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Review Process for Minor Modernization Projects

This is an update to the CDE review process for Minor Modernization Projects.

The California Department of Education (CDE) has updated its March 10, 2000 policy for reviewing submitted projects that the district’s design professional has certified as exempt from review by the Division of the State Architect (DSA). This update reflects changes to the DSA Interpretation of Regulations and clarifies the information to be submitted for the CDE review.

Type of Projects

Projects covered under this process are those related to general maintenance/repair work. Examples include painting, glazing, roof repair, replacement of controls and landscaping.

Projects must meet the parameters described in the DSA’s Interpretation of Regulation A-10 (IR A-10) "Alteration and Reconstruction Projects External link opens in new window or tab. (PDF)" and/or Interpretation of Regulation A-22 (IR A-22), "Construction Projects and Items Exempt from DSA Review External link opens in new window or tab.(PDF)"

Submittal Requirements for CDE Review

  • A letter from the district requesting that the project be reviewed pursuant to this policy and that the district has determined that the project is consistent with the standards in California Code of Regulations, Title 5 (Title 5) Section 14001 et seq.
  • A letter from the district’s design professional certifying that the project is exempt from DSA review pursuant to the IR A10 and/or IR A-22.
  • A completed form SFPD 4.08 in which the scope of the work is presented.
  • A site plan showing the location of the work.
  • Plans are not required to be submitted, but will be accepted.

Upon receipt and review, the CDE will provide the district a letter stating that the project is consistent with the standards contained in Title 5 Section 14001 et seq. As with all projects approved by the CDE, the CDE letter indicates the project’s consistency with the Title 5 standards only, and it is the district’s responsibility to ensure that all other applicable laws related to the design and construction of school facilities are met.

Questions:   School Facilities & Transportation Services Division | sftsd@cde.ca.gov | 916-322-2470
Last Reviewed: Wednesday, May 28, 2025
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