News & Events

A public meeting of the Access Committee of the Division of the State Architect Advisory Board will be held on Wednesday, June 5, 2013, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811.

An agenda of the meeting is available for download.

DSA has made changes to the following Interpretations of Regulations (IRs):

IR A-19: Design Professional’s Signature and Seal (Stamp) on Construction Documents (PDF - 135 KB) – Revised to reflect changes in Business and Professions Code, no longer requiring date of Engineer’s license expiration date.

IR 21-2.10: Concrete Masonry High Lift Grout Method: 2010 CBC (PDF - 106 KB) – Section 3.2 updated to require coarse grout.

IR 25-2.10: Metal Suspension Systems for Lay-In Panel Ceilings: 2010 CBC (PDF - 1.18 MB) – Scope of IR updated in Section 2, and technical details updated in Sections 5.2, 7.7, and Figures 2B, 4, 6, and 7.

IR 25-3: Drywall Ceiling Suspension Conventional Construction – One Layer (PDF - 96 KB) – Completely rewritten for applicability to the 2007 and 2010 CBC. The original version has been retained for 2001 CBC projects, and renumbered as IR 25-3.01 (PDF - 120 KB).

DSA has made a change to its policy regarding acceptance of applications for construction projects on more than one site. These changes, effective July 1, 2013, are detailed in DSA Bulletin BU 13-02 (PDF - 160 KB). Revisions have been made to other affected documents to coordinate with this change. They are, IR A-10: Alteration and Reconstruction Projects – DSA Approval Exemption (PDF - 127 KB), Policy PL 07-02: Over-The-Counter (OTC) Review of Projects Using Pre-Check (PC) Approved Designs (PDF - 255 KB), and Instructions (PDF - 166 KB) to form DSA 1.

[05/16/13: Edited to add link to IR A-10]

DSA has updated the Plan/Field Review Fee Calculator in accordance with changes to the Access Compliance Fee for projects submitted on June 1, 2013 and after. Specific information on changes to the Access Compliance Fee can be found in DSA Bulletin 13-01 (PDF - 93 KB).

DSA has issued Bulletin BU 13-01 (PDF – 93 KB) to notify interested parties about changes to DSA Access Compliance fees effective June 1, 2013.

Recent changes to DSA Administrative Regulations and the implementation of a DSA Inspection Card system result in important changes for structural testing and special inspections of projects under DSA jurisdiction. For an overview of the process changes taking effect on June 1, see Construction Oversight Process Changes: Courtesy Preview of Documents. For important specific changes to the Verified Report process for LEA Laboratories and Special Inspectors, refer to Guidelines to 2013 Verified Report Changes (PDF - 111 KB).

The DSA has posted revisions to forms DSA-291 (PDF - 201 KB), DSA-292 (PDF - 355 KB), and DSA-293 (PDF - 430 KB) to coordinate with the changes to the construction oversight process.

DSA is issuing IR A-30: DSA Hourly Fee Services (PDF - 90 KB) to announce an increase in its hourly fee for Structural Safety and Access related work to review various construction documents.

DSA has revised Procedures PR 07-01 (PDF - 749 KB) and PR 09-10 (PDF - 147 KB) to coordinate with the fee increase announced in IR A-30 (PDF - 90 KB).

A public meeting of the State Historical Building Safety Board (SHBSB) will be held on Wednesday, May 1, 2013 from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza Anaheim Resort, Mazatlan Ballroom A1, 12021 Harbor Boulevard, Garden Grove, CA 92840. A public meeting notice and agenda are available for download:

• SHBSB Meeting Notice Agenda 05/01/13 (PDF - 72 KB) | (RTF - 1.62 MB)

The DSA Energy unit has updated its list of Earthquake Sensitive Automatic Gas Shut-Off Valve Certifications (PDF - 65 KB) by adding one manufacturer to the list. The list is available on the DSA Gas Shutoff Valve Certification Program webpage.

The Certified Access Specialist Program has added the online capability for certification renewal. For more details, please visit the Voluntary Certified Access Specialist (CASp) Program webpage.

DSA has revised two Interpretations of Regulations (IR) as follows:

IR A-20: New Projects Associated With Existing Uncertified Projects (PDF - 104 KB) – Adds security surveillance cameras installation or replacement to the list of project types allowed. Adds requirement for school district letter.

IR A-22: Small Projects Exempt From DSA Review (PDF - 112 KB) – Change to Appendix A expands types of fencing in item 13, with additional information in footnote 4 on accessibility requirements.

