating, When to Inspect . At E-tag inspection check breaker (or fuse) size versus wire size. Note that motors have different rules for sizing breakers.
Cleanouts
Time of Installation . Should be installed or provided for at slab or subfloor inspection.
Where Required . For all horizontal runs of drain piping longer than 5', and all kitchen sink horizontal lines. Exception: not required above first floor.
Codes
Unclear/Unfamiliar Section . When you think there is a code violation but are unsure of code section, check with supervisor first. You can write correction "Inspector needs to check on ______," so that builder knows there is a potential violation.
Effective Dates : For permits applied for on or after the date given. (Additional effective dates are given in the entries for specific topics.)
97UBC, 2000 UPC & UMC, 99 NEC : 11/1/2002
97 UBC, UPC, UMC, 96 NEC : 7/1/99
94 UBC, UPC, 93 NEC : 12/28/95 . 94 UMC : 2/19/96 .
91 UBC, UMC, UPC : 8/14/92 .
(Swimming pool barrier effective date: 11/12/92 .)
90 NEC : 12/6/90 . 87 NEC : 4/19/88 .
88 UBC, UMC, UPC : 1/4/90 .
Clean-burning Fireplaces : 2/1/94
Public Facilities Fee : 12/13/91 (based on date of issuance).
Underground Utilities : 6/26/92 - Title 22; 10/13/92 - Title 23.
Combustion Air
Closet . Top opening required within 12" of ceiling . Since this is to help dissipate excess heat, some leeway if compartment is large.
Commercial Projects
Pre-construction meeting , if warranted by the size or complexity of the project, should be scheduled before issuance and held in our offices.
Compaction Test
Immediately Behind Retaining Wall is not usually required.
Report : Ask for tests "to verify compaction to full depth of fill." Where supporting a structure, require statement that "fill is suitable to support proposed structure," with report provided before foundation approval. See “Fill, Certified.”
Slab Fill requires compaction test when deeper than 2'. Use probe to test compaction of all underslab fill. Notify builder at footing inspection.
Concrete
"Stacking" of : Interior forms or other means required to prevent "stacking" of more than 2 or 3 inches of concrete. Consolidation is required by UBC.
Conditions of Approval of land use permit must be shown on first or second sheet of plans.
Conduit
Non-Metallic . Must be at least schedule 40 pvc. DB and P & C designations are not acceptable (thinner walls, not listed by national testing agency).
Correction Notice
Standard for . Specific, specific, specific: What and where. And legible!
Cripple Walls
Blocking or Sheathing is required for studs 14" or shorter.
Bracing . See "Bracing."
Size . Same as required for the story above, except that when cripples are longer than 4' they must be sized for an extra story.
D
Disposal & Dishwasher
On Small Appliance Circuit. NOT acceptable.
Driveway . See "Access."
Drainage
Inspection . Check first at foundation, again at final. Gutters, french drains, retention basins that are part of approved drainage plan must be installed. Specify in writing drainage facilities you need to inspect (e.g., french drain).
Requirement . Water must be able to drain around and away from building. Construction must not cause concentrated flow of water onto neighbor's property.
Drain Plumbing
Buried (includes under-slab) . Should be continuously supported to prevent sagging. All pipe and fittings must be exposed for inspection.
Common Problems . Incorrect or uphill slope of horizontal drains, fittings installed backwards or upside down, vents used incorrectly as drains, san-tees used horizontally.
Listing/Labeling . The state of Calif recognizes only DWV pipe labeled by IAPMO or by NSF (National Sanitary Foundation). This applies only to pipe in a building.
Testing of, in Remodels . Water or air test is required; running water test is possible alternate.
Drop Ceiling . See "Ceiling, Suspended."
Dryer . See "Cable, Electrical."
Drywall
Nailing Inspection
Multiple Layers : Each layer needs nailing inspection.
Shear & Fire Walls : Screws may replace nails on a one-for-one basis unless test results allow fewer screws. Builder must substantiate with assembly listing.
Ducts . Also see "Plenums and Ducts."
Underslab . Inspection is required. Ducts must have 2" concrete cover or approved coating.
Connections . Spot check for three sheet metal screws and listed (UL 181) duct tape at joints. Factory-made ducts must be joined per manufacturer's installation requirements.
Duct/Plenum Construction. Ducts & plenums can no longer consist of concealed spaces of building framing. Actual ducts and sheet metal plenums are required.
E
Earth, Clearance from . 6" minimum for wood, 4" for stucco. This should be checked at foundation inspection, at framing/lath, and at final. If problem at lath inspection, leave correction notice to be enforced at final.
