2026 California WUI Building Code: New Wildfire Construction Standards Take Effect January 1

What is the 2026 California WUI Code (Title 24, Part 7)?

The 2025 California Wildland-Urban Interface Code (CWUIC), Title 24, Part 7, represents the most significant restructuring of California's wildfire construction standards in decades. Taking effect January 1, 2026, the 2026 California WUI building code consolidates previously scattered wildfire safety requirements into a single, comprehensive regulatory framework that affects all construction services in Fire Hazard Severity Zones.

According to the California Building Standards Commission, the 2026 California WUI building code adopts with amendments the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code 2024 (IWUIC 2024). Historically, WUI-related requirements were spread across multiple sources including the Health and Safety Code, CBC Chapter 7A, CRC Chapter 3, and Chapter 49 of the California Fire Code. The new consolidated 2026 California WUI building code eliminates this fragmentation, providing designers, contractors, homeowners, and local jurisdictions with a clearer, more accessible framework for compliance and enforcement.

The 2026 California WUI building code consists of seven chapters plus appendices:

• Chapter 1: Administration of the 2026 California WUI building code
• Chapter 2: Definitions
• Chapter 3: Wildland-Urban Interface Areas
• Chapter 4: Wildland-Urban Interface Area Requirements
• Chapter 5: Special Building Construction Regulations under the 2026 California WUI building code
• Chapter 6: Fire Protection Requirements
• Chapter 7: Referenced Standards

Under the 2026 California WUI building code, Chapter 5 contains the critical regulations that establish minimum standards for the location, design, and construction of buildings within designated Fire Hazard Severity Zones or WUI areas. Chapter 6 of the 2026 California WUI building code addresses additional requirements for development in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) and State Responsibility Areas (SRA).

Why the Change? Moving from Chapter 7A to Dedicated WUI Code

California's previous wildfire construction requirements under CBC Chapter 7A served the state for years, but the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires demanded a more robust, centralized approach. The transition from Chapter 7A to the dedicated Title 24, Part 7 reflects lessons learned from devastating fires like the 2018 Camp Fire, 2017 Tubbs Fire, and the 2025 Palisades Fire.

As noted by Bildsten Architecture and Planning, all regulations from Chapter 7A in the CBC and Section R337 in the CRC have been relocated into Chapter 5 of the 2026 California WUI building code. This consolidation provides several key advantages for Pacific Beach Builder and our clients:

• Single Source of Truth: Under the 2026 California WUI building code, contractors and designers no longer need to cross-reference multiple code sections scattered across different titles
• Enhanced Clarity: The 2026 California WUI building code uses amended language that deletes and replaces model code provisions where they conflicted with existing California laws
• Comprehensive Scope: The 2026 California WUI building code now incorporates provisions from Title 14, Title 19, and the Health and Safety Code in one location
• Stronger Enforcement: Local jurisdictions can more easily verify compliance with the unified 2026 California WUI building code structure
• Future-Proof Framework: The 2026 California WUI building code structure allows for easier updates as wildfire science evolves

According to recent research from IBHS and Headwaters Economics, homes built to the 2026 California WUI building code and similar wildfire-resistant codes have dramatically better survival rates during wildfire events. The consolidation into the 2026 California WUI building code (Title 24, Part 7) ensures these proven standards are consistently applied across all California jurisdictions.

Effective Date: January 1, 2026 - What You Need to Know NOW

The 2026 California WUI building code becomes mandatory for all building permit applications submitted on or after January 1, 2026. This effective date has critical implications for property owners and developers currently planning construction and remodeling projects in Pacific Beach, La Jolla, Mission Beach, and surrounding areas.

According to the City of San Diego Development Services, any permit application filed on or after January 1, 2026, must meet the 2026 California WUI building code standards. Applications submitted before this date will follow the 2022 code cycle. However, local amendments to the 2026 California WUI building code are still being processed and are expected to be in effect in March or April 2026.

