CBC · California Building Code

What does CalGreen say about energy‑efficient framing techniques?

CalGreen’s Appendix A5 (nonresidential) advises designers to reduce thermal bridging in steel framing by using continuous exterior rigid insulation, making large web openings where structurally safe, spacing studs farther apart when structural design allows, and carefully detailing all wall/floor/roof intersections; these are voluntary measures unless adopted locally, and any change must preserve structural, fire and acoustic performance.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

For steel framing, CalGreen directs designers to “design steel framing for maximum energy efficiency” and lists specific techniques to avoid thermal bridging at the building envelope, including continuous exterior rigid insulation, web openings, increased stud spacing (where structurally feasible) and careful intersection detailing (see § A5.213.1) . These are voluntary Appendix A5 measures for nonresidential projects unless a local jurisdiction has adopted them; Appendix A5 is not mandatory unless adopted as specified in § A5.601.1 . CalGreen also calls out advanced/“efficient” wood framing techniques elsewhere in Appendix A5 that mirror the same performance intent (see § A5.404.1) .

Requirements in detail

Summary of the controlling provision

Steel framing: the code requires design for maximum energy efficiency and explicitly lists four thermal‑bridge mitigation techniques in § A5.213.1 (exterior rigid insulation; punching stud webs; wider stud spacing subject to structural limits; and detailed intersection design) .
Wood framing (related guidance): CalGreen lists advanced framing (OVE) practices—2‑ft modules, stud spacing up to 24 in. o.c., in‑line framing, two‑stud corners, single top plates where permitted—under § A5.404.1 as techniques to reduce material use and thermal bridging in wood framed assemblies .

Decision‑relevant dimensions and actions

Decision factor / value	What it means for design	Typical energy effect (qualitative)	Code reference
Exterior continuous rigid insulation (any thickness chosen by designer)	Adds a thermal break between steel (or wood) framing and exterior cladding to interrupt thermal bridges	Often the most direct way to reduce linear thermal bridging across studs	§ A5.213.1
Stud spacing — common choices: 16 in. o.c. vs 24 in. o.c.	Increasing spacing (where structural design permits) reduces number of studs/thermal bridges per wall area	Fewer studs → lower overall linear thermal bridging (subject to structural checks)	§ A5.213.1 (steel) and § A5.404.1.2 (wood: up to 24 in. o.c.) file
Web openings in cold‑formed steel studs	Punch large holes in stud web to reduce effective metal cross‑section continuity while preserving structural capacity	Reduces conductive path through stud web; effectiveness depends on hole size/location and structural design	§ A5.213.1
Intersection and opening detailing (walls, floors, roofs, window/door openings)	Design to limit continuous metal paths, provide insulation continuity and control air/water barriers	Critical for preventing localized thermal bridges and air leakage that defeat insulation performance	§ A5.213.1
2‑ft modular planning and in‑line framing	Use consistent framing modules and align vertical members for load paths and reduced redundant members	Lowers unnecessary members (and thermal bridges) and simplifies installation	§ A5.404.1.2 (OVE/advanced framing)

Notes on scope and enforceability

A5.213.1 and A5.404.1 are located in Appendix A5 (nonresidential voluntary measures). Appendix A provisions are not mandatory statewide unless a local authority adopts them; see § A5.601.1 for that adoption note .
CalGreen’s language for steel framing is prescriptive in listing techniques but does not set a single numeric requirement for insulation thickness or a maximum stud spacing for steel — it requires designers to use the listed approaches “while maintaining structural integrity” (§ A5.213.1) .

Exceptions & special cases

Voluntary vs mandatory: Appendix A5 measures (including § A5.213.1) are voluntary unless adopted locally; do not assume they are mandatory for every project in California — confirm local adoption under § A5.601.1 .
Structural or fire‑resistance conflicts: For wood framing, a chosen advanced framing method (OVE) must not conflict with structural or fire‑resistance assemblies required by the California Building Code; the same “do no harm” principle applies to steel framing when increasing spacing or punching webs (§ A5.404.1.1) .
Design tradeoffs: Punching large web holes and increasing stud spacing reduce thermal bridging but always require structural analysis (and may affect acoustic separation or fire performance). The code text explicitly conditions these techniques on maintaining integrity (§ A5.213.1) .