Eaves
Fire Resistance of . Eaves may project one foot into a three-foot setback. This projection must be fire rated. We accept 2 x fascia and framing members, plywood sheathing with Class C roofing, type x sheetrock or stucco on under side (with no vents).
Electrical . See individual topics such as “Circuits,” “Multi-wire branch circuits” and “Receptacles.”
Elevator
Listing required . Proof of listing must be provided before issuance.
How to qualify : Single family dwellings that demonstrate at least 15% lower total energy use than is allowed by Title 24, as demonstrated by computer analysis, get a 25% reduction in their building permit fees up to a maximum of $250.
Equipment
Electrical . Must be "approved." We normally do this by checking listing. If you see unlisted equipment installed, notify builder/owner immediately. NEC 110-2
Inspectors' . Each inspector is responsible for small tools and inspection equipment assigned to him/her.
Mechanical Barrier . In residential garage, elevation is considered protection. Alternate: use County Public Works standard for bollards.
Erosion/Sedimentation . See "Grading."
Expansive Index
When to Identify: At site check! It can be costly if this is missed at site check and identified later. By mutual agreement between inspector and builder, may also be checked after footings excavated, but before forms and rebar installed. OK to design for high index without testing for additions, garages, workshops, etc.
F
Fees, Permit and Application
Refunds can be obtained on 80% of application fees if plans were not checked or on 80% permit fees when permit expires if work was not started. Send written requests to appropriate Assistant Building Official.
Fiber Mesh may be used to replace wire mesh except on expansive soil. If plans have been
drawn by licensed professional, plan change needs approval of that professional.
Fill, Certified
Prerequisite: A soils investigation must be required by inspector at time of site check in order that recommendations can be made by soils engineer and fill can later be certified that it is suitable for its intended purpose (usually for supporting a structure).
Fireplace
APCD Approval is required for all fireplaces/woodstoves authorized by a permit applied for on or after February 1, 1994 . All EPA-approved devices comply. See current APCD list for non-EPA approved appliances that are approved. Standard masonry fireplaces do not comply.
Gas Pipe . See "Gas Pipe."
Masonry: Clearance to Combustible. 2" clearance required.
Fireblock
Furred Spaces, Chases . Required every 10' horizontally and vertically and at each floor and ceiling vertically in combustible construction.
Insulation used as . Glass fiber, mineral wool securely held in place is O.K.
Where required : County-wide, whenever floor area is 5,000 sq ft or more. Some fire agencies may have more restrictive requirements.
Who administers : We do in CDF areas. South Bay Fire, Cambria and Templeton issue permits and inspect 13D systems in their areas.
Who administers : In CDF areas, we issue permits and share inspections with CDF. In Templeton, Cambria and South Bay , they issue permits and do inspections.
What we inspect in CDF areas : We do material inspection before installation, rough-in for head location, seismic bracing, pipe support, fire-wall penetrations, backflow prevention devices, final for head type. CDF does flow tests and other functional inspections.
Flashing
Inspection of. Since there is no formal flashing inspection, we should look at window, door, and roof flashing at framing inspection, and at least identify potential problems or ask for details on difficult-to-flash areas at that time.
Flex Time must be taken off during same week it was accrued.
Flood Elevation Certification
When Required . Letter stating that floor will be 1 foot above 100-year flood elevation must be provided after forms are in place but prior to foundation signoff (by licensed surveyor or engineer). FEMA elevation certificate must be completed and submitted before final approval.
Fluorescent Light Fixtures . See "Light Fixtures."
Footings . Also see checklist in appendix.
Water & Debris in . Must be removed before concrete is poured ("correct and proceed").
Inspection . Point loads : make sure that all point loads from floors, roof (including girder trusses), etc. have footings (recheck at framing).
Forced Air Heating Unit (FAU) . Also see "Liquefied Petroleum Gas."
Barrier for, in Garage . See "Equipment."
Inspection o f . Remove filter and shine flashlight in return air compartment to check for cracks, gaps, missing or overcut plywood base around FAU. Any of these would allow intermixing of combustion air with supply air.
Light Required for. A light with a switch accessible from access opening is required for attic and underfloor installations.
Garage/House Separation . See "Occupancy Separation."
Gas Pipe
In Fireplace . Requires damper permanently blocked open (even if only roughed in). Some manufacturers require damper completely open or removed. Fire caulk penetrations.
Fittings . Must have tapered thread (thread protectors unacceptable).
Pool/Spa Heaters . When these are added to existing structure, check to see if existing pipe size is adequate.
Pressure Test, Interior: When Required . After wall coverings are installed.
Pressure Test, Exterior . Requires 10 psi for low pressure system, 60 psi for medium pressure (e.g., when regulator is installed on LP line at house).
Valves, Connectors . Spot check for "AGA" stamp on these items.