Critical Timeline Considerations:

• December 2025: Final opportunity to submit permit applications under 2022 code standards before the 2026 California WUI building code takes effect
• January 1, 2026: The 2026 California WUI building code becomes mandatory statewide
• March-April 2026: San Diego local amendments to the 2026 California WUI building code expected to take effect
• July 1, 2026: Enhanced wildfire reconstruction standards take effect per SB 326
• Through 2031: Due to AB 130, the 2026 California WUI building code will remain in force for six years

The extended six-year cycle under AB 130 means that investments in 2026 California WUI building code-compliant construction now will remain code-compliant through at least 2031, providing long-term regulatory stability for property owners planning ADU construction or other projects.

What This Means for Current Projects:

If you're planning construction in 2026 or beyond, now is the time to:

• Review your property's Fire Hazard Severity Zone designation for 2026 California WUI building code applicability
• Update architectural plans to incorporate 2026 California WUI building code-compliant materials
• Budget for enhanced fire-resistant components required by the 2026 California WUI building code
• Select contractors with demonstrated 2026 California WUI building code expertise
• Source approved materials from the California State Fire Marshal's Building Materials Listing for 2026 California WUI building code compliance

Pacific Beach Builder has already integrated the 2026 California WUI building code requirements into our standard construction practices, ensuring seamless compliance for all projects beginning January 1, 2026. Contact us for a consultation on your 2026 California WUI building code compliance needs.

What Triggers WUI Code Compliance in Pacific Beach?

Understanding whether your Pacific Beach, La Jolla, or Mission Beach property falls under 2026 California WUI building code requirements depends on its Fire Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ) designation. According to the City of San Diego Fire-Rescue Department, Fire Hazard Severity Zones are geographical areas classified as Very High, High, or Moderate fire hazard based on terrain, vegetation, weather, and other wildfire risk factors that trigger 2026 California WUI building code compliance.

2025 Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map Updates

In 2025, CAL FIRE through the Office of the State Fire Marshal released updated Local Responsibility Area (LRA) Fire Hazard Severity Zone maps for San Diego County. These updated maps significantly expanded areas designated as High and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones subject to the 2026 California WUI building code. Critically, areas not previously identified as high hazard for wildfires—particularly neighborhoods adjacent to open space—are now newly classified and subject to 2026 California WUI building code requirements and stricter mitigation requirements, similar to the building code regulations for retaining walls.

This means many Pacific Beach and La Jolla properties that were previously exempt from WUI requirements may now fall under the 2026 California WUI building code's scope.

WUI Code Applicability Criteria

According to the San Diego County 2026 Consolidated WUI Code, the following projects must comply with the 2026 California WUI building code:

• All new construction in State Responsibility Areas (SRA) under the 2026 California WUI building code
• All new construction in Local Responsibility Areas (LRA) designated as Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones under the 2026 California WUI building code
• All additions to existing structures in these zones per the 2026 California WUI building code
• All exterior alterations of existing structures in these zones per the 2026 California WUI building code
• All occupancy types - residential, commercial, educational, institutional, or similar uses under the 2026 California WUI building code
• All structure sizes - including garages, workshops, greenhouses, accessory dwelling units, and outbuildings under the 2026 California WUI building code

The 2026 California WUI building code specifically states that compliance applies "regardless of use, size, separation distances, or occupancy type." This comprehensive scope ensures that every structure in high-risk zones meets minimum wildfire resistance standards under the 2026 California WUI building code.

How to Check Your Property's Fire Hazard Severity Zone

Property owners can determine their FHSZ designation by:

1. Visiting the OSFM Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer to determine 2026 California WUI building code applicability
2. Reviewing the City of San Diego Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map for 2026 California WUI building code requirements
3. Contacting San Diego Development Services at (619) 446-5000 about 2026 California WUI building code compliance
4. Consulting with Pacific Beach Builder during the pre-design phase for 2026 California WUI building code assessment

Properties near Kate Sessions Park and areas that back up to open space or canyons are particularly likely to fall within Very High FHSZ designations.

Fire-Rated Vent Requirements: Class A vs. Ember-Resistant Vents

Ventilation openings represent one of the most critical vulnerabilities in wildfire events. According to Vulcan Vents' WUI building codes research, during the 2018 Camp Fire, embers penetrating through traditional mesh vents ignited attic spaces in hundreds of homes, causing structure losses even when the primary fire front had passed.