Common mistakes

Treating Appendix A5 measures as automatically mandatory. Verify local adoption; Appendix A5 is voluntary unless adopted by the enforcing jurisdiction (§ A5.601.1) .
Applying wood‑framing numeric limits (like 24 in. o.c.) blindly to steel framing. § A5.213.1 encourages spacing “as far as possible” for steel but does not set the same numeric limits given for wood framing; steel spacing must be supported by structural calculations (§ A5.213.1, § A5.404.1) file.
Ignoring detailing at openings/intersections. Even with exterior insulation or reduced studs, poor flashing, continuity of the air barrier, or uninsulated intersection clips/plates will create localized thermal bridges — the code explicitly calls out detailed design of intersections (§ A5.213.1) .
Assuming a single fix (e.g., web punches) is enough. The code lists multiple complementary techniques; best practice is to use a combination (continuous exterior insulation + stud spacing strategy + good detailing) rather than rely on one method (§ A5.213.1) .

Worked example — concrete scenario applying the rule with numbers

Scenario: A nonresidential office wall currently framed with cold‑formed steel studs at 16 in. o.c. Designer goal: reduce thermal bridging while maintaining structural capacity.

Step 1 — Verify applicability and local adoption

Confirm whether Appendix A5 is adopted locally. If not adopted, § A5.213.1 is advisory; if adopted, it becomes a design requirement to follow the listed techniques (see § A5.601.1) .

Step 2 — Select techniques from § A5.213.1 and assess structurally

Option A: Increase stud spacing from 16 in. o.c. → 24 in. o.c. (reduces number of studs by 33%). CalGreen encourages spacing studs “as far as possible while maintaining structural integrity” — this change must be justified by structural calculations for wind/seismic and deflection limits (§ A5.213.1) .
Option B: Add continuous exterior rigid insulation behind cladding. The code recommends exterior rigid insulation as a technique (no minimum thickness specified); choose a thickness (for example, 1 in. or 2 in.) based on energy modeling and cladding attachment details. The code does not mandate a thickness — the technique itself is listed in § A5.213.1 .
Option C: Combine both: move to 24 in. o.c. studs and add exterior rigid insulation. Also consider punching larger web holes for horizontal utilities where allowed by the structural engineer (§ A5.213.1) .

Step 3 — Outcome description (qualitative and compliant)

Moving from 16 in. o.c. to 24 in. o.c. reduces number of studs per 100 ft of wall from about 75 studs to about 50 studs (assuming typical spacing), thus lowering linear metal paths. CalGreen identifies wider spacing as an acceptable technique if structural integrity is maintained (§ A5.213.1 and § A5.404.1) file.
Adding continuous exterior insulation interrupts the metal‑to‑exterior conductive path; § A5.213.1 lists exterior rigid insulation as a primary mitigation strategy (no prescriptive thickness given) .
Document the structural checks and energy rationale in the project records so the enforcing agency (if Appendix A5 is adopted) can verify the measures were applied as intended.

Important: the example uses 16 in. and 24 in. o.c. as typical framing spacings (the 24 in. value is explicitly called out for advanced wood framing in § A5.404.1.2), but § A5.213.1 itself does not set numeric limits for steel — any increase in spacing for steel must be validated by structural design (§ A5.213.1, § A5.404.1) file.

Related provisions

§ A5.213.1 — Energy efficient steel framing (thermal‑bridge mitigation techniques)
§ A5.404.1 — Advanced/efficient wood framing (OVE) and listed framing techniques including 2‑ft modules and up to 24 in. o.c. spacing
§ A5.601.1 — Scope: Appendix A5 measures are voluntary unless adopted locally (adoption note)
Appendix A5 general title and adoption matrix (nonresidential voluntary measures) — see the Appendix A5 header and matrix entries (context for voluntary status) file

Code references

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

CBC § 403.3 High relevance — show source text
ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances Appendix A6.1(OSHPD), A4.403.3, A5.204.1 General 4.201, 5.201, A5.201 Performance approach A4.203, A5.203 Outdoor lighting A5.203.1.1.1 Prescriptive approach Appendix A6.1(OSHPD), 203.3.1.2 Alterations to existing buildings A4.204.1, A4.204.1.2, A5.204.1,

A5.204.1.1 Energy Efficient Steel Framing A5.213 Environmental Comfort 4.507, 5.507,

A5.507

Acoustical control A4.507, A5.507.5 Daylight A5.507.2 Lighting and thermal comfort controls A5.507.1

