CBC · California Building Code

What mandatory energy-efficiency measures apply to nonresidential buildings?

For nonresidential projects, CALGreen § 5.201.1 points you to the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) for mandatory energy rules: meet the Energy Code’s mandatory sections (notably §§ 120.0–130.5), then comply via the performance or prescriptive path; Appendix A5 energy measures are voluntary unless a local jurisdiction adopts them.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The CALGreen nonresidential energy division (Division 5.2) delegates mandatory energy-efficiency requirements for nonresidential buildings to the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). In short: new nonresidential buildings (and many additions/alterations) must meet the Energy Code’s mandatory measures (including Sections 120.0–130.5) and then comply by either the performance or the prescriptive path; see § 5.201.1 for the delegation to the Energy Code.

Requirements in detail

Scope and controlling text

  • Primary controlling CALGreen provision: § 5.201.1 — “California Energy Code.” This section makes the California Energy Code the source of mandatory energy-efficiency standards for nonresidential buildings.
  • CALGreen Appendix A5 (Division A5.2) contains voluntary/optional higher-tier energy measures; those are not mandatory unless a local jurisdiction adopts them following the Energy Commission process (§ A5.201.1).

High‑level mandatory components (where to look in the Energy Code)

  • Mandatory building-wide measures and systems requirements: §§ 120.0 through 130.5 (these contain the nonresidential mandatory measures referenced by the Energy Code).
  • Compliance approach: either the performance approach (§ 140.1) or the prescriptive approach (§ 140.2 through § 140.10) after meeting mandatory measures (§ 140.0).
  • Specific prescriptive mandatory topics that commonly apply to nonresidential projects: service water heating (§ 140.5), indoor lighting (§ 140.6), outdoor lighting (§ 140.7), and photovoltaic (PV) sizing rules (§ 140.10).
  • Demand response and controllability requirements are addressed in other mandatory sections (for example, see § 110.12).

Decision‑relevant table

Decision dimension Key rule / value Code reference
Which code sets the mandatory measures for nonresidential buildings? The California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) governs mandatory energy-efficiency standards for nonresidential projects. § 5.201.1
Mandatory measures that always apply to nonresidential Sections 120.0 through 130.5 (mandatory measures for nonresidential & hotel/motel). §§ 120.0–130.5
Compliance paths after mandatory measures Performance (§ 140.1) or Prescriptive (§ 140.2–§ 140.10). § 140.0 (and § 140.1/§ 140.2)
Service water‑heating prescriptive requirements Nonresidential SWH must meet § 140.5 prescriptive or performance requirements. § 140.5
Photovoltaic requirement and sizing equation PV sizing formula: kW PVdc = (CFA × A)/1000; exceptions where no PV is required are explicitly listed. § 140.10 and Equation 140.10‑A
Demand response / controls See § 110.12 for demand responsive controls and controlled receptacles. § 110.12
Voluntary higher‑performance measures Appendix A5 (Division A5.2) is voluntary unless locally adopted after Energy Commission approval. § A5.201.1

Exceptions & special cases

  • CALGreen Division 5.2 does not itself list new state-mandatory energy measures; it defers to the California Energy Code. That means project compliance must follow the Energy Code sections referenced in § 5.201.1.
  • Photovoltaic exceptions in § 140.10: no PV is required where total available SARA (suitable roof area) is less than 3% of conditioned floor area; no PV is required if the required PV capacity is less than 4 kW dc; other exceptions (contiguity, snow load, tenant-space rules) also apply. Use § 140.10 carefully when assessing PV obligations.
  • Unconditioned buildings and process spaces: certain Energy Code sections still apply to unconditioned nonresidential buildings (for example, Sections 110.9, 110.10, 120.6, 130.0–130.5, parts of § 140). Check the Energy Code text for the exact list that applies to unconditioned spaces.
  • Appendix A5 measures (Division A5.2) are voluntary and become mandatory only if a local jurisdiction follows the Energy Commission filing/approval process described in § A5.201.1. Do not treat Appendix A5 provisions as automatically mandatory.

