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

EXTENDED: Assembly Bill 2579 now extends the inspection deadline for Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) originally set by SB 721 (Apartments) to January 1, 2026.

Per Senate Bill 326 (Common Interest Developments), inspections are still required of Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) at Condominiums and other common interest developments 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).

Building owners, HOAs, and inspectors are advised to read all FAQs.

FAQ SB 721: State Inspection Requirements for Apartments

FAQ SB 326: State Inspection Requirements for Condominiums

To avoid a Notice of Violation and fee charges, if your building is Exempt, then building owners and HOAs must complete the Exemption Form: https://oaklandca.gov/eee (you will receive email confirmation)

Reasons for exemption:

• There are NO exterior balconies, decks, stairways, walkways, railings, and entry structures that have a walking surface more than six (6) feet above ground level AND rely on wood or wood-based products for structural support or stability.
• There are more than two units on the lot but no more than two units in any building.
• The buildings on the lot are a single-family dwelling or duplex.

If Inspection is Required, then please download the fillable Inspection Form (please read all 3 pages): Exterior Elevated Elements (EEE) Inspection Form

Still have questions? Please email us at balconycompliance@oaklandca.gov or call (510) 238-7189.

• Assemby Bill 2579 (2024): Inspections: Exterior Elevated Elements
• Assembly Bill 2114 (2024): Building Standards: Exterior Elevated Elements: Inspection
• 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