CBC · California Building Code

Which CalGreen energy sections are adopted/enforced by agencies?

For homeowners or project owners: CalGreen's nonresidential energy rules (Division 5.2) point you to the California Energy Code for mandatory energy standards—CalGreen's Matrix tells you which state agency (or local government if they adopt it) applies or enforces particular CalGreen sections. Check § 5.201.1 and the Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table to know who enforces what for your project .

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)

Division 5.2 of CalGreen covers nonresidential energy-efficiency measures, but the mandatory energy-efficiency standards are implemented by the California Energy Commission (the California Energy Code). In short: CalGreen Division 5.2 defers mandatory energy standards to the California Energy Code (§ 5.201.1) and the Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table shows how state agencies adopt or limit adoption of the Division 5.2 provisions (see Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table — Division 5.2) .

Requirements in detail

1) Who sets mandatory energy rules

  • Mandatory energy-efficiency requirements affecting buildings are adopted by the California Energy Commission (the California Energy Code). The CalGreen text for nonresidential energy recognizes that authority: § 5.201.1 makes the California Energy Code the controlling source for mandatory energy-efficiency standards .

2) Who adopts or enforces CalGreen energy provisions

  • The Matrix Adoption Tables at the start of Chapter 5 identify which state agencies adopt (and therefore enforce) CalGreen sections for particular occupancies or building applications. The Matrix is a nonregulatory aid to show agency adoption scope; consult the Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table for Division 5.2 to determine adoption by each state agency .
  • Voluntary tiers and other non-mandatory CalGreen measures may be adopted and enforced by local governments when they choose to adopt them (§ 304.1) .

3) Relationship of mandatory vs voluntary measures

  • Mandatory energy measures: governed by the California Energy Code (see § 5.201.1) — enforced through the normal energy-code compliance process (local or state enforcing agency that handles Title 24 enforcement) .
  • Voluntary tier measures (CALGreen Tier 1 / Tier 2) are optional statewide, but may be adopted by local jurisdictions or treated as voluntary by some state agencies; the voluntary-tier rules and the Savings By Design references are in §§ 304.1 and 305.1–305.1.2 .

Decision table (decision-relevant dimensions and where to look)

Decision dimension Possible values / outcome Code reference
Mandatory energy standard source California Energy Code (Part 6, Title 24) — energy rules control § 5.201.1
Whether CalGreen Division 5.2 is adopted by a state agency Check the Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table for that agency / occupancy Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table — Division 5.2
Voluntary tiers adoption Local governments may adopt and enforce tiers; state agencies may treat tiers as voluntary § 304.1 and § 305.1–305.1.2
Non-energy Division 5 measures for certain state agencies Some state agencies (example: DSA-SS) do not adopt some nonresidential mandatory measures; those become voluntary recommendations for that agency’s projects § 306.1.2
How to determine which sections apply to a project Identify occupant/agency authority (Chapter 1) then consult the Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table Chapter 1 guidance; see “Effective Use of This Code” and matrix instructions § (Chapter 1 references)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Division 5.2 (Energy Efficiency) is explicit that energy-efficiency mandatory rules are adopted by the California Energy Commission; do not treat CalGreen Division 5.2 as the primary source for mandatory energy values or compliance metrics — use the Energy Code for those metrics (§ 5.201.1) .
  • Some state agencies do not adopt all Chapter 5 mandatory measures; those non-adopted items are considered voluntary for projects under that agency’s authority (see § 306.1.2 regarding non-energy mandatory measures that DSA-SS did not adopt) .
  • Voluntary tiers (Tier 1 / Tier 2) remain voluntary unless a local government or a specific state agency adopts them; when adopted, local enforcing agencies may enforce or grant modifications per § 304.1 and § 305.1 guidance .

Common mistakes

  • Mistaking CalGreen Division 5.2 as the primary numeric source for energy compliance. The Energy Code (Part 6) provides the mandatory numeric standards—CalGreen points to that authority (§ 5.201.1) .
  • Treating the Matrix Adoption Table as regulatory text. The matrix is a nonregulatory aid showing which agencies adopt which sections; the narrative code sections and state-agency amendments control enforceable requirements file.
  • Assuming voluntary tier measures apply statewide by default. Tiers are voluntary and only apply where adopted by the local jurisdiction or an adopting state agency (§ 304.1, § 305.1) .
  • Overlooking agency-specific amendments: always check the matrix and the state-agency banners/section leaders (the legend is in Chapter 1), because some agencies adopt entire chapters, adopt with amendments, or adopt only listed sections file.