Common mistakes

  • Mistake: Treating CALGreen Division 5.2 as adding separate statewide mandatory energy rules. Reality: § 5.201.1 delegates to the California Energy Code — Title 24, Part 6 is where mandatory energy requirements live.
  • Mistake: Applying Appendix A5 (Division A5.2) Tier measures as mandatory. Appendix A5 is voluntary unless a local jurisdiction adopts it with Energy Commission approval (§ A5.201.1).
  • Mistake: Ignoring the PV exceptions in § 140.10 — small available roof area (SARA < 3% of CFA) or very small required PV (< 4 kW) can remove the PV obligation. Always check those exception thresholds.
  • Mistake: Skipping mandatory submittals for performance-path projects — performance compliance requires documentation and certificates as specified by § 140.1 (and related submittal sections).

Worked example — concrete scenario applying the rule with numbers

Scenario: A developer is permitting a new single‑story office with 5,000 ft² conditioned floor area (CFA). The available suitable roof area for PV (SARA) is measured at 100 ft².

Step 1 — Is PV automatically required?

  • Compare SARA to CFA: SARA / CFA = 100 / 5,000 = 0.02 = 2%. Because SARA is less than 3% of the CFA, § 140.10 Exception 1 says no PV system is required. Therefore, this building would not be required to install PV under § 140.10.

Step 2 — What other mandatory requirements apply?

  • The project must meet the Energy Code’s mandatory measures for nonresidential buildings (Sections 120.0–130.5) and then comply via either the performance path (§ 140.1) or the prescriptive path (§ 140.2–§ 140.10). If the owner chooses the performance path, the submittal must include the Certificate of Compliance and required documentation per § 140.1.

Notes: If SARA had been large enough that the required PV capacity calculation (kW PVdc = (CFA × A)/1000) produced a number below 4 kW, § 140.10 Exception 2 would also exempt the building from PV. The numeric PV sizing requires the capacity factor A from Table 140.10‑A — consult that table in the Energy Code to get the applicable W/ft² value for the building type.

Related provisions

  • § 5.201.1 — Delegation to the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6).
  • § A5.201.1 — Appendix A5 (Division A5.2) voluntary scope and local-adoption requirement.
  • § 120.0 through § 130.5 — Mandatory measures for nonresidential and hotel/motel occupancies (Energy Code).
  • § 140.0 — Compliance approaches and the requirement to meet mandatory measures before choosing performance or prescriptive paths.
  • § 140.1 — Performance approach (energy budgets) and submittal/Certificate of Compliance requirements.
  • § 140.2–§ 140.10 — Prescriptive compliance requirements; see specific topics (lighting § 140.6, service water heating § 140.5, PV § 140.10).
  • § 110.12 — Demand responsive controls and related equipment requirements.

Code references

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

  • CBC § 106.5.5.1 High relevance — show source text

    106.5.5.1|5.106.5.5 and
    5.106.5.5.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Light pollution reduction [N] (with exceptions, notes and table)|5.106.8 through
    5.106.8.2||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Grading and paving (exception for additions and alterations
    not altering the drainage path)|5.106.10||||| |DIVISION 5.2
    Energy
    Efficiency|Mandatory|Meet the minimum energy efficiency standard|5.201.1|||||

    APPENDIX A5-44 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N/A O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Separate meters (new buildings or additions > 50,000 sf
    that consume more than 100 gal/day)    		 5.303.1.1
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Separate meters (for tenants in new buildings or additions
    that consume more than 1,000 gal/day)    		 5.303.1.2
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Water closets shall not exceed 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) 5.303.3.1
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Wall-mounted urinals shall not exceed 0.125 gpf 5.303.3.2.1
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Floor-mounted urinals shall not exceed 0.5 gpf 5.303.3.2.2
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Single showerhead shall have maximum flow rate of 1.8
    gpm (gallons per minute) at 80 psi    		 5.303.3.3.1
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Multiple showerheads serving one shower shall have
    a combined flow rate of 1.8 gpm at 80 psi    		 5.303.3.3.2
    **DIVISION 5.
  • CBC § 5.106.5.3.6 High relevance — show source text