DSA has revised its Verified Report forms to reflect changes in the California Administrative code (Title 24, Part 1) including pending implementation of an Inspection Card process for construction projects under DSA jurisdiction. DSA 6-AE has been revised . DSA-6 has been replaced by DSA 6-C, for the Contractor, and DSA 6-PI for the Project Inspector.

DSA has revised the form DSA 168 to allow for reporting cost information for deductive change orders and to clarify which dollar amount the DSA will base fees on. When filling out on line, the form will calculate and enter the sub total and total lines automatically.

DSA is pleased to announce you can now check the plan review status of your projects online. All that is required is the region number you submitted your project plan to and the project ID number.
DSA Performance Metrics (See Plan Review Status section)

DSA has revised Bulletin BU 11-05: Impact of AB 211 - Concerning Door Hardware; Effective July 1, 2011 (PDF - 99 KB) to clarify and update language and adding portable buildings moved from one campus to another to the list of exempt state funded projects.

DSA Procedure PR 08-03: School Facilities Program/Seismic Mitigation Program (June 22, 2011 Adoption) - DSA Review (PDF - 638 KB) has been updated with new OPSC contact information in Section 5.

Recently approved changes to Tile 24, Part 1 (California Administrative Code) affect requirements regarding Project Inspector employment by the school board.

Visit the Projects Submittal, Review, Oversight and Closeout/Project Certification page and see Section 4-333 (b) 1 (PDF - 9 KB) for details.

DSA has revised one administrative and two technical Interpretations of Regulations (IRs), as follows:

IR A-7: Project Inspector Certification and Approval (PDF - 161 KB) – Aligns Section 1.5 with current practice regarding “RBIP” inspector certification. Also, additional clarifying language has been added to the Purpose section.

IR 19-2: Requirements for Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC) Panels (PDF 104 KB) – Revised in its entirety and now applicable to the 2010 CBC.

IR 24-1: Glass Panel Railings (PDF – 113 KB) – Major revision of the Design Option and Test Protocol sections, and the addition of an Evaluation Report Option. Additional clarifying language has been added to the Purpose section.

Interpretation of Regulations IR A-10: Alteration and Reconstruction Projects – Exemption from DSA Approval (PDF 155 KB) has been updated to reflect 2013 construction cost dollar amounts. Also, a section has been added to clarify project cost determination with clarifications regarding HVAC equipment.

Amendments to CCR Title 24, Part 2 (California Building Code) have been approved by the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) with several clarifications. Proposed amendments were heard by the CBSC at their January 23-24, 2013 meeting. The approved amendments and clarifications are provided below.

• Approved Express Terms (PDF – 8.99 MB) | (Word – 16.1 MB)

Revision to Certified Access Specialist (CASp) program examination schedule. For more information please visit the CASp webpage. Once on the CASp page, proceed to STEP 2. Examination Registration for changes.

DSA has revised the Project Certification Guide - Revised Edition (PDF - 3 MB) to include information found in the Alternate Certification Guide for Legacy Projects and published it as one document. Links are provided in the Appendices to all forms and publications mentioned in the guide. All letters and forms have been revised and illustrations have been updated.

The list of Earthquake Sensitive Automatic Gas Shut-off Valve Certifications (PDF - 16 KB) has been updated. The number of certified manufacturers has reduced down to only two.

Final proposed amendments to CCR Title 24, Part 2 (California Building Code) have been submitted to the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) for approval. Proposed amendments will be heard by the CBSC at their January 23-24, 2013 meeting. Submittal documents are provided below.

• Final Express Terms (PDF – 6.22 MB) | (Word – 16.3 MB)
• Final Statement of Reasons (PDF – 508 KB) | (Word – 286 KB)

DSA has revised five technical and one administrative Interpretation of Regulations (IRs). Generally these revisions are to clarify applicability to the 2010 CBC and to align with changes in the regulations and other IRs, notably IR A-6. IRs with minor editorial revisions are IR A-19, IR 23-5, and IR 23-10. Additional changes are as follows:

IR 23-4: Metal-Plate-Connected Wood Trusses (PDF - 121 KB) – Revised in its entirety for the 2007 and 2010 CBC.

IR 23-8: Manufactured Wood-Chord-Metal-Web Trusses (PDF - 94 KB) – Updated language regarding fabrication special inspector qualifications in Section 5.3.1.

IR 25-2.10: Metal Suspension Systems for Lay-In Panel Ceilings: 2010 CBC (PDF 1.1 MB) – Minor revisions to several of the figures.

DSA has revised two Administrative Interpretations of Regulations (IRs).