Worked example — hospital project seeking Tier 2 (concrete scenario)

Scenario: A health-care campus project (OSHPD jurisdiction) is evaluating energy requirements and green-building tiers.

  • Step 1 — Identify authority: health-care projects fall under OSHPD; check Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table for Division 5.2 to see what OSHPD has adopted for energy measures (use the table in Chapter 5) .
  • Step 2 — Mandatory energy code: regardless of CalGreen text, mandatory energy-efficiency standards are those in the California Energy Code (Part 6); the project must comply with those mandatory energy requirements (§ 5.201.1) .
  • Step 3 — Voluntary tiers: if the owner wants CALGreen Tier 2 for the project, note CALGreen Tier 2 for healthcare is defined to require exceeding the Savings By Design healthcare modeling procedures by 15% — that is the Tier 2 threshold (§ 305.1.2) .
  • Numeric application: if the Savings By Design baseline model for a given healthcare building produces an annual energy use index (EUI) X, CALGreen Tier 2 requires modeled performance ≤ 0.85·X (15% better) per § 305.1.2. If OSHPD adopts or enforces Tier 2 for that facility, the owner must meet that modeled 15% improvement; if OSHPD does not adopt Tier 2, meeting it remains voluntary unless locally adopted (§ 305.1.2, § 304.1) file.

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § 5.201.1 — Division 5.2 (Energy Efficiency) scope: California Energy Code controls mandatory energy standards .
  • § 304.1 — Voluntary tiers: local adoption/enforcement rules for voluntary tiers .
  • § 305.1 / § 305.1.1 / § 305.1.2 — CALGreen Tier 1 and Tier 2 descriptions and Savings By Design references (Tier 2 = 15% improvement) .
  • § 306.1.2 — Note on DSA-SS: Chapter 5 nonresidential mandatory measures not adopted as mandatory by DSA-SS are considered voluntary recommendations for that agency’s projects .
  • Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table — Division 5.2 — shows which state agencies adopt (or limit adoption of) Division 5.2 provisions; consult it for agency-specific adoption status .
  • Chapter 1 guidance (see Chapter 1, Sections 103–106 and Section 101.7) — procedures for identifying the enforcing agency, local amendments, and modifications procedures file.

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CBC § 602.1 High relevance — show source text

    VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3

    A5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3 A5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-13 A5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A5-19 A5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-25 A5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-35 A5.6 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41 A5.601 CALGren Tier 1 and Tier 2. . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41

    A5.602 CALGreen Verification Guidelines Mandatory Measures Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-44

    A5.602.1 CALGreen Verification Guidelines

    Tier 1 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-48

    A5.602.2 CALGreen Verification Guidelines

    Tier 2 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-55

    APPENDIX A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH

    FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.1 Site Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-32 A6.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-33

    INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INDEX-1

    HISTORY NOTE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIST-1

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE vii

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    viii 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 1 – ADMINISTRATION

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    |Adopting

  • CBC § 305.1.2 High relevance — show source text

    305.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.

    SECTION 306 [DSA-SS]—VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    306.1 Purpose. For public schools and community colleges, voluntary measures further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.

    306.1.1 Appendix A5, Divisions A5.1 through A5.5, outline means of achieving enhanced sustainable design and construction by incorporating voluntary measures that exceed the mandatory measures.

    306.1.2 Chapter 5 Nonresidential Mandatory Measures that are not adopted as mandatory measures by DSA-SS are voluntary measures recommended and encouraged for the design, construction, verification and maintenance of non-energy systems.

    Note: The building commissioning requirements for energy efficiency specified in the California Energy Code are required.

    3-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 4 – RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter X
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed below    		 X
    Chapter/Section
    Division 4.2 † X

    The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: †.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 4-1

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    4-2 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

  • CBC § 1.2 High relevance — show source text

    For questions on California state agency amendments, please refer to the contact list on page v.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE iii

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    LEGEND FOR AGENCY ADOPTIONS

    Unless otherwise noted, state agency adoptions are indicated by the following banners in the section leaders: Department of Housing and Community Development: [HCD]

    California Building Standards Commission, CALGreen: [BSC-CG]

    Division of the State Architect, Structural Safety: [DSA-SS]

    Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development: [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    See Chapter 1, Sections 103–106 for applications regulated by the respective state agencies.

