CDI - Application Status

Santa Cruz County Code 13.10.700(A) defines "Attic" as "a non-habitable level between the top story of a building and the underside of the roof framing. An attic is not considered a "story" (see definition).

(1) Allowed features: windows; plywood flooring; unlimited headroom and floor area; one light fixture; water heater and HVAC system along with dedicated outlets as required under the California Building Code; and insulation. If insulation is installed beneath roof rafters, then it must also be installed between the attic and the story below.

(2) Prohibited features: conditioned space; sheetrock; permanent fixed stairs serving the attic area; decks accessed from the attic; electrical outlets other than those required for an HVAC system or water heater; and plumbing fixtures including sinks, toilets, and showers.

Please revise the room labels on plans to indicate 'attic' space. Please remove all features listed in subsection (2) 'Prohibited Features'. Additionally, please clearly call out on the plans that the following features are prohibited in attic spaces: conditioned space; sheetrock; permanent fixed stairs serving the attic area; decks accessed from the attic; electrical outlets other than those required for an HVAC system or water heater; and plumbing fixtures including sinks, toilets, and showers.

If you have any questions regarding these comments, please contact Michael Lam (Michael.Lam@santacruzcountyca.gov; (831) 454-3371).