CBC · California Building Code

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

If your nonresidential project is pursuing CALGreen voluntary tiers, § A5.203.1.1 requires you to choose energy measures from a short list (one measure for Tier 1, two for Tier 2); Appendix A5 then adds cross‑division prerequisites and checklists that you must document for verification.

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Last reviewed: July 5, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The performance approach for nonresidential voluntary energy tiers requires projects to select efficiency “prerequisite” measures from a short, prescribed list: to meet Tier 1 you must adopt ONE of the listed efficiency measures; to meet Tier 2 you must adopt TWO of them. This requirement is stated at § A5.203.1.1 of Appendix A5 (Nonresidential Voluntary Measures) and applies to nonresidential buildings that include lighting and/or mechanical systems (buildings without lighting or mechanical systems must still comply with § A5.203.1.1).

Requirements in detail

Summary: § A5.203.1.1 lists the specific efficiency measures from which projects must choose prerequisites/electives; additional Tier 1/2 package requirements and cross‑division elective counts appear in the CALGreen Tier sections (§ A5.601.2 and § A5.601.3).

Which measures count as the Tier prerequisites (the short list)

Under § A5.203.1.1 the candidate measures (each counts toward the Tier prerequisite total) include, at minimum, the following energy items (subsections are the code’s organization for these measures):

  • Outdoor lighting (see § A5.203.1.1.1) — new outdoor lighting power must be no greater than 90% of Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power and certain hardscape luminaries are limited to ≤ 3000 K color temperature.
  • Service water‑heating for restaurants (see § A5.203.1.1.2) — solar water‑heating is specified with limited exceptions.
  • Warehouse dock seal doors (see § A5.203.1.1.3).
  • Daylight design power adjustments (see § A5.203.1.1.4).
  • Exhaust air heat recovery (see § A5.203.1.1.5).

(Each listed measure is intended to be implemented for “applicable components of the building project” as stated in § A5.203.1.1.)

How many to pick (Tier count)

  • Tier 1: ONE of the measures listed in § A5.203.1.1 is required.
  • Tier 2: TWO of the measures listed in § A5.203.1.1 are required.

How the Tier package in Appendix A5 interacts with other divisions

The CALGreen Tier sections in Appendix A5 (the Tier checklists and voluntary Tier packages) define broader multi‑division requirements for achieving a Tier (beyond the A5.203.1.1 energy prerequisites). Examples:

  • Tier 1 package language requires compliance with § A5.203.1.1 plus a set of additional division prerequisites and elective counts (for example, one elective from Division A5.1 and one elective from other divisions), and it explicitly identifies items such as cool‑roof requirements and EV/parking provisions as part of the Tier 1 voluntary package.
  • Tier 2 package language likewise references § A5.203.1.1 (two measures) and sets higher counts of required electives across Divisions A5.1–A5.5 (for example, multiple elective selections within Division A5.1 and two selections from Division A5.2), and raises thresholds for recycled content, water reductions, etc.

See the table below for a decision‑oriented view.

Decision dimension Tier 1 requirement Tier 2 requirement Code reference
Number of A5.203.1.1 efficiency measures required 1 measure 2 measures § A5.203.1.1
Example eligible measure — Outdoor lighting May be selected as the one measure; new outdoor lighting power ≤ 90% of Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power; hardscape lighting ≤ 3000K where in scope Can be one of two measures § A5.203.1.1.1 and § A5.203.1.1.1.1
Example eligible measure — Service water heating for restaurants May be selected (solar water‑heating requirement with exceptions) Can be selected (counts as 1 of 2) § A5.203.1.1.2; exceptions described in Appendix A5 text
Tier package (cross‑division electives & prerequisites) Tier 1 has additional division prerequisites/electives (e.g., cool roof, EV/parking thresholds, water reduction targets) Tier 2 increases counts/thresholds and electives across divisions § A5.601.2.4 and § A5.601.3.4 (Appendix A5 Tier packages)
Compliance verification / checklists Use Tier 1 checklist in Appendix A5 verification guidelines Use Tier 2 checklist in Appendix A5 verification guidelines § A5.602 (Tier checklists)