    Table 5.106.5.3.6,
    5.106.5.3.6.1,
    5.106.5.3.6.2 and
    5.106.5.3.6.3||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Additions or Alterations to existing buildings or parking facili-
    ties [A] with Exceptions|5.106.5.4||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas without previously
    installed EV capable infrastructure [A]|5.106.5.4.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas without previously
    installed EV capable infrastructure [A]|5.106.5.4.2||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-duty [N]|5.106.5.5||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Electric vehicle charging readiness requirements for warehouses,
    grocery stores and retail stores, office buildings, and manufactur-
    ing facilities with planned off-street loading spaces [N]|5.106.5.5.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Table 5.106.5.5.1|5.106.5.5 and
    5.106.5.5.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Light pollution reduction [N] (with exceptions, notes and table)|5.106.8 through
    5.106.8.2||||| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design|Mandatory|Grading and paving (exception for additions and alterations
    not altering the drainage path)|5.106.10||||| |DIVISION 5.2
    Energy
    Efficiency|Mandatory|Meet the minimum energy efficiency standard|5.201.1|||||

    APPENDIX A5-44 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N/A O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Separate meters (new buildings or additions > 50,000 sf
    that consume more than 100 gal/day)    		 5.303.1.1
    **DIVISION 5.
  • CBC § 120.0 High relevance — show source text

    2 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    ii. Compliance approaches. In order to comply with Part 6, newly constructed nonresidential buildings and hotels/motels that are mechanically heated or mechanically cooled must meet the requirements of: a. Mandatory measures: The applicable provisions of Sections 120.0 through 130.5; and

    b. Either:

    (i) Performance approach: Section 140.1; or (ii) Prescriptive approach: Sections 140.2 through 140.10. C. Unconditioned nonresidential buildings and process space. Sections 110.9, 110.10, 120.6, 130.0 through 130.5, 140.3(c), 140.6, 140.7 and 140.8 apply to all newly constructed unconditioned buildings and for process spaces within the scope of Section 100.0(a). D. Single-family buildings. i. Sections applicable. Sections 150.0 through 150.1 apply to newly constructed single-family buildings. ii. Compliance approaches. In order to comply with Part 6, newly constructed single-family buildings must meet the requirements of: a. Mandatory measures: The applicable provisions of Sections 110.0 through 110.10 and 150.0; and

    b. Either:

    (i) Performance approach: Sections 150.1(a) and (b); or (ii) Prescriptive approach: Sections 150.1(a) and (c). Exception to Section 100.0(e)2Diib: Seasonally occupied agricultural housing limited by state or federal agency contract to occupancy not more than 180 days in any calendar year. E. Multifamily Buildings . i. Sections applicable. Sections 160.0 through 170.2 apply to newly constructed multifamily buildings. ii. Compliance approaches. In order to comply with Part 6, newly constructed multifamily buildings must meet the requirements of: a. Mandatory measures: The applicable provisions of Sections 110.0 through 110.10, and 160.0; and

    b. Either:

    (i) Performance approach: Section 170.1; or (ii) Prescriptive approach: Section 170.2(a) through (f).

