Downey, CA Building Safety: Building Inspections (2026)

Section 8999.38(c) lists twelve required inspection stages a Downey building permit must pass through, in subsections (c)(1) through (c)(12): footing and foundation, once excavation and reinforcing steel are in place; concrete slab and under-floor, before concrete is poured or subfloor sheathing goes down; a lowest-floor elevation check in flood hazard areas; framing, once the roof deck, framing, fireblocking, bracing and rough electrical, plumbing and mechanical work are in and approved; rough plumbing, mechanical, gas and electrical systems, before anything is covered; lath, gypsum board and gypsum panel product inspection, before plaster or taping; weatherproofing checks on exposed balconies and walking surfaces; fire- and smoke-resistant penetration checks; energy efficiency inspections covering insulation R- and U-values, duct R-value and HVAC/water-heating efficiency; any other inspection the Building Official deems necessary; special inspections under California Building Code Chapter 17; and a final inspection once all permitted work is complete.

Subsection (f) puts the burden on the permit holder: notify the Building Official at least one working day before the work is ready, and keep the site accessible. Subsection (g) bars moving past any stage until the Building Official has signed off, and anything covered or concealed without that approval must be reopened for inspection at the owner's own cost under subsection (a), since neither the Building Official nor the City absorbs the expense of removing or replacing material to allow a delayed inspection. This framework was added by Ordinance 20-1432, adopted February 11, 2020.