This technical bulletin establishes the requirements and the process for becoming a registered special inspector with the City of San Diego. Inspectors performing special inspections as specified in Chapter 17 of the California Building Code are required to be registered by the City of San Diego. Registered inspectors are authorized to perform special inspections in their registration category.

I. Special Inspection Registration Categories

The Development Services Department issues registrations in the following categories:

1. Reinforced Concrete.
2. Structural Masonry.
3. Prestressed Concrete.
4. Structural Steel and Bolting / Structural Welding.
5. Spray-applied Fireproofing.
6. Pile Driving (driven).
7. Structural Wood.
8. Exterior Insulation & Finish System (EIFS).
9. Firestopping.
10. Others (as required by the Building Official).

All special inspections must be performed per the provisions of the California Building Code and Standards as adopted by the City of San Diego.

II. Qualification Requirements

1. Refer to Table 1 for minimum registration requirements, which include certification, additional requirements for each category, and education and experience points.
2. Refer to Table 2 for points assigned by education and experience. Observe the minimum and maximum points required for each category.

III. Application Submittal Requirements

Applicants shall apply online on the Development Services Department page. Fill out form DS-320, Application for Special Inspector Registration completely. After completing the application, attach the documents listed below and click the “Submit and Sign” button in the form. The attachment button is a paper clip icon on the form's top left.

1. Copy of updated resume, showing the experience and education, with a list of contact phone numbers.
2. Proof of education and technical competence (not required for renewal of registration):
   1. Copies of State, College, Trade school, or High school diplomas, degrees, or certificates related to the applied certifications.
   2. Copies of transcripts may be submitted in lieu of diplomas or degrees.
3. Proof of certification issued by the required International Code Council (ICC) and American Concrete Institute (ACI), when applicable, with a valid expiration date. All certifications shall be current and valid.
4. A recent picture showing a clear face (no hats, masks, glasses, etc.) with a solid color background. Picture taken with a regular phone camera may be accepted as long as the image is sharp, clear, visible, without distortions, and complies with face requirements. Pictures not complying will be rejected. Pictures should be sent in JPG, JPEG, and PDF formats only.

IV. Virtual or Phone Interview

After the application and documents are received and reviewed, a virtual or phone interview may be necessary to complete the review. An email will be sent to schedule a virtual or phone interview if needed. In-person interviews may be conducted once the office is open to the public.

V. Renewal of Registration

The issued registration card is valid for three years or upon adoption of a new California Building Code. Failure to renew any registration cards is a cause for suspension or revocation of the special inspector registration. Special inspection reports will not be accepted.

All renewal applications shall be submitted within six months of the expiration date. A registered inspector may not conduct any inspections with an expired registration. There is no time extension for renewal processing by the Department after the expiration date. Failure to complete the renewal of an expired license within six months after the expiration date constitutes abandonment of the registration card. The applicant will be required to submit as a new special inspector candidate.

VI. Fees

The City Treasurer will invoice a non-refundable fee upon receiving form DS-320. The invoice will be mailed and shall be paid by the due date marked on the invoice. Failure to pay will cause late fees and other penalties assessed by the City Treasurer and can cause delays or suspension of the application, registration, or renewal procedures.

This fee will be assessed for all the applied categories each time. It is not refundable whether the application and registration are approved or denied.

A new application is required for add-on categories, and new fees will be assessed.

Fee………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. $ 283.28

VII. Communication and Change in Information

Every registered special inspector is requested to have Internet connectivity and maintain a current and valid e-mail address on file with the department. Please notify the department immediately if your mailing address, telephone number, or e-mail address has changed.

Information will periodically be sent electronically to registered special inspectors, and it is essential that you receive it. Such information will be e-mailed to the e-mail address on file.

VIII. Additional Information

For more information regarding the registration as a special inspector, contact:

Email: specialinspections@sandiego.gov

Mail:  City of San Diego Development Services Department
           Inspection Services Division
           9601 Ridgehaven Court, Suite 220
           San Diego, CA 92123

Telephone: 858-492-5070

Table 1
Categories Requirements

Table 2
Points Assigned to Education and Experience

Note: Subject to the limitations stated above, the experience categories may be combined to obtain the required total points needed to be considered for registration. Points cannot be accumulated in more than one experience category for any given period.