IR A-8: Project Inspector & Assistant Inspector Duties and Performance (PDF - 511 KB) has been revised to include updated Guidelines for Completion of Project Inspector’s Semi-Monthly Report (PDF - 187 KB). The IR also contains clarifications on start and stop of construction for inspector’s reporting purposes. Project inspectors and any interested parties may also access a stand-alone document, Guidelines for Completion of Project Inspector’s Semi-Monthly Report.

IR A-13: Stop Work and Order to Comply (PDF - 329 KB) has been revised in its entirety to outline procedures for issuance of stop work and rescission of stop work by DSA. The IR also provides a process for voluntary stop work by project owner to resolve non-compliant conditions in a construction project.

Senate Bill 1186 (Chapter 383, Statues of 2012, Steinberg) requires an additional fee of one dollar ($1) to be paid by any person(s) applying for a local business license, or equivalent instrument, or permit, and any applicant renewing a business license, or equivalent instrument, or permit beginning January 1, 2013.

Please see DSA Bulletin 12-04 (PDF – 169 KB) and DSA-786 (PDF - 118 KB) form for additional information.

If you have any questions concerning SB1186, please contact DSA at 916.445.8100 or by email at dsasb1186@dgs.ca.gov.

The State Architect, Chester A. Widom, FAIA would like to share some of the initiatives and changes the Division of the State Architect has underway and is planning to implement. Visit The State Architect's Corner on a monthly basis to stay current.

DSA has made further changes to IR A-6 (PDF - 799 KB), clarifying DSA review of both CCD categories, providing additional guidance on CCD numbering requirements. Locations of changes are indicated by marginal markings. Forms DSA-140 (PDF - 209 KB) and DSA-141 (PDF - 210 KB) have been revised as well. IR 19-1-Post Installed Anchors in Concrete (PDF - 250 KB) has been revised to clarify applicability for projects submitted under later editions of the California Building Code.

At the September 2012 Green California Schools/Community Colleges Summits, the DSA presented an Educational Session to introduce the concept of Zero Net Energy (ZNE). See the "Moving from A to Z(ero) Net" (PDF - 5.61 MB) presentation and the state’s goals on the Grid Neutral Schools page under Zero Net Energy.

DSA has implemented the second round of changes to code revisions made in Title 24, Part 1. This time regarding the processing of construction changes, as announced in Bulletin BU 12-03 (PDF - 68 KB). The new requirements are documented in IR A-6 (PDF - 962 KB), revised in its entirety. Also, forms DSA-140 (PDF -209 KB) and DSA-141 (PDF -210 KB), as explained in the IR, are now available on the DSA forms page.

As part of DSA's continuing effort to assist school and community college districts in obtaining certification for projects closed prior to January 1, 2011 by DSA, as uncertified, DSA has developed a Alternate Certification Guide for Legacy Projects (PDF - .98 MB). This document, along with forms DSA-310, DSA-311, and DSA-320 will enable DSA staff to select eligible projects, and work with districts to certify these legacy projects.

The Certified Access Specialist (CASp) program has established new exam dates for 2013. Details for the upcoming examination dates are listed on the CASp webpage.

Proposed amendments to CCR Title 24, Part 2 (California Building Code) have been submitted to the California Building Standards Commission for the 45-day public comment period. Submittal documents are provided below.

• 45-Day Express Terms (PDF – 6.68 MB) | (Word – 16.5 MB)
• Initial Statement of Reasons (PDF – 572 KB) | (RTF – 902 KB) | (Word – 463 KB)

Comments may be submitted to the Building Standards Commission at CBSC@dgs.ca.gov.

DSA announces the second round of changes to implement code revisions made in Title 24, Part 1, this time regarding the processing of construction changes. See Bulletin BU 12-03 (PDF - 68 KB) for important information.

The DSA Structural Safety unit has made significant revisions to DSA Interpretation of Regulations (IR) 16-8: Solar Photovoltaic and Thermal Systems Review and Approval Requirements (PDF - 432 KB), section on structural safety design requirements.

DSA Structural has made minor revisions to two Interpretations of Regulations.

IR A-5 (PDF - 84 KB), Section 3.3, has been revised to include certain documents issued by Office of Statewide Health and Development (OSHPD) as valid listings.

IR A-28 (PDF - 171 KB) has had language added to clarify that certain projects may be exempt, per IR A-10.

DSA Policy PL 11-01 (PDF - 188 KB) has been revised. While no substantive changes have been made, Section 2 has been revised for clarity.

A Solar Roundtable will be held at the Green California Schools/Community Colleges Summit at the Pasadena Convention Center on Friday, September 28, 2012 at 9:00 am. This event is free; however, registration through the Green Technology www.green-technology.org website is required. Please see their summit program guide for room location.