The 2026 California WUI building code addresses this vulnerability with strict vent requirements, similar to how the California Title 24 heat pump requirements for 2026 address energy efficiency.

2026 WUI Code Vent Requirements

Under the 2026 California WUI building code (Title 24, Part 7), all ventilation openings for enclosed attics, soffit spaces, rafter spaces, and other openings must be fully covered with Wildfire Flame and Ember Resistant vents approved and listed by the California State Fire Marshal, or WUI vents tested to ASTM E2886 and listed per the 2026 California WUI building code.

This applies to all vent types:

• Gable end vents
• Foundation and crawl space vents
• Garage vents
• Eave and soffit vents
• Ridge vents
• Roof vents
• Dormer vents

ASTM E2886 Testing Standard Explained

ASTM E2886 is the critical test standard for evaluating vents in wildfire-prone areas. According to BrandGuard Vents, this test method simulates both ember intrusion and direct flame impingement conditions that occur during wildfires.

Vents listed as CalFire-approved must test to ASTM E2886 by complying with all of these requirements:

• Ember Intrusion Test: There shall be no flaming ignition of cotton material during the test
• Flame Intrusion Test: There shall be no flaming ignition during the Integrity Test portion
• Heat Transmission Test: The maximum temperature of the unexposed side of the vent shall not exceed 662°F (350°C)

Traditional 1/8-inch mesh or louvered vents cannot pass the ASTM E2886 three-part test. ASTM-tested vents must resist three elements: embers, flames, and radiant heat—all three are critical during a wildfire.

Approved WUI Vent Products

The California State Fire Marshal's Building Materials Listing maintains a searchable database of approved WUI vents. Leading manufacturers include:

• Vulcan Vents (ASTM E2886 certified)
• BrandGuard Vents (CalFire listed)
• FireStorm Building Products
• Lomanco WUI-compliant vents

Cost Considerations for WUI-Compliant Vents

While traditional mesh vents cost $5-$15 per vent, ASTM E2886-certified WUI vents typically range from $40-$120 per vent depending on size and type. For a typical 2,000-square-foot home requiring 8-12 vents, the incremental cost for WUI-compliant vents ranges from $400-$1,200.

However, this investment provides significant benefits:

• Compliance with mandatory 2026 code requirements
• Insurance premium reductions of 15-25% in high-risk areas
• Dramatically improved structure survivability during wildfire events
• Increased property resale value

Pacific Beach Builder sources 2026 California WUI building code-compliant vents exclusively from CalFire-listed manufacturers and includes them as standard components in all projects within Fire Hazard Severity Zones requiring 2026 California WUI building code compliance.

Ignition-Resistant Materials: Complete Requirements Guide

The 2026 California WUI building code establishes comprehensive ignition-resistant material requirements for all exterior building components. According to the 2026 California WUI building code, an ignition-resistant material is defined as any product which, when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 for a period of 30 minutes, shall have a flame spread of not over 25 and show no evidence of progressive combustion per the 2026 California WUI building code standards. Additionally, the flame front shall not progress more than 10.5 feet beyond the centerline of the burner at any time during the test.

ASTM E84 Flame Spread Ratings

Materials are classified based on their flame spread index:

• Class A: Flame spread 0-25 (required for most WUI applications)
• Class B: Flame spread 26-75 (acceptable for some deck materials)
• Class C: Flame spread 76-200 (generally not acceptable in WUI zones)

The Class A rating represents superior fire resistance under the 2026 California WUI building code, indicating materials that burn slowly and resist flame propagation. According to Fire Safe San Mateo's WUI code information, all materials under the 2026 California WUI building code must be labeled for exterior use and exhibit a listed flame spread index meeting these standards.

