California Code, Health and Safety Code - HSC § 1525.5

(a) The department may issue provisional licenses to operate community care facilities for facilities that it determines are in substantial compliance with this chapter and the rules and regulations adopted pursuant to this chapter, provided that no life safety risks are involved, as determined by the department. In determining whether any life safety risks are involved, the department shall require completion of all applicable fire clearances and criminal record clearances as otherwise required by the department's rules and regulations. The provisional license shall expire six months from the date of issuance, or at any earlier time as the department may determine, and may not be renewed. However, the department may extend the term of a provisional license for an additional six months at time of application, if it is determined that more than six months will be required to achieve full compliance with licensing standards due to circumstances beyond the control of the applicant, provided all other requirements for a license have been met.

(b) This section shall not apply to foster family homes.