Download the DSA Solar Roundtable Program Guide (453 KB - PDF) for more details about this informative hour with our DSA Staff covering State regulations for our schools and community colleges solar projects.

A public meeting of the Access Committee of the Division of the State Architect Advisory Board will be held on Thursday, September 20, 2012, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of the meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Access Committee Meeting Agenda 09/20/12: 2013 Access Code Summary and Update (PDF - 270 KB) | (RTF - 200 KB)

DSA's initial submittal documents to the Building Standards Commission for consideration by the Code Advisory Committee for Regular Rulemaking, Accessibility Code Change Proposal, August 30, 2012, are provided below.

• Express Terms (PDF – 9.82 MB) | (Word – 16.7 MB)
• Initial Statement of Reasons (PDF – 612 KB) |  (RTF – 886 KB) |  (Word – 454 KB)

Comments may be submitted to DSAAccess2013@dgs.ca.gov.

DSA has revised three Administrative Interpretations of Regulations (IRs). IR A-8 has been revised to add the section on DSA oversight of project inspectors.

• IR A-8: Project Inspector and Assistant Inspector Duties and Performance (PDF - 336 KB)

IR A-23 and IR A-24 have been revised to reflect changes that took effect recently in the 2010 California Administrative Code (Title 24, Part 1) regarding project cost reporting. (See also BU 12-01 (PDF - 106 KB) and form DSA-168 (PDF - 148).)

• IR A-23: Construction Cost Reporting and DSA Fees (PDF - 102 KB)
• IR A-24: Construction Phase Duties of School District, Contractor, and Design Professional (PDF - 111 KB)

The DSA proposed rulemaking actions for Title 24, Parts 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 have advanced to the 45-day public comment period, which runs, for Parts 1 and 2, from August 31 through October 15. For Parts 3, 4, and 5 the comment period runs from August 24 through October 8, 2012.

The updated Notice of Proposed Action (NOPA) for each part can be viewed on the Title 24 News page. These notices give details about the public comment process. The DSA Express Terms and Statement of Reasons for all Parts will post to the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) website shortly.

The DSA Fire and Life Safety Unit has issued DSA Bulletin 12-02 (PDF - 226 KB) announcing changes in the process of reporting LFA review to DSA. The new policy and procedure will become required on January 1, 2013. After that date, use of form DSA-810 (PDF - 145 KB) is required and is to be completed, affixed to or imaged onto the site plan and included with initial project submittal. The form is available on the DSA Forms page for voluntary use until that time.

Please note other related documents affected by this change, which have been revised:

• Policy 09-01: Fire Flow for Buildings
• Policy 09-05: Elevator Cab Sizes
• Policy 10-01: Plan Submittal Requirements - Automatic Fire Sprinkler System (AFSS)
• Form DSA-810 Instructions

Form DSA-1 has been revised to enable the applicant to indicate whether the project is located in a fire hazard severity zone (Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area, as described in CBC Chapter 7A). Item 27e must now be checked to assure accurate in-take evaluation and efficient project review.

DSA Form DSA-3: Project Submittal Checklist (PDF - 2.26 MB) has been updated with the addition of Form DSA-810: Local Fire Authority Review, required at initial project submittal, effective January 1, 2013, as announced in DSA Bulletin 12-02.

DSA has revised Bulletin 12-01 (PDF - 106 KB) to provide examples of Construction Management (CM) costs that are reported on form DSA-168 (PDF - 148 KB).

A public meeting of the Outreach & Communication Committee of the Division of the State Architect Advisory Board will be held on Thursday, August 9th from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811.

An public meeting notice and agenda is available for download.

DSA-Structural Safety (DSA-SS) has updated the Fire and Life Safety provision of IR 16-8: Solar Photovoltaic and Thermal Systems Review and Approval Requirements (PDF - 319 KB).

DSA's Access 2013 Stakeholder Forum No. 7 will be held on Tuesday, July 31, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, Headquarters Office located at 1102 Q Street, Suite 5100, Sacramento, CA 95811 in Conference Room A.. This meeting will be available via video and teleconference from all other regional offices.

