Support for Remote Building Inspections (AB 1738)

Original title: Subject: AB 1738 (Carrillo) From: Council President Jenkins And Councilmember Ramachandran Recommendation: Adopt A Resolution In Support Of AB 1738 (Carrillo) To Modernize Local Building Inspection Practices By Authorizing Remote Inspections

May 19, 2026

building codes technology local government housing construction

Track this bill to get notified when it advances a stage. One tap to stop, anytime.

The Frame

What this does

This resolution signals the city's official support for state legislation that would change how building inspections are performed, potentially allowing for virtual or remote verification of construction work.

Who is mentioned in the record

Potentially affected actors named in the source documents. Mention is not a position.

Oakland City Council

The council has formally adopted a position on state legislation.

Property owners and contractors in Oakland

These groups may be subject to remote inspection procedures if the state bill is passed and subsequently implemented locally.

What changed

Last recorded activity May 19, 2026.

What's next

Next step not available in the current record.

Summary

The Oakland City Council has passed a resolution to formally support California Assembly Bill 1738, which aims to allow local building departments to conduct inspections remotely.

Why It Matters

Key Facts

The Oakland City Council and the Oakland Redevelopment Successor Agency passed a resolution supporting AB 1738.
AB 1738 proposes to modernize building inspection practices by authorizing remote inspections.
The resolution was introduced by Council President Jenkins and Councilmember Ramachandran.
The file number for this legislative action is 26-0608.
The resolution was introduced on April 21, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does this resolution actually do?

It expresses the City of Oakland's official support for a state bill (AB 1738) that would allow building inspectors to conduct their work remotely.

Does this mean I can have my building inspection done remotely right now?

No. This resolution is a statement of support for state-level legislation. The actual ability to conduct remote inspections depends on the passage of AB 1738 at the state level.