Strengthening Public Works Series Part 2 | Public Works Construction: DSA Oversight & Compliance

Date: September 29, 2026
Time: 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Location: Virtual
Register Here

Presented in partnership with the California Department of the State Architect (DSA)

A project doesn’t happen in a vacuum—DSA requirements directly impact your bid packages, project timelines, budgets, and change order management. Failing to account for DSA review or proceeding without proper approvals can stall construction, trigger non-compliance notices, and prevent final project certification.

Led directly by DSA representatives, this special session provides a practical roadmap through structural safety, accessibility, and fire/life safety requirements. Discover which projects qualify for exemptions, how to properly handle post-approval field changes (CCDs, revisions, and addenda), and what it takes to manage inspectors and secure a seamless, fully certified closeout.

In this session, we’ll cover:

  • DSA’s core authority over accessibility, structural safety, and fire/life safety for construction projects in California.
  • What types of projects are exempt or partially exempt from DSA review, and the applicable requirements for exempt projects.
  • Understanding the steps from Project submittal to final certification: DSA plan review and approval, construction oversight, and certification.
  • Post-approval and when a change to a project requires additional submittals and/or review (Revision, Addendum, Construction Change Documents).
  • Practical management of approved plans, Construction Change Documents (CCDs), field changes, inspector roles, and avoiding uncertified project traps.

About the Strengthening Public Works Series

Protect your district from costly legal traps, bid protests, and uncertified facilities. Strengthening Public Works is a targeted four-part training series designed specifically for California procurement and facilities professionals. From navigating complex statutory classifications and mandatory DSA oversight to executing bulletproof solicitations and managing post-award change orders, this series provides the practical frameworks you need to keep capital projects fully compliant, on schedule, and under budget.

What You Will Master Across 4 Expert Sessions:

  • Part 1 | Public Works Fundamentals: Classification & Statutory Rules (September 15 | 2:00-3:30PM) | Master classification rules, gray-area procurements, Labor/Public Contract Codes, and CUPCCAA thresholds to select the right bidding pathway every time.
  • Part 2 | Public Works Construction: DSA Oversight & Compliance (September 29 | 2:00-3:30PM) | Learn directly from DSA representatives how to navigate DSA oversight, manage post-approval project changes, and secure final certification without costly delays or compliance traps.
  • Part 3 | Public Works Solicitations: Scope, Bidding & Award (October 13 | 2:00-3:30PM) | Draft ironclad bid packages, execute defensible job walks, handle bid irregularities, and navigate bid protests with complete confidence.
  • Part 4 | Public Works Administration: Change Orders, Risk & Closeout (October 27 | 2:00-3:30PM) | Enforce DIR prevailing wage compliance, manage high-risk change orders without expanding scope, and execute seamless project closeouts that safeguard district funds.