An agenda of the Forum is available for download:

Access Code Stakeholders Forum No. 7 Agenda: 07/31/12 (PDF - 280 KB) | (RTF - 295 KB)

Added 7/24/12:

• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 1 – Application and Administration (PDF - 359 KB) | (DOC - 194 KB)
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 1 – Application and Administration with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 360 KB) | (DOC - 206 KB)
   
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 2 - Scoping Requirements (PDF - 292 KB) | (RTF - 382 KB)
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 2 - Scoping Requirements with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 299 KB) | (RTF - 414 KB)
   
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 8 – Housing Only (PDF - 72 KB) | (RTF - 51 KB)
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 8 – Housing Only with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 72 KB) | (RTF - 55 KB)

The DSA Access Compliance unit has submitted an emergency rulemaking package to the California Building Standards Commission to address conflicts between the accessibility provisions of the 2010 California Building Code and new federal requirements of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

Emergency Rulemaking: Accessibility Code Change Proposal - June 27, 2012

• Finding of Emergency (PDF - 167 KB) | (RTF - 186 KB)
• Express Terms (PDF - 207B) | (RTF - 141 KB)

DSA-Structural Safety (DSA-SS) has submitted regulation amendments for adoption into the 2013 California Building Code, including Parts 1 (Administrative), 2, 3, 4, 5 and 11 of Title 24, California Code of Regulations. The full text of DSA proposed amendments, including the Initial Statement of Reasons, can be found on the California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) web site at:

http://www.bsc.ca.gov/codes/adoptcycle/2012Cycle/2012CAC.aspx

Note that the DSA-Access (DSA-AC) code proposals will be submitted to the CBSC at a later date.

The public quarterly meeting of the DSA Advisory Board will be held on Thursday, July 19, 2012 at 1:00 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Quarterly Meeting Agenda 07/19/12 (PDF - 268 KB) | (RTF - 198 KB)

DSA's Fire/Life Safety and Sustainability units have updated project submittal guidelines. GL-2: Fire Alarm and Detection Systems (PDF - 314 KB) has received minor editorial changes for clarity and applicability of specific items to the 2010 editions of regulations and standards. GL-4: CalGreen Mandatory & Voluntary Measures (PDF - 560 KB) has been updated to reflect Title 24, Part 11 changes taking effect on July 1, 2012.

DSA's Access 2013 Stakeholder Forum No. 6 will be held on Tuesday, July 10, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, San Diego Regional Office located at 10920 Via Frontera, Suite 300, San Diego, California, 92127. This meeting will be available via video and teleconference from all other regional offices.

An agenda of the Forum along with related documents are available for download:

Access Code Stakeholders Forum No. 6 Agenda: 07/10/12 (PDF - 239 KB) | (RTF - 205 KB)

• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 2 - Scoping Requirements (Section 8) (PDF - 604 KB) | (DOC - 582 KB)
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 2 - Scoping Requirements (Section 8) with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 613 KB) | (DOC - 594 KB)
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 2 - Scoping Requirements (Section 9) (PDF - 203 KB) | (DOC - 110 KB)
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 2 - Scoping Requirements (Section 9) with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 206 KB) | (DOC - 114 KB)

DSA Access 2013 Stakeholder Forum will be held on Thursday, June 21, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, Headquarters Office located at 1102 Q Street, Suite 5100, Sacramento, CA 95811 in Conference Room A. This meeting will be available via video and teleconference from all other regional offices.

An agenda of the Forum along with related documents are available for download:

Access Code Stakeholders Forum Agenda: 06/21/12 (PDF - 263 KB) | (RTF - 2.33 MB)

• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 5 - General Site and Building Elements (based on the ADA Chapter 5) (PDF - 462 KB) | (DOC - 389 KB)


• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 5 - General Site and Building Elements with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 467 KB) | (DOC - 393 KB)


• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 10 – Recreation Facilities (based on the ADA Chapter 10) (PDF - 781 KB) | (DOC - 1.06 MB)


• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 10 – Recreation Facilities with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 805 KB) | (DOC - 1.07 MB)

DSA Access 2013 Stakeholder Forum will be held on Thursday, June 14, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, Los Angeles Regional Office located at 700 N. Alameda Street, Suite 5-500, Los Angeles, CA 90012 in Conference Room 5-599. This meeting will be available via video and teleconference from DSA’s Headquarters and all other regional offices.

An agenda of the Forum along with related documents are available for download:

Access Committee Stakeholders Forum Agenda 06/14/12 (PDF - 223 KB) | (RTF - 2.32 MB)
 
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 7 – Communication Elements and Features (based on the ADA Chapter 7) (PDF - 514 MB) | (DOC - 439 MB)
   
• Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 7 - Communication Elements and Features with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 479 KB) | (DOC - 449 KB)

The Certified Access Specialist (CASp) program is conducting a fall examination in October. Details for the October 2012 examination are available on the DSA CASp page.

DSA Access 2013 Stakeholder Forum will be held on Thursday, June 7, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, Headquarters Office located at 1102 Q Street, Suite 5100 Sacramento CA 95811 in Conference Room B. This meeting will be available via video and teleconference from all regional offices.