Views A5.507.3

Fireplaces 4.503, 5.503 Foundation Systems A4.403 Frost protected foundation systems A4.403.1

Reduction in cement use A4.403.2 Framing, Energy Efficient Steel A5.213 Framing Techniques, Efficient A4.404, A5.404 Building systems A4.404.3 Lumber size A4.404.1

Pre-cut materials and details A4.404.4 Wood framing A5.404.1

Green Building Chapter 3 Mixed occupancy buildings 302 Phased projects 303 Voluntary tiers 304, 305 Voluntary measures 306

HVAC Design, Equipment and Installation Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), A5.207

Indoor Air Quality And Exhaust 4.506, 5.506 Bathroom exhaust fans 4.506.1 Carbon dioxide monitoring 5.506.2 Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) monitoring in classrooms 5.506.3

Filters 5.504.5, A4.506.1 Outside air delivery 5.506.1 Indoor Moisture Control 4.505, 5.505.1 Concrete slab foundations 4.505.2

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INDEX

Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), Table A5.504.8.5 Covering of duct openings and protection of mechanical equipment during construction 4.504.1, 5.504.3 Environmental tobacco smoke control 5.504.7, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), A5.504.9 Finish material pollutant control 4.504.2, 5.504.4 Hazardous particulates and chemical pollutants A5.504.5 Indoor air quality (IAQ) during construction 5.504.1, A5.504.1 IAQ Post-construction A5.504.2 Paints and coatings 4.504.2.2, 5.504.4.3 Resilient flooring systems 4.504.4, 5.504.4.6, A4.504.2, A5.504.4.7 Thermal insulation 5.504.4.7, A4.504.3,

A5.504.4.8
CBC § 404.1 Medium relevance — show source text
** Not less than a 20 percent reduction in cement use.
**Tier 2.**Not less than a 25 percent reduction in cement use.||2|2|||| |Efficient Framing Techniques||||||| |A4.404.1 Beams and headers and trimmers are the minimum size to
adequately support the load.||||||| |A4.404.2Building dimensions and layouts are designed to minimize
waste.||||||| |A4.404.3Use premanufactured building systems to eliminate solid
sawn lumber whenever possible.||||||| |A4.404.4 Material lists are included in the plans which specify
material quantity and provide direction for on-site cuts.||||||| |Material Sources||||||| |A4.405.1 One or more of the following building materials, that do not
require additional resources for finishing are used:
1. Exterior trim not requiring paint or stain
2. Windows not requiring paint or stain
3. Siding or exterior wall coverings which do not require paint or
stain||||||| |A4.405.2 Floors that do not require additional coverings are used
including but not limited to stained, natural or stamped concrete
floors.||||||| |A4.405.3Postconsumer or preconsumer recycled content value (RCV)
materials are used on the project.
**Tier 1.**Not less than a 10 percent recycled content value.
**Tier 2.**Not less than a 15 percent recycled content value.||2
|2
|
|
|
| |A4.405.4Renewable source building products are used.||||||| |Enhanced Durability and Reduced Maintenance||||||| |4.406.1 Annular spaces around pipes, electric cables, conduits or
other openings in plates at exterior walls shall be protected against
the passage of rodents by closing such openings with cement mortar,
concrete masonry or similar method acceptable to the enforcing
agency.||||||| |Water Resistance and Moisture Management||||||| |A4.407.1Install foundation and landscape drains.||||||| |A4.407.2Install gutter and downspout systems to route water at least
5 feet away from the foundation or connect to landscape drains which
discharge to a dry well, sump, bioswale, rainwater capture system or
other approved on-site location.
California Building Code Medium relevance — show source text
|100 psf|1 hr
23 min|||7|1, 2|11/3| |F/C-4-RC-9|4″|4″ deep (4370 psi);1/4″ reinforcement bars
at 6″ pitch with3/4″ cover;1/4″ main rein-
forcement bars at 4″ pitch perpendicular
with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-10|4″|4″ thick (5140 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|1 hr
16 min|||7|1, 5|11/4| |F/C-4-RC-11|4″|4″ thick (4000 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom of slab; 6′6″
span restrained.|150 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-12|4″|4″ deep (2380 psi) concrete deck;
3″ × 11/2″ × 4 lbs R.S.J.; 2′6″ C.R.S.; flush
with top surface; 4″ × 6″ x 13 SWG mesh
reinforcement 1″ from bottom surface;
6′6″ span restrained.|150 psf|1 hr
3 min|||7|1, 2|1| |F/C-4-RC-13|41/2″|41/2″ thick (5200 psi) deck;1/4″ reinforce-
ment bars at 71/4″ pitch with7/8″ cover;3/8″
main reinforcement bars at 33/4″ pitch
perpendicular with1/2″ cover; 13′1″ span
restrained.|140 psf|2 hrs|||7|1, 3|2| |F/C-4-RC-14|41/2″|41/2″ deep (2525 psi) concrete deck;1/4″
reinforcement bars at 71/2″ pitch with7/8″
cover;3/8″ main reinforcement bars at
33/8″ pitch perpendicular with1/2″ cover;
13′1″ span restrained.|150 psf|42 min|||7|1, 5|2/3| |F/C-4-RC-15|41/2″|41/2″ deep (4830 psi) concrete deck;
11/2″ × No.

