CBC · California Building Code
Is CBC Chapter 13 (Energy Efficiency) adopted in California?
The California Building Code explicitly marks Chapter 13 (Energy Efficiency) as "not adopted." Mandatory energy-efficiency rules for buildings in California are published in the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). For numeric requirements (insulation, HVAC, lighting, PV/BESS, prescriptive or performance paths) consult Title 24, Part 6; local ordinances that differ from State rules must follow filing/approval procedures before being enforced.
Last reviewed: July 5, 2026
What the code requires
Short answer: No — the California Building Code does not adopt Chapter 13 (Energy Efficiency). The CBC text explicitly states "Chapter 13 is not adopted in California" and directs users to the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) for all mandatory energy-efficiency requirements.
Requirements in detail
Plain-English rule you must follow
- You cannot rely on CBC Chapter 13 for mandatory energy-efficiency rules in California because the State did not adopt that chapter. Instead, mandatory energy requirements are in the California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6 (often referred to as the "Energy Code").
Key decision‑relevant dimensions (where to look)
| Decision factor | What it means for your project | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Which document controls energy requirements? | California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) — not CBC Chapter 13 | CBC text: "Chapter 13 is not adopted in California. Refer to California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6." |
| Can a local jurisdiction enforce CBC Chapter 13? | State did not adopt Chapter 13; local jurisdictions may pursue local energy measures but must follow State filing/approval rules (see Title 24, Part 1 filing requirements) | CBC/CalGreen guidance on local voluntary/mandatory measures and filing (Title 24, Part 1 §10-106 referenced) |
| Where to find specific building-envelope, HVAC, lighting, PV, storage rules | Title 24, Part 6 — see sections such as §150.1 (general requirements), §150.2 (building-envelope rules) and other Part 6 chapters/tables | Energy Code examples and specific section references (e.g., Exception 1 to §150.2(b)) |
| Existing building work (additions/alterations) | Additions/alterations must comply with applicable provisions of the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) | Existing Building Code §1104.1 requires compliance with the California Energy Code (Part 6) for additions |
| Where prescriptive vs. performance compliance live | Performance and prescriptive methods (and tables/equations) are in Title 24, Part 6 (examples include PV/BESS equations and tables) | Energy Code contains performance equations and tables (e.g., battery/PV equations) |
How the CBC documents this
- The CBC edition used in California contains chapter synopses that mark some model-code chapters as "not adopted" and explicitly tells the user to consult Title 24, Part 6 for energy matters. Example: the CBC chapter synopsis for Chapter 13 states: "Chapter 13 is not adopted in California. Refer to California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6."
Exceptions & special cases
- Local ordinances: a local jurisdiction may adopt voluntary or more-stringent local energy measures (for example, via CALGreen voluntary tiers or local ordinance), but there are filing and approval steps with the California Energy Commission / Building Standards Commission before enforcement. See Title 24, Part 1 filing requirements (for example §10-106) and the Green Building appendix guidance about local adoption.
- Agency-specific adoptions: some state enforcement agencies (OSHPD and others) list which Title 24 parts they adopt/enforce for their facilities — check the agency adoption tables (OSHPD and other state agency guidance show which Title 24 parts are applicable).
- CBC performance chapters not adopted at state level: other model-code chapters (and parts of the model Residential Code) are likewise noted as "not adopted" with cross-reference to the appropriate California code part (for example, the Residential Code notes Part IV is not adopted; see Title 24, Part 6). Do not assume a model-code chapter is adopted unless the CBC text explicitly says so.
Common mistakes
- Mistake: citing CBC Chapter 13 as the controlling legal requirement for energy compliance. Correction: the CBC itself states Chapter 13 is not adopted; use Title 24, Part 6.
- Mistake: assuming local adoption of Chapter 13 is automatically enforceable. Correction: local energy ordinances that differ from State energy standards require specific filings/approvals (see Title 24, Part 1 procedures).
- Mistake: overlooking Existing Building Code §1104.1, which directs additions to follow the California Energy Code rather than CBC Chapter 13.
Worked example
Scenario: You plan a new 2,000 ft² single‑family dwelling in California and want to know which code controls the energy rules.
Step 1 — Where to look: The CBC tells you not to use Chapter 13 and directs you to the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) for mandatory energy requirements.
