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California building designer -- Non-woodframe structure?

jLebloome

Does anyone have any first hand knowledge regarding whether or not in Building designer in California can design a non-woodframe single family residence if the plans are stamped by an architect/engineer?  In other words, does the passage “...deviates from substantial compliance with conventional framing requirements for woodframe construction...” imply only deviant woodframe structures or is that inclusive to say, a poured concrete structure as well?

California BPC states:

Non-licensed individuals are subject to, among other restrictions, designing "Single-family dwellings of woodframe construction not more than two stories and basement in height."

however,

"If any portion of any structure exempted by this section deviates from substantial compliance with conventional framing requirements for woodframe construction found in the most recent edition of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations or tables of limitation for woodframe construction, as defined by the applicable building code duly adopted by the local jurisdiction or the state, the building official having jurisdiction shall require the preparation of plans, drawings, specifications, or calculations for that portion by, or under the responsible control of, a licensed architect or registered engineer. The documents for that portion shall bear the stamp and signature of the licensee who is responsible for their preparation." 

 
May 9, 17 7:14 pm
JonathanLivingston

Seems clear, You need a stamp for this. Or rather someone to stamp and have responsibility for the drawings. You are free to design anything! But it will have to be reviewed, supervised and liability assumed by someone who is licensed to get permitted and built. That may or may not be hard to have done, it will certainly cost you money and should be planned for well before starting the job.

But wait for all of the people here to jump on telling you you need your license. It will come. Also Rick will have thoughts. 

May 9, 17 7:22 pm  · 
 · 
x-jla

Leave California.  Thats the wrong state for such a business.  Go to AZ, CO, TX, etc. where you can do residential built from anything and quite a bit of small commercial too. 

May 10, 17 10:18 am  · 
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