CBC § 403.1 Medium relevance — show source text

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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued

FEATURE OR MEASURE	LEVELS APPLICANT TO SELECT ELECTIVE MEASURES	Col3	Col4	VERIFICATIONS ENFORCING AGENCY TO SPECIFY VERIFICATION METHOD	Col6	Col7
FEATURE OR MEASURE	Mandatory	Prerequisites and electives1	Prerequisites and electives1	Enforcing Agency  All	Installer or Designer  All	Third party  All
FEATURE OR MEASURE	Mandatory	Tier 1	Tier 2	Tier 2	Tier 2	Tier 2
MATERIAL CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE EFFICIENCY
Foundation Systems
A4.403.1A Frost-protected Shallow Foundation (FPSF) is designed and constructed.						
A4.403.2Cement use in foundation mix design is reduced. Tier 1. Not less than a 20 percent reduction in cement use. Tier 2.Not less than a 25 percent reduction in cement use.		2	2			
Efficient Framing Techniques
A4.404.1 Beams and headers and trimmers are the minimum size to adequately support the load.						
A4.404.2Building dimensions and layouts are designed to minimize waste.						
A4.404.3Use premanufactured building systems to eliminate solid sawn lumber whenever possible.						
A4.404.4 Material lists are included in the plans which specify material quantity and provide direction for on-site cuts.						
Material Sources
A4.405.1 One or more of the following building materials, that do not require additional resources for finishing are used: 1. Exterior trim not requiring paint or stain 2. Windows not requiring paint or stain 3.

CBC § 213.1 Medium relevance — show source text

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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

SECTION A5.213—ENERGY EFFICIENT FRAMING

A5.213.1 Steel framing. Design steel framing for maximum energy efficiency. Techniques for avoiding thermal bridging in the envelope include:

Exterior rigid insulation;
Punching large holes in the stud web without affecting the structural integrity of the stud;
Spacing the studs as far as possible while maintaining the structural integrity of the structure; and
Detailed design of intersections of wall openings and building intersections of floors, walls and roofs.

Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4 and 25402.8, Public Resources Code.

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CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

APPENDIX A5 – NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

DIVISION A5.3 – 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.)

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
Chapter/Section

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APPENDIX A5-18 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

CBC § 204.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception 4 to A5.204.1.1: Heating systems which are used exclusively for permanent spa applications in existing buildings with gas availability.

SECTION A5.211—RESERVED

SECTION A5.212—ELEVATORS, ESCALATORS AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

A5.212.1 Elevators and escalators. In buildings with more than one elevator or two escalators, provide systems and controls to reduce the energy demand of elevators and escalators as follows. Document systems operation and controls in the project specifications and commissioning plan.

A5.212.1.1 Elevators. Traction elevators shall have a regenerative drive system that feeds electrical power back into the building grid when the elevator is in motion.

A5.212.1.1.1 Car lights and fan. A parked elevator shall turn off its car lights and fan automatically until the elevator is called for use.

A5.212.1.2 Escalators. An escalator shall have a Variable Voltage Variable Frequency (VVVF) motor drive system that is fully regenerative when the escalator is in motion.

A5.212.1.4 Controls. Controls that reduce energy demand shall meet requirements of CCR, Title 8, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6 and shall not interrupt emergency operations for elevators required in CCR, Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code.