Step 2 — Which rules apply: For envelope U‑factors, insulation R‑values, HVAC efficiency, lighting, and PV/BESS requirements you must check Title 24, Part 6 (for example, see §150.1 and §150.2 and the various performance/equipment tables and equations in Part 6). The Energy Code contains both prescriptive limits and performance compliance paths (examples: Exception 1 to §150.2(b) and the Part 6 tables/equations).
Step 3 — Prepare compliance submittals: Use the approved compliance software and forms specified by the Energy Commission (Part 6 compliance process and forms are referenced in the Energy Code). If you are proposing a local modification to exceed the State standard, follow the filing process in Title 24, Part 1 (e.g., §10‑106) before the local rule is enforced.
If you want numeric design targets (e.g., exact R‑values or HVAC efficiencies) those specific numeric requirements are published in Title 24, Part 6 tables and sections. The CBC itself does not contain those numbers because Chapter 13 was not adopted; consult the Energy Code for precise values.
Related provisions
- California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) — see §150.1 and §150.2 for building envelope and whole‑building rules.
- California Building Code (Existing Building Code) — §1104.1 requires additions to comply with the California Energy Code (Part 6).
- CBC/Part 1 filing rules for local energy measures — Title 24, Part 1 (see §10‑106 referenced in the Green Building appendix guidance).
- CBC notes and chapter synopses that list "Chapter 13 is not adopted" (see Chapter synopsis for Chapter 13 in the CBC).
- CBC cross references to alternative compliance/administration (see CBC references to §1.1.11 and §104.11 for local adoption/alternative means language).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Building Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CFC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
In addition, the special fire protection system requirements based on use and occupancy found in CBC Chapter 4 are duplicated in CFC Chapter 9 as a user convenience.
Chapter 10 Means of Egress.
The criteria in Chapter 10 regulating the design of the means of egress system are established as the primary method for protection of occupants by allowing timely relocation or evacuation. Both prescriptive and performance language is utilized for determination of a safe exiting system. It addresses all portions of the means of egress system (i.e., exit access, exits and exit discharge) and includes design requirements as well as provisions regulating individual components. The requirements detail the size, arrangement, number and protection of means of egress components. The means of egress protection requirements work in coordination with other sections of the code, such as protection of vertical openings (see Chapter 7), interior finish (see Chapter 8), fire suppression and detection systems (see Chapter 9) and numerous others, all having an impact on life safety. Chapter 10 of the CBC is duplicated in Chapter 10 of the CFC; however, the CFC contains one additional section on the maintenance of the means of egress system in existing buildings.
Chapter 11 Reserved.
Chapter 11A Housing Accessibility. Chapter 11B Accessibility to Public Buildings, Public Accommodations, Commercial Buildings and Public Housing.
Verify compliance with accessibility provisions. In order to be considered as accessible, buildings and their individual elements must comply with the applicable scoping and technical provisions of Chapter 11A and/or Chapter 11B.
Chapter 12 Interior Environment.
Chapter 12 provides minimum standards for the interior environment of a building. The standards address the minimum sizes of spaces, as well as minimums for temperature, light and ventilation. Concerns for sound transmission and acoustics are addressed. Finally, the chapter provides minimum standards for toilet and bathroom construction.
Chapter 13 Energy Efficiency.
Chapter 13 is not adopted in California. Refer to California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6.
Chapter 14 Exterior Walls.
Chapter 14 addresses requirements for exterior walls of buildings. Minimum standards for wall covering materials, installation of wall coverings and the ability of the wall to provide weather protection are provided.
Chapter 15 Roof Assemblies and Rooftop Structures.
Chapter 15 provides standards for both roof assemblies and structures that sit on top of the roofs of buildings. The criteria address roof construction and covering, including the weather-protective barrier at the roof and, in most circumstances, a fire-resistant barrier.
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Chapter 16 Structural Design.
Chapter 16 prescribes minimum structural loading requirements for use in the design and construction of buildings and structural components. The chapter references and relies on many nationally recognized design standards, including the American Society of Civil Engineers’ Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures (ASCE 7).
Chapter 16A Structural Design.
CBC § 101.2 High relevance — show source text
Code change proposals submitted for code sections that have a letter designation in front of them will be heard by the respective committee responsible for such code sections. Because different committees hold Committee Action Hearings in different years, proposals for most codes will be heard by committees in both the 2024 (Group A) and the 2025 (Group B) code development cycles. It is very important that anyone submitting code change proposals understands which code development committee is responsible for the section of the code that is the subject of the code change proposal.
