Title 24 · California Energy Code

What must be included in the Certificate of Compliance and the building‑permit application?

Q: Can I use community shared solar or BESS to meet the budget?

Yes — but only if the community shared system is approved by the Energy Commission per Part 1 § 10‑115 , and you must follow the Commission’s methods for calculating credits and include that documentation in your submittal.

Q: What if Part 6 references a Part 1 certificate I can’t find in my jurisdiction’s forms?

Part 6 points to Part 1 § 10‑103 for the exact certificate forms and submittal process. If your jurisdiction’s intake or forms aren’t clear, request the Part 1 certificate forms from the enforcing agency or building department; the performance sections expect the Part 1 certificates to accompany the permit application.

In plain terms: when you use the performance approach you must submit the Certificate of Compliance package — the certified compliance‑software report that shows your design meets the energy budget plus the Part 1 certificate forms (design‑review checklists, commissioning plan, and any field verification/acceptance certificates). The performance rules point you to **§ 10‑103(a)1** and **§ 10‑103(a)2** and require the calculation output requested by **§ 150.1(b)2** (residential) or **§ 170.1(b)2** (multifamily/nonresidential).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The permit application for a building using the performance approach must include documentation that the proposed design’s energy use does not exceed the standard design energy budget, demonstrated with an approved calculation method. Specifically, the application must provide the Certificate of Compliance documentation required by § 10‑103(a)1 and § 10‑103(a)2, as called out by § 150.1(b)2 (residential/single‑family performance) and § 170.1(b)2 (multifamily/nonresidential performance).

The single most important rule: the building‑permit application must include the Certificate of Compliance documentation that, using Commission‑certified/approved calculation methods, shows the proposed design’s energy use (source energy and/or LSC) is no greater than the standard‑design energy budget for the applicable climate zone.

Requirements in detail

High‑level items the application must include

A demonstration (calculation output) produced with an approved/commercially certified compliance calculation method showing the proposed design meets the applicable energy budget (source energy and/or Long‑Term System Cost — LSC). § 150.1(b)2 and § 170.1(b)2 require the documentation in the permit application.
The Certificate of Compliance package formed pursuant to § 10‑103(a)1 and § 10‑103(a)2 (Part 1 procedures are the required submittal mechanism referenced in the performance sections). The performance sections explicitly point applicants to these Part 1 certificate requirements.
Where applicable, the Design Review Kickoff Certificate of Compliance and the Construction Document Design Review Checklist Certificate of Compliance must be included as part of the certificate documentation; the design reviewer signs these forms as specified by Part 1 Section § 10‑103(a)1.
For nonresidential / larger buildings, include the commissioning plan and the items called for in the commissioning checklist before permit issuance (these are required to be shown in construction documents and included with certificate documentation).

Decision‑relevant table

Item (what to include)	What it must show or include	Who signs / certifies	Code reference
Energy compliance calculation (Certificate of Compliance output)	That the proposed design's source energy and/or LSC ≤ standard design energy budgets; produced by an approved calculation method	Responsible design professional / software output	§ 150.1(b)2 and § 170.1(b)2
Design Review Kickoff Certificate of Compliance form	Evidence design reviewer participation and kickoff review occurred	Design reviewer (signer)	Part 1 submission per § 10‑103(a)1; form referenced in Part 6 text
Construction Document Design Review Checklist Certificate	List of items checked during CD review; included in certificate package	Design reviewer	Part 1 submission per § 10‑103(a)1
Commissioning plan (when required)	Plan showing systems to be commissioned, tests, performance criteria	Owner / design team; included in permit documents	See commissioning requirements called out in Part 6 (construction docs required)
Field verification / installation / acceptance certificates (when used in performance tradeoffs)	Results of required field verification or acceptance testing (e.g., duct leakage, equipment ratings, lighting acceptance)	Field testers, acceptance test technicians, responsible persons	These are submitted per the Part 1 certificate pathways (references to § 10‑103(a)3, § 10‑103(a)4, § 10‑103(a)5 in Part 6)

What the calculation package must contain (practical elements)

The compliance software report or Certificate of Compliance export showing inputs, climate zone, and the reported budget vs proposed energy or LSC values (the performance approach requires software certified by the Commission).
Any supporting assumptions called out in the software (e.g., equipment efficiencies, PV or BESS contributions, demand flexibility credits) especially where exceptions or community‑shared systems are claimed. (See the exceptions allowing community shared solar/BESS offsets.)

