Mandatory Inspections of Balconies, Decks, and Other Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE)

As per Senate Bill 721 (2018) and Senate Bill 326 (2019), inspections will be required of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) by January 1, 2025. EEE inspections, as well as any required maintenance or repair identified after inspection, are the responsibility of the building owner or homeowners association (HOA).
 

⇒ Read more about the California State Balcony Inspection Law for Apartments

⇒ Read more about the California State Balcony Inspection Law for Condominiums

Buildings with 3 or more dwelling units that have Exterior Elevated Elements:

• Balconies, decks, porches, stairways, walkways, railings, and entry structures that extend beyond the exterior walls of the building; and
• That have a walking surface more than 6 feet above ground level; and
• Rely in whole or in substantial part on wood or wood-based products for structural support or stability.

An EEE inspection report that recommends immediate repairs and/or other safety measures due to immediate threat to the safety of occupants shall be provided immediately to the HOA for condominium buildings. The inspector shall submit the report to City of Oakland Code Enforcement Services within 15 days of completing the report.

If the inspector finds hazards for apartment buildings, then the inspector shall provide the EEE inspection report to the building owner and City of Oakland Code Enforcement Services within 15 days of completing the report.

The inspector shall email reports with immediate hazards/threats to BalconyCompliance@oaklandca.gov

Code enforcement proceedings under the Oakland Municipal Code will be initiated against building owners or HOAs that do not complete corrective work or if work is not completed on time.

A Building Permit is required to repair most parts of a typical wood deck, guard rail, or exterior stairway.

Please visit the Planning and Building Department’s Permit Center.  Please email BalconyCompliance@oaklandca.gov for more EEE specific information.

• Senate Bill 721 (2018): Building Standards: Decks and Balconies: Inspection
• Senate Bill 326 (2019): Common Interest Developments
• Building Permits
• City of Oakland Municipal Code - Buildings and Construction