Please visit the ICC website at iccsafe.org/products-and-services/i-codes/code-development/current-code-development-cycle for further information on the Code Development Committee responsibilities as it becomes available.
Coordination of the I-Codes
The coordination of technical provisions allows the I-Codes to be used as a complete set of complementary documents. Individual codes can also be used in subsets or as stand-alone documents. Some technical provisions that are relevant to more than one subject area are duplicated in multiple model codes.
INTRODUCTION TO THE INTERNATIONAL BUILDING CODE
The International Building Code establishes minimum requirements for building systems using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new materials and new building designs.
The IBC is a model code that provides minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare of the occupants of new and existing buildings and structures. It addresses structural strength, means of egress, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, accessibility, energy conservation and life safety in regard to new and existing buildings, facilities and systems.
The IBC applies to all occupancies, including one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses that are not within the scope of the IRC . The IRC is referenced for coverage of detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses as defined in the exception to Section 101.2 and the definition for “ Townhouse ” in Chapter 2. The IRC can also be used for the construction of live/work units (as
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defined in Section 508.5) and small bed and breakfast-style hotels where there are five or fewer guestrooms and the hotel is owneroccupied. The IBC applies to all types of buildings and structures unless exempted. Work exempted from permits is listed in Section 105.2.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CBC
The format of the CBC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CBC is divided. The subsequent tables show CBC requirements that are correlated with other Codes. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CBC.
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTERS SUBJECTS 1, 2 Administration and Definitions 3 Use and Occupancy Classifications 4, 31,_ 31A–31F_ Special Requirements for Specific Occupancies or Elements 5–6 Height and Area Limitations Based on Type of Construction 7–9 Fire Resistance and Protection Requirements 10 Requirements for Evacuation 11A, 11B Specific Requirements to Allow Use and Access to a Building for Persons with Disabilities 12, 27,_28,_30 Building Systems, Such as Lighting, HVAC, Elevators 13 _This chapter is not adopted in California. CBC § 508.5 High relevance — show source text
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defined in Section 508.5) and small bed and breakfast-style hotels where there are five or fewer guestrooms and the hotel is owneroccupied. The IBC applies to all types of buildings and structures unless exempted. Work exempted from permits is listed in Section 105.2.
ARRANGEMENT AND FORMAT OF THE 2025 CBC
The format of the CBC allows each chapter to be devoted to a particular subject. The following table shows how the CBC is divided. The subsequent tables show CBC requirements that are correlated with other Codes. The chapter synopses detail the scope and intent of the provisions of the CBC.
CHAPTER TOPICS Col2 CHAPTERS SUBJECTS 1, 2 Administration and Definitions 3 Use and Occupancy Classifications 4, 31,_ 31A–31F_ Special Requirements for Specific Occupancies or Elements 5–6 Height and Area Limitations Based on Type of Construction 7–9 Fire Resistance and Protection Requirements 10 Requirements for Evacuation 11A, 11B Specific Requirements to Allow Use and Access to a Building for Persons with Disabilities 12, 27,_28,_30 Building Systems, Such as Lighting, HVAC, Elevators 13 This chapter is not adopted in California. Refer to California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6. 14–26 Structural Components—Performance and Stability 32 Encroachment Outside of Property Lines 33 Safeguards during Construction 35 Referenced Standards Appendices A–Q Appendices INTERNATIONAL FIRE CODE CORRELATED TOPICS
The IBC requirements for hazardous materials, fire-resistance-rated construction, interior finish, fire protection systems, means of egress, emergency and standby power, and temporary structures are directly correlated with the requirements of the International Fire Code ® (IFC®). The following table shows chapters/sections of the IBC that are correlated with the IFC:
IBC/IFC CORRELATED TOPICS Col2 Col3 IBC CHAPTER/SECTION IFC CHAPTER/SECTION SUBJECT Sections 307, 414, 415 Chapters 50–67 Hazardous materials and Group H requirements Chapter 7 Chapter 7 Fire-resistance-rated construction (fire and smoke protection features in the IFC) Chapter 8 Chapter 8 Interior finish, decorative materials and furnishings Chapter 9 Chapter 9 Fire protection systems Chapter 10 Chapter 10 Means of egress Chapter 27 Section 604 Standby and emergency power Section 3103 Chapter 31 Temporary structures Chapter 1 Scope and Administration.
