Building Department

Notice: The 2019 Building Code is in effect as of January 1st, 2020. All incoming plans must reference the 2019 California building codes. Access to the codes is public and can be reviewed either in person at the building counter or online by clicking here.


More information on why the building codes are important can be found by following the link below: 
https://codes.iccsafe.org/what-are-building-codes

The building department regulates the construction of all new, remodeled and existing residential, commercial and industrial buildings as mandated by the State of California and the City of Ridgecrest's building codes. These codes encompass the following:

  • Building
  • Electric
  • Mechanical
  • Plumbing
  • Sewer work
  • State energy and state and federal handicapped access laws

Code Purpose

The purpose of these codes is to provide the standards to safeguard life or limb, health, property and public welfare by regulating and controlling the following qualities of the buildings and structures within this jurisdiction:

  • Construction
  • Design
  • Location and maintenance of all buildings and structures within this jurisdiction
  • Quality of materials
  • Use and occupancy

Permits

The City currently uses the 2016 California Building, Mechanical, Plumbing and Electric Codes. View information on what's required to obtain a permit and then apply for a permit (PDF). If further information is needed, please call us at 760-499-5073.

Loads & Zones

City of Ridgecrest Loads and Zones are as follows:
Exposure - C
Wind Load - 110 Miles Per Hours (MPH)
Snow Load - None
Climate Zone - 14
Frost Depth - 0
Seismic Zone – D 

Contracting

For information on contracting for all types of construction projects or to check the current status of a contractor's license, please visit Department of Consumer Affairs website.

The 2016 California Building Codes, including the 2016 California Residential Code, fire sprinklers for new single family dwellings, and the 2016 California Green Building Standards Code, became mandatory throughout the State of California on January 1, 2011.