Size . Check at framing inspection.
Unions are prohibited in concealed locations, including attics and crawl spaces (right and left nipples and couplings must be used instead).
Yard, Plastic (must be polyethylene).
Installation : Requires 18" burial, transition fitting with 30" steel pipe at each end, and #18 copper tracer wire terminating above ground at each end.
Medium Pressure : If there is a regulator at the building, then medium pressure gas is probably being used. This requires a burial depth of 18" for both metal and plastic pipe and pressure test of 60 psi for at least 30 minutes.
Grading
One acre or more of grading, clearing or disturbance requires a permit from the Regional Water Quality Control Board before issuance of our grading permit.
Inspection . Each inspector is responsible for grading in his/her area. Grading without a permit is to be reported to Enforcement Officer for the area.
Violations . Inspector is responsible for identifying and dealing with violations in his/her area. This includes monitoring construction sites for potential erosion and sedimentation problems.
Erosion/Sedimentation Plan is required when grading is done between October 15 and April 15. All preventive measures must be installed and inspected.
Setback . Minimum setback for any grading is two feet from property line. It may be more - see UBC.
Standards : Graywater systems require a permit and must comply with Appendix G of the UPC. The requirements are pretty extensive and most people choose not to implement them.
Plan review : Check for size, location, venting, size and location of flow control, number and size of fixtures connected to trap. Verify capacity of fixtures in gallons shall not exceed 2 ½ times the certified flow rate of trap per Table 10-2 of UPC. Grease interceptors must comply with Appendix H.
Grounding Electrode System
At Second Building. Required in almost all cases. One exception: circuit for lights only.
Guardrail
Glass . Requires support on four edges, including structural top rail at 36" or 42" height capable of supporting code-required horizontal load.
Height . At least 42" except for individual dwelling units, which may be 36," and open side of stairs, which may be handrail height (34 - 38").
Openings In . Spacing of intermediate rails/pickets shall not permit a 4" sphere to pass through.
Where Required . At changes in elevation of more than 30" for floors, roofs, stairways, landings, ramps, decks and porches. Not required for changes in elevation in yards or parking lots at retaining walls, cliffs, or natural "drop-offs."
Guesthouse (NOT a full residence) characteristics (see a planner for interpretation)
Maximum floor area : 600 square feet.
Location : Within 50 feet of primary residence.
No cooking facilities , no 240v electric or gas in kitchen area.
Kitchen “area” must be open to rest of structure; under-counter fridge, single compartment sink, microwave are o.k.
Bedrooms : No more than two bedrooms.
Bathrooms : One bathroom only.
Utilities : No separate gas, electric or water meter.
Laundry : No laundry facility in guesthouse; may be in attached garage.
H
Handrail
Equivalent Gripping Surface . Use article by G. Anchales in Building Standards for shapes that are not round, square, or rectangular. "Plant-on" o.k. only if it meets these criteria.
Extensions are not required for private stairways (serving one tenant only). Otherwise, 12" extensions are required. They do not need to be continuous through landing.
Hearth . See "Woodburning Stove."
I
"Infiltrator" Leach Line . See “Plastic leaching chamber”
Inspection
Added Inspections. Give supervisor list of all extra inspections you add so they can be entered into tracking system (or enter them yourself).
Checklists . See appendices beginning at back of this guide.
Complex. Refer jobs you feel are too complex or time-consuming for you to your supervisor. When possible, inspections on these jobs will be done jointly to provide training.
Roof/ Shear. Includes hardware, roof framing, roof nailing, shear wall nailing.
Final with Items Incomplete . If all code requirements are met, it is O.K. to final with some work incomplete (e.g., unfinished bathroom) if work is safe (e.g., permanent caps on plumbing) and owner acknowledges in writing that permit will be obtained to complete work. This must be recorded on permit inspection record.
Temporary Occupancy at Final . See “Occupancy, Temporary”.
Insulation
Blown-In . At final, check for thickness and distribution, and verify that attic vents are not blocked (crawl into attic to check if necessary).
Certificate is required to be left on job; check for at final.
Inspection . Spot check window type, size, and locations (this already should have been verified at framing inspection); check that eave vents are not blocked; check for sealing of penetrations/holes in plates/walls.
Moved Building . See "Moved Building."
Water Lines , hot and cold, require insulation within 5' of water heater (except the part of lines within 6" of gas vent). In recirculating system, pipes that make up hot water loop (but not fixture drops) must be insulated.
J
Joist
Ceiling - Bearing . Direct bearing or hanger only required where joist size, as determined by Table 25-U-J-6, is 2 x 8 or larger. Pressure blocking, end nailing, toenail (3-8's minimum) are O.K. for lesser spans. UBC does not require bearing.