    F. Covered processes.

    i. Sections applicable. Sections 110.2, 120.3, 120.6, 140.9, and 141.1 apply to covered processes. ii. Compliance approaches. In order to comply with Part 6, covered processes must meet the requirements of: a. The applicable mandatory measures in Sections 110.2, 120.3 and 120.6; and

    b. Either:

    (i) The performance approach requirements of Section 140.1; or (ii) The prescriptive approach requirements of Section 140.9. 3. New construction in existing buildings (additions, alterations and repairs). A. Nonresidential and hotel/motel buildings. Section 141.0 applies to new construction in existing nonresidential, high-rise residential and hotel/motel buildings. New construction in existing buildings includes additions, alterations and repairs. Section 141.0 specifies requirements that uniquely apply to additions, alterations or repairs to existing buildings, and specify which requirements in other sections also apply. For alterations that change the occupancy classification of the building, the requirements specified in Section 141.0 apply to the occupancy after the alterations. B. **Single-family buildings.

  • CBC § 409.4 High relevance — show source text

    Solar access is the ratio of solar insolation including shade to the
    solar insolation without shade. Shading from obstructions located on the roof or any other part of the building shall not be included in the determination of annual solar access.
    3.
    Life cycle assessment compliant with Section A5.409.4 in this code may be substituted for prescriptive measures from Division A5.4.|

    A5.601.1 Scope. The measures contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless adopted by local government as specified in Section 101.7. The provisions of this section outline means of achieving enhanced construction or reach levels by incorporating addi

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-41

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    tional green building measures for newly constructed nonresidential buildings as well as additions and alterations. In order to meet one of the tier levels designers, builders or property owners are required to incorporate additional green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level. Refer to the provisions in Section 301.3 for nonresidential additions and alterations scope and application.

    A5.601.2 CALGreen Tier 1

    A5.601.2.1 Prerequisites. To achieve CALGreen tier status, a project must meet all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 5 and, in addition, meet the provisions of this section.

    A5.601.2.2 Energy performance. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards.

    A5.601.2.3 Tier 1. Comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Section A5.203.1.1 and Section A5.203.1.2.1.

    A5.601.2.4 Voluntary measures for Tier 1. In addition to the provisions of Sections A5.601.2.1 and A5.601.2.3 above, compliance with the following voluntary measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 1:

    1. From Division A5.1, a. Comply with the designated parking requirements for high-efficiency vehicles for a minimum of 35 percent of parking capacity per Section A5.106.5.1. b. Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] and Table A5.106.5.3.1 w/ footnotes. c. Comply with thermal emittance, solar reflectance or SRI values for cool roofs in Section A5.106.11.2 and Table A5.106.11.2.2. [1]

    d. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division. 2. From Division A5.2 comply with ONE of the following:

    1. Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.

    2. Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.

    3. Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.

    4. Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.

    5. Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.

    6. From Division A5.3,

    a. Comply with the 12-percent reduction for indoor potable water use in Section A5.303.2.3.1. b. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division.

    1. From Division A5.4,
  • CBC § 140.4 High relevance — show source text

    30 percent of the peak heat rejection of the cooling system; or B. 30 percent of SWHCAP.

    Exception to Section 140.4(s): Buildings with a computer room heat recovery system or wastewater heat recovery system capable of providing not less than 25 percent of SWHCAP + HCAP.

    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, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code .

    SECTION 140.5—PRESCRIPTIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE WATER-HEATING SYSTEMS

    (a) Nonresidential occupancies. Service water-heating systems in nonresidential buildings shall meet the requirements of 1 or 2 below, or meet the performance compliance requirements of Section 140.1:

    1. School buildings less than 25,000 square feet and less than 4 stories in Climate Zones 2 through 15. A heat pump water-heating system that meets the applicable requirements of Sections 110.1, 110.3 and 120.3.

    Exception to Section 140.5(a)1: A water-heating system serving an individual bathroom space may be an instantaneous electric water heater.

    1. All other occupancies. A service water-heating system that meets the applicable requirements of Sections 110.1, 110.3, 120.3 and 140.5(c).

    (b) Hotel/motel occupancies. A service water-heating system installed in hotel/motel buildings shall meet the requirements of Section 170.2(d).