    EFFECTIVE USE OF THIS CODE

    The format of this code is common to other parts of the California Building Standards Code and contains building standards applicable to occupancies which fall under the authority of different state agencies. Occupancies and applications under the authority of a specific state agency are identified in Chapter 1, Sections 103 through 106. Sections of this code which are applicable and adopted by each state agency are identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables located at the beginning of each chapter. The following outline is provided as a guide to establish which provisions are applicable to a specific occupancy.

    1. Establish the type of occupancy.

    2. Verify which state agency has authority for the established occupancy by reviewing the authorities list in Sections 103 through

    4. Once the appropriate agency has been identified, find the chapter which covers the established occupancy.

    5. The Matrix Adoption Tables at the beginning of Chapters 4 and 5 identify the required green building measures necessary to meet the minimum requirements of this code for the established occupancy.

    6. Voluntary tier measures are contained in Appendix Chapters A4 and A5. A Checklist containing each green building measure, both required and voluntary is provided at the end of each appendix chapter. Each measure listed in the application checklist has a section number which correlates to a section where more information about the specific measure is available.

    7. The Application Checklist identifies which measures are required by this code and allows users to check-off which voluntary items have been selected to meet voluntary tier levels if desired or mandated by a city, county, or city and county.

    iv 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24

    California State Agency Contact List

    The following state agencies may propose building standards for buildings, structures and applications under their authority for publication in Title 24. Notice of such proposals may be requested from each agency. See Sections 1.2 through 1.14 of the California Building Code (Part 2, T24) for detailed information on the regulatory authority of most state agencies summarized below. Note [agency acronyms] shown in banners/Matrix Adoption Tables in T24.

    Board of State and Community Corrections [BSCC] bscc.ca.gov BSCC-Mail@bscc.ca.gov

    (916) 445-5073 Local Detention Facilities

    Building Standards Commission [BSC, BSC-CG]

    dgs.ca.gov/BSC cbsc@dgs.ca.gov

    (916) 263-0916 State Buildings including UC & CSU Nonresidential Green Buildings Standards

    Department of Consumer Affairs Boards/Bureaus:

    Acupuncture Board [CA]

  • CGBSC § 2525 Medium relevance — show source text

    Local building standards that were adopted and applicable to previous editions of the California Building Standards Code do not apply to this edition without appropriate adoption and the required filing. Should you find publication (e.g., typographical) errors or inconsistencies in this code or wish to offer comments toward improving its format, please address your comments to:

    California Building Standards Commission

    2525 Natomas Park Drive, Suite 130 Sacramento, CA 95833–2936

    Phone: (916) 263–0916 Email: cbsc@dgs.ca.gov

    Web page: www.dgs.ca.gov/bsc

    ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

    The 2025 California Building Standards Code (Code) was developed through the outstanding collaborative efforts of the Department of Housing and Community Development, Division of the State Architect, Office of the State Fire Marshal, Department of Health Care Access and Information, California Energy Commission, California Department of Public Health, California State Lands Commission, Board of State and Community Corrections, Department of Water Resources, State Historical Building Safety Board, Department of Consumer Affairs, State Librarian, Department of Food and Agriculture, and the California Building Standards Commission (Commission). This collaborative effort included the assistance of the Commission’s Code Advisory Committees and many other volunteers who worked tirelessly to assist the Commission in the production of this Code.

    Governor Gavin Newsom

    Members of the California Building Standards Commission

    Secretary Amy Tong – Chair Rajesh Patel – Vice-Chair

    Erick Mikiten Elley Klausbruckner Aaron Stockwell Juvilyn Alegre Peter Santillan Kent Sasaki

    Laura Rambin James Haskin

    Frank Ramirez

    Stoyan Bumbalov – Executive Director Kevin Day – Deputy Executive Director

    For questions on California state agency amendments, please refer to the contact list on page v.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE iii

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    LEGEND FOR AGENCY ADOPTIONS

    Unless otherwise noted, state agency adoptions are indicated by the following banners in the section leaders: Department of Housing and Community Development: [HCD]

    California Building Standards Commission, CALGreen: [BSC-CG]

    Division of the State Architect, Structural Safety: [DSA-SS]

    Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development: [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    See Chapter 1, Sections 103–106 for applications regulated by the respective state agencies.