Noncombustible vs. Ignition-Resistant Materials

The code allows two compliance pathways for exterior walls and other components:

• Noncombustible materials: Materials that do not ignite, burn, support combustion, or release flammable vapors when subjected to fire or heat (examples: concrete, masonry, metal, fiber cement)
• Ignition-resistant materials: Combustible materials that have been tested and meet Class A flame spread requirements (examples: fire-retardant treated wood, certain composite materials)

State Fire Marshal Product Listing

According to the California Office of the State Fire Marshal, since materials under Wildland Urban Interface Building Codes (except wood shakes and shingles) are not required by law to be listed by the SFM, the listing for these products is strictly voluntary. However, materials not listed by the SFM may still qualify for use provided they meet all the requirements and documentation showing compliance is submitted to the building official.

The SFM's Building Materials Listing Program (BML) was established to mandate approval and listing before sale or marketing in California. All products published in the WUI handbook have been reviewed and verified by OSFM staff to comply with the WUI code and have been listed by the BML Program.

For technical inquiries about material approval, property owners and contractors can contact BML Program Coordinator Victor Wong at Victor.Wong@fire.ca.gov.

Roofing, Siding, Windows, and Doors Requirements

Roofing Requirements

The 2026 California WUI building code mandates Class A fire-rated roofing assemblies for all structures in Fire Hazard Severity Zones. All roofing materials used in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones must achieve a Class A fire rating under ASTM E108 or UL 790 testing standards per the 2026 California WUI building code.

This classification represents the highest level of fire resistance, requiring materials to:

• Withstand significant flame exposure without igniting
• Resist spreading flame across the surface
• Prevent producing burning brands that could ignite other structures

Approved Class A roofing materials include:

• Asphalt composition shingles (Class A rated)
• Clay or concrete tile
• Slate
• Metal panels (steel, aluminum, copper)
• Modified bitumen membranes

Prohibited roofing materials:

• Wood shingles and wood shakes (prohibited in any Fire Hazard Severity Zone regardless of classification)
• Non-rated asphalt shingles
• Untreated shake or shingle products

Complete Assembly Compliance

Achieving Class A rating under the 2026 California WUI building code requires more than just the primary roofing material. The entire assembly—including underlayments, fasteners, and edge details—must work together to maintain fire resistance per the 2026 California WUI building code.

Additional roofing requirements include:

• Roof valley flashing installation per code specifications
• Roof gutter materials and maintenance provisions
• Proper roof airspace under roof covering where applicable
• Edge metal and drip edge installation

Roofing Cost Impact

According to Headwaters Economics research on wildfire construction costs, wildfire-resistant modifications to roofing, vents, fascia, soffits, and gutters added $5,860 (27%) to the cost of a typical roof, assuming both homes use Class A fire-rated asphalt composition shingles.

For a typical Pacific Beach home, Class A roofing assembly costs break down as:

• Standard Class A asphalt shingles: $8,000-$12,000 (2,000 sq ft roof)
• Concrete tile: $15,000-$25,000
• Metal roofing: $18,000-$30,000
• Clay tile: $20,000-$35,000

Exterior Siding Requirements

Under the 2026 California WUI building code, exterior walls shall be constructed with approved noncombustible or ignition-resistant material, heavy timber, or log wall construction, or shall provide protection from the intrusion of flames and embers in accordance with standard SFM 12-7A-1 per the 2026 California WUI building code.

Approved noncombustible siding materials:

• Fiber cement panels and lap siding (James Hardie, Allura, CertainTeed)
• Stucco over metal lath
• Brick or stone veneer
• Concrete or CMU walls
• Metal siding panels

Approved ignition-resistant materials:

• Fire-retardant treated wood siding
• Certain composite siding products with Class A flame spread ratings

According to the Western Wood Products Association, lumber products used as siding in WUI areas must pass state-mandated fire tests. Exterior wood siding must be either naturally resistant species (like redwood or cedar in specific applications) or fire-retardant treated to achieve required flame spread ratings.

Siding Cost Considerations

For a 2,000-square-foot home with 1,500 square feet of exterior wall area:

• Fiber cement siding: $12,000-$18,000 installed
• Stucco: $9,000-$15,000 installed
• Metal siding: $15,000-$25,000 installed
• Fire-retardant wood siding: $14,000-$22,000 installed

Window and Door Requirements

The 2026 California WUI building code addresses exterior windows, skylights, exterior glazed door assemblies, operable skylights, exterior doors, and garage doors. While the 2026 California WUI building code doesn't mandate specific window ratings for all applications, properties in the most extreme fire zones may require enhanced protection under the 2026 California WUI building code.