    (c) High-capacity service water-heating systems . Gas service water-heating systems with a total installed gas water-heating input capacity of 1 MMBtu/h or greater shall have gas service water-heating equipment with a minimum thermal efficiency of 90 percent. Multiple units can meet this requirement if the water-heating input provided by equipment with thermal efficiencies above and below 90 percent averages out to an input capacity-weighted average of at least 90 percent.

    Exception 1 to Section 140.5(c): If 25 percent of the annual service water-heating requirement is provided by site-solar energy or site-recovered energy.

    Exception 2 to Section 140.5(c): Water heaters installed in individual dwelling units.

    Exception 3 to Section 140.5(c): Individual gas water heaters with input capacity at or below 100,000 Btu/h shall not be included in the calculations of the total system input or total system efficiency.

    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, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 129

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE

    COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION 140.6—PRESCRIPTIVE REQUIREMENTS FOR INDOOR LIGHTING

  • CBC § 405.4 High relevance — show source text
    1. From Division A5.4,

    a. Comply with recycled content of 10 percent of materials based on estimated total cost, or use two products from Table A5.405.4 for at least 75 percent by cost in Section A5.405.4. b. Comply with the 65-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division.

    1. From Division A5.5,

    a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 90 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list in Section A5.504.4.8. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division. 6. Comply with one additional elective measure selected from any division.

    1 Cool roof is required for compliance with Tiers 1 and 2 and may be used to meet energy standards in Part 6, exceed energy standards and to mitigate heat island effect.

    A5.601.3 CALGreen Tier 2.

    A5.601.3.1 Prerequisites. To achieve CALGreen tier status, a project must meet all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 5 and, in addition, meet the provisions of this section.

    A5.601.3.2 Energy performance. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards.

    A5.601.3.3 Tier 2. Comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Section A5.203.1.1 and Section A5.203.1.2.2.

    A5.601.3.4 Voluntary measures for Tier 2. In addition to the provisions of Sections A5.601.3.1 and A5.601.3.3 above, compliance with the following voluntary measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 2:

    1. From Division A5.1, a. Comply with the designated parking requirements for fuel efficient vehicles for a minimum of 50 percent of parking capacity per Section A5.106.5.1. b. Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] and Table A5.106.5.3.2 with footnotes. c. Comply with thermal emittance, solar reflectance or SRI values for cool roofs in Section A5.106.11.2 and Table A5.106.11.2.3. [1]

    d. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.

    APPENDIX A5-42 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    1. From Division A5.2 comply with TWO of the following:

    2. Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.

    3. Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.

    4. Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.

    5. Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.

    6. Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.

    7. From Division A5.3,

  • CBC § 130.5 High relevance — show source text

    Exception 2 to Section 130.5(d): Receptacles in healthcare facilities.

    (e) Demand responsive controls and equipment. See Section 110.12 for requirements for demand responsive controls and equipment, including demand responsive controls for controlled receptacles.

    Note: Definitions of terms and phrases in Section 130.5 are determined as specified in Section 100.1(b). Terms and phrases not found in Section 100.1(b) shall be defined as specified in Title 24, Part 3, Article 100 of the California Electrical Code.

    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.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 103

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

    104 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    5 NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—

    PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION 140.0—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES

    Nonresidential and hotel/motel buildings shall comply with all of the following: (a) The requirements of Sections 100.0 through 110.12 applicable to the building project (mandatory measures for all buildings). (b) The requirements of Sections 120.0 through 130.5 (mandatory measures for nonresidential and hotel/motel buildings). (c) Either the performance compliance approach (energy budgets) specified in Section 140.1 or the prescriptive compliance approach specified in Section 140.2 for the climate zone in which the building will be located. Climate zones are shown in Figure 100.1-A.

    Note to Section 140.0(c): The Commission periodically updates, publishes and makes available to interested persons and local enforcement agencies precise descriptions of the climate zones, which is available by zip code boundaries depicted in the Reference Joint Appendices along with a list of the communities in each zone.