An agenda of the Forum along with related documents are available for download:

• Access Committee Stakeholders Forum Agenda 06/07/12 (PDF - 379 KB) | (RTF - 217 KB)
   
  • Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 6 - Plumbing Elements (based on the ADA Chapter 6) (PDF - 1.03 MB) | (DOC - 1.21 MB)
     
  • Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 6 - Plumbing Elements with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 99 MB) | (DOC - 1.22 MB)

DSA is holding an Access Code Update Stakeholder Forum on Thursday, May 24, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811.

This Forum is the first of seven to be held throughout California as DSA seeks input and comments from accessibility stakeholders, interested parties and general public as DSA is preparing the update of California's 2013 building code for Accessibility. Please see DSA's Access Code page for additional information about the Forums; questions or requests for materials in alternate formats should be directed to Beth Sanchez at (916) 322-1912 or by email to DSAAB@dgs.ca.gov.

An agenda of the Forum along with related documents are available for download:

• Access Code Stakeholder Forum Agenda - May 24, 2012 (PDF - 279 KB) | (RTF - 208 KB)
   
  • Proposed Languange for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 3 - Building Blocks (based on the ADA Chapter 3) (PDF - 673 KB) | (Word - 686 KB)
     
  • Proposed Languange for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 3 - Building Blocks with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 684 KB) | (Word - 688 KB)
  
   

There is an Access Code Update Stakeholder Forum that will be held Thursday, May 31, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 0 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, Oakland Regional Office located at 1515 Clay Street, Suite 1201, Oakland CA 94612.

An agenda of the meeting is available for download. This meeting will be available via video conference at HQ and all regional offices.

• Access Code Stakeholder Forum Agenda - May 31, 2012 (PDF - 380 KB) | (RTF - 216 KB)
   
  • Proposed Languange for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 4 - Accessible Routes (based on the ADA Chapter 3) (PDF - 1.25 MB) | (Word - 1.32 MB)
     
  • Proposed Languange for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 4 - Accessible Routes with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 1.23 MB) | (Word - 1.33 MB)
     
  • Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 5 - General Site (based on the ADA Chapter 5)(PDF - 468 KB) | (DOC - 389 KB)
     
  • Proposed Language for the 2013 California Building Code Chapter 11B Division 5 - General Site with Strikeout and Underlined Text Noted Parenthetically (PDF - 475 KB) | (DOC - 389 KB)

A public meeting of the DSA Advisory Board Inspection & Testing Committee will be held on Tuesday, May 22, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Inspection & Testing Committee Meeting Agenda 05/22/12 (PDF - 193 KB) | (RTF - 188 KB)

A public meeting of the DSA CAL Green Focus Group will be held on Wednesday, May 23, 2012 at 10:00 a.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

CAL Green Focus Group Meeting Agenda 05/22/12 (PDF - 211 KB) | (RTF - 179 KB)

DSA has issued Bulletin BU 12-01 [Superseded by Revision] announcing changes intended to revise and streamline review and approval of change orders thus improving the entire project closing and certification process. As the first step in this change, DSA recently issued a new form, DSA-168, which the Bulletin addresses.

A public meeting of the Access Task Force (Working Session) of the DSA Advisory Board will be held on Thursday, May 17, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, Oakland Regional Office located at 1515 Clay Street, Suite 1201, Oakland, Ca 94612 in Conference Room B. An agenda of the meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Access Task Force Meeting Agenda 05/17/12 (PDF - 232 KB) |  (RTF - 196 KB)

A public meeting of the DSA Advisory Board Green Committee will be held on Tuesday, May 08, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Green Committee Meeting Agenda 05/08/12 (PDF - 221 KB) | (RTF - 195 KB)

DSA has developed a new form that allows school districts or community colleges to report final actual construction project costs to DSA, in a revised process to streamline field oversight and certification of school projects. (Note: Access Only projects will continue using form DSA-104 (PDF - 84 KB) for this purpose.)

The new form DSA-168: Statement of Final Actual Project Cost (PDF - 148 KB) and the associated instructions document, DSA-168.INSTR (PDF - 151 KB), are now available for use.

DSA Fire and Life Safety Unit has made changes to the DSA-810 form. The revised form and Instructions are available on the DSA Forms page.