Chapter 1 establishes the limits of applicability of the code and describes how the code is to be applied and enforced. The provisions of Chapter 1 establish the authority and duties of the code official appointed by the authority having jurisdiction and also establish the rights and privileges of the design professional, contractor and property owner.
Chapter 2 Definitions.
Chapter 2 is the repository of the definitions of terms used in the body of the code. The user of the code should be familiar with and consult this chapter because the definitions are essential to the correct interpretation of the code and because the user may not be aware that a term is defined.
CRC § 2025 High relevance — show source text
Chapter 13 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 14 Heating and Cooling Equipment and Appliances.
Chapter 14 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 15 Exhaust Systems.
Chapter 15 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 16 Duct Systems.
Chapter 16 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 17 Combustion Air.
Chapter 17 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 18 Chimneys and Vents.
Chapter 18 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 19 Special Appliances, Equipment and Systems.
Chapter 19 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 20 Boilers and Water Heaters.
Chapter 20 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
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Chapter 21 Hydronic Piping.
Chapter 21 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 22 Special Piping and Storage Systems.
Chapter 22 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 23 Solar Thermal Energy Systems.
Chapter 23 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.
Chapter 24 Fuel Gas.
Chapter 24 is not adopted in California. See California Mechanical Code and California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Parts 4 and 5.
Chapter 25 Plumbing Administration.
Chapter 25 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 26 General Plumbing Requirements.
Chapter 26 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 27 Plumbing Fixtures.
Chapter 27 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 28 Water Heaters.
Chapter 28 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 29 Water Supply and Distribution.
Chapter 29 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 30 Sanitary Drainage.
Chapter 30 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 31 Vents.
Chapter 31 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 32 Traps.
Chapter 32 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 33 Storm Drainage.
Chapter 33 is not adopted in California. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.
Chapter 34 General Requirements.
Chapter 34 is not adopted in California. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
CBC § 0.0174 High relevance — show source text
liquid)
Degrees (deg)............................................................0.0174 ............................Radians (rad)
Fahrenheit (°F)...................................................(°F-32)/1.8 ............................Celsius (°C)
Feet (ft) .....................................................................0.3048 ............................Meters (m)
Feet (ft) .......................................................................304.8 ............................Millimeters (mm)
Feet of water (4°C)...................................................0.0295 ............................Atmosphere (standard) (atm)
Feet of water (4°C)...................................................0.8827 ............................Inches of mercury (0°C)
Feet of water (4°C).....................................................62.43 ............................Pounds-force/square feet
Feet of water (4°C)...................................................0.4335 ............................Pounds-force/square inch
Feet/minute (ft/min)................................................0.01667 ............................Feet/second (ft/s)
Feet/minute (ft/min)................................................0.01136 ............................Miles/hour (mi/h)
Feet/second (ft/s) ......................................................0.3048 ............................Meters/second (m/s)
Feet/second (ft/s) ......................................................0.6818 ............................Miles/hour (mi/h)
Feet/second (ft/s) ....................................................0.01136 ............................Miles/minute (mi/min) Foot lambert (fL) ..................................................3.426259 ............................Candela per square meter (cd/m [2] )
Foot pounds-force (ft•lbf)...........................................1.355 ............................Joules (J) Foot pounds-force/minute (ft•lbf/min).............2.260 x 10 [-5] ............................Kilowatts (kW) Foot pounds-force/second (ft•lbf/s)..................1.356 x 10 [-3] ............................Kilowatts (kW) Gallons (U.S. liquid) (gal).............................................231 ............................Cubic inches (in [3] ) Gallons (U.S. liquid) (gal)....................................0.003785 ............................Cubic meters (m [3] ) Gallons (U.S. liquid) (gal)........................................0.1337 ............................Cubic feet (ft [3] )