Exceptions & special cases

Multiple‑orientation exception (residential) — a permit applicant may demonstrate compliance for any orientation of the same building model if documentation demonstrates the building model would comply in each of the four cardinal orientations. This is a specific exception to § 150.1(b)2A.
Community‑shared solar/BESS — Parts of the LSC/source budgets may be offset by an Energy Commission‑approved community shared system under Part 1 Section § 10‑115; if you use such credit, show the Commission‑approved documentation and the method used in the compliance calculation. See the exception language in § 170.1(a) and related notes.
Field verification and Certificates of Installation/Verification: when the performance margin relies on installed performance above minimum prescriptive values (for example higher equipment ratings, lower enclosure leakage, whole‑house fans, etc.), you must perform the field verification and document results on the applicable certificates called out in Part 1 (e.g., § 10‑103(a)3, § 10‑103(a)5).

Note: the uploaded files repeatedly refer applicants to Part 1 Section § 10‑103(a)1 and § 10‑103(a)2 for the specific certificate forms and submission process. The precise statutory text of § 10‑103(a)2 was not present in the files I searched; Part 6 repeatedly points applicants to Part 1 for the exact certificate and form requirements. Where Part 6 references 10‑103(a)1 and (a)2, those are the controlling submission pathways.

Common mistakes

Submitting a compliance report that is not produced by a Commission‑certified / approved compliance program (the performance approach requires certified software). Applicants who hand‑wrote summaries or used non‑certified tools get rejected.
Forgetting the signed Design Review Kickoff or Construction Document Checklist forms that Part 6 says must be included as part of the Certificate of Compliance documentation; these are part of § 10‑103(a)1 requirements referenced in the performance sections.
Omitting field verification and acceptance certificates when the compliance tradeoffs depend on installed performance (e.g., higher SEER/EER equipment, low leakage air handlers, building air leakage). The performance sections explicitly require those field verification results be documented on the applicable Part 1 certificates.
Claiming community shared solar/BESS offsets without Commission approval under Part 1 § 10‑115 (the performance sections note this exception but require Energy Commission approval and method conformity).

Worked example — single‑family performance submittal (concrete)

Scenario: You are permitting a new single‑family home in Climate Zone 10 using the performance approach.

Run the proposal through Commission‑certified compliance software and produce the compliance report. The report shows: Proposed Design Source Energy = 9,250 (units as reported by software) vs Standard Design Budget = 10,000. Save the software export (Certificate of Compliance file). This export is the primary documentary proof that proposed energy ≤ budget (per § 150.1(b)2).
Assemble the Part 1 certificate forms required by the performance sections: include the Design Review Kickoff Certificate of Compliance and the Construction Document Design Review Checklist Certificate of Compliance (signed by the design reviewer) as part of the Certificate of Compliance documentation. These forms are referenced by Part 6 and required under § 10‑103(a)1 pathways.
If you relied on any higher‑than‑minimum installed features (for example a higher‑rated heat pump or a low‑leakage air handler) to meet the performance target, schedule the required field verification tests and be prepared to submit the related Certificates of Installation / Verification under the Part 1 submission items (the performance rules require documentation of field verification results).
If you claim an orientation‑coverage exception (same model complies in all four cardinal orientations), include the orientation compliance demonstration per § 150.1(b)2A.

