Q: When will the 2007 edition of the California Building Code become effective?

A: The 2007 edition of the California Building Code is tentatively scheduled to become effective on January 1, 2008. Local jurisdictions will have six months after publication to amend and adopt the code. If the publication date of July 1, 2007 is met, then the local jurisdiction will have until January 1, 2008 to complete its adoption. If the jurisdiction does not adopt the code, it will still become effective on January 1, 2008 by rule of law.



Q: How can I find out about the amendments proposed by state agencies for the 2007 edition of the California Building Code? Is there an opportunity for the public to comment?

A: The amendments proposed by state agencies are posted on the California Building Standards Commission website. And yes, there are three public comment periods. The first public comment period has already closed. The second public comment period closes October 16th and the third public comment period closes October 23rd. To view the amendments and download the public comment form, go to: http://www.bsc.ca.gov/prpsd_chngs/pc_06_comment.html



Q:When should projects be designed in accordance with the structural provisions of the 2007 CBC? For example, if a school is submitted prior to January 1, 2008, should it be designed in accordance with the 2001 California Building Code? And if it is submitted after January 1, 2008, should it be designed in accordance with the 2007 California Building Code?

A: Yes, that is correct, the project is subject to the codes in effect at the time the project is submitted for a building permit at the local or state level. Projects submitted prior to January 1, 2008 should be designed under the 2001 California Building Code. For projects submitted after the effective date of the 2007 California Building Code, which is not expected to be until January 1, 2008, the project must be designed to the new codes.