Gallons (U.S. liquid) (gal)..........................................3.785 ............................Liters (L)
Gallons (U.S. liquid) (gal).................................................4 ............................Quarts (U.S. liquid) Gallons/day...........................................................4.3 x 10 [-5] ............................Liters/second Gallons/minute (gal/min) (gpm)...............................8.0208 ............................Cubic feet/hour (ft [3] /h) Gallons/minute (gal/min) (gpm).....................0.003785412 ............................Cubic meters/minute (m [3] /min) Gallons/minute (gal/min) (gpm).............................0.00223 ............................Cubic feet/second (ft [3] /s) Gallons/minute (gal/min) (gpm).................6.309020 x 10 [-5] ............................Cubic meters/second (m [3] /s)
Gallons/minute (gal/min) (gpm).............................0.06309 ............................Liters/second (L/s)
CBC § 0.15 High relevance — show source text
95|0.15 ×TDA + 1.95| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Vertical Closed
Transparent (VCT)|0 (L)|<32|VCT.RC.L|0.49 ×TDA + 2.61|0.49 ×TDA + 2.61| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Horizontal Closed
Transparent (HCT)|38 (M)|≥32|HCT.RC.M|0.16 ×TDA + 0.13|0.16 ×TDA + 0.13| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Horizontal Closed
Transparent (HCT)|0 (L)|<32|HCT.RC.L|0.34 ×TDA + 0.26|0.34 ×TDA + 0.26| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Vertical Closed
Solid (VCS)|38 (M)|≥32|VCS.RC.M|0.10 ×V + 0.26|0.10 ×V + 0.26| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Vertical Closed
Solid (VCS)|0 (L)|<32|VCS.RC.L|0.21 ×V + 0.54|0.21 ×V + 0.54| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Horizontal Closed
Solid (HCS)|38 (M)|≥32|HCS.RC.M|0.10 ×V + 0.26|0.10 ×V + 0.26| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Horizontal Closed
Solid (HCS)|0 (L)|<32|HCS.RC.L|0.21 ×V + 0.54|0.21 ×V + 0.54| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Service Over
Counter (SOC)|38 (M)|≥32|SOC.RC.M|0.44 ×TDA + 0.11|0.44 ×TDA + 0.11| |Remote
condensing com-
mercial refriger-
ators and
commercial
freezers|Remote (RC)|Service Over
Counter (SOC)|0 (L)|<32|SOC.RC.L|0.93 ×TDA + 0.22|0.93 ×TDA + 0.22| |Self-contained
commercial
refrigerators and
commercial
freezers with and
with outdoors|
Self-contained
(SC)|Vertical Open
(VOP)|38 (M)|≥32|VOP.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 § 503.7.1 High relevance — show source text
(11)Table E 503.7.1(11), “Commercial Refrigerators, Commercial Freezers, Freezers, and Refrigeration—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(12)Table E 503.7.1(12), “Vapor-Compression-Based Indoor Pool Dehumidifiers—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(13) Table E 503.7.1(13), “Electrically Operated DX-DOAS Units, Single-Package and Remote Condenser, without Energy Recovery—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(14)Table E 503.7.1(14), “Electrically Operated DX-DOAS Units, Single-Package and Remote Condenser, with Energy Recovery—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(15)Table E 503.7.1(15), “Electrically Operated WaterSource Heat Pumps—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(16)Table E 503.7.1(16), “Heat Pump and Heat Recovery Chiller Packages—Minimum Efficiency Requirement”
(17)Table E 503.7.1(17), “Ceiling-Mounted Computer-Room Air Conditioners—Minimum Efficiency Requirements”
(18)Table E 503.7.1(18), “Walk-In Cooler and Freezer Display Door Efficiency Requirements”
(19)Table E 503.7.1(19), “Walk-In Cooler and Freezer Nondisplay Door Efficiency Requirements” (20)Table E 503.7.1(20), “Walk-In Cooler and Freezer Refrigeration System Efficiency Requirements”
[ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.1] E 503.4.1 Water-Cooled Centrifugal Chilling Packages. Equipment not designed for operation in accordance with AHRI 550/590 test conditions of
44.00°F (6.67°C) leaving and 54.00°F (12.22°C) entering chilled-fluid temperatures, and with 85.00°F (29.44°C) entering and 94.30°F (34.61°C) leaving condenser-fluid temperatures, shall have maximum full-load kW/ton ( FL ) and part-load rating requirements adjusted in accordance with Equation E 503.4.1(1) through Equation E 503.4.1(3):
FLadj = FL / Kadj [Equation E 503.4.1(1)] PLVadj = IPLV.IP / Kadj [Equation E 503.4.1(2)] Kadj = A x B [Equation E 503.4.1(3)]
Where:
FL = full-load kW/ton value from Table E
503.7.1(3) FLadj = maximum full-load kW/ton rating, adjusted for nonstandard conditions
IPLV.IP = IPLV.IP value from Table E 503.7.1(3) PLVadj = maximum NPLV rating, adjusted for nonstandard conditions
A = 0.00000014592 x (LIFT ) [4] - 0.0000346496 x ( LIFT ) [3] + 0.00314196 x ( LIFT ) [2] 0.147199 x ( LIFT ) + 3.93073
B = 0.0015 x LvgEvap + 0.934
LIFT = LvgCond - LvgEvap
LvgCond = Full-load condenser leaving fluid temperature (°F)
CBC § 201.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION A4.201—GENERAL
A4.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards in the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). 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 approval 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 modification 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/build- ing-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency
SECTION A4.202—DEFINITIONS
A4.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.