Basic tier requirements:

• Tempered or dual-pane glass windows
• Metal or noncombustible window frames
• Proper installation with noncombustible flashing

Enhanced tier requirements (Very High FHSZ):

• Fire-resistant windows tested to standards
• Multi-pane glazing assemblies
• Fire-rated door assemblies
• Ember-resistant garage doors

Window and Door Cost Impact

For a typical 2,000-square-foot home:

• Standard dual-pane windows (10 windows): $8,000-$12,000
• Enhanced fire-resistant windows: $12,000-$18,000
• Standard exterior doors: $2,500-$4,000
• Fire-rated garage door: $2,000-$3,500

Deck and Patio Requirements

Decks represent a critical ignition pathway during wildfires. Embers can accumulate under decks and in gaps between deck boards, creating sustained ignition sources adjacent to the main structure. The 2026 California WUI building code addresses this vulnerability with comprehensive deck requirements that align with San Diego's Zone Zero fire safety requirements.

Ignition-Resistant Deck Materials

According to Fortress Building Products' 2025 deck fire code updates, ignition-resistant deck materials under the 2026 California WUI building code shall be labeled for exterior use and shall exhibit a listed flame spread index not exceeding 25 when tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 per the 2026 California WUI building code.

Under the 2026 California WUI building code, WUI-approved decking has a flame spread rating from an A to a C, with Class A (0-25) representing the best rating indicating superior fire resistance per the 2026 California WUI building code.

State Fire Marshal Approved Deck Materials

The California State Fire Marshal lists several approved WUI deck materials:

1. Composite Decking:

• Trex Select composite deck board, square and grooved edge, nominal 1-inch thick x 5.5-inch width with edge-to-edge gap spacing of a maximum of 3/16 inch
• TimberTech proprietary Advanced PVC decking collections (Vintage and Landmark) with Class A Flame Spread Rating and WUI compliance

2. Solid Wood Decking:

• Minimum nominal 5/4-inch thick and nominal 6-inch wide decking boards with a maximum 3/8-inch radius edges
• Approved species: Redwood, Western Red Cedar, Incense Cedar, Port Orford Cedar, or Alaska Yellow Cedar
• Must achieve Class B Flame Spread rating when tested per ASTM E84

3. Exotic Hardwood:

• Sabra Brand "IPE" solid wood square edge deck board, 3/4-inch thick x 5-5/16-inch width, nominal density of 63.2 lb/cu ft

4. Steel Deck Framing:

• Steel is noncombustible, ignition-resistant, and fire-resistant by nature
• Reliable choice for meeting IWUIC, CWUIC, and NFPA 1140 requirements

Deck-to-Wall Interface Requirements

According to CAL FIRE's home hardening recommendations, critical requirements include:

• Install a minimum of 6-inch metal flashing applied vertically on the exterior wall at deck-to-wall intersections
• Ensure sufficient defensible space if your deck is overhanging and located on a slope
• Replace any damaged or rotting deck boards as they ignite more easily
• Close gaps between deck boards to prevent ember accumulation (maximum 3/16-inch spacing for composite, 3/8-inch for wood)

Deck Cost Comparisons

For a 300-square-foot deck in Pacific Beach:

• Pressure-treated lumber (non-WUI compliant): $4,500-$7,000
• Cedar/Redwood WUI-compliant: $7,000-$11,000
• Composite WUI-compliant (Trex Select): $8,500-$13,000
• PVC WUI-compliant (TimberTech): $9,500-$14,500
• IPE exotic hardwood: $12,000-$18,000
• Steel frame upgrade: Additional $1,500-$3,000

Cost Impact Analysis: Budget Planning for WUI-Compliant Projects

One of the most common questions Pacific Beach Builder receives is: "How much more does WUI-compliant construction cost?" The answer, based on comprehensive research, may surprise you.