A public meeting of the State Historical Building Safety Board (SHBSB) will be held on Thursday, May 3, 2012 from 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Oakland Marriott Civic Center, Skyline Room, 1001 Broadway, Oakland, CA 94607. A public meeting notice and agenda are available for download

SHBSB Meeting Notice Agenda 05/03/12 (PDF - 175 KB) | (RTF - 1.62 MB)

A public meeting of the DSA Advisory Board Inspection & Testing Committee will be held on Monday, April 30, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Inspection & Testing Committee Meeting Agenda 04/30/12 (PDF - 221 KB) | (RTF - 192 KB)

Added 04/27/12:
Issue papers related to items on the DSAAB Inspection and Testing Committee April 30, 2012 meeting agenda are now available for download.

• Agenda Item IV (A), Issue Paper, Update Supervision of Special Inspection 04-30-12 (PDF - 165 KB) | (RTF - 250 KB)
   
• Agenda Item IV (B), Issue Paper, Project Inspector Eligibility: Qualifications for Certification 04-30-12 (PDF - 170 KB) | (RTF - 216 KB)
   
• Agenda Item IV (C), Issue Paper, Project Inspector Job File Checklist 04-30-12 (PDF - 195 KB) | (RTF - 2.84 MB)
   
• Agenda Item IV (D), Issue Paper, Project Inspector Replacement Requirements 04-30-12 (PDF - 78 KB) | (RTF - 81 KB)
   
• Agenda Item IV (E), Issue Paper, Revisions to Project Inspector Verified Report 04-30-12 (PDF - 369 KB)
   
• Agenda Item IV (F), Issue Paper, Revisions to Contractor Verified Report 04-30-12 (PDF - 370 KB)
   
• Agenda Item V (A), Issue Paper, Restrictions on Project Inspector Employment (PDF - 8 KB) | (RTF - 72 KB)
   
• Agenda Item V (B), Issue Paper, Inspection/Testing of Steel Construction (PDF - 105 KB) | (RTF - 213 KB)
   

DSA Structural Safety has made minor revisions to IR A-26 (PDF - 144 KB) and IR A-26.cc (PDF - 104 KB) adjusting occupancy load factors listed in Section 1. Also, the DSA Energy unit has revised IR N-1 (PDF - 106 KB), providing additional clarity in Sections 3.4 and 3.6 in addition to providing guidance on unconditioned buildings and open solar structures.

Green California Summit and Exposition • Sacramento Convention Center
April 26, 2012 • 10-11am • Room 100A

California State Architect, Chester A. Widom, FAIA, will be speaking about the rising interest in the installation of solar photovoltaic power systems at California public schools and community colleges. The Division of State Architect (DSA) will have staff from its Structural Safety, Fire Life Safety, and Access Compliance sections available to facilitate discussions related to the approval process requirements as outlined in DSA’s Interpretation of Regulations (IR) 16-8 (PDF - 382 KB). These DSA guidelines were recently updated to address the growing landscape of solar photovoltaics at school campuses.

See the DSA Solar in Schools page and the DSA Solar Installation Roundtable Flyer (PDF - 262 KB) for details.

To attend this session, please register for the Free Pass for the Green California Summit and Exposition.

DSA has issued a new form for reporting a transfer of responsibility of the Geotechnical Engineer on a project. Form DSA-109: Transfer of Responsibility - Geotechnical Engineer (PDF - 145 KB) is now available on the DSA Internet site's forms page.

The public quarterly meeting of the DSA Advisory Board will be held on Thursday, April 19, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Quarterly Meeting Agenda 04/19/12 (PDF - 264 KB) | (RTF - 197 KB)

The Division of the State Architect is pleased to announce that Leroy Tam has been appointed Regional Manager for the Oakland Office. Leroy has been a key member of DSA for over twenty years and brings both a rich understanding of DSA's history and, most importantly, shares the vision of a continuously improving future.

The DSA Access Compliance unit has submitted an emergency rulemaking package to the California Building Standards Commission to address conflicts between the accessibility provisions of the 2010 California Building Code and new federal requirements of the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.

Emergency Rulemaking: Accessibility Code Change Proposal - April 5, 2012

• Finding of Emergency (PDF - 173 KB) | (RTF - 122 KB)
• Express Terms (PDF - 1.15 MB) | (RTF - 160 KB)

The Division of the State Architect is pleased to announce that the Governor has appointed Robert Lee Chase to fill the critical position of Deputy State Architect.

Robert Chase AIA combines over thirty five years in private architectural practice with extensive experience in the public sector. He has served as the Acting Deputy Director/Building Division for the City of Stockton Community Development Department and as the Chief Building Official for both the City and the County of Sacramento.

Bob is a LEED AP, a Certified Green Building Professional and was responsible for the development of the City of Sacramento’s Green Building Program. He currently serves on the City of West Sacramento’s Planning Commission and as the Vice President-President Elect of the AIA/Central Valley Chapter. He will have direct responsibility for the day to day management of the DSA Headquarters Office and will work closely with the DSA Regional Managers.