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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

SECTION A5.213—ENERGY EFFICIENT FRAMING

A5.213.1 Steel framing. Design steel framing for maximum energy efficiency. Techniques for avoiding thermal bridging in the envelope include:
1. Exterior rigid insulation;
2. Punching large holes in the stud web without affecting the structural integrity of the stud;
3. Spacing the studs as far as possible while maintaining the structural integrity of the structure; and
4. Detailed design of intersections of wall openings and building intersections of floors, walls and roofs.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4 and 25402.8, Public Resources Code.

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CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

APPENDIX A5 – NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

DIVISION A5.3 – 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 § 404.1 Medium relevance — show source text
PRECONSUMER (or POSTINDUSTRIAL) CONTENT.

RECYCLED CONTENT.

RECYCLED CONTENT VALUE (RCV).

REFERENCE STUDY PERIOD.

TYPE III ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATION (EPD).

FACTORY-SPECIFIC EPD.

INDUSTRY-WIDE EPD (IW-EPD).

PRODUCT-SPECIFIC EPD.

SECTION A5.403—FOUNDATION SYSTEMS (RESERVED)

SECTION A5.404—EFFICIENT FRAMING TECHNIQUES

A5.404.1 Wood framing. Employ advanced wood framing techniques or OVE, as recommended by the US Department of Energy’s Office of Building Technology, State and Community Programs and as permitted by the enforcing agency.

A5.404.1.1 Structural or fire-resistance integrity. The OVE selected shall not conflict with structural framing methods or firerated assemblies required by the California Building Code.

A5.404.1.2 Framing specifications. Advanced framing techniques include the following:
1. Building design using 2-foot modules;
2. Spacing wall studs up to 24 inches on center;
3. Spacing floor and roof framing members up to 24 inches on center;
4. Using 2-stud corner framing and drywall clips or scrap lumber for drywall backing;
5. Eliminating solid headers in non-load-bearing walls;
6. Using in-line framing, aligning floor, wall and roof framing members vertically for direct transfer of loads; and
7. Using single lumber headers and top plates where appropriate.
Note: Additional information can be obtained from the US DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) website.

SECTION A5.405—MATERIAL SOURCES

A5.405.1 Regional materials. Compared to other products in a given product category, select building materials or products for permanent installation on the project that have been harvested or manufactured in California or within 500 miles of the project site.
1. For those materials locally manufactured, select materials manufactured using low embodied energy or those that will result in net energy savings over their useful life.
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
1. Regional materials shall make up at least 10 percent, based on cost, of total materials value.
2. If regional materials make up only part of a product, their values are calculated as percentages based on weight.
3. Provide documentation of the origin, net projected energy savings and value of regional materials.
A5.405.2 Bio-based materials. Select bio-based building materials and products made from solid wood, engineered wood, bamboo, wool, cotton, cork, straw, natural fibers, products made from crops (soy-based, corn-based) and other bio-based materials with at least 50-percent bio-based content.

A5.405.2.1 Certified wood components—sustainability standards. Provide wood products, for at least 50 percent of the project’s permanently installed products, that have been certified by independent third parties and labeled as having been produced in compliance with the accepted principles of sustainable forest management. The use of recycled and/or recovered wood products does not need to be certified. Comply with one or more of the following certifications of wood sustainability:
1. Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).
2. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
CBC § 405.4 Medium 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.

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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 § 401.1 Medium relevance — show source text
401.1||||||||X||||||||||||||| |5.402.1 Definitions||||||||X||||||||||||||| |5.407 and subsections||||||||X||||||||||||||| |5.408.1 and subsections||||||||X||||||||||||||| |5.409 and subsections||||||||X||||||||||||||| |5.410.1||||||||X||||||||||||||| |5.410.1.2||||||||X|||||||||||||||

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5-22 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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5 NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

DIVISION 5.4 – MATERIAL CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE EFFICIENCY

SECTION 5.401—GENERAL

5.401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter specify the requirements of achieving material conservation, resource efficiency, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction through protection of buildings from exterior moisture, construction waste diversion, employment of techniques to reduce pollution through recycling of materials, the installation of products with lower GHG emissions and building commissioning or testing and adjusting.

SECTION 5.402—DEFINITIONS

5.402.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

ADJUST.

BALANCE.

BUILDING COMMISSIONING.

BUY CLEAN CALIFORNIA ACT (BCCA).

CRADLE-TO-GRAVE.

ORGANIC WASTE.

REFERENCE STUDY PERIOD.

TEST.

TYPE III ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATION (EPD).

FACTORY-SPECIFIC EPD.