Ceiling - Notching/Boring . Same as for floor joists.
Floor Joist Inspection . Includes anchor bolts, holdowns/framing hardware and shear panel required under the first floor (in addition to girders, posts, etc).
Tie Required . Where joists meet over wall or beam, they must overlap at least 3" or be tied together with steel strap, 2 x scab, or plywood.
L
Ladder, County , is to be used at roof nail and final inspection when no ladder is on the job, if
ladder is tall enough and inspector is physically capable of using it.
Land Use Permit
Conditions of Approval must be shown on first or second page of plans.
Lath
Staples. Walls require " staples, soffits require 1 ¼" staples. Spot check.
Flashing/ Sealing. Horizontal surfaces require flashing or sealing (see checklist). Holes in paper must also be sealed.
In Covered Porches: O.k. to reduce or eliminate the 2” gap from concrete to weep screed so that interior and exterior floor elevations may be very close if appropriate detailing is used (such as slope away from building, flashing details, etc.).
Laundry Room
Ventilation. Natural or mechanical ventilation required for laundry "rooms." Not required for laundry "closets" installed behind bi-fold doors.
Leach Line
Slope of . Level or have maximum fall of 3" in 100'.
Leach Rock
Requirements : clean (not always easy to determine), sized between ¾ and 2½ inches (unless other size specified by licensed professional).
Legal Lot : Refer questions to planner.
Light Fixtures
Fluorescent, in Bathroom. At least one fluorescent fixture is required in the room with water closet or adjacent room with lavatory sink. Not required if laundry and garage lighting is fluorescent and if exterior lights are on motion sensors.
Fluorescent, in Kitchen . A fluorescent fixture with a switch at main entrance is required to provide general lighting in kitchen. Judgment required to determine if under-cabinet fixtures provides general lighting.
Grounding of . Above sinks, check continuity between fixture and ground at receptacle next to sink (or to faucet) to determine if grounded.
Recessed . Must be IC rated in insulated ceiling as of 1/1/93 (application date). Non-IC-rated fixtures must have 3" clearance to insulation.
Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LP or LPG)
Attic Installations . FAU may be installed without smitty pan. A water heater requires a pan for water drainage (see "Water Heater").
Clearance . Tanks with capacity less than 500 gal must be at least 10' from property line, structure, and electrical equipment.
Fireplace Log Lighter or Log Set . LP is acceptable unless prohibited by manufacturer of fireplace. See also "Gas Pipe."
Underfloor Installation . Provision for gas drainage is required. See "Smitty Pan."
Log Lighter (Gas) . Also see "Gas Pipe."
Acceptable . Both natural gas and LP log lighters are acceptable unless fireplace manufacturer specifies otherwise. These are usually pipes with holes in them. When installed, the flue must be permanently locked open.
Remodels proposed in moratorium area should be referred to Bob Mourenza for approval if there is any question about compliance with moratorium conditions.
M
Mobile Home . See California Title 25, Mobile Home Parks Act
Alteration of . Must be done with a state permit (HCD; Phone 909-782-4420). Decks, awnings, etc. may not be attached to m.h. unless state-approved. (Also see “Conversion to Storage” below.)
Continuity Test . Check for continuity of ground from side to side on multiple width homes. Check for no continuity from ground to neutral and ground to hot conductors at setup inspection.
Conversion to Storage . This may be done without engineer if for owner's use only, storage limited to 40/sq ft, owner removes kitchen, heating and laundry facilities, installs tie-down system and records covenant and agreement.
Drain Test . A running water test should be done at setup inspection.
Ducts . Must be reconnected for double wide and supported 4" above ground.
Electrical Connection . Mobile home is treated as subpanel (requires 4-wire insulated feeder, with neutral isolated from ground).
Expansive Index . Not required unless “conventional” perimeter permanent foundation is installed.
Fill Pad . Requires verification of proper grading per UBC and 90% relative compaction.
Gas test . Required at setup: 10 - 14 inches water on all interior pipes (requires a manometer gauge). Valves, except for oven, to be in "on" position. Exterior gas lines tested per UPC.
Ground Level Installation . Requires proper design for underfloor access, venting, retaining wall, and drainage from underfloor area.
Pier Spacing . Per setup manual; if not available, jacks on 2 x 12 x 30" pressure-treated douglas fir blocks with maximum spacing of 5'.
Skirting . Required for final. Earth-to-wood clearance required for untreated wood.
Stairs, Landings, Guardrails must comply with current UBC prior to final approval or occupancy.
Structural Connections . To be inspected at setup. Includes ridge and floor connections, and connection to permanent foundation when applicable.