When you submit the permit application, include: the compliance software export (Certificate of Compliance), the signed design reviewer forms, the commissioning plan (if applicable), and any required installation/acceptance certificates — exactly the set of documentation that § 150.1(b)2 and § 10‑103(a) intend to gather.

Related provisions

§ 150.1(b)2 — Performance approach, residential: application must include documentation pursuant to § 10‑103(a)1 and § 10‑103(a)2.
§ 170.1(b)2 — Performance approach, multifamily/nonresidential: same documentation requirement pointing to § 10‑103(a)1 and § 10‑103(a)2.
§ 10‑103(a)1 — Part 1 certificate/Design Reviewer signature requirements and forms referenced by Part 6 (Design Review Kickoff and Construction Document Checklist).
§ 10‑103(a)3, § 10‑103(a)4, § 10‑103(a)5 — Part 1 certificates used for installation/acceptance/verification (these are the pathways called out for field verification results in Part 6).
§ 120.8 — Commissioning requirements and items that must be shown in construction documents for nonresidential projects (commissioning plan, tests, documentation).
§ 10‑109(c) and § 10‑116 — Commission‑certified compliance software and alternative calculation methods referenced by the performance approach.

Code references

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

§ 10-103 High relevance — show source text
1. Compliance demonstration requirements for performance standards. A. Certificate of compliance and application for a building permit. The application for a building permit shall include documentation pursuant to Sections 10-103(a)1 and 10-103(a)2 which demonstrates, using an approved calculation method, that the building has been designed so that its energy consumption does not exceed the standard design energy budgets for the applicable climate zone. Exception to Section 150.1(b)2A Multiple orientation: A permit applicant may demonstrate compliance with the energy budget requirements of Section 150.1(a) and (b) for any orientation of the same building model if the documentation demonstrates that the building model with its proposed designs and features would comply in each of the four cardinal orientations.
B. Field verification. When performance of installed features, materials, components, manufactured devices or systems above the minimum specified in Section 150.1(c) is necessary for the building to comply with Section 150.1(b), or is necessary to achieve a more stringent local ordinance, field verification shall be performed in accordance with the applicable requirements in the following subsections, and the results of the verification(s) shall be documented on applicable certificates of installation pursuant to Section 10-103(a)3 and applicable certificates of verification pursuant to Section 10-103(a)5. i. EER2/SEER2/CEER/HSPF2 Rating. When performance compliance requires installation of a space-conditioning system with a rating that is greater than the minimum rating required by Table 150.1-A or specified for the standard design, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in the applicable sections of Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4. ii. Variable capacity heat pump (VCHP) compliance option. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system that meets all the requirements of the VCHP compliance option specified in the ACM

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SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES

Reference Manual, the system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4.4.3. iii. Low leakage air handler. When performance compliance requires installation of a low leakage air-handling unit, the installed air-handling unit shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.3.9.

iv. Reserved.

v. Heat pump — rated heating capacity. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system, the heating capacity values at 47°F and 17°F shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4. vi. Whole-house fan. When performance compliance requires installation of a whole-house fan, the whole-house fan ventilation airflow rate and fan efficacy shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.9. vii. Central fan ventilation cooling system. When performance compliance requires installation of a central fan ventilation cooling system, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3.4. viii. Building enclosure air leakage. When performance compliance requires a building enclosure leakage rate that is lower than the standard design, the building enclosure shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.8. ix. **Quality Insulation Installation (QII).
§ 170.1 High relevance — show source text
A. The Efficiency LSC energy is the sum of the LSC energy for space-conditioning, water heating, mechanical ventilation, lighting and the self-utilization credit. B. The Total LSC energy is the sum of the Efficiency LSC energy and LSC energy from the photovoltaic system, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and demand flexibility. 2. Source energy. The source energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design, except with a consumer gas or propane water heater, to the proposed design building.

