Articles, Newsletters & Misc.

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Get to Know Your CALBO Instructors!

CALBO Training Institute is thankful for the continued support of community members who volunteer to teach each year. With so many seasoned and new instructors, it’s often challenging to show recognition and for students to get to know each one of them. CALBO hosted a new question and answer series featuring both webinar and Education Week instructors. 

In our three-part series, we highlighted multiple leading instructors in a variety of course topics. Click the links below to learn more about some of the CALBO Instructors.

First Installment - California Energy Commission
Second Installment - Ciara Barnett and Brian Frenger
Third Installment - John Caprarelli and Sean McNamara

Thank you to all CALBO instructors, who developed dozens of webinars and online courses for CALBO since the pandemic allowing building-safety professionals to keep up with code changes. Thank you for your contributions to the CALBO community!

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You’re Registered for the CALBO Virtual Education Week. Now What?
Student Resources for YOU!

You’re Registered for the CALBO Virtual Education Week. Now What?

With less than two weeks until the 2021 CALBO Education Week: San Ramon kicks off – it’s time to start preparing. CALBO has created these handy resources to help you get organized. We can’t wait to “see” you there. 

- Explore the Virtual Education Week Experience - Click Here

​- Explore the In-Person Education Week Experience - Click Here

- Virtual Education Week Checklist - Click here

- Common Virtual Student Questions and Answers - Click Here

For any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the CALBO Office or by phone at 916-457-1103. 

Article

A Special Message from Your 2021-22 CALBO President

Dear CALBO Friends and Colleagues,

As summer winds down and we enter autumn, California is again besieged by wildfires. All of us at CALBO are thinking about those impacted by the fires that have been burning this summer and those who continue to rebuild from previous years’ fires. Too many of us know what it is like to suffer loss due to fire and the arduous task it is to rebuild lives and communities. As always, CALBO stands ready to support our members in trying times. I want to thank the members who went out of their way to connect with other building officials during a time of crisis, SAP inspectors who left their families and offices to assist in other jurisdictions, and code officials of all stripes who responded to calls for mutual aid and emergency management assistance.

The cooler temperatures and turning leaves also mean it is time to learn. I am pleased to report that Education Weeks are on track in San Ramon this September and Ontario this October. Your CTI Commission has picked up some great tools from what was experienced during the height of the pandemic, and we at CALBO are not naïve to think that the threat of COVID-19 is behind us. For that reason, we continue to offer a hybrid learning model in San Ramon. Students will be welcomed on-site in accordance with the facilities’ health protocols, and we will live-stream those classes to members who cannot attend in-person this year. In contrast, Ontario will be a traditional in-person only Education Week offering. So, if you or your staff enjoyed the virtual Education Week last year, don’t miss the San Ramon hybrid offering. For registration and course offerings, visit the CALBO website.

As you continue through the newsletter, I think you will see that CALBO continues to work hard for its members. We are coming to the end of an unexpectedly exciting and challenging legislative session, CTI continues to offer incredible webinar trainings, and the planning for our 60th Annual Business Meeting in Los Angeles at the historic Biltmore Hotel is well underway. Information about Education Weeks, webinars, legislation, and our next ABM can all be found on the CALBO website.

I want to close as always by thanking you, the members, for your hard work and participation in CALBO’s efforts and events and to remind you that your CALBO Board of Directors, staff, and I are always available to you.

Sincerely,

Shane G. Diller, M.P.A
Assistant Director, Development Services
City of Elk Grove

E-mail blast

Get to Know Your CALBO Instructors!

CALBO Training Institute is thankful for the continued support of community members who volunteer to teach each year. With so many seasoned and new instructors, it’s often challenging to show recognition and for students to get to know each one of them. CALBO is hosting a new question and answer series featuring both webinar and Education Week instructors. We hope you learn something new!

In our third installment, we highlight two leading instructors. Thank you to all CALBO instructors, who developed dozens of webinars and online courses for CALBO since the pandemic allowing building-safety professionals to keep up with code changes. Thank you for your contributions to the CALBO community!

Article

Inspectors: Are You Ready?

