California Code, Health and Safety Code - HSC § 17960.1

(a) The governing body of a local agency may authorize its enforcement agency to contract with or employ a private entity or persons on a temporary basis to perform the plan-checking function.

(b) A local agency need not enter into a contract or employ persons if it determines that no entities or persons are available or qualified to perform the plan-checking services.

(c) Entities or persons employed by a local agency may, pursuant to agreement with the local agency, perform all functions necessary to check the plans and specifications to comply with other requirements imposed pursuant to this part or by local ordinances adopted pursuant to this part, except those functions reserved by this part or local ordinance to the legislative body.  A local agency may charge the applicant fees in an amount necessary to defray costs directly attributable to employing or contracting with entities or persons performing services pursuant to this section which the applicant requested.

(d) For purposes of this section: