California Regulations, Licensing, and Permits
California adds layers on top of national codes. Know that the California Electrical Code is Title 24, Part 3, and that Title 24 Parts 6 and 11 address energy and green building. Low voltage work may be performed under a C-7 (low voltage) or C-10 (electrical) license depending on scope, and some work is exempt from licensing when it does not connect to power. Local jurisdictions issue permits and may require plan review; fire alarm work typically requires fire authority approval and a licensed contractor.
Know the role of the Contractors State License Board, the requirement for a qualifier, and the rules on advertising and contracts. Traps: assuming a general contractor license covers low voltage, performing fire alarm work without fire authority approval, and skipping permits for "minor" work. Also watch for the distinction between an employee and an independent contractor.
Rule of thumb: when scope touches life safety or line voltage, confirm license class, permit, and authority approval before starting.
Worked example: a tenant improvement adding access control. Confirm the C-7 or C-10 scope, pull the local permit, obtain fire authority approval for door release, and keep inspection records for closeout.