California Code, Streets and Highways Code - SHC § 180.5

(a) If the permitting agency denies a permit, or if the department or local agency determines that a permit issued pursuant to Section 180.4 imposes unreasonable conditions that would lead to a significant delay in a seismic retrofit project, the department or local agency may file an appeal with the earthquake emergency and seismic retrofit permit review panel.

(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, if, at a duly noticed public meeting, the panel reviews a permit or a denial of a permit for which the department or local agency had filed an appeal pursuant to subdivision (a), and finds that the project is necessary for the preservation of the public peace, health, or safety within the meaning of Article IV of the California Constitution, the panel may waive the permit, amend any condition established by the permit, or issue a permit that has been denied by the permitting agency.