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Introduction

If you’ve worked on construction in California since 1978, or more aptly since 2013, then you have struggled to understand the spider-web process that is the California Code of Regulations, or CCR, of Title 24. Even then, understanding Title 24 won’t necessarily help you go through the process of compliance any faster. We’ve interviewed Permit Advisor’s Adam Van Dale, Project Manager, to help explain the process and best practices.

PA: First off, what does Title 24 affect in terms of projects?

AVD: Title 24 covers mechanical, electrical, and plumbing standards that affect energy use in the state of California. So, if you need to make changes that involve getting permits for those you will need to be Title 24 compliant.

PA: Can you just apply to be Title 24 compliant?

AVD: You have to prove you are compliant through a third-party certifier. You can do a quick search on the State of California’s government page and find a list of them.

PA: Does that require a separate submittal?

AVD: To prove you are Title 24 compliant you have to have a California State approved third-party certify that you are compliant. Basically, they will look over your project and say it is or isn’t compliant. Once you get that compliance you submit it to the city and they can issue a Certificate of Occupancy for your space. So, when you submit your proof of compliance you can do it along with your plans. You can even submit plans without the proof of compliance if you want. The city will approve your plans and issue a permit, however, you won’t have your Certificate of Occupancy.

PA: So does that mean you can get a permit without being compliant?

AVD: Yes, you can get a permit and even start the work. But, you won’t be able to open your doors until a Certificate of Occupancy is issued, and the jurisdiction won’t issue that until they have proof you are Title 24 compliant.

PA: How long does this whole process take and how much will it cost?

AVD: It depends on the third party reviewer that you choose. The time it takes depends on how busy they are too. After a simple internet search, you can find the third-party certifiers and even give them a call to see what their fees and timelines look like.

PA: What if the Title 24 regulations have changed and I was compliant but won’t be now?

AVD: There is no grandfathering with Title 24. If you were compliant but the CCR has been updated then you have to update your space. This is for everything: residential, non-residential, restaurants and hotels…everything.

PA: What happens after I’m Title 24 compliant?

AVD: After you are compliant you submit the certificate to the city and they will look at it along with your permit application. Once, they approve it you will get a Certificate of Occupancy. The city will then send the compliance to the state to have on record. You can open your doors for business.

Adam Van Dale is one of Permit Advisor’s Project Managers and is currently working on all sorts of projects ranging from large warehouse retail concepts to malls nation-wide. Contact Adam or learn more about Permit Advisors by contacting us.

About Permit Advisors: Permit Advisors Inc is a nationwide permit expediting, entitlement, and consulting firm based out of Beverly HIlls, CA. We have established relationships with municipalities nation-wide and implement time as well as cost saving strategies to efficiently complete projects. We provide a project management team to ensure every aspect of the project is given specific attention while maintaining open communication between the jurisdiction, consultations, and our clients. We serve retailers, architects, landlords, tenant coordinators, contractors and franchisees nationwide in the hotel, retail, restaurant, mixed-use, multifamily, entertainment, grocery, and logistical plant development industries. Contact us today for a consultation at www.permitadvisors.com.