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My project has a structural steel component to it. Am I required to have shop inspection?
As with almost all questions related to materials testing and inspection, the answer to this question will depend on the authority having jurisdiction over the project. Per 1704.2.5 of the 2013 California Building Code (CBC) special inspection of structural load-bearing members and assemblies at the fabricator is required. However, per the exception in 1704.2.5.1 if the fabricator is approved by the building official this requirement is waived. Each jurisdiction has their own procedure/policy for approval of fabricators so you should verify with the jurisdiction and with your contractor if the fabricators that will be utilized for your project are approved. In addition, should complete joint penetration welds be performed at the fabricator these will still need to be independently ultrasonically tested as the exception is only for inspection and does not also apply to any testing required. Please also note that this exception is not present in Chapter 17A which governs DSA and OSHPD projects.