INDUSTRY-WIDE EPD (IW-EPD).

PRODUCT-SPECIFIC EPD.

SECTION 5.403—FOUNDATION SYSTEMS (RESERVED)

SECTION 5.404—EFFICIENT FRAMING TECHNIQUES (RESERVED)

SECTION 5.405—MATERIAL SOURCES (RESERVED)

SECTION 5.406—ENHANCED DURABILITY AND REDUCED MAINTENANCE (RESERVED)

SECTION 5.407—WATER RESISTANCE AND MOISTURE MANAGEMENT

5.407.1 Weather protection. Provide a weather-resistant exterior wall and foundation envelope as required by California Building Code Section 1402.2 (Weather Protection), manufacturer’s installation instructions or local ordinance, whichever is more stringent.

5.407.2 Moisture control. Employ moisture control measures by the following methods.

5.407.2.1 Sprinklers. Design and maintain landscape irrigation systems to prevent spray on structures.

5.407.2.2 Entries and openings. Design exterior entries and/or openings subject to foot traffic or wind-driven rain to prevent water intrusion into buildings as follows:

5.407.2.2.1 Exterior door protection. Primary exterior entries shall be covered to prevent water intrusion by using nonabsorbent floor and wall finishes within at least 2 feet around and perpendicular to such openings plus at least one of the following:
1. An installed awning at least 4 feet in depth.
2. The door is protected by a roof overhang at least 4 feet in depth.
CBC § 3.00 Medium relevance — show source text
fastener**
horizontal spacing|24″ o.c. fastener
horizontal spacing|24″ o.c. fastener
horizontal spacing|24″ o.c. fastener
horizontal spacing|24″ o.c. fastener
horizontal spacing| |CLADDING FASTENER THROUGH
FOAM SHEATHING INTO:|CLADDING FASTENER TYPE
AND MINIMUM SIZEb|CLADDING
FASTENER
VERTICAL
SPACING
(inches)|Cladding weight|Cladding weight|Cladding weight|Cladding weight|Cladding weight|Cladding weight|Cladding weight|Cladding weight| |CLADDING FASTENER THROUGH
FOAM SHEATHING INTO:|CLADDING FASTENER TYPE
AND MINIMUM SIZEb|CLADDING
FASTENER
VERTICAL
SPACING
(inches)|**3 **
psf|11
psf|18
psf|25
psf|**3 **
psf|11
psf|18
psf|25
psf| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#8 screw into 33 mil steel or
thicker|6|3.00|2.95|2.20|1.45|3.00|2.35|1.25|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#8 screw into 33 mil steel or
thicker|8|3.00|2.55|1.60|0.60|3.00|1.80|DR|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#8 screw into 33 mil steel or
thicker|12|3.00|1.80|DR|DR|3.00|0.65|DR|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 33 mil steel|6|4.00|3.50|2.70|1.95|4.00|2.90|1.70|0.55| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 33 mil steel|8|4.00|3.10|2.05|1.00|4.00|2.25|0.70|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 33 mil steel|12|4.00|2.25|0.70|DR|3.70|1.05|DR|DR| |Cold-formed steel framing
(minimum penetration of steel
thickness plus 3 threads)|#10 screw into 43 mil steel or
thicker|6|4.00|4.00|4.00|3.60|4.00|4.00|3.45|2.
CBC § 2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1h_|S13R|UL|4l|3k|NP|3k|NP|4|NP|NP|NP|3k|NP| |R-2.1h|S|UL|6l|3k|NP|3k|NP|10|NP|NP|NP|3k|NP| |R-2.2h|NSd|NP|NP|NP|NP|NP|NP|NP|NP|NP|NP|NP|NP| |R-2.2h|S_ (without area increase)|UL|12|5 |NP|5|NP|18|12|8|5|4 |NP| |R-2.2h|S (with area increase)|UL|11|4|NP|4|NP|17|11|7|4|4o|NP| |R-3, R-3.1_h|NSd|UL|11|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|3|3| |R-3, R-3.1_h|S13D|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|3|3| |R-3, R-3.1_h|S13R|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4|4| |R-3, R-3.1_h|S|UL|12|5|5|5|5|18|12|5|5|4|4| |R-4h|NSd|UL|11_l|4_k_|4_m_|4_k_|4_m_|4_m_|4_m_|4_m_|4_m_|3_k_|2_m_| |R-4h|S13D|4|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|3_k_|2_m_| |R-4h|S13R|4|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4_l_|4|3| |R-4h|S|UL|11l|5|5|5|5|11l|5|5|5|4|3| |S-1|NS|UL|11|4|2|3|2|4|4|4|4|3|1| |S-1|S|UL|12|5|4|4|4|10|7|5|5|4|2| |S-2_i_|NS|UL|11|5|3|4|3|4|4|4|5|4|2| |S-2_i_|S|UL|12|6|4|5|4|12|8|5|6|5|3| |U|NS|UL|5|4|2|3|2|4|4|4|4|2|1| |U|S|UL|6|5|3|4|3|9|6|5|5|3|2| |UL = Unlimited; NP = Not Permitted; NS = Buildings not equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system;
CBC § 1-1 Medium relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-1