    EFFECTIVE USE OF THIS CODE

    The format of this code is common to other parts of the California Building Standards Code and contains building standards applicable to occupancies which fall under the authority of different state agencies. Occupancies and applications under the authority of a specific state agency are identified in Chapter 1, Sections 103 through 106. Sections of this code which are applicable and adopted by each state agency are identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables located at the beginning of each chapter. The following outline is provided as a guide to establish which provisions are applicable to a specific occupancy.

    1. Establish the type of occupancy.

    2. Verify which state agency has authority for the established occupancy by reviewing the authorities list in Sections 103 through

    4. Once the appropriate agency has been identified, find the chapter which covers the established occupancy.

    5. The Matrix Adoption Tables at the beginning of Chapters 4 and 5 identify the required green building measures necessary to meet the minimum requirements of this code for the established occupancy.

  • CBC § 504.8 Medium relevance — show source text
    TABLE A6.504.8(2)—SEALANT VOC LIMIT
    Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds in Grams per Liter    		 Col2
    SEALANTS CURRENT VOC LIMIT
    Architectural 250
    Marine deck 760
    Nonmembrane roof 300
    Roadway 250
    Single-ply roof membrane 450
    Other 420
    SEALANT PRIMERS
    Architectural
    Nonporous
    Porous    		 250
    775
    Modified bituminous 500
    Marine deck 760
    Other
    		 750
    **Note:**For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in these tables, seeSouth Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168:
    http://www.arb.ca.gov/DRDB/SC/CURHTML/R1168.PDF.    		 **Note:**For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in these tables, seeSouth Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168:
    http://www.arb.ca.gov/DRDB/SC/CURHTML/R1168.PDF.

    APPENDIX A6.1-34 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    A6.504.8.3 Paints and coatings. Architectural paints and coatings shall comply with VOC limits in Table 1 of the ARB Architectural Coatings Suggested Control Measure, as shown in Table A6.504.8.3, unless local limits apply. The VOC content limit for coatings that do not meet the definitions for the specialty coatings categories listed in Table A6.504.8.3, shall be determined by classifying the coating as a Flat, Nonflat or Nonflat-High Gloss coating, based on its gloss, as defined in Subsections 4.21, 4.36 and 4.37 of the 2007 California Air Resources Board, Suggested Control Measure and the corresponding Flat, Nonflat or Nonflat-High Gloss VOC limit in Table A6.504.8.3 shall apply.

    TABLE A6.504.8.3—VOC CONTENT LIMITS FOR ARCHITECTURAL COATINGS2, 3
    Grams of VOC Per Liter of Coating, Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds    		 Col2 Col3
    COATING CATEGORY EFFECTIVE
    1/1/2010    		 EFFECTIVE
    1/1/2012
    Flat coatings 50
    Nonflat coatings 100
    Nonflat-high gloss coatings 150
    Specialty coatings Specialty coatings Specialty coatings
    Aluminum roof coatings 400
    Basement specialty coatings 400
    Bituminous roof coatings 50
    Bituminous roof primers 350
    Bond breakers 350
    Concrete curing compounds 350
    Concrete/masonry sealers 100
    Driveway sealers 50
    Dry fog coatings 150
    Faux finishing coatings 350
    Fire-resistive coatings 350
    Floor coatings 100
    Form-release compounds 250
    Graphic arts coatings (sign paints) 500
    High-Temperature
  • CBC § 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    5**|1.5 to < 4|4 to < 8|8 and
    larger| |Space heating (Steam, Steam Condensate, Refrigerant, Space Heating)|Space heating (Steam, Steam Condensate, Refrigerant, Space Heating)|Space heating (Steam, Steam Condensate, Refrigerant, Space Heating)|Space heating (Steam, Steam Condensate, Refrigerant, Space Heating)|Minimum Pipe Insulation Required (Thickness in inches or_R-_value)|Minimum Pipe Insulation Required (Thickness in inches or_R-_value)|Minimum Pipe Insulation Required (Thickness in inches or_R-_value)|Minimum Pipe Insulation Required (Thickness in inches or_R-_value)|Minimum Pipe Insulation Required (Thickness in inches or_R-_value)| |Below 40|0.20–0.26|50|Inches|1.0|1.5|1.5|1.5|1.5| |Below 40|0.20–0.26|50|_R-_value|R-8.5|R-14|R-12|R-10|R-9| |1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|1. These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Issues such as water vapor permeability or surface condensation sometimes require vapor retarders or
    additional insulation.|

    NOTE: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5, 25402.8 and 25943, Public Resources Code .

