The Recodification of the California Public Records Act (CPRA); A Quick Reference Guide For Code Enforcement Teams
The California Public Records Act (CPRA) was passed by the California State Legislature and signed...
SB 721's first compliance deadline has passed. Learn what California's balcony inspection law requires and how cities can strengthen enforcement.
On January 1st, 2026, exactly seven years after the law took effect, the first compliance deadline for California SB 721, commonly known as the balcony law, has officially arrived. As a result, apartment buildings and other multi-family residential properties with exterior elevated elements (EEEs) that have not been inspected may now be out of compliance with state law.
In an area where balconies and decks are major selling points for property owners and residents alike, municipalities must understand the specifics of SB 721: what it covers, what it doesn’t, and how cities and counties can effectively implement and enforce its provisions.
Why did California enact SB 721?
The law was largely inspired by a tragic balcony collapse that occurred in July 2015 at the Library Gardens apartment complex in Berkeley, which killed seven people and seriously injured seven others.
Investigators determined that the balcony had been improperly sealed and waterproofed, allowing dry rot to develop and compromise the structural integrity of the support system.
While the Berkeley tragedy served as the catalyst for SB 721, it was not the first balcony-related disaster in California. In 1992, two people were killed, and 29 others were injured when a rusted support beam failed during a gathering on a balcony in Malibu.
More recently, in 2025, another balcony collapse in Malibu injured nine people. Investigators again found extensive dry rot caused by inadequate waterproofing and sealing.
These incidents underscore the importance of routine inspections and proactive maintenance of elevated exterior structures.
What Is SB 721?
Signed into law in September 2018, SB 721 requires inspections of multi-family residential buildings with three or more dwelling units that contain exterior elevated elements supported wholly or substantially by wooden structural components.
The purpose of these inspections is to evaluate both structural integrity and waterproofing systems to ensure the safety of occupants and the public.
How should cities and counties approach SB 721?
Although SB 721 places primary responsibility on property owners and inspectors, the law does not preempt stricter local regulations. This gives cities and counties the authority to adopt additional reporting requirements, inspection standards, and enforcement mechanisms.
By adopting clear procedures and expectations, local governments can improve compliance, strengthen public safety, and provide greater certainty for property owners, inspectors, and contractors.
Want more updates like these? Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates to your inbox!
Legal Disclaimer: This blog provides updates and insight on current municipal legislation and is not intended as legal advice. For specific legal advice related to hoarding house compliance assistance or any other municipal law issues, please contact Civica Law directly.
