CONNECT with the CityTechnical Bulletins
Technical Bulletins (TB) clarify the application and interpretation of code requirements, policies or procedures.
Updates to TBs
DSD continuously updates its publications to align with the latest building codes, construction practices, safety standards, design guidelines and regulatory changes. Here is a summary of the most recently updated TBs:
- Nov. 4, 2025 | TB-BLDG-17-1 "How to Become a Registered Special Inspector"
- Oct. 7, 2025 | TB-BLDG-17-5 "Approval of Building Product Listing and Evaluation Agencies"
- Oct. 7, 2025| TB-BLDG-17-6 "Testing and Inspections for Proof of Compliance"
- Oct. 2, 2025| TB-BLDG-17-2 "Duties of Special Inspector, Approved Material Testing Laboratory, and Special Inspection Agency"
Technical Bulletin Search
Fire Separation Requirement for Parking Under Overhang
The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to describe fire resistive separation requirements when a residential occupancy cantilevers over a parking space.
Revised
Determination of Building Height in the Coastal Height Limitation Overlay Zone
The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to illustrate how building height is determined for buildings and structures located in the Coastal Height Limitation Overlay Zone (also referred to as Proposition). Costal height limitation overlay zone shall be referred to a costal zone herein after.
Revised
Impact Protection for Fire-Resistant Columns
This Technical Bulletin describes some acceptable methods of protecting the fire-resistive covering of columns that are subject to impact.
Revised
Design and Testing Requirements for Smoke Control Systems
The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to provide the smoke control guidelines and requirements to the building permit applicant. This bulletin also describes the minimum requirements for smoke control design and special inspection.
Revised
Maximum Floor Area Allowances Per Occupant
This Technical Bulletin details the maximum floor area allowances per occupant for various spaces.
Revised
Floor and Wall Finishes in Toilet, Bath and Shower Spaces
This technical bulletin provides information on acceptable floor finishes and wall finishes in toilet, bath and shower spaces.
Revised
Combustible Water-Resistive Barriers in Exterior Walls of Type III Construction
This Technical Bulletin establishes acceptable water-resistive barrier (WRB) materials to be used in exterior walls for buildings of Type III construction with heights greater than 40 feet above grade plane.
Revised
Maintenance and Servicing of Seismic Instrumentation for New Buildings
This Technical Bulletin establishes the maintenance and servicing requirements for Earthquake Recording Instrumentation.
Revised
How to Become a Registered Special Inspector
This technical bulletin establishes the requirements and the process for becoming a registered special inspector with the City of San Diego.
Revised
Duties of Registered Special Inspector
This bulletin establishes the duties and responsibilities of registered special inspectors and approved material testing laboratories and special inspection agencies.
Revised