Permitting & Codes · Engineering Glossary
The Division of the State Architect (DSA) is a California state agency that acts as the AHJ for structural, fire-and-life-safety, and accessibility compliance on K–12 schools, community colleges, and state-owned buildings in California. DSA plan review and inspection requirements are more stringent than standard building department procedures.
Unlike a typical local building department, DSA requires project-specific inspection programs, special inspection agencies, and in some cases a full-time project inspector on site during critical construction phases. All engineering submittals to DSA must be prepared by a California-licensed PE or Structural Engineer. DSA maintains a separate code framework called the California Building Code (Title 24 Parts 1 and 2) with additional requirements for educational facilities. Engineers working on California school projects must be familiar with DSA's submittal formats, deferred submittal requirements, and field change procedures.
Apex Grid Engineering maintains this glossary as a resource for architects, contractors, developers, and property owners who encounter unfamiliar engineering terminology on their projects.
View All Engineering TermsApex Grid's licensed PEs provide permitting & codes services across multiple jurisdictions — with fast quote turnaround and permit-ready documents.
Request a Proposal