As we establish a new “normal” this summer and fall, construction will only increase. Whether your department is performing virtual or in-person inspections, don’t miss these inspection courses to help you prepare for the non-stop demand of residential, mixed-use, or commercial inspection projects.

With these offerings, there is something for every inspector – no matter your specialty! Join CALBO for the 2021 CALBO Education Weeks!

Ontario: October 25-28, 2021
In-Person Attendance Only
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Ontario Airport

With both in-person and virtual training options available, don’t miss these inspection courses – register today!

  • Swimming Pool and Spas - New Course
  • Field and Virtual Inspections of Solar Photovoltaic and Energy Storage Systems - New Course
  • 2019 California Building Code: Special Building Types and Features - New Course
  • AM Half Day: 2019 California Plumbing Code: Inspection Fundamentals
  • PM Half Day: 2019 California Mechanical Code: Inspection Fundamentals
  • 2019 California Electrical Code: Residential and Commercial Inspection Procedures
  • Understanding Apartment Buildings and Mixed Use Development from Plan Review to Inspection - New Course
  • 2019 California Building Code: Special Building Types and Features - New Course

Visit the CALBO Education Week Registration page for
complete course listing and registration information. 

Register Now!

If you have any questions or concerns, please email the CALBO Office or call 916-457-1103.

Article

Need a CBC Update?

As we approach the end of the triennial cycle, don’t get left behind on the current CBC updates before the 2022 codes are published. These courses will get you up-to-date with vital CBC topics, including egress, mixed-use development, and other hot topics. 

2021 San Ramon and Ontario Education Week Offerings (0.6 CEUs)

  • 2019 California Building Code: Means of Egress Overview - Monday, September 13 and October 25
  • Hot Topics in the 2019 California Building Code - Wednesday, September 15 and October 27
  • Understanding Apartment Buildings and Mixed Use Development from Plan Review to Inspection - Wednesday, September 15 and October 27
  • 2019 California Building Code: Special Building Types and Features - Thursday, September 16 and October 28

Visit the CALBO Education Week Registration
page for a complete course listing and registration information. 

2021 Fall Webinar Offerings (0.2 CEUs)

Visit the CALBO Webinar Registration
page for a complete webinar listing and registration information. 

If you have any questions or concerns, please email the CALBO Office or call 916-457-1103.

Article

Accessibility Topics Created With You In Mind!
Join us this Fall in Ontario

Whether you are new to accessibility in California, preparing for an exam, or renewing your license or certification, these AIA and ICC approved courses will help you understand the most complex California Access Standards.

Are you renewing your architect license with CAB?*
Architects must complete 5 hours of coursework on disability access requirements within the previous two years. Click here for more information. 

Are you renewing your CASp certification with DSA?*
CASp renewals must complete 15 continuing education units (CEUs) during each 3 year certification period, including a minimum of 5 CEUs must address regulatory updates to the CBC accessibility provisions. One CEU equals one hour of instructional time. Click here for more information.

E-mail blast

Get to Know Your CALBO Instructors!

CALBO Training Institute is thankful for the continued support of community members who volunteer to teach each year. With so many seasoned and new instructors, it’s often challenging to show recognition and for students to get to know each one of them. CALBO is hosting a new question and answer series featuring both webinar and Education Week instructors. We hope you learn something new!

In our second installment, we highlight two leading instructors. Thank you to all CALBO instructors, who developed dozens of webinars and online courses for CALBO since the pandemic allowing building-safety professionals to keep up with code changes. Thank you for your contributions to the CALBO community!

Article

Courses for Building-Safety Leaders
Don't Miss these Vital Topics

Are you a current department leader and/or aspiring to be an expert in your department?

As a Building Official, Director or Manager, you are expected to know what’s coming next. Attend one or more of these courses that will help you prepare your department for current California trends. Join CALBO at the 2021 CALBO Education Weeks!

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Permit Tech and Plan Reviewer Course Highlights

Wanting to improve your skills in your department role as a permit technician or plan reviewer? Consider taking one or more of these courses covering important topics in California codes. Whether you are serving in an introductory or advanced department role, there is something for everyone! 

Ontario: October 25-28, 2021
In-Person Attendance Only
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Ontario Airport

With in-person training options available, don’t miss these access courses – register today!