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

(b) Compliance demonstration requirements for performance standards.
1. Certificate of Compliance and Application for a Building Permit. The application for a building permit shall include documentation pursuant to Sections 10-103(a)1 and 10-103(a)2 that demonstrates, using an approved calculation method, that the building has been designed so that its source energy and LSC energy consumption do not exceed the standard design energy budgets for the applicable climate zone.
2. Field verification of individual dwelling unit systems. When performance of installed features, materials, components, manufactured devices or systems above the minimum specified in Section 170.2 is necessary for the building to comply with Section 170.1, or is necessary to achieve a more stringent local ordinance, field verification shall be performed in accordance with the applicable requirements in the following subsections, and the results of the verification(s) shall be documented on applicable Certificates of Installation pursuant to Section 10-103(a)3 and applicable Certificates of Verification pursuant to Section 10-103(a)5. A. EER2/SEER2/CEER/HSPF2 Rating. When performance compliance requires installation of a space-conditioning system with a rating that is greater than the minimum rating required by Table 170.2-K or specified for the standard
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MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES

design, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in the applicable sections of Reference Residential Appendix RA3. B. Variable capacity heat pump (VCHP) compliance option. When performance compliance requires installation of a heat pump system that meets all the requirements of the VCHP compliance option specified in the ACM Reference Manual, the system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4.4.3.

C. Low leakage air handler. When performance compliance requires installation of a low leakage air-handling unit, the installed air handling unit shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.3.9. D. Thermal balancing valve. When performance compliance requires installation of thermal balancing valves with variable speed circulation pump(s), the installation shall meet the procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA4.4.3. E. Heat pump—rated heating capacity.
§ 10-109 High relevance — show source text
(b) Performance approach. A building complies with the performance approach if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Sections 10-109(c) and 10-116.
1. Energy budget. The energy budget is expressed in terms of source energy and long-term system cost (LSC). A. Long-term system cost (LSC). The LSC energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building and has two components, the Efficiency LSC and the Total LSC.
i. The Efficiency LSC energy is the sum of the LSC energy for space-conditioning, water heating, mechanical ventilation, and the self-utilization credit.

ii. The Total LSC energy is the sum of the Efficiency LSC energy and LSC energy from the photovoltaic system, battery energy storage systems (BESS), lighting, demand flexibility, and other plug loads. B. Source energy. The source energy budget is determined by applying the mandatory and prescriptive requirements of the standard design to the proposed design building. The source energy is the total annual source energy. Exception to Section 150.1(b)1. A community shared solar electric generation system, or other renewable electric generation system, or community shared BESS, which provides dedicated power, utility energy reduction credits, or payments for energy bill reductions to the permitted building and is approved by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115, may offset part or all of the solar electric generation system and demand flexibility Energy Design Rating required to comply with the Standards, as calculated according to methods established by the Commission in the Residential ACM Reference Manual.
1. Compliance demonstration requirements for performance standards. A. Certificate of compliance and application for a building permit. The application for a building permit shall include documentation pursuant to Sections 10-103(a)1 and 10-103(a)2 which demonstrates, using an approved calculation method, that the building has been designed so that its energy consumption does not exceed the standard design energy budgets for the applicable climate zone. Exception to Section 150.1(b)2A Multiple orientation: A permit applicant may demonstrate compliance with the energy budget requirements of Section 150.1(a) and (b) for any orientation of the same building model if the documentation demonstrates that the building model with its proposed designs and features would comply in each of the four cardinal orientations.
B. Field verification. When performance of installed features, materials, components, manufactured devices or systems above the minimum specified in Section 150.1(c) is necessary for the building to comply with Section 150.1(b), or is necessary to achieve a more stringent local ordinance, field verification shall be performed in accordance with the applicable requirements in the following subsections, and the results of the verification(s) shall be documented on applicable certificates of installation pursuant to Section 10-103(a)3 and applicable certificates of verification pursuant to Section 10-103(a)5. i. EER2/SEER2/CEER/HSPF2 Rating. When performance compliance requires installation of a space-conditioning system with a rating that is greater than the minimum rating required by Table 150.1-A or specified for the standard design, the installed system shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures specified in the applicable sections of Reference Residential Appendix RA3.4. ii. **Variable capacity heat pump (VCHP) compliance option.
§ 10-103 High relevance — show source text
The building owner or owner’s representative shall include the Design Review Kickoff Certificate of Compliance form in the certificate of compliance documentation (as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103). 3. Construction documents design review. The construction documents design review Checklist Certificate of Compliance shall list the items checked by the design reviewer during the construction document review. The completed form shall be returned to the owner and design team for review and sign-off. The building owner or owner’s representative shall include this form in the certificate of compliance documentation (as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103).