Tie-Down System or Approved Foundation System . Required for all m.h.'s when permit was applied for on or after September 19, 1994 .
Underfloor Vents & Access . Required in skirting or foundation wall as for other structures.
Utility Connections . Listed flexible connections are required for water, gas, electrical and sewer (Calder coupling or "no-hub" fitting) hook-ups.
Moved Building
Insulation . Not required per Health and Safety Code for moved dwellings.
Standards for . Same as for Uniform Housing Code on moved dwellings, not as for new building. Same as current codes for moved non-residential buildings.
Windows . In dwellings, existing windows may remain, unless they don't meet emergency egress requirements of Uniform Housing Code.
Multi-Wire Branch Circuit
Ungrounded (hot) Conductors, which share a common neutral, must be on opposite phases; otherwise the neutral gets overloaded.
Handle Ties are required only when both phases supply 240-volt equipment, or when both are on same yoke (e.g., when the two different "hot legs" are both used on the same duplex receptacle).
N
Noise
Construction, Hours of . 7 A.M. to 9 P.M. weekdays, 8 to 5 on weekends. From LUO
Mitigation Measures are sometimes incorporated into building plans. They may include a required solid (noise) site wall, window location, wall covering, etc.
O
Occupancy Separation
House-to-Garage (R3/U) :
Ceiling/walls : ceiling and posts, beams, and walls supporting horizontal separation must be protected with type X sheetrock.
Continuous Separation : may consist of type X sheetrock extending from floor to roof sheathing, or installed on separation wall and ceiling (plus ceiling supports). Joists or trusses may be 24" on center.
Cable Penetration : O.K. to bundle electrical cable together and "mud" around.
Duct Penetration : 26 gauge metal duct must be continuous from metal plenum through garage/house wall for FAU in garage.
Door: Must be self-closing and solid core or 20-minute rated.
ABS Pipe . For cleanouts, ABS flush with wall O.K. if steel cleanout plug is used. For washer standpipe, steel pipe should be used at penetration.
Occupancy, Temporary
Requirements for . Completion of all health & safety-related items for technical codes, fire department approval, and, where applicable, approval by Public Works, Development Review, Health Department, & other agencies.
Written Permission from Building Division is required, even for residences. 19.04.042
Outside Work
Policy . Construction-related work in unincorporated area of county must have prior approval by Director because of potential conflict of interest.
P
Panelboard
Inspection of . Panelboards are to have covers removed and wiring inspected. One- and two-family residential panels and small commercial panels may be opened by inspectors. Larger residential and commercial panels should be opened by electrical contractor.
Percolation Test
Percolation tests shall be performed for all proposed private sewage disposal systems except in areas with sandy soils that are known to have fast percolation rates. Tests shall be taken by an approved soils laboratory or licensed civil engineer in at least three locations where the disposal area is proposed. The locations shall be shown on the site plan.
Permit
Expiration Pending . Action shall be taken on permits within 30 days after they first appear on "Pending Expiration" list (see procedure for "old" permits) or as determined by interim procedure during periods of high workload.
Signoff of Conditions (holds) . Initial each hold separately on face of permit; where applicable, write name of other staff person or agency that provided approval. Enter into tracking system at final, except that critical conditions need to be entered when completed.
Extensions and refunds shall be handled by the appropriate Assistant Building Official (ABO) or by a staff person designated by the ABO.
Plans
Inspector Review . Examine plans, energy calcs, & plot plan carefully at first inspection to identify potential future requirements such as special inspection for welding or high-strength bolting, protected overhangs on 25-ft lots, etc.
Changes . Changes/lost plans requiring plan review: advise people that two sets of revisions/plans are required. They may drop them off or call for an appointment - plans will not usually be checked/stamped while person waits.
Quality Control . Inspectors shall notify plans examiners (with copy to supervising p.e. and principal p.e.) of errors and omissions on approved plans that can lead to costly errors by builders or compromise code requirements.
Reverse . Acceptable if inspector and supervising inspector approve in writing (on plans). Otherwise, corrected set must be submitted.
Plastic Leaching Chambers
Approval of . Now UPC-approved.
Area, Leaching . A standard unit gets credit for 4 sq ft/lin ft (25 sq ft/unit); "high capacity" unit gets credit for 5 sq ft/lin ft (31 sq ft/unit).
Pipe . See "Gas Pipe" or "Water Pipe."
Plot Plan
Site Check . Make sure plot plans are accurate at time of site check (show all buildings, wells, septic system).
Septic System Location . If location of system changes, record change on plot plan attached to permit (or require revised plot plan from owner) and mark “SAVE.”
Plenum & Ducts
Prohibited installation . No gas vents or dryer vents are permitted. Electrical cable other than listed plenum cable is prohibited.
