you are not wrong, but missing quite a bit. In California and elsewhere, small variations in building and electrical code are used to stall, or make conflicting

you are not wrong, but missing quite a bit. In California and elsewhere, small variations in building and electrical code are used to stall, or make conflicting requirements using vague wording, that gives excess discretionary power to inspectors. In a large, wealthy city like San Francisco, inspectors routinely stall projects, or exert excessive discretionary powers over construction. Why? obviously it is an entry to corruption, but don't overlook the convenience to the city department of being completely and totally in control, to stall.. while being on salary.