(e) Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents. Complete descriptions of all measures or requirements necessary for commissioning shall be included in the construction documents (plans and specifications). Commissioning measures or requirements shall be clear, detailed and complete to clarify the commissioning process.

(f) Commissioning plan. Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. The commissioning plan shall include the following:
1. General project information;
2. Commissioning goals;
3. Systems to be commissioned; and
4. Plans to test systems and components, which shall include: A. An explanation of the original design intent; B. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests; C. Functions to be tested;
D. Conditions under which the test shall be performed; E. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance; F. Commissioning team information; and G. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Sections 120.8(g) through 120.8(i) shall be included.

(g) Functional performance testing. Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system and system-to-system interface in accordance with the acceptance test requirements in Sections 120.5, 130.4, 140.9, 160.3(d) and 160.5(e). Functional performance testing reports shall contain information addressing each of the building components tested, the testing methods utilized, and include any readings and adjustments made.

Exception to Section 120.8(g): Healthcare facilities.

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NONRESIDENTIAL, HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES, AND COVERED PROCESSES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

(h) Documentation and training. A systems manual and systems operations training shall be completed.
1. Systems manual. Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner or representative and facilities operator. The systems manual shall include the following: A. Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements; B. Site contact information;
C. Instructions for basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, and a site events log; D. Description of major systems; E. Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes; and F. A copy of all special inspection verifications required by the enforcing agency or the standards. 2. Systems operations training. The training of the appropriate maintenance staff for each equipment type or system shall be documented in the commissioning report.
§ 10-103 High relevance — show source text
1. Basis of design;
2. Design phase design review;
3. Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents;
4. Commissioning plan;
5. Functional performance testing;
6. Documentation and training; and
7. Commissioning report.
(b) Owner’s or Owner Representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). The energy-related expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following:
1. Energy efficiency goals;
2. Ventilation requirements;
3. Project documentation requirements, including facility functions, hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation;
4. Equipment and systems expectations; and
5. Building envelope performance expectations.
(c) Basis of design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the building systems and components meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project, and updated as necessary during the design and construction phases. The basis of design document shall cover the following systems and components:
1. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls;
2. Indoor lighting system and controls;
3. Water heating systems and controls;
4. Any other building equipment or system listed in the OPR; and
5. Any building envelope component considered in the OPR.
(d) Design phase design review.
1. Design reviewer requirements. The design reviewer shall be the signer of the Design Review Kickoff Certificate(s) of Compliance and Construction Document Design Review Checklist Certificate(s) of Compliance as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103(a)1.
2. Design review kickoff. During the schematic design phase of the building project, the owner or owner’s representative, design team and design reviewer must meet to discuss the project scope, schedule and how the design reviewer will coordinate with the project team. The building owner or owner’s representative shall include the Design Review Kickoff Certificate of Compliance form in the certificate of compliance documentation (as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103).
3. Construction documents design review. The construction documents design review Checklist Certificate of Compliance shall list the items checked by the design reviewer during the construction document review. The completed form shall be returned to the owner and design team for review and sign-off. The building owner or owner’s representative shall include this form in the certificate of compliance documentation (as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103).
(e) Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents. Complete descriptions of all measures or requirements necessary for commissioning shall be included in the construction documents (plans and specifications). Commissioning measures or requirements shall be clear, detailed and complete to clarify the commissioning process.

