Construction documents · California
A California review starts with the applicable Title 24 parts and the city or county amendments for the project. Keep that reference set together so code notes, schedules, and consultant drawings can be checked against the same requirements.
Your codes, connected to your drawings
We read the state and local codes and amendments that governments publish online, the way a human reviewer does. Our AI opens it in a web browser, goes to the section or table, and cites it in the finding with a link to the source. The model codes most states adopt, such as the International Building Code, are licensed; we use their text only where a license allows it, and you can upload a copy you’re licensed to use. We reference the section. We never copy or distribute code text.
We detect the codes your drawings cite in the code analysis, cover sheet, and general notes. Add or remove codes, and note the edition, local amendments, and project requirements.
Mark the drawings you want reviewed as Check this file. If you upload a code, such as a standard you’re licensed to use or an unpublished amendment, set it to Code and Use as reference.
Follow the linked drawing and code section, check applicability, and have the responsible professional verify the issue.
State and local references
Examples of codes that can apply in California. Confirm the adopted edition, effective date, and project scope with the reviewing authority.
Title 24, Part 2. Include the applicable volumes, supplements, and local amendments for the building review. Read the California Building Code (CBC) review guide.
Title 24, Part 9. Add the local fire authority’s amendments for the fire review. Read the California Fire Code (CFC) review guide.
Title 24, Part 4. Add the reference used for the project’s mechanical design.
Title 24, Part 6. Include the project’s energy documents alongside the applicable code. Read the California Energy Code review guide.
Title 24, Part 11. Include applicable local green-building amendments and the project checklist. Read the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) review guide.
Code names link to official agency or publisher resources. Reviewed September 9, 2026. We detect the codes your drawings cite, and you can add or remove codes.
California reference guide
The California Building Standards Commission publishes the Title 24 code directory. Its 2025 edition took effect January 1, 2026; the directory also identifies errata and supplements. Confirm which edition governs the permit application before using a new reference.
CBSC: California Building Standards CodeCBSC maintains a directory of 2025 local ordinances. Use it to locate filed city or county amendments, then confirm the applicable ordinance and submission checklist with the actual permitting department.
CBSC: 2025 local ordinancesSources reviewed September 9, 2026. Confirm current requirements and project applicability with the reviewing authority.
Prepare a useful review
Use this preparation list for Groundbook alongside the official permit checklist. Name the codes that apply.
Record the applicable Title 24 parts, editions, supplements, occupancy, construction type, and permit scope. Identify the official responsible for confirming applicability.
List the local amendments that apply and supply the current intake checklist. Include written project conditions or prior review comments that the drawings must address.
Add the energy and CALGreen documents relevant to the project alongside architectural, structural, civil, and MEP PDFs. Ask reviewers to reconcile values and scope across the package.
Identify which files are being checked, which are references, and which revisions are superseded. Include reviewer comments and responses where they explain an unresolved decision.
Use the drawing-register templateFrom documents to decisions
Compare stated design information with the adopted code and local amendments. Verify scope, exceptions, and the source behind each potential issue.
Review code referencesLook for incomplete information and conflicting requirements before submission. Assign each verified finding to the responsible designer.
Prepare for submissionCheck relationships across drawings, schedules, specifications, and reports. Resolve the source conflict and carry the decision into the issued set.
Review the whole packageBefore you start
This page prepares the document and reference set for an AI-assisted review. The separate AB 253 guide explains that specific private-review pathway; Groundbook does not itself act as a private plans examiner or grant permit approval.
Supply the current drawing set and schedules, relevant specifications and reports, and the reviewing authority’s checklist. Identify the edition, project scope, and permit stage. We read the state and local amendments that governments publish online. The base model codes, such as the International Building Code, are licensed; we use their text only where a license allows it. You can upload a code you’re licensed to use, or an amendment that isn’t online.
No. Groundbook surfaces potential conflicts and omissions with links to source documents for professional verification. It does not issue permits, certify compliance, provide permit-expediting services, or replace the authority having jurisdiction.
Projects in more than one state
For another project's location, start with its own authority and reference list. Requirements and adopted editions can differ across state lines.
Official source directory
2025 Title 24 effective January 1, 2026; parts, errata, and supplements.
Directory of filed local amendments; it does not establish a project’s complete permit scope.
California AB 253 guide · DSA plan review for schools · HCAI (OSHPD) plan review for healthcare · All California permitting guides · San Francisco plan review
City plan check guides in California: Los Angeles plan check · San Francisco plan check · San Diego plan check · San Jose plan check
Bring your drawings. We read the local codes and amendments that governments publish online.
Check your California permit set before you submit
Trusted by hundreds of professionals