Plywood
Over Spaced Sheathing . May be nailed to existing sheathing (i.e., does not need to be nailed to trusses or rafters under sheathing).
Post
Exterior, Protection of . In areas subject to splash, post must be elevated at least 1" above concrete slab or 6" above bare earth.
Underfloor. Post must be elevated 6" above adjacent soil.
Pre-Construction Meeting . See “Commercial Projects.”
Public Facilities Fees . Became effective for permits issued after 12/13/91 . Required for new residential units (not remodels), new and remodel commercial buildings.
Public Service . An owner pays an average fee of over $1,000 just for inspection of a new residence. Our job is to provide helpful, efficient inspection service for this fee.
R
Rafter
Ridge Beam . If no rafter ties are used, rafters must be strapped or lapped.
Range . See "Cable, Electrical."
Receptacle, Electrical
Testing of . All receptacles shall be tested "live" at final inspection.
Dedicated (in Garage) . Non-GFCI duplex receptacle may only be used for dedicated appliance in garage if not readily accessible for general use. For refrigerator or freezer, dedicated receptacle must be single type, shown on plans and labeled.
Recirculating Hot Water System
Energy Package . Recirculating system has impact on energy requirements and should be identified in energy documentation.
Insulation Required for pipes making up hot water loop; fixture drops do not require insulation.
Reinforcing Bar (Rebar)
Block Wall . See "Block, Concrete."
In Slabs . Requires support blocks (“dobies”).
Slab Ties . Required when a double pour system is used unless design by licensed professional shows otherwise or unless garage slab is shown on plans as “floating.” #3 bars 24" o.c. extending 12" into footing and 18" into slab.
Sloped (as opposed to stepped) O.K. where footing steps are < 1'.
"Stabbing" of . O.K. to stab verticals in footings for short stem walls or block walls (less than 24" above inside or outside finish grade) or for slab ties.
Stem Wall . See "Stem Wall."
Recessed Light . See "Light Fixtures."
Re-roof
Permit Requirement . Permit required only when framing will be altered or replaced, sheathing will be installed or when heavy roof covering will replace light roof covering.
Smoke Detector Retrofit not triggered by re-roof permit.
Retaining Wall
Permit Required . When 4' high measured from bottom of footing. When within 3' of property line, permit required when retaining 2' of soil or more.
Wood . Our handout can be used for maximum height of 3' with level backfill and no surcharge.
Road . See "Access."
Roof Covering
Inspection of . Inspect at final, at least spot-checking for underlayment, flashing, required nailing. Check during installation if you are on job at that time.
Roll Roofing . Must conform to UBC requirements for "Built-Up Roof Covering" and to manufacturers installation instructions.
Truss Design . Total load on truss calcs of about 30 lb/sq ft is for light roof covering (comp), about 40 lb/sq ft is for heavy roof covering (concrete tile).
Type . Must be at least class C material. 19.20.028 May be higher in high fire severity area.
Roof Nailing
Inspection . Includes roof nailing and roof framing - i.e., everything from the top plate to the top of the roof sheathing. Requires truss calcs and approved plans.
Plywood over skip sheathing may be nailed to the skip sheathing, does not have to be nailed to rafters.
Romex . Trade name. See "Cable, Electrical."
S
Safety Glass
Doors, Adjacent to . Glazing within 60" of floor must be safety glazing when within a 24" arc of either edge of door or each side of sliding glass door, unless doors cannot be reversed. This does not apply to garage doors for vehicles.
Satellite Dish
Permit Required . Only if installed on roof or requires electrical power. May require land use permit.
Secondary Dwelling (often called “Granny Unit”, a full dwelling unit)
Processing : Does not require an allocation or allotment.
Allowable size : Depends on size of parcel and zoning, ranges from 640 to 1200 sq ft.
Access : Must be on parcel served by a paved road. Must have walking access from main road to dwelling (not just from alley at back of property).
Occupancy : Owner is required to live on property but can rent second unit. A secondary dwelling unit agreement must be recorded by owner before final.
Utilities/kitchen : Separate utilities, full kitchen are o.k.
Septic Systems : See our current handout for general design and installation requirements.
Alternate/enhanced treatment systems : require periodic monitoring and reporting to the County and this requirement documented by a covenant and agreement (in future a data base of such systems will be established and the c & a may not be required).
Verification of existing system : If this is necessary because of a proposed addition or for some other purpose, it is to be done by a licensed installer, not a building inspector.
Service, Electrical . Also see "Available Fault Current."
Underground, when Required . See "Underground Utilities."
Replacement . O.K. to tag replacement service when not complete if licensed electrical contractor is doing work. Leave correction notice and schedule follow-up final inspection for next day.