    Note to Section 140.0: The requirements of Sections 140.1 through 140.10 apply to newly constructed buildings. Section 141.0 specifies which requirements of Sections 140.1 through 140.10 also apply to additions or alterations to existing buildings.

    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 140.1—PERFORMANCE APPROACH: ENERGY BUDGETS

    A building complies with the performance standards if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Sections 10-109(c) and 10-116.

  • CBC § 170.0 High relevance — show source text

    Exception to Section 170.0 (a)3: If a single development falls in more than one climate zone, all buildings in the subdivision or tract may be designed to meet the performance or prescriptive standards for the climate zone that contains 50 percent or more of the dwelling units.

    NOTE: The Commission periodically updates, publishes and makes available to interested persons and local enforcement agencies precise descriptions of the climate zones, as specified in Reference Joint Appendix JA2—Weather/Climate Data.

    NOTE: The requirements of Sections 170.1(a) through 170.2(e) apply to newly constructed buildings and Sections 180.1 and 180.2 specify changes to the requirements of Sections 170.1(a) through 170.2(e) that apply to additions or alterations.

    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 170.1—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A building complies with the performance approach if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Sections 10-109 and 10-116 and the Alternative Calculation Method Reference Manual.

    (a) Energy budget. The energy budget is expressed in terms of long-term system cost (LSC) and source energy:

    1. Long-term system cost (LSC). The LSC energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building and has two components, the Efficiency LSC and the Total LSC.

    A. The Efficiency LSC energy is the sum of the LSC energy for space-conditioning, water heating, mechanical ventilation, lighting and the self-utilization credit. B. The Total LSC energy is the sum of the Efficiency LSC energy and LSC energy from the photovoltaic system, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and demand flexibility. 2. Source energy. The source energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design, except with a consumer gas or propane water heater, to the proposed design building.

    Exception to Section 170.1(a): A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, and/or community shared BESS, that provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system or BESS LSC energy required to comply with the standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Nonresidential ACM Reference Manual.

    (b) Compliance demonstration requirements for performance standards.

    1. Certificate of Compliance and Application for a Building Permit. The application for a building permit shall include documentation pursuant to Sections 10-103(a)1 and 10-103(a)2 that demonstrates, using an approved calculation method, that the building has been designed so that its source energy and LSC energy consumption do not exceed the standard design energy budgets for the applicable climate zone.
    2. Field verification of individual dwelling unit systems.
  • CBC § 3-4 High relevance — show source text

    302 Mixed Occupancy Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 303 Phased Projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 304 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 305 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    306 Voluntary Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    CHAPTER 4 RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . . . . . 4-3

    4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3 4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7 4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-9 4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . 4-11 4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

    CHAPTER 5 NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . 5-3

    5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3 5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15 5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19 5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . 5-23 5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-31

    CHAPTER 6 REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS

    AND STANDARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

    601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3

    CHAPTER 7 INSTALLER AND SPECIAL

    INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 701 General (Reserved) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3 702 Qualifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3

  • CBC § 201.1 High relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX A5-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A5.201—GENERAL

    A5.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards. It is the intent of these voluntary provisions to encourage local jurisdictions through codification to achieve exemplary performance in the area of building energy efficiency. Local jurisdictions adopting these voluntary provisions as mandatory local energy efficiency standards shall submit the required application and receive the required findings of the California Energy Commission in compliance with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106, prior to enforcement. Once the required filing has been verified and finding has been made by the Energy Commission, local jurisdictions shall file an ordinance expressly marking the local modifications along with findings and receive the required acceptance from the California Building Standards Commission in compliance with Section 101.7 of this code, prior to enforcement (Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 is available at https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/building-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency

    SECTION A5.202—DEFINITIONS

    A5.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ENERGY BUDGET.

    GEOTHERMAL.

    LONG-TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC).