  • 2019 California Building Code: Means of Egress Overview
  • Residential Plan Review
  • Advanced Overview for Permit Technicians
  • 2019 California Building Code: Special Building Types and Features
  • Understanding Apartment Buildings and Mixed Use Development from Plan Review to Inspection

Visit the CALBO Education Week Registration page for
complete course listing and registration information. 

Register Now!

If you have any questions or concerns, please email the CALBO Office or call 916-457-1103.

E-mail blast

Get to Know Your CALBO Instructors!
Highlighting California Energy Commission

CALBO Training Institute is thankful for the continued support of community members who volunteer to teach each year. With so many seasoned and new instructors, it’s often challenging to show recognition and for students to get to know each one of them. CALBO is hosting a new question and answer series featuring both webinar and Education Week instructors. We hope you learn something new!

In our first installment, read below as we highlight our energy code instructors, our training partners at California Energy Commission (CEC). They have developed nearly a dozen webinars for CALBO since the pandemic allowing building-safety professionals to keep up with code changes. Thank you for your contributions to the CALBO community!

Article

CALBO Education Weeks
New Course Topics Created for You!

Join CALBO for the 2021 CALBO Education Weeks! As we approach the end of the triennial cycle, the CALBO Training Institute (CTI) has concentrated on developing topical, managerial, and contemporary curriculum drawing from within and outside the codebooks. We will see you this fall!

Ontario: October 25-28, 2021
In-Person Attendance Only
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Ontario Airport

With both in-person and virtual training options available, don’t miss these newly developed courses – register today!

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Structural Engineers Recognize CALBO’s Leadership in Times of Adversity

June 2021 – California Building Officials (CALBO) is humbled and proud to share recent news as we have been named the recipient of the Safer Cities Partner of the Year award by the Structural Engineers Association of Southern California (SEAOSC).  The award was given by SEAOSC President Matt Barnard at a lively evening virtual event and was accepted by CALBO President Shane Diller.  This award recognizes a partner for their advancement in the mission of promoting safer cities, and specific to CALBO, our leadership in times of adversity and the pandemic.  CALBO is truly honored to accept this award, especially as our state moves forward from uncertainty and reopens. 

At the same event, CALBO’s own member of the Board Andrew Stuffler received the Safer Cities Public Official of the Year award, recognizing his great efforts in emergency preparedness on a regional and statewide basis.  As Andrew retires from public service as the Building Official of the city of Santa Barbara, what a great time to be acknowledged for a meaningful career in the municipal sector.

CALBO graciously accepts these accolades with thanks to SEAOSC for taking a leadership role, not only in southern California, but as a statewide partner.  We look forward to our mutual work and shared vision for built-safe, resilient and sustainable California communities  

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Upcoming 2019 California Energy Code Webinar – Register Today!

Don’t miss live webinar opportunities brought to you by California Energy Commission. 

The CALBO Training Institute has partnered with the California Energy Commission to bring you this upcoming webinar highlighting a key solar component of the 2019 California Energy Code. Don’t miss this online training opportunity to earn CEUs from your home or office!  

2019 Energy Code: Solar Photovoltaic Systems for Low-Rise Residential Buildings – NEW!

Thursday, July 22, 2021
9:00am – 11:00am
ICC PP Course No. 28064 - 0.2 CEUs
AIA Course No. 19: 2021 - 2 LUs

Register today to learn more about the 2019 California Energy Code Changes! More webinar topics coming soon, including a peek at the 2022 Energy Standards!

Thank you to our Energy Code webinar sponsor, Energy Code Ace, for their sponsorship and support. Please visit their website for your energy code resources. 

For questions regarding these opportunities or the CALBO Webinar Calendar, please email or call the CALBO Office at 916-457-1103. 

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Summer Conference and Mini-Education Week – Thanks for Joining Us!

Last month, members gathered virtually or in-person for a week of networking, educational training and professional development opportunities. This hybrid event was the perfect opportunity to catch-up with friends, share stories from the past year and learn about industry related updates. 

Join us in a round of applause for the following exhibitors and sponsored that joined us in Newport Beach. We thank ALL of them for their continued support of our industry and organization during their unprecedented times. 