ENERGY BUDGET.
LONG-TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC).
RECOVERED ENERGY, ON-SITE.
SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM.
SECTION A4.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH FOR NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUILDINGS
A4.203.1 Energy efficiency. Newly constructed low-rise residential buildings shall comply with Sections A4.203.1.1 through A4.203.1.4.
A4.203.1.1 Long-term system cost (LSC). LSC rating for the building’s Proposed Design shall be computed by Compliance Software certified by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 100.1 and 150.1(b), and shall reduce the LSC required in the Compliance Software for minimum performance-based compliance with the California Energy Code by the compliance margin specified in Table A4.203.1.1. The rating shall be included in the Certificate of Compliance documentation.
TABLE A4.203.1.1—RECOMMENDED LSC MARGINS BY CLIMATE ZONES Col2 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE CLIMATE ZONE TOTAL LSC COMPLIANCE MARGIN 1 2.70 2 1.62 3 1.10 4 1.11 5 1.01 6 0.24 7 0.24 8 0.21 9 0.20 10 0.18 11 1.11 12 1.05 13 0.96 14 1.21 15 0.59 16 1.68 Note: Community shared options complying with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115 may be used to achieve LSC targets. Note: Community shared options complying with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115 may be used to achieve LSC targets. 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-9
CBC § 10-109 High relevance — show source text
- The standard design shall assume the same geometry and orientation as the proposed design.
- The “existing efficiency level” modeling rules, including situations where nameplate data are not available, are described in Sections 10-109(c) and 10-116. Exception 1 to Section 150.2(b): Any dual- glazed greenhouse or/garden window installed as part of an alteration complies with the U -factor requirements in Section 150.1(c)3. Exception 2 to Section 150.2(b): Where the space in the attic or rafter area is not large enough to accommodate the required R -value, the entire space shall be filled with insulation, provided such installation does not violate Section 1203.2 of Title 24, Part 2.
(c) Whole building. Any addition or alteration may comply with the requirements of Title 24, Part 6 by meeting the requirements for the entire building.
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, 25910, and 25943, Public Resources Code .
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CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24, PART 4, CHAPTER 6, DUCT SYSTEMS
CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE, CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24, PART 4, CHAPTER 6, DUCT SYSTEMS
TABLE P4-A ADOPTION TABLE Col2 Col3 CODE SECTION AGENCY Adopt entire Chapter as amended (amended sections listed below)1 CEC 601.0 X 602.0 X 603.0 X 604.0 X 605.0 X 1. Adopted by reference for Occupancies A, B, E, F, H, M, R, S, and U; see Sections 110.8(d)3, 120.4 and 150.0(m). 1. Adopted by reference for Occupancies A, B, E, F, H, M, R, S, and U; see Sections 110.8(d)3, 120.4 and 150.0(m). 1. Adopted by reference for Occupancies A, B, E, F, H, M, R, S, and U; see Sections 110.8(d)3, 120.4 and 150.0(m). 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 197
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10 MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS
SECTION 160.0—GENERAL
CBC § 10-13 High relevance — show source text
R1006.5 Outlet. The exterior air outlet shall be located in the back or side of the firebox chamber or shall be located outside of the firebox, at the level of the hearth and not greater than 24 inches (610 mm) from the firebox opening. The outlet shall be closable and designed to prevent burning material from dropping into concealed combustible spaces.
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Part IV—Energy Conservation
(Note: Part IV is not adopted. See California Energy Code, Title 24, Part 6.)
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Part V—Mechanical
(Note: Part V is not adopted. See California Mechanical Code, Title 24, Part 4.)
