Chapter 1 of 721% of exam

Planning and Estimating

CSLB weights Planning and Estimating at about 21% of the C-53 exam: reviewing plans and specifications, evaluating job sites, obtaining permits and estimating equipment and material costs. Some questions require computation, and a calculator is provided. This page is a short survey; the PrepPass C-53 Swimming Pool study guide teaches each knowledge statement with worked examples and a full practice exam at CSLB's weights.

Plans, sites and permits

Plans, soils, utilities, overhead lines and permits are settled before the first shovel of dirt.

Utility notice
Notify at least 2 working days before digging; mark the area and receive positive owner responses.
Title 8 §1541(b)
Pool excavation permit
Excavation for swimming pools is excepted from the Cal/OSHA trench permit, but the excavation rules still apply.
Title 8 §341(e)(6), §1540
Public pool plans
Written approval by the enforcing agent before construction; valid two years.
2025 CBC §3103B

Estimating

Volume, flow and quantity arithmetic, then contract payment rules.

Gallons
Cubic feet × 7.5 (7.48 exact).
CSLB C-53 study guide (computation)
Flow rate
Gallons ÷ (turnover hours × 60) = gpm.
CSLB C-53 study guide (computation)
Downpayment
The lesser of $1,000 and 10 percent of the contract price.
B&P Code §7159, §7159.5

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