    SECTION 160.4—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR WATER-HEATING SYSTEMS

    (a) Water-heating recirculation loops serving multiple dwelling units shall meet the requirements of Section 110.3(c)4.

  • CBC § 5.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 5 – NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    DIVISION 5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections that
    are listed below    		 X
    Chapter/Section
    Division 5.2 X

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-13

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    5-14 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    5 NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    DIVISION 5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION 5.201—GENERAL

    5.201.1 Scope. California Energy Code . For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory building standards.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-15

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    5-16 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 5 – NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    DIVISION 5.3 – WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

  • CBC § 304.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION 304—VOLUNTARY TIERS

    304.1 Purpose. Voluntary tiers are intended to further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.

    304.1.1 Tiers. The provisions of Divisions A4.6 and A5.6 outline means, in the form of voluntary tiers, for achieving enhanced construction levels by incorporating additional measures for residential and nonresidential new construction. Voluntary tiers may be adopted by local governments and, when adopted, enforced by local enforcing agencies. Buildings complying with tiers specified for each occupancy contain additional prerequisite and elective green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each tier. See Section 101.7 of this code for procedures and requirements related to local amendments, additions or deletions, including changes to energy standards.

    [BSC & HCD] Where there are practical difficulties involved in complying with the threshold levels of a tier, the enforcing agency may grant modifications for individual cases. The enforcing agency shall first find that a special individual reason makes the strict letter of the tier impractical and that modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of the measure. The details of any action granting modification shall be recorded and entered in the files of the enforcing agency.

    SECTION 305 [OSHPD 1]— CALGreen TIER 1 AND CALGreen TIER 2

    305.1 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 buildings contain voluntary green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level.

    305.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. To achieve CALGreen Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/main/page_ downloads_ sbd_healthcare.html.

    305.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.

    SECTION 306 [DSA-SS]—VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    306.1 Purpose. For public schools and community colleges, voluntary measures further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.

    306.1.1 Appendix A5, Divisions A5.1 through A5.5, outline means of achieving enhanced sustainable design and construction by incorporating voluntary measures that exceed the mandatory measures.

    306.1.2 Chapter 5 Nonresidential Mandatory Measures that are not adopted as mandatory measures by DSA-SS are voluntary measures recommended and encouraged for the design, construction, verification and maintenance of non-energy systems.

    Note: The building commissioning requirements for energy efficiency specified in the California Energy Code are required.

    3-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 4 – RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

  • CBC § 1203.1.2 Medium relevance — show source text
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 T-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt Entire Chapter
    Adopt Entire Chapter as
    amended (amended sections
    listed below)    		 X
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed below
    [California Code of Regulations,
    Title 19, Division 1]
    Chapter / Section
    1203.1.2 X
    1203.1.3.1 X
    1203.1.5.1 X
    1203.2.11 X
    1205.2.4 X
    1205.3.4 X
    1207.11.3 X
    1207.11.4 X
    Table 1207.11.4 X
    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

    2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 12-1

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    12-2 2025 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    12 ENERGY SYSTEMS

    User notes:

  • CBC § 1.10.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    OSHPD 4 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.4)

    OSHPD 5 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.5)

    OSHPD 6 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.6)

    DPH Department of Public Health (see Section 1.7)

    AGR Department of Food and Agriculture (see Section 1.6)

    CEC California Energy Commission (see Section 100 in Part 6, the California Energy Code)

    CA Department of Consumer Affairs (see Section 1.4): Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Board of Examiners in Veterinary Medicine Board of Pharmacy Acupuncture Board Bureau of Household Goods & Services Structural Pest Control Board (SPCB)

    SL State Library (see Section 1.12)

    SLC State Lands Commission (see Section 1.14)

    DWR Department of Water Resources (see Section 1.13 of Chapter 1 of the California Plumbing Code in Part 5 of Title 24)

    The state agencies are available to answer questions about their adoptions. Contact information is provided on page iv of this code.

    To learn more about the use of this code refer to pages viii and ix. Training materials on the application and use of this code are available at the website of the California Building Standards Commission www.dgs.ca.gov/bsc.

    vi 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    California Matrix Adoption Tables

    Format of the California Matrix Adoption Tables

    The matrix adoption tables, examples of which follow, are non-regulatory aids intended to show the user which state agencies have adopted and/or amended given sections of the model code. An agency's statutory authority for certain occupancies or building applications determines which chapter or section may be adopted, repealed, amended or added. See Chapter 1, Division I, Sections 1.2 through 1.14 for agency authority, building applications and enforcement responsibilities.