2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 12-1
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Part VI—Fuel Gas
(Note: Part VI is not adopted. See California Mechanical Code and California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Parts 4 and 5.)
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Part VII—Plumbing
(Note: Part VII is not adopted. See California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5.)
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Part VIII—Electrical
(Note: Part VIII is not adopted. See California Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.)
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CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 44 – REFERENCED STANDARDS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
|Adopting
CBC § 1.2 High relevance — show source text
Calculations_ shall be submitted to OSHPD for review and approval. 11. For in-plane collectors transferring axial loads into the sideplate connection, coordination between sideplate and the regis- tered design professional in responsible charge will be required to confirm the collector connection is sufficient to transfer the load into the moment frame system. This requirement shall be satisfied by designing the sideplate connections in the first bay of a multi-bay sideplate moment frame or an end bay to have a minimum connection capacity, including combined shear (V u + V g ) and moment (M pr ) demands, of at least 1.2 times the M pr at the plastic hinge location when the axial load, as determined by ASCE 7, Section 12.10.2.1 without Ω o , exceeds 0.1 F y A g of the sideplate beam. 12. A complete frame analysis for gravity and design wind loading using LRFD load combinations in Section 1605.1 shall be performed including Demand/Capacity Ratios. Frame beam member nominal moment strengths (M n ) used for gravity and design wind loading for the bolted sideplate connection using Class A or Class B faying surfaces shall be taken as 0.80F y Z for frame beams up to 300 plf and 0.60F y Z for frame beams greater than 300 plf. 13. For moment frame beams with maximum beam shear greater than 90 percent of the vertical bolt shear capacity, a second- ary check is to be provided to confirm the vertical bolt shear capacities are sufficient.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 22-5
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14. Bolted sideplate connections used on heavy-shallow frame beams for beams greater than 200 plf and shallower than 24 inches (610 mm) in depth shall be considered as an alternative system. 15. Skewed beams shall utilize the link-beam fabrication method with CJP welded splices for skew angles. The skew angle shall be less than 15 degrees. 16. For two-sided bolted sideplate connections sharing the same side plates at the same height and depth across the column, the vertical offset in the beams shall not exceed 10 inches (254 mm).
2202.4.4 Modifications to AISC 358 Chapter 12. The Simpson Strong-Tie (SST) Strong Frame bolted moment connection shall be permitted, provided: 1. Only T-stub yield links are permitted. End plate yield links are not permitted. 2. The biaxial dual-strong axis and column minor axis configurations of the moment connection shall be considered as an alternative system. 3. Beam flange width-to-thickness ratio shall satisfy AISC 341 Table D1.1b. 4. Yield-Link stem-to-beam flange connection bolts shall not slip under wind design demand loads. Yield-Link stem-to-beam flange connection shall be designed to prevent slip using AISC 360 Equation J3-4, where the slip resistance, μ , is taken to be 0.3.
5. Double shear plate connection is permitted to increase connection axial capacity for collector loads. A partial joint penetra- tion (PJP) groove weld for second shear plate is permissible due to space restrictions.
Frequently asked questions
Do I ever need to read CBC Chapter 13 when doing California projects?
No — for mandatory energy standards you must read and follow the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). The CBC itself notes Chapter 13 was not adopted and points users to Part 6.
Can a city require compliance with IBC/IBC Chapter 13 energy text by local ordinance?
Possibly, but the city must follow the State filing and approval process (Title 24, Part 1 filing/CEC approval) before enforcing a local energy standard.
Where in Title 24 do I find envelope and insulation requirements?
Envelope and insulation rules appear in Part 6, commonly under sections such as §150.1 (general requirements) and §150.2 (envelope rules); check the Energy Code text and tables for the exact R‑values and U‑factors.
If I'm working on an addition, which code sets the energy rules?
The Existing Building Code directs that additions comply with the California Energy Code (Part 6). See §1104.1.
More in California Building Code
- Administration & Permits
- Energy Efficiency
- Existing Buildings
- Occupancy Classification & Use
- Hazardous Materials & Occupancies
- Types of Construction
- Fire-Resistance & Fire Safety
- Interior Finishes
- Means of Egress
- Accessibility
- Exterior Walls
- Roofing & Roof Assemblies
- Structural Design
- Special Inspections & Tests
- Foundations & Soils
- Concrete
- Masonry
- Steel
- Wood
- Elevators & Conveying Systems
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