Sewage Disposal System, Private (Septic System)
Inspection of . Always use probe to check depth of leach line. Use hand-held level or eye level to check level of tank and spot check level of leach line.
Fittings . From tank to leach field, fittings don't need to comply with UPC Chapter 4 requirements (sweeps not required).
Permit Record . On inspection record, give actual size of tank and field, and name of installer (if known). Also see "Plot Plan."
Sewer
Piping . ABS and PVC approved for DWV are also acceptable for sewer piping.
Inspection of . Sewer pipe must be inspected while filled with water from connection point at public sewer to cleanout outside of building.
Shell Building
Electric Sticker . Issue only for tenant space(s) approved for occupancy (i.e., do not issue stickers for spaces with unknown occupancies at building final).
Shower
Glass Doors , even if shown on plans, may be omitted with written concurrence of owner (this is of concern because doors must be safety glass).
Site Check
Accessibility Form is required for all non-residential remodels, tenant improvements, etc.
As-Builts . Identify potential site problems just as for new projects (e.g., well too close to sewage disposal field, setback problem, etc.).
Form . This is a checklist. Make a separate entry for each category.
Height Benchmark . If proposed height is within 3' of maximum allowable, a surveyor or civil engineer must establish benchmark and then certify actual height (see height policy).
Soil . Check by using shovel. Important for foundation, septic system information.
Slope . Greater than 20% requires a MUP. Greater than 30% requires a development plan.
Survey . Require for lots with buildings located on or near setbacks and where lot lines are in question.
Turnaround Time . Except for remote areas, perform site inspection on day you receive it, except that one-day delay is o.k. when workload is excessive.
Vicinity Map . If inadequate, require an accurate map from owner or correct it yourself at time of site check. Make sure someone else can find the job.
Shear Wall
Changes to . Changes in length, openings, hardware to be approved by engineer.
Nails . Check for size, spacing, and type (common or box; sinkers are box).
Sill Plate . Check to see if “3 x” plate is required.
Skirting . See "Mobile Home."
Slab, Concrete
Fill . See "Compaction Test."
Reinforcement . Reinforcing bar requires support; wire mesh does not.
Slab Ties . See "Reinforcing Bar."
Slope
Definition : Change in elevation (height) divided by change in horizontal distance expressed in %. For example, a change in height of 2 ft in a horizontal distance of 10 feet gives a slope of 2/10 x 100% = 20% . 22.11 & 23.11
"Smitty" Pan (LPG drain, primarily for underfloor area). Also see "Water Heater."
Design . Prescriptive: sheet metal pan extending 6 inches beyond appliance, with 3-inch high lip, 2-inch diameter ABS/PVC/metal drain sloping ¼" per foot to outside of building. Otherwise, design by licensed professional.
Smoke Detectors
Inspection of . Use test button; spot check for battery backup. (Most manufacturers recommend not using canned smoke.)
Remodels . Entire house must be brought up to current standards, except that existing portion may use battery-only models. Does not apply to re-roofs.
Type Required . 120-volt with battery backup required in new installations where permit applied for on or after 8/14/92 .
Wiring of. Multiple detectors must be wired in common unless it is clear that all will be audible in the most remote sleeping room.
Special Inspection .
Bolting, High Strength . Requires special inspection. "A325" or "A490" are examples of callouts on plans or specs for high strength bolts.
Plan Review . Special inspection items must be identified on first page of plans.
Welding, Structural . Requires special inspection or be done in approved fabricator shop (most shops do not qualify). Handrails, guardrails and stairs are minor (require minimal weld strength) and do not require it.
When to Identify . If not identified at plan check, inspector will identify at first inspection and notify owner/builder (see "Inspection").
Sprinkler Systems
Inspection of . Residential systems (13D) inspected by this department only. Commercial/Multi-family systems (13 & 13R) inspected jointly with fire agency.
Required Water Flow . This must be addressed before final approval. May require checking pump specifications for flow rates.
Stacking . See "Concrete."
Stairs
Winders . May be used in residence. Tread must be at least 6" deep at narrowest point & at least 9" deep within 12" of narrow side. Handrail needs to be continuous through winder treads.
Rocks or other decorative landscape stairs, when serving a building, are acceptable only if they meet all the requirements of UBC.
Spiral . May serve floor area not to exceed 400 sq ft in residence.
UBC Standards Apply to stairs "serving a building," not to other stairs. People should be advised that safety and liability concerns make it wise to follow the standards even where not required.
Stem Wall
Rebar, Additional . When wall is 30" or more above grade (inside or out), install #4 vertical bars @ 48" on center, horizontal bars @ 18" on center, or have professional design.
