As used in this chapter, architect means a person who is licensed to practice architecture in this state under the authority of this chapter.
ArchitectureGeneral Provisions
Section § 5500
This law section defines an architect as someone who holds a license to practice architecture in this state according to the rules laid out in this chapter.
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Section § 5500.1
This law section defines what the practice of architecture involves in California, which includes offering or carrying out professional services that require an architect's skills, like designing buildings or site planning. Architects are responsible for tasks such as investigations, planning, coordinating with consultants, ensuring compliance with codes, assisting in government reviews, preparing bid documents, managing contracts, and observing construction. To become a licensed architect, one must demonstrate competence in these areas through exams.
(a)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(a) The practice of architecture within the meaning and intent of this chapter is defined as offering or performing, or being in responsible control of, professional services which require the skills of an architect in the planning of sites, and the design, in whole or in part, of buildings, or groups of buildings and structures.
(b)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(b) Architects’ professional services may include any or all of the following:
(1)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(b)(1) Investigation, evaluation, consultation, and advice.
(2)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(b)(2) Planning, schematic and preliminary studies, designs, working drawings, and specifications.
(3)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(b)(3) Coordination of the work of technical and special consultants.
(4)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(b)(4) Compliance with generally applicable codes and regulations, and assistance in the governmental review process.
(5)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(b)(5) Technical assistance in the preparation of bid documents and agreements between clients and contractors.
(6)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(b)(6) Contract administration.
(7)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(b)(7) Construction observation.
(c)CA Business & Professions Code § 5500.1(c) As a condition for licensure, architects shall demonstrate a basic level of competence in the professional services listed in subdivision (b) in examinations administered under this chapter.
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Section § 5501
This section introduces the laws and rules specifically for professional architects, officially called the Architects Practice Act.
This chapter constitutes the chapter on professional architects. It shall be known and may be cited as the Architects Practice Act.
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