Cal/OSHA Proposes Emergency Changes to Boiler and Pressure Vessel Fees -- Occupational Health & Safety

A stainless steel pressure vessel with gauges and piping in an industrial mechanical room.

Cal/OSHA Proposes Emergency Changes to Boiler and Pressure Vessel Fees

The proposed regulations would adjust inspection and permit fees for boilers, air tanks and other pressure vessels to cover the costs of the state's inspection program.

By Danielle Naidu
Oct 16, 2026

Cal/OSHA has proposed emergency regulations to revise inspection and permit fees for boilers, air tanks and other pressure vessels in California.

The proposal, announced Oct. 15, would amend Sections 344, 344.1 and 344.2 of Title 8 of the California Code of Regulations. The changes address fees for shop, field and resale inspections, as well as inspection and operating permits for boilers, air tanks and liquefied petroleum gas tanks.

According to Cal/OSHA, the adjustments are intended to recover the full operating costs of its Pressure Vessel Unit, which oversees inspections and permitting for equipment that can present serious hazards if improperly maintained or operated.

The unit inspects certain boilers and pressure vessels and administers the permits required for their operation. Depending on the equipment and applicable exemptions, Cal/OSHA personnel or qualified insurance company inspectors may conduct inspections.

The proposed emergency regulations list a Nov. 2, 2026, effective date. Cal/OSHA said the changes would become effective upon filing with the California Secretary of State.

The proposal concerns inspection and permit fees, not changes to equipment safety standards.

About the Author

Danielle Naidu is assistant editor for Occupational Health & Safety and Environmental Protection Online.

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