Subfloor
Sheathing may be installed only after joist/plumbing inspection unless adequate access is available, but usually before underfloor insulation installed (insulation cert & spot check at final).
Subpoenas are not to be accepted by individuals. They are to be referred to Diane Tingle (or her designated substitute).
Survey . See "Site Check."
Swimming Pool
Barrier (fence) complying with UBC is required for pools and spas deeper than 24" effective for permits applied for on or after 11/12/92 . A listed safety pool cover complying with ASTM F1346-91 is an acceptable alternate.
T
Temporary Power
Using Permanent Service. This is acceptable. 120-volt receptacles must be GFCI-protected; service installation must be safe and weatherproof.
Toilet . Also see "Water Closet."
Required on Job Site . Posted written permission from adjacent neighbor can be substituted. If missing, do current inspection and leave correction notice requiring toilet before next inspection.
Tree Permit
When Required . When cutting any tree at least 8 inches in diameter at a point 4 feet above ground. Applies only in areas within urban reserve lines. Planners have maps showing the exact areas.
U
Underground Utilities
Requirement . For new structures on sites of less than 5 acres except where a run of 500' or more is required. This is a land use ordinance requirement, so see planner for interpretations.
V
Vent, Gas
Connector . Part of venting system in same space as appliance. May be single wall except in attic or underfloor. May have slope of ¼ in/ft in worst case.
Horizontal Run , including vent connector and vent, may not exceed 75% of vertical run of vent system (also including connector and vent).
Required to be Vertical . All vents (all of venting system beyond appliance room or space) must be within 45 of vertical except for one offset (maximum 60 from vertical).
Common (appliances share vent): O.K. only for appliances on same floor. See UMC for other restrictions and for sizing of multiple vent systems.
Vent, Attic
Round eave vents have small areas: 45 2-inch holes or 30 2½-inch holes are required to give one square foot of venting.
Responsibility . Inspector should correct deficient vicinity maps so other inspector can find job. Include gate combination and owner/rep. phone number if necessary for access.
W
Wall
Non-Bearing . On interior, may be secured to slab with concrete nails (no washers) at max spacing of 16". Shot pins must be installed per manufacturer.
Wall Furnace
Ventilation . The plate(s) immediately above furnace must be cut and correct spacer used. This allows air to circulate to attic or floor space above. A sheet metal sleeve must extend 12" into attic to protect opening.
Water Closet
Type Required . 1.6 gallon/flush or less, required since 12/5/90 .
Water Heater
Attic Installation . Requires a watertight pan with ¾" drain for water.
Barrier for, in Garage. See "Equipment."
Electric . Has major impact on energy and cannot be substituted for gas water heater without revising energy documentation.
Garage Installation. Gas water heaters must be elevated at least 18" above garage floor (ignition of gasoline fumes is the concern).
Seismic Anchor . Must be anchored for lateral support both at top and at bottom per state details or licensed professional's design.
Water Pipe
Size . Check at framing inspection. Houses of 1500 sq ft or more usually require at least a 1" service.
Non-metallic, in Structure . Approved tubing may be used to connect fixtures or appliances, but may not be concealed in walls, underfloor space, or attic.
Welding, Structural . See "Special Inspection."
Well, Water
Pump Electrical . Use well motor horsepower rating and NEC 430 to determine conductor and breaker size. (Use handout or see supervisor for help). A separate equipment ground must be run for submersible pump.
Commercial or More than 400-amps . See "Available Fault Current."
Residential Requirements : See “Well Reqts” in “Policies” folder under “Building Division Documents.”
Window
Escape, Area of . 4030 is smallest slider that meets requirements of UBC.
Inspection of . Check for size, location, type (dual), safety glazing at framing and/or insulation inspection.
Wine Caves . See “Caves.”
Woodburning Stove
Approval . See "Fireplace."
Hearth . Where installed on wood floor, check manufacturer's installation manual or UMC Table 5-A, note 4. Tile or brick are not usually sufficient.
REFERENCES
UBC is the Uniform Building Code published by the International Conference of Building Officials.
UFC is the Uniform Fire Code published jointly by the International Conference of Building Officials and the Western Fire Chiefs Association.
UMC is the Uniform Mechanical Code published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
UPC is the Uniform Plumbing Code published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.
NEC is the National Electrical Code published by the National Fire Protection Association.
19.xx.xxx refers to a section in the Building and Construction, Title 19 of the San Luis Obispo County Code .
22.xx.xxx refers to a section in the Inland Land Use Ordinance, Title 22 of the San Luis Obispo County Code.
23.xx.xxx refers to a section in the Coastal Zone Land Use Ordinance, Title 23 of the San Luis Obispo County Code.