Exceptions & special cases

  • Buildings permitted without lighting or mechanical systems: such buildings are required to comply with § A5.203.1.1 but are not required to comply with § A5.203.1.2 (the additional performance items that apply when lighting and/or mechanical systems are present). This distinction is stated in § A5.203.1.
  • Service water‑heating (restaurants): the solar water‑heating requirement in the restaurant measure includes explicit exceptions—e.g., where a natural gas service water heater has ≥ 95% thermal efficiency, or where roof solar access is too poor (greater than 75% of roof area has annual solar access < 70%)—these exceptions are described in the appendix text for the restaurant measure.
  • Outdoor lighting color‑temperature exceptions: the ≤ 3000 K color temperature limit does not apply to applications exempted in Title 24 Part 6 (examples and specific application exceptions are cross‑referenced in § A5.203.1.1.1.1).
  • Local adoption: Appendix A5 (including the voluntary tiers) is not mandatory statewide unless a local jurisdiction adopts these provisions per the amendment process (see § A5.601.1 and the introductory notes to Appendix A5). Local adoption and any required filings/acceptances are governed by Section 101.7 and Title 24 procedures.

If you need the verbatim exception text (word‑for‑word wording and footnotes for the restaurant solar exceptions or the full list of Title 24 outdoor lighting exceptions), that text exists in the appendix excerpts and should be consulted directly in the code; the summary above reflects the appendix guidance.

Common mistakes

  • Counting the wrong number of measures: designers sometimes assume Tier 1 requires “one from each division” — the specific energy prerequisite in § A5.203.1.1 requires ONE measure (not one per division) unless local Tier package text (e.g., § A5.601.2.4) adds division‑level prerequisites or electives. Always check both § A5.203.1.1 and the local Tier package language in Appendix A5.
  • Overlooking the “applicable components” limitation: a measure applies only where it is applicable to the project; requiring an inapplicable measure (or failing to document inapplicability) causes verification problems. § A5.203.1.1 is phrased to apply to “applicable components.”
  • Forgetting cross‑references (Title 24): some measures (for example outdoor lighting power limits) depend on calculations or exceptions in Title 24, Part 6; compliance requires checking those referenced sections as well, not just Appendix A5.
  • Ignoring Tier checklists and verification: the Appendix A5 verification checklists are the enforcement tool; leaving checklist items blank or undocumented is a frequent cause of nonapproval. See the Tier 1 and Tier 2 checklists in Appendix A5.

Worked example — applying § A5.203.1.1 (concrete scenario)

Project: New 40,000 ft² office building with lighting and mechanical systems, located in a jurisdiction that has adopted Appendix A5 Tier 1 voluntarily.

Goal: Achieve CALGreen Tier 1.

Step 1 — Mandatory checks: Confirm all Chapter 5 mandatory measures are met (per Appendix A5 Tier prerequisites).

Step 2 — A5.203.1.1 selection: Because the building includes lighting and mechanical systems, § A5.203.1.1 applies and the project must adopt ONE of the listed efficiency measures. Options include outdoor lighting reductions, daylight power adjustments, exhaust air heat recovery, etc.

Step 3 — Developer choice (example): The design team selects “Outdoor lighting” as the Tier 1 measure. To implement that choice they will:

  • Design newly installed outdoor lighting so installed power ≤ 90% of the Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power calculated per Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7. (If the Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power calc for the site is, say, 1000 W, the fit‑out must be ≤ 900 W installed.)
  • Ensure any general hardscape lighting in scope has color temperature ≤ 3000 K unless a Title 24 exception applies.

Step 4 — Documentation: Record the outdoor lighting power calculation, the fixture schedule showing lamp/LED wattages, and the Tier 1 checklist entry showing the selection of the A5.203.1.1.1 measure; include this in the project record required under Appendix A5 verification.