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

APPENDIX A6.1-2 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

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

DIVISION A6.1 – SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

SECTION A6.106—SITE DEVELOPMENT

A6.106.9 Building orientation. Locate and orient the building as follows:
1. When site and location permit, orient the building with the long sides facing north and south.
2. Protect the building from thermal loss, drafts and degradation of the building envelope caused by wind and wind-driven materials such as dust, sand, snow and leaves, with building orientation and landscape features. Note: For information on sun angles and shading, visit: http://www2.aud.ucla.edu/energy-design-tools/.
Calculations may be made using the Solar-2 tool.

DIVISION A6.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

SECTION A6.202—DEFINITIONS

A6.202.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.

ENERGY STAR. A joint program of the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy. ENERGY STAR is a voluntary program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products and practices.

SECTION A6.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

A6.203.2 Energy performance. It is the intent of this code to encourage green buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.

A6.203.2.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen [Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By](http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf) Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf.

A6.203.2.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] 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 A6.204—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH

A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances. All equipment and appliances provided by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment or appliance.

A6.204.4 Commissioning. [OSHPD 1 & 4] Building commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the building project to verify that the building’s energy related systems are installed, calibrated and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design and construction documents.

The owner and designer shall designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review and oversee the completion of the commissioning process activities. The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).

Frequently asked questions

Are the techniques in § A5.213.1 mandatory for every new nonresidential building?

Not automatically. § A5.213.1 is in Appendix A5 (nonresidential voluntary measures); Appendix A5 provisions are not mandatory statewide unless a local jurisdiction has adopted them per § A5.601.1 .

Does CalGreen specify a minimum thickness for the exterior rigid insulation it recommends?

No. § A5.213.1 lists exterior rigid insulation as a recommended technique but does not prescribe a specific thickness; designers choose thickness based on energy modeling, structural/cladding details and local requirements .

Can I apply the 24 in. o.c. spacing recommendation for steel framing?

§ A5.213.1 encourages spacing studs “as far as possible while maintaining structural integrity” for steel framing; however, the explicit numeric 24 in. o.c. appears in A5.404.1 for wood framing. Any change in steel stud spacing must be supported by structural calculations and not conflict with code structural requirements (§ A5.213.1, § A5.404.1) file.

Will punching holes in steel stud webs weaken the structure?

Punching large web holes is specifically listed in § A5.213.1 as a thermal‑bridge mitigation technique; it must be done without affecting the stud’s structural integrity, meaning the structural engineer must approve sizes and locations to ensure member capacity and stiffness remain acceptable .

Do these measures affect fire‑resistance or acoustics?

Potentially yes. CalGreen explicitly conditions advanced framing (OVE) on not conflicting with structural or fire‑resistance requirements (§ A5.404.1.1). Similarly, any change to steel framing (spacing, web holes) must respect fire and acoustic assembly requirements in the CBC; coordination with the structural, fire protection and acoustical design disciplines is necessary file.

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Related in the CBC

Where are the residential voluntary energy measures (Appendix A4)?

What are the Tier prerequisites and elective measures for nonresidential voluntary energy performance?

Which voluntary measures are listed (daylight power adjustments, exhaust-air heat recovery, service water heating)?

CalGreen voluntary measures & tiers — Appendix A4/A5 (Energy Efficiency)

California Building Code

What does CalGreen say about energy‑efficient framing techniques?

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Requirements in detail

Decision‑relevant dimensions and actions

Exceptions & special cases

Common mistakes

Worked example — concrete scenario applying the rule with numbers

Related provisions

Code references

A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

5 NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

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

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