(a) This chapter does not prevent an architect from forming a business entity or collaborating with persons who are not architects, provided that any architects’ professional services that are provided through that entity or collaboration are offered and provided under the responsible control of an architect, or architects, and in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.

(b) (1) A business entity organized as a general corporation may include in its name any or all of the following:

Terms Used In California Business and Professions Code 5535.2

  • collaboration: include employer and employee relationships, joint ventures, partnerships, general corporations, and consulting relationships formed by written agreement in which the architect provides immediate and responsible direction of architectural services. See California Business and Professions Code 5535.25
  • Corporation: A legal entity owned by the holders of shares of stock that have been issued, and that can own, receive, and transfer property, and carry on business in its own name.

(A) A fictitious name.

(B) The name of one or more licensed architects.

(C) The term “architect,” the term “architecture,” or a variation of the term “architect” or “architecture.”

(2) Nothing in paragraph (1) shall limit a business entity organized as a general corporation from including in its name any other word or name that is not otherwise prohibited by law.

(3) Notwithstanding paragraphs (1) and (2), a business entity organized as a general corporation shall not include in its name the term “professional corporation.”

(Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 376, Sec. 2. (AB 830) Effective January 1, 2022.)