If instead the owner wanted Tier 2, they would select two of the A5.203.1.1 measures (for example “Outdoor lighting” plus “Exhaust air heat recovery”), and then prepare documentation demonstrating compliance with both items and with the higher cross‑division prerequisites/electives required by the Tier 2 package.

Related provisions

  • § A5.203.1 — Performance approach; scope and applicability (notes that buildings without lighting/mech systems still comply with § A5.203.1.1).
  • § A5.203.1.1 — Tier 1 and Tier 2 prerequisites (the controlling short list of measures and the 1‑or‑2 count).
  • § A5.203.1.1.1 — Outdoor lighting specifics (90% of Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power; color temperature limit).
  • § A5.203.1.1.2 — Service water heating (restaurants) and its exceptions.
  • § A5.601.2.4 — CALGreen Tier 1 voluntary measures and cross‑division electives/prerequisites (cool‑roof, EV/parking, etc.).
  • § A5.601.3.4 — CALGreen Tier 2 voluntary measures and cross‑division electives/prerequisites (higher counts/thresholds).
  • § A5.602 (and Tier checklists) — verification guidance and Tier 1/Tier 2 checklists used for documenting compliance.

Code references

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

  • 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

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    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 § 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.

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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 § 601.3.4 High relevance — show source text

    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,

    a. Comply with the 20-percent reduction for indoor potable water use in Section A5.303.2.3.2. b. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.

    1. From Division A5.4,

    a. Comply with recycled content of 15 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 A5.405.4.1. b. Comply with the 80-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.

    1. From Division A5.5,

    a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 100 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7.1. Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list and no added formaldehyde in Section A5.504.4.8.1.

    c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division. 6. Comply with three additional elective measures 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.

    A5.601.4 Compliance verification. Compliance with Section A5.601.2 or A5.601.3 shall be as required in Chapter 7 of this code. Compliance documentation shall be made part of the project record as required in Section 5.410.2 or 5.410.3.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-43

  • CBC § 601.2.4 High relevance — show source text

    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,

    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.

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

    a. Comply with recycled content of 15 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 A5.405.4.1. b. Comply with the 80-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.

    1. From Division A5.5,

    a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 100 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7.1. Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list and no added formaldehyde in Section A5.504.4.8.1.

    c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division. 6. Comply with three additional elective measures 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.

    A5.601.4 Compliance verification. Compliance with Section A5.601.2 or A5.601.3 shall be as required in Chapter 7 of this code. Compliance documentation shall be made part of the project record as required in Section 5.410.2 or 5.410.3.

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    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A5.602

    CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES MANDATORY MEASURES CHECKLIST

    Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet one of the following: new construction, building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3 AND do not trigger a Tier 1 or Tier 2 requirement:

    Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included)

    — N/A = Not Applicable (code section does not apply to the project mainly used for additions and alterations) O = Other (provide explanation)

    [N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3

    [A ] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N/A O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
    Scope with Exception    		 5.105.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with
    note    		 5.105.2 and
    5.105.2.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb less
    than 1 acre of land    		 5.106.
  • CBC § 201.1 High relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX A5-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    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 § 203.1 High relevance — show source text

    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:

    1. The color temperature requirement is not applicable to the applications identified in the exceptions to Section 140.7(a) of Title 24, Part 6, nor to the applications identified as “specific applications” in Section 140.7(b)2 and Table 140.7-B of Title 24, Part 6.

    A5.203.1.1.1.2 Outdoor pole-mounted and arm-mounted luminaires shall be installed with tilting not greater than 10 degrees, or the outdoor luminaires shall be installed with arm-mount or tenon-mount capable of tilting less than or within 10 degrees.