Overall Cost Impact: Less Than You Think

According to groundbreaking research from the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) and Headwaters Economics, a new home built to wildfire-resistant codes can be constructed for roughly the same cost as a typical home.

The study finds negligible cost differences between a typical home and a home constructed using 2026 California WUI building code wildfire-resistant materials and design features. For a 1,750-square-foot, $500,000 build, 2026 California WUI building code-compliant costs ranged from around $9,000 to $15,000—or up to 3% more. "And that really equates to $50 extra per month on a traditional 30-year mortgage," researchers noted about 2026 California WUI building code compliance.

Component-by-Component Cost Breakdown

Based on the Headwaters Economics California Edition study, here's how 2026 California WUI building code compliance affects individual building components:

Roofing Assembly: +27% ($5,860)

Wildfire-resistant modifications to roofing, vents, fascia, soffits, and gutters added $5,860 (27%) to the cost of the typical roof for the model home, assuming both homes use Class A fire-rated asphalt composition shingles. This represents the largest single cost increase.

Retrofitting an existing roof to meet 2026 California WUI building code wildfire-resistant standards approached the cost of new construction, totaling $22,010 for the model home—highlighting the value of incorporating 2026 California WUI building code compliance during initial construction rather than retrofitting later.

Eaves and Soffits: +300% ($5,200 for enhanced standard)

Some differentials were more substantial. The $5,200 for IBHS Plus standard eaves is nearly three times the non-standard alternative. However, eaves represent a critical vulnerability, and this enhanced protection significantly improves structure survivability.

Vents: $400-$1,200 total incremental cost

Upgrading from traditional mesh vents ($5-$15 each) to ASTM E2886-certified WUI vents ($40-$120 each) adds relatively modest costs for the dramatic improvement in ember intrusion resistance.

Siding and Exterior Walls: Minimal to Moderate

The cost differential between non-WUI compliant siding and noncombustible/ignition-resistant options is often minimal, particularly when comparing fiber cement to traditional wood siding. Many builders in coastal San Diego already use stucco or fiber cement for durability and aesthetics, making WUI compliance nearly cost-neutral.

Decking: Varies by Material Choice

Deck costs vary significantly based on material selection. While WUI-compliant composite or PVC decking costs more than pressure-treated lumber, many homeowners in Pacific Beach already choose these materials for longevity and low maintenance, making the WUI compliance aspect an added benefit rather than a pure cost increase.

Total Project Cost Impact for Pacific Beach New Construction

For a typical 2,000-square-foot single-family home in Pacific Beach:

• Base construction cost: $550,000-$700,000
• 2026 California WUI building code compliance incremental cost: $10,000-$18,000
• Percentage increase for 2026 California WUI building code: 1.8-3.2%
• Monthly mortgage impact (30-year at 6.5%) for 2026 California WUI building code compliance: $50-$90

Cost Offsets and Long-Term Value

The incremental 2026 California WUI building code compliance costs are offset by several factors:

1. Insurance Premium Reductions: Many insurers require ASTM E2886 compliance for coverage in high-risk areas, and compliance can reduce premiums by 15-25%. For a $700,000 home with annual insurance premiums of $2,500, this represents savings of $375-$625 per year.

2. Increased Property Value: Homes meeting 2026 California WUI building code standards command premium resale values in fire-prone areas. Buyers increasingly prioritize 2026 California WUI building code compliance and wildfire resistance, particularly after high-profile fires.

3. Reduced Catastrophic Loss Risk: The primary value of 2026 California WUI building code compliance is dramatically improved structure survivability during wildfire events, protecting homeowners' largest financial asset.

4. Six-Year Code Stability: Due to AB 130, the 2026 California WUI building code cycle will remain in force through at least 2031, meaning 2026 California WUI building code-compliant construction today won't face near-term regulatory obsolescence.

Retrofit vs. New Construction Costs

The Headwaters Economics study found that retrofitting existing homes to 2026 California WUI building code compliance approaches the cost of new construction for many components. This creates a powerful economic incentive to incorporate 2026 California WUI building code compliance during initial construction or major remodels rather than waiting for future mandates.

