Building Department

Questions related to plan review, permit, inspection, and project close-out requirements.

Why do I need to submit for a permit for carpet and other finishes?

Carpet, drapery, acoustic panels and the like must be reviewed for compliance with the California Fire Code. Additionally, the university is obligated to collect and maintain data regarding these activities to demonstrate compliance with California and University bidding, purchasing and contracting rules.

Does my project require a permit?

The California Building Code requires:

“Any owner or owner's authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit...

Construction or work for which a permit is required shall be subject to...

What documents do I need to submit for a permit?

Plans, specifications, product submittals, California Energy Code (Title 24 Pt. 6) compliance documentation, and where applicable, a Load Study.

For simple modifications, this might be covered by a scope of work narrative or a simple drawing. Electrical modifications require a single-line diagram.

My project is done, but I don't have all the final documentation. Can I move in yet?

If you've passed your final inspections with the Building Department and the Campus Fire Marshal, you may be issued a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy, which allows you to occupy the space, while you work on gathering your closeout documents. Note: retention will not be released nor final payment made until you have received a permanent Certificate of Occupancy.

My project is all done. Now what do I do?

Submit for a final inspection, both with the Building Department and the Campus Fire Marshal. Once you've corrected any prior deficiencies, and passed a final inspection (or corrected any punchlist items generated during your final inspection) you can start working on your closeout documents:

As-Built and/or Record Drawings (Record Drawings if multiple disciplines involved; As-Built Drawings by trade) Operations and Maintenance Manuals Warranties/guarantees California Energy Code (Title 24 Pt. 6) compliance documentation,...

What is a Load Study, and why do I need one?

Section 220.87 of the California Electrical Code requires that prior to modifying or adding to electrical systems, their existing loads must be determined. The code requires 30 days of data monitoring, but in buildings with stable loads, the Campus Electrical Engineer may reduce this requirement to 7 days.

Load studies are required so that electrical panels do not become overloaded or their loads become unbalanced between phases.

If you have any questions about load studies, please...