A public meeting of the DSA Advisory Board Codes and Standards Committee will be held on Thursday, April 12, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Codes & Standards Committee Meeting Agenda 04/12/12 (PDF - 295 KB) | (RTF - 200 KB)

Updated 04/11/12:

• Codes & Standards 4/12/12 Agenda Items - Combined (PDF - 2.89 MB)
   
• Agenda Item IV (A) - Issue Paper: Update Supervision of Special Inspection (PDF - 217 KB) | (RTF - 310 KB)
   
• Agenda Item IV (B) - Issue Paper: DSA Fee Calculation for Projects with Solar Equipment (PDF - 73 KB) | (RTF - 72 KB)
   
• Agenda Item IV (C) - Issue Paper: Rehabilitation Trigger for Change of Occupancy (PDF - 155 KB) | (RTF - 62 KB)
   
• Agenda Item V (A) - Issue Paper: Optional Peer Review Process for Geotechnical Reports (PDF - 169 KB) | (RTF - 65 KB)
   
• Agenda Item V (B) - SEAOC: Structural Seismic Requirements and Commentary for Rooftop Solar Photovoltaic Systems (PDF - 344 KB) | (RTF - 2.07 MB)
   
• Agenda Item V (B) - SEAOC: Wind Loads on Low Profile Solar Photovoltaic Systems on Flat Roofs (PDF - 1.54 MB) | (RTF - 56.1 MB)
   
• Agenda Item V (C) - Issue Paper: Maximum ground motions (Ss) for low rise regular buildings (PDF - 189 KB) | (RTF - 56 KB)
   
• Agenda Item V (D) - Issue Paper: Cost Triggers for Mandatory Structural Rehabilitation for School Alteration Projects (PDF - 345 KB) | (RTF - 585 KB)
   
• Agenda Item V (E) - Issue Paper: Seismic Evaluation of Newer Non-Conforming Buildings for School Use (PDF - 90 KB) | (RTF - 60 KB)
   
• Agenda Item V (F) - Issue Paper: Structural Sealant Glazing Systems (PDF - 148 KB) | (RTF - 82 KB)
   

A public meeting of the DSA Advisory Board Outreach and Communication Committee will be held on Thursday, March 29, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Outreach & Communication Committee Meeting Agenda 03/29/12 (PDF - 216 KB) | (RTF - 188 KB)

The Division of the State Architect is soliciting for a Statement of Qualifications from qualified architectural firms interested in providing access compliance review services for the DSA Regional Offices located in Oakland, Sacramento, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

To download the RFQ visit the California State Contracts Register at: http://www.bidsync.com/DPX?ac=powersearch&srchoid_override=307818 (Downloading the RFQ from the website above is a free service.)

Deadline to submit Statement of Qualifications: March 21, 2012 by 2:00 pm

For additional information please contact:
Erica Seghesio-Groves, DSA Contract Analyst
Phone: (916) 324-2733
e-mail: Erica.SeghesioGroves@dgs.ca.gov

The DSA Advisory Board Green Committee meeting scheduled for March 12, 2012 has been cancelled. A future meeting date for the Green Committee will be determined at a later time.

The DSAAB Green Committee meeting scheduled for March 12, 2012 has been cancelled.

A public meeting of the DSA Advisory Board Green Committee will be held on Monday, March 12, 2012 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Green Committee Meeting Agenda 03/12/12

A public meeting of the DSA Advisory Board Inspection & Testing Committee will be held on Thursday, March 15th, 2012 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Division of the State Architect, 1102 Q Street, 5th Floor, Conference Room B, Sacramento, CA, 95811. An agenda of this meeting is available for download.

DSAAB Inspection & Testing Committee Meeting Agenda 03/15/12 (PDF - 307 KB) | (RTF - 187 KB)

Added 03/12/12:
Issue papers related to items on the DSAAB Inspection and Testing Committee March 13, 2012 meeting agenda are now available for download.

• Agenda Item IV (A), Issue Paper, Update Supervision of Special Inspection 03-15-12 (PDF - 267 KB)
• Agenda Item IV (B), Issue Paper, Project Inspector Eligibility: Qualifications for Certification 03-15-12 (PDF - 112 KB) | (RTF - 153 KB)
• Agenda Item IV (C), Issue Paper, Project Inspector Job File Checklist 03-15-12 (PDF - 165 KB) | (RTF - 12.9 MB)
• Agenda Item IV (D), Issue Paper, Project Inspector Replacement Process 03-15-12 (PDF - 79 KB) | (RTF - 82 KB)