    PROCESS.

    RECOVERED ENERGY, ON-SITE.

    SOLAR ACCESS.

    SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM.

    SECTION A5.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A5.203.1 Energy efficiency. Nonresidential, high-rise residential and hotel/motel buildings that include lighting and/or mechanical systems shall comply with Sections A5.203.1.1 and A5.203.1.2. Newly constructed buildings and additions are included in the scope of these sections. Buildings permitted without lighting or mechanical systems shall comply with Section A5.203.1.1 but are not required to comply with Section A5.203.1.2.

    A5.203.1.1 Tier 1 and Tier 2 prerequisites. To comply with Tier 1, ONE of the following efficiency measures is required for all applicable components of the building project. To comply with Tier 2, TWO of the following efficiency measures are required.

    A5.203.1.1.1 Outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting requirements are described below.

    A5.203.1.1.1.1 Newly installed outdoor lighting power shall be no greater than 90 percent of the Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power, and general hardscape lighting within the scope of Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7(b)1 shall have a color temperature no higher than 3000K. The Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power calculation is specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7, Requirements for Outdoor Lighting.

    Exception to Section A5.203.1.1.1.1:

  • CBC § 212.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    2**
    Energy
    Efficiency|Elective|Elevators with car lights and fan|A5.212.1.1,
    A5.212.1.1.1||||| |DIVISION 5.2
    Energy
    Efficiency|DIVISION 5.2
    Energy
    Efficiency|Elective|Escalators|A5.212.1.2||||| |DIVISION 5.2
    Energy
    Efficiency|DIVISION 5.2
    Energy
    Efficiency|Elective|Controls that reduce energy|A5.212.1.4||||| |DIVISION 5.2
    Energy
    Efficiency|DIVISION 5.2
    Energy
    Efficiency|Elective|Steel framing|A5.213.1|||||

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-49

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 Col3 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Separate meters (new buildings or additions > 50,000 sf that
    consume more than 100 gal/day)    		 5.303.1.1
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Separate meters (for tenants in new buildings or additions that
    consume more than 1,000 gal/day)    		 5.303.1.2
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Tier 1
    Prerequisite    		 Water reduction Tier 1—12% savings over the “water use base-
    line” in Table A5.303.2.2 or meet Table A5.303.2.3.1    		 A5.303.2.3.1
    DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 DIVISION 5.3
    Water
    Efficiency and
    Conservation    		 Mandatory Water closets shall not exceed 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) 5.303.3.
  • CBC § 5.2 High 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.)

Frequently asked questions

Do Division 5.2 (Energy Efficiency) mandatory measures appear in CALGreen itself?

No — § 5.201.1 delegates mandatory energy-efficiency standards for nonresidential buildings to the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). CALGreen’s Division 5.2 indicates the Energy Code is the controlling source.

Are Appendix A5 (Division A5.2) Tier measures mandatory statewide?

No — Appendix A5 (Division A5.2) contains voluntary measures. A local jurisdiction can make them mandatory only by following the Energy Commission filing/approval process described in § A5.201.1.

Where do I find the prescriptive PV sizing formula and its exceptions?

PV sizing and its exceptions are stated in § 140.10, including Equation 140.10‑A and exceptions for SARA < 3% and required capacity < 4 kW. Consult § 140.10 for full detail.

If my building is unconditioned, do any Energy Code provisions still apply?

Yes — the Energy Code lists specific sections that still apply to unconditioned nonresidential buildings and process spaces; see the Energy Code guidance (examples include Sections 110.9, 110.10, 120.6, 130.0–130.5 and certain 140.x provisions).

If I pick the performance path, what must I submit?

Performance-path projects must demonstrate that the proposed design’s energy use does not exceed the energy budget using Commission‑certified compliance software and submit the required Certificate of Compliance and documentation per § 140.1.

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

Which CalGreen energy sections are adopted/enforced by agencies?

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

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

California Building Code