    The side headings identify the scope of state agencies’ adoption as follows:

    Adopt the entire IRC chapter without state amendments.

    If there is an “X” under a particular state agency’s acronym on this row; this means that particular state agency has adopted the entire model code chapter without any state amendments.

    Example:

    CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE-MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS AND ABBREVIATIONS (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

  • CBC § 10.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    10.4)_ OSHPD 5 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.5) OSHPD 6 Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development (see Section 1.10.6) DPH Department of Public Health (see Section 1.7.0) AGR Department of Food and Agriculture (see Section 1.6.0) CEC California Energy Commission (see Section 100 in Part 6, the California Energy Code) CA Department of Consumer Affairs (see Section 1.6.0): Board of Barbering and Cosmetology Board of Examiners in Veterinary Medicine Board of Pharmacy Acupuncture Board Bureau of Household Goods and Services

    Structural Pest Control Board SPCB

    SL State Library (see Section 1.12.0) SLC State Lands Commission (see Section 1.14.0) DWR Department of Water Resources (see Section 1.13.0 of Chapter 1 of the California Plumbing Code in Part 5 of Title 24)

    The state agencies are available to answer questions about their adoptions. Contact information is provided on page iv of this code.

    To learn more about the use of this code refer to the following pages. Training materials on the application and use of this code are available at the website of the California Building Standards Commission www.dgs.ca.gov/bsc.

    vi 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    CALIFORNIA MATRIX ADOPTION TABLES

    Format of the Matrix Adoption Tables The matrix adoption tables, examples of which follow, are non-regulatory aids intended to show the user which state agencies have adopted and/or amended given sections of model code. An agency’s statutory authority for certain occupancies or building applications determines which chapter or section may be adopted, repealed, amended or added. See Chapter 1, Division I, Sections 1.2.0 through 1.14.0, for agency authority, building application and enforcement responsibilities.

    The side headings identify the scope of the state agencies’ adoption as follows:

    Adopt the entire UMC chapter without state amendments.

    If there is an “X” under a particular state agency’s acronym in this row, it means that particular state agency has adopted the entire model code chapter without any state amendments.

    Example:

    CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 1 - GENERAL CODE PROVISIONS

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are non-regulatory, intended only as an aid to the user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building application.)

Frequently asked questions

Who actually enforces energy efficiency rules for a new office building?

Local enforcing agencies enforce the mandatory energy-efficiency requirements adopted by the California Energy Commission (the California Energy Code); consult the Chapter 5 Matrix to confirm any state-agency adoptions that might apply to a specific occupancy (§ 5.201.1 and Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table) file.

If a state agency’s matrix cell is blank, does that mean the energy section doesn't apply?

No — a blank in the matrix simply means that agency did not adopt the entire chapter or that adoption is limited; you must read the matrix row for Division 5.2 and the applicable agency’s notes, then read the actual code sections to determine applicability (see Chapter 5 Matrix Adoption Table guidance) .

Are CALGreen Tier 1 and Tier 2 mandatory statewide?

No. Tiers are voluntary statewide; they only become enforceable where a jurisdiction or an adopting agency has chosen to adopt them (§ 304.1, § 305.1) .

If DSA-SS didn’t adopt a Division 5.2 section, what happens to that requirement for a school?

If DSA-SS does not adopt a nonresidential mandatory measure, that measure is treated as a voluntary recommendation for projects under DSA-SS authority; see § 306.1.2 for the treatment of Chapter 5 nonresidential measures not adopted by DSA-SS .

Where do I find the numeric energy limits (lighting power, HVAC efficiencies)?

Numeric mandatory energy limits are in the California Energy Code (Part 6, Title 24). CalGreen Division 5.2 directs users to the Energy Code for mandatory energy-efficiency standards (§ 5.201.1) .

More in California Building Code

Ask about the CBC

Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Building Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.

Start Free Trial

Related in the CBC

What mandatory energy-efficiency measures apply to nonresidential buildings?

What are the CalGreen requirements for EV charging and designated parking tied to energy performance?

How do cool roof / reflectance requirements appear in CalGreen tiers?

CalGreen — Mandatory nonresidential energy measures (Chapter 5 / Division 5.2)

California Building Code