 

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New Chapter 7A Building Code Changes – Effective 7/1/21

Old WUI Code: Allowed non-combustible 1/8” mesh in the Gables, Foundation, Through Roof Vents.

NEW WUI CODE CHANGE:  Must use ASTM E2886 Tested and Listed Vents for attic/roof ventilation, including Soffits, Eave, Gable, Foundation, and Through Roof Vents.

ASTM Tested vents resist 3 Elements:  1) Embers 2) Flames and 3) Radiant Heat. All three are critical during a wildfire.   Traditional 1/8” mesh/louvered vents cannot pass the ASTM E2886 three-part test.

CAL FIRE/BML Vent Approved Listings can be found here:

Welcome to BML Search Building Materials Listing (ca.gov) 

Watchouts: 

  1. Make sure that the vents are actually listed on CAL Fire website
  2. Make sure the listing states “Rated to ASTM E2886”
  3. Make sure the vent is approved in all positions (Horizontal and Vertical)
  4. Make sure the vents are installed by qualified contractors

Brandguard Vents (patented design) offers 26 CAL Fire listed skus, that have been fully tested to all 3 parts of ASTM E2886 in both horizontal AND vertical positions. You can check them out at www.brandguardvents.com.

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2021 CALBO Education Weeks: In-Person and Virtual Registration
San Ramon and Ontario - Here We Come!

CALBO is hosting two Education Weeks this year with virtual and in-person attendance options. We will continue to work closely with local and state health officials to ensure that our Education Weeks follow the strictest safety protocols at the time of each event.

September 13-16, 2021
In-Person and Virtual Attendance
San Ramon Marriott
2600 Bishop Dr, San Ramon, CA 94583
Registration Deadline: Friday, September 3rd at 5pm sharp. 

October 25-28, 2021
In-Person Attendance Only
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Ontario Airport
222 N Vineyard Ave, Ontario, CA 91764
Registration Deadline: Friday, October 15th at 5pm sharp. 

Download the Education Week Course Catalog

Review the Education Week Virtual Student Resource Page

Click Here for the Education Week Registration Page

Questions about these events or registration? Please contact the CALBO Office at 916-457-1103 and info@calbo.org.

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Important Updates from the Emergency Preparedness Committee

In the face of unpredictable challenges, from looming threat of wildfires, devastating floods to the ever-present risk of earthquakes, it’s crucial for building department staff to remain steadfastly prepared to safeguard our local communities during emergencies. 

The CALBO Emergency Preparedness Committee is reaching out to remind you to allocate sometime in the coming weeks to review and update your department’s Emergency Operations Guides and/or Procedures. Ensure that these documents accurately reflect recent changes in personnel, including contact information, roles, and facility details. A well-prepared team is the backbone of successful emergency response. 

IMPORTANT UPDATE FROM CalOES:

CalOES SAP is transitioning their database and credentialing system to a new platform that will propel SAP into the digital space of data and credentialing management. It’s anticipated that the transition will be complete no later than end of March 2024. During this transition, physical badge creation has been halted. Individuals are able to complete their online refresher SAP course and attend instructor led trainings, but a certificate of completion will be sent in lieu of a badge until the new online system is live and SAP badges will be available digitally within individual platform accounts. Stay tuned for more updates!

Have questions or need assistance? The CALBO Emergency Preparedness Committee is here to help! Visit their committee webpage to get connected with a committee member today. 

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An Update from your Access Committee

The 2021-22 CALBO Access Committee has hit the ground running on this new membership year. Currently, the committee has been hard at work advising DSA/HCD and CABSC on proposed code changes for the 2022 CBC. That includes, providing sample layouts and questions for new requirements of raised circulation PAHs in parking facilities. They have also been working on a summary of accessible code changes for the 2019 CBC Intervening Cycle, which will be available to members shortly.

The committee needs your assistance! They will be launching a large-scale accessibility training initiative soon. Volunteers are in need to help create seminars, handouts, and inspection/plan review/contractor/designer checklists. Would like to get involved? Please contact Chair Tim McCormick at tim@mcassoc.org for more information on how to get involved.