    Exceptions to Section A5.203.1.1.1.2:

    1. Lighting for building facades, public monuments, public art, statues and vertical surfaces of bridges.
    2. Lighting not permitted by a health or life safety statute, ordinance or regulation to be a cutoff luminaire.
    3. Temporary outdoor lighting.
    4. Lighting required and regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration or the Coast Guard.
    5. Lighting for public streets, roadways, highways, and traffic signage lighting, including lighting for driveway entrances occurring in the public right-of-way. Luminaires that illuminate the public right of way including publicly-maintained or utility-maintained sidewalks and bikeways.
    6. Lighting for sports and athletic fields and children’s playgrounds.

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    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    1. Lighting for industrial sites, including but not limited to, rail yards, maritime shipyards and docks, piers and marinas, chemical and petroleum processing plants, and aviation facilities.
  • CBC § 203.1.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    In addition, a minimum of two of
    the efficiency measures specified in Sections A4.203.1.2.1 through
    A4.203.1.2.8 will be required to be met.
    · Roof Deck Insulation or Ducts in Conditioned Space.
    · High-performance Walls.
    · Compact Hot Water Distribution System.
    · Drain Water Heat Recovery.
    · High Performance Vertical Fenestration.
    · Heat Pump Water Heater Demand Management.
    · Battery Storage System Controls.
    · **Heat Pump Space and Water Heating.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.3 Consultation with local electric service provider.**Local
    jurisdictions considering adoption of reduced EDR targets based on
    using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems larger than required by the
    California Energy Code shall consult with the local electric service
    provider to ensure that that PV system sizing required to comply with
    the EDR targets will be acceptable to the local electric service
    provider.||2|2||||

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-25

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

    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
    WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION
    Indoor Water Use
    4.303.1Plumbing fixtures (water closets and urinals) and fittings
    (showerheads, faucets and pre-rinse spray valves) installed in
    residential buildings shall comply with the prescriptive requirements
    of Sections 4.303.1.1 through 4.303.1.4.5.
    4.303.2 Submeters for multifamily building and dwelling units in
    **mixed-use residential/commercial buildings.
  • CBC § 409.4 High relevance — show source text

    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.|1.
    Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring.
    2.
    Solar water-heating system requirement for newly constructed restaurants as per A5.203.1.1.2.
    Exceptions:
    a. Buildings with a natural gas service water heater with a minimum of 95-percent thermal efficiency.
    b. Buildings where greater than 75 percent of the total roof area has annual solar access that is less than 70 percent. 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.|1.
    Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring.
    2.
    Solar water-heating system requirement for newly constructed restaurants as per A5.203.1.1.2.
    Exceptions:
    a. Buildings with a natural gas service water heater with a minimum of 95-percent thermal efficiency.
    b. Buildings where greater than 75 percent of the total roof area has annual solar access that is less than 70 percent. 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.

  • CBC § 602.2 High relevance — show source text
    Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
    Check the appropriate box(es) for the list below.
    □ Mandatory: I attest that the mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.
    □ Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected meet or exceed the total number required
    to achieve Tier 1 compliance.
    □ Partial Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected do not meet the total number
    required to achieve Tier 1 compliance: however, partial Tier 1 compliance has been achieved.    		 Col2
    Signature:
    Company: Date:
    Address: License:
    City/State/Zip: Phone:

    APPENDIX A5-54 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A5.602.2

    CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES

    TIER 2 CHECKLIST

    Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 2 voluntary measures.

    Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 2 voluntary measures.

    Instructions:

    Comply with all Tier 2 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.

    Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 2 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.

    Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.

    Count the total number of Tier 2 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 2 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 2 compliance.

    Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)

    [N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3

    [A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
    Scope with Exception    		 5.105.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with
    note    		 5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
    less than 1 acre of land    		 5.106.1 through
    5.106.
  • CBC § 507.4.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    507.4.1.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Performance method|5.507.4.2||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Site features|5.507.4.2.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Documentation of compliance|5.507.4.2.2||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Interior sound transmission (with note)|5.507.4.3||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Ozone depletion and greenhouse gas reductions|5.508.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)|5.508.1.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Halons|5.508.1.2||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction for retail food
    stores 8,000 square feet or more|5.508.2
    through
    5.508.2.6.3||||| |||END OF MANDATORY PROVISIONS||||||

    Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
    □ Mandatory: I attest that this mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.    		 Col2
    Signature: Signature:
    Company: Date:
    Address: License:
    City/State/Zip: Phone:

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-47

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A5.602.1

    CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES

    TIER 1 CHECKLIST

    Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 1 voluntary measures.

    Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 1 voluntary measures.

    Instructions:

    Comply with all Tier 1 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.

    Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 1 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.

    Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.

  • CBC § 0.019 High relevance — show source text

    35|0.019|–|–|–|–| |0.71|0.061|–|–|–|–| |1.06|0.120|–|–|–|–| |1.41|0.194|–|–|–|–| |1.77|0.284|–|–|–|–| |2.12|0.387|–|–|–|–| |2.47|0.504 –|–|–|–|| |2.82|0.634|–|–|–|–| |3.18|0.777|–|–|–|–| |3.53|0.932|0.238|–|–|–| |4.24|1.277|0.325|–|–|–| |4.94|1.669|0.424|–|–|–| |5.65|2.106|0.534|–|–|–| |6.36|2.586|0.655|–|–|–| |7.06|3.110|0.787|0.272|–|–| |7.77|3.674|0.929|0.321|–|–| |8.47|4.280|1.081|0.373|–|–| |9.18|4.927|1.243|0.429|–|–| |9.89|–|1.416|0.488|–|–| |10.59|–|1.597|0.551|0.242|–| |11.30|–|1.789|0.616|0.270|–| |12.01|–|1.990|0.685|0.300|–| |12.71|–|2.200|0.757|0.332|–| |13.42|–|2.419|0.832|0.365|–| |14.12|–|2.648|0.911|0.399|–| |14.83|–|2.886|0.992|0.435|–| |15.54|–|3.132|1.077|0.471|–| |16.24
    |–
    |3.388
    |1.164
    |0.510
    |–
    | |16.95|–|3.652|1.254|0.549|–| |17.66|–|3.925|1.348|0.590|–| |18.36|–|4.207|1.444|0.632|0.167| |19.07|–|4.498|1.543|0.675|0.179| |19.77|–|4.797|1.646|0.720|0.190| |20.48|–|–|1.751|0.766|0.202| |21.19|–|–|1.859|0.813|0.214| |24.72|–|–|2.441|1.066|0.281| |28.25|–|–|3.092|1.350|0.356| |31.78|–|–|3.811|1.662|0.438| |35.31|–|–|4.596|2.004|0.527| |38.84|–|–|–|2.373|0.

Frequently asked questions

Does Tier 1 always mean only one energy action across the whole project?

Yes — for the A5.203.1.1 energy prerequisite itself Tier 1 requires ONE of the listed efficiency measures. However, the Tier 1 package in Appendix A5 (e.g., § A5.601.2.4) adds additional cross‑division prerequisites and elective selections that the project must meet to claim CALGreen Tier 1 locally.

If my building lacks mechanical or lighting systems, do I ignore § A5.203.1.1?

No — buildings without lighting or mechanical systems are required to comply with § A5.203.1.1 (the short list) but are not required to comply with § A5.203.1.2 (which applies when lighting and/or mechanical systems are present).

Can a local jurisdiction change these Tier requirements?

Yes — Appendix A5 is voluntary statewide and a local jurisdiction may adopt (or modify) tiers and measures; local adoption must follow the procedures in Section 101.7 and (where relevant) the Energy Commission filing/acceptance process.

Does the 90% outdoor lighting limit replace Title 24 calculations?

No — § A5.203.1.1.1.1 sets a performance cap (≤90% of the Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power), but the Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power itself is calculated per Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7. You must perform the Title 24 calculation and then show the installed power meets the 90% cap.

Where do I find the checklist to document Tier compliance?

Use the CALGreen verification checklists provided in Appendix A5 (A5.602 Tier 1 and Tier 2 checklists) to document prerequisites, electives and verification items for the chosen Tier.

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

California Building Code