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HomeBusiness and Professions CodeDiv. 3Ch. 3Art. 3§ 5538 Nonstructural Interior Work Exemptions

§ 5538 Nonstructural Interior Work Exemptions

Business and Professions Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 5538 Nonstructural Interior Work Exemptions

Key Takeaways

  • •You can hire someone to do small inside jobs in a building, like putting in new cabinets or furniture, without needing a special license.
  • •This rule also covers small changes that don’t mess with the building’s main structure or safety.
  • •Big changes that affect the building’s strength or safety still need a licensed pro.

Example

You want to update your kitchen by adding new cabinets and countertops.

You can hire someone to do this work without them needing a special license, as long as they’re not changing the building’s main structure or safety features.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 5538 Nonstructural Interior Work Exemptions

This chapter does not prohibit any person from furnishing either alone or with contractors, if required by Chapter 9 (commencing with Section 7000) of Division 3, labor and materials, with or without plans, drawings, specifications, instruments of service, or other data covering such labor and materials to be used for any of the following: (a) For nonstructural or nonseismic storefronts, interior alterations or additions, fixtures, cabinetwork, furniture, or other appliances or equipment. (b) For any nonstructural or nonseismic work necessary to provide for their installation. (c) For any nonstructural or nonseismic alterations or additions to any building necessary to or attendant upon the installation of those storefronts, interior alterations or additions, fixtures, cabinetwork, furniture, appliances, or equipment, provided those alterations do not change or affect the structural system or safety of the building. (Amended by Stats. 1990, Ch. 396, Sec. 2.)

Last verified: January 22, 2026

Key Terms

contractnetsafetyequipmentinstallation

Related Statutes

  • § 6745 Interior Construction Exemptions
  • § 1241.1 Primary Care Clinic Laboratories
  • § 23393.5 Direct Wine Sales License
  • § 7459 Driver Safety Training Requirements
  • § 10131.7 Mobilehome Sales Advertising Rules

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Business and Professions Code. Section 5538.
View Official Source