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
Approval of Building Product Listing and Evaluation Agencies
The purpose of this technical bulletin is to outline the criteria for acceptance of products, materials, assemblies, and equipment specified for construction of buildings, as well as to outline criteria for recognizing listing agencies.
Revised
Testing and Inspections for Proof of Compliance
The purpose of this bulletin is to establish procedure to provide proof of compliance when there is evidence
that any material or construction does not conform to the requirements of the California construction standard codes (the Codes).
Revised
Requirements for Outdoor Lighting
The purpose of this technical bulletin is to describe the major requirements for outdoor lighting.
Revised
Change of Occupancy from Commercial to Residential
The purpose of this technical bulletin is to provide a road map from the building code perspective when proposing a change of occupancy from a commercial, Group B occupancy to a residential, Group R-2 occupancy.
Revised
Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Systems
As of June 1, 2023, DSD Technical Bulletin FIRE-5-1 has been retired. The SDFD is now performing plan reviews and acceptance testing for Emergency Responder Radio Coverage Systems. Please see the new SDFD Guidelines at the following link: https://www.sandiego.gov/sites/default/files/sdfderrcsguide.pdf
Revised
Sprinklers, Standpipes, Fire Pumps and Secondary Water Supply for High-Rises
The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to establish the minimum requirements for the design of sprinkler systems, standpipes, secondary water supply and fire pumps in high-rise buildings. High-rise buildings are defined in the California Building Code (CBC) as a building having an occupied floor located more than 75 feet above the lowest level of fire department vehicle access.
Revised
Requirements for Fire Alarm Control Panels
The purpose of this technical bulletin is to describe the requirements for fire alarm control panels.
Revised
Sprinkler Protection for Balconies, Canopies, Porte-cocheres, and Decks
The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to establish the minimum requirements for the design and installation of sprinklers for balconies, canopies, porte-cocheres, and decks.
Revised
The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to provide fire alarm system wiring guidelines and requirements to the permit applicant. In addition to the information provided in this Technical Bulletin, the permit applicant shall follow definitions, guidelines and requirements from adopted codes and standards.
Revised
Design of Sprinkler Systems in Shell Buildings
The purpose of this Technical Bulletin is to provide the design criteria and requirements to the applicant for providing sprinkler systems in shell buildings without a specific tenant and/or use.
Revised