For existing Pacific Beach homes, retrofit costs vary widely based on current construction and the extent of work required. Typical retrofit projects range from $15,000 for basic vent and soffit upgrades to $75,000+ for comprehensive home hardening including siding replacement and deck reconstruction.

How Pacific Beach Builder Ensures WUI Code Compliance

Pacific Beach Builder has invested extensively in training, systems, and supplier relationships to ensure seamless 2026 California WUI building code compliance for all projects in Fire Hazard Severity Zones across Pacific Beach, La Jolla, Mission Beach, Bird Rock, and Tourmaline.

Our WUI Compliance Process

1. Pre-Design Fire Hazard Assessment

Before finalizing architectural plans, we verify your property's Fire Hazard Severity Zone designation using the latest CAL FIRE maps and City of San Diego Development Services records. We provide a written assessment identifying applicable 2026 California WUI building code requirements and their design implications.

2. Material Selection from CalFire-Listed Products

We exclusively specify materials from the California State Fire Marshal's Building Materials Listing for all 2026 California WUI building code-critical components including vents, roofing assemblies, siding, and decking. Our supplier network maintains current certifications and testing documentation for 2026 California WUI building code plan check submissions.

3. Integrated Design Approach

Rather than treating 2026 California WUI building code compliance as an afterthought, we integrate fire-resistant materials and design strategies from the initial concept phase. This approach minimizes 2026 California WUI building code cost impacts while maximizing aesthetic appeal and long-term performance.

4. Documentation and Plan Check Coordination

Our team prepares comprehensive 2026 California WUI building code compliance documentation for San Diego Development Services plan check, including material cut sheets, testing certifications, and installation details. We coordinate directly with plan checkers to address 2026 California WUI building code questions and expedite approvals.

5. Certified Installer Network

We work exclusively with subcontractors trained in 2026 California WUI building code-compliant installation methods. Critical components like ember-resistant vents, deck-to-wall flashing, and fire-rated assemblies require specific 2026 California WUI building code installation techniques—our teams are certified and experienced.

6. Inspection Coordination

We schedule and coordinate all required inspections with City of San Diego or County building officials, ensuring 2026 California WUI building code-specific elements receive proper verification during framing, exterior, and final inspections.

7. Homeowner Education and Documentation

At project completion, we provide homeowners with comprehensive documentation of 2026 California WUI building code-compliant materials and systems, maintenance requirements, and 2026 California WUI building code compliance certifications for insurance and resale purposes.

Why Choose Pacific Beach Builder for WUI Projects

• 2026 California WUI Building Code Expertise: Our team has completed extensive training on the 2026 California WUI building code (Title 24, Part 7) requirements before the January 1, 2026 effective date
• Local Fire Zone Knowledge: We maintain detailed fire zone mapping for all Pacific Beach, La Jolla, and Mission Beach neighborhoods subject to the 2026 California WUI building code
• Supplier Relationships: Direct relationships with CalFire-listed product manufacturers ensure 2026 California WUI building code material availability and competitive pricing
• Proven Track Record: We've successfully completed WUI-compliant projects under CBC Chapter 7A and are ready for the 2026 California WUI building code transition
• Cost Transparency: We provide detailed cost breakdowns showing 2026 California WUI building code-specific components and their incremental impacts
• Insurance Coordination: We provide documentation required for insurance premium discounts on 2026 California WUI building code-compliant construction

Service Areas

Pacific Beach Builder serves the following San Diego neighborhoods with comprehensive 2026 California WUI building code compliance services:

• Pacific Beach: Including properties near Kate Sessions Park and coastal canyons
• La Jolla: Neighborhoods backing to open space and coastal sage scrub
• Mission Beach: Areas adjacent to Mission Bay Park and natural areas
• Bird Rock: Properties near coastal bluffs and open space
• Tourmaline: Homes adjacent to Tourmaline Surfing Park and canyon areas

Contact Pacific Beach Builder at (858) 290-1842 for a complimentary 2026 California WUI building code assessment and project consultation.