(f) Commissioning plan. Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. The commissioning plan shall include the following:
1. General project information;
2. Commissioning goals;
3. Systems to be commissioned; and
4. Plans to test systems and components, which shall include: A. An explanation of the original design intent; B. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests; C. Functions to be tested;
D. Conditions under which the test shall be performed; E. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance; F. Commissioning team information; and G. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Sections 120.8(g) through 120.8(i) shall be included.
§ 170.0 High relevance — show source text
Exception to Section 170.0 (a)3: If a single development falls in more than one climate zone, all buildings in the subdivision or tract may be designed to meet the performance or prescriptive standards for the climate zone that contains 50 percent or more of the dwelling units.

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

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

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

SECTION 170.1—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

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

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

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

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

§ 203.1.1 High relevance — show source text

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.

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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

A4.203.1.2 Prerequisite options. In addition, a minimum of TWO of the efficiency measures specified in Sections A4.203.1.2.1 through A4.203.1.2.7 must be met.

A4.203.1.2.1 Roof deck insulation, or ducts in conditioned space. Meet one of the three options for the location of ducts and air handlers as well as insulation R -values and installation of a radiant barrier as specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 150.1(c)9A or B:

Below roof deck insulation with a minimum R -value of 19; or,
Continuous above deck insulation with a minimum R-8 and with an air space present between the roofing and the roof deck; or,
All ducts and air handlers in conditioned space as specified in the Title 24, Part 6, Reference Appendix RA3.1.

A4.203.1.2.2 High performance walls. Meet the climate zone dependent U -factor or insulation R -value for either 2x6 or 2x4 framing as specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 150.1(c)1B: maximum U -factor of 0.048.

A4.203.1.2.3 Compact hot water distribution system. Meet the requirements for installation of Compact Hot Water Distribution Systems specified in the Title 24, Part 6, Reference Appendix RA3.6.5.

California Energy Code High relevance — show source text
Exceptions:
1. Certificates of occupancy are not required for work exempt from permits under Section R105.2.
2. Accessory buildings or structures.
R110.2 Certificate issued. After the building official inspects the building or structure and does not find violations of the provisions of this code or other laws that are enforced by the department, the building official shall issue a certificate of occupancy containing the following:
1. The permit number.
2. The address of the structure.
3. The name and address of the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.
4. A description of that portion of the structure for which the certificate is issued.
5. A statement that the described portion of the structure has been inspected for compliance with the requirements of this code.
6. The name of the building official.
7. The edition of the code under which the permit was issued.
8. Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided and whether the sprinkler system is required.
9. Any special stipulations and conditions of the building permit.
R110.3 Temporary occupancy. The building official is authorized to issue a temporary certificate of occupancy before the completion of the entire work covered by the permit, provided that such portion or portions shall be occupied safely. The building official shall set a time period during which the temporary certificate of occupancy is valid.

R110.4 Revocation. The building official is authorized to suspend or revoke a certificate of occupancy issued under the provisions of this code, in writing, wherever the certificate is issued in error, or on the basis of incorrect information supplied, or where it is determined that the building or structure or portion thereof is in violation of the provisions of this code or other ordinance of the jurisdiction.

SECTION R111—SERVICE UTILITIES

R111.1 Connection of service utilities. A person shall not make connections from a utility, a source of energy, fuel or power, or water system or sewer system to any building or system that is regulated by this code for which a permit is required, until approved by the building official.

R111.2 Temporary connection. The building official shall have the authority to authorize the temporary connection of the building or system to the utility, source of energy, fuel or power, water system or sewer system for the purpose of testing systems for use under a temporary approval.

R111.3 Authority to disconnect service utilities. The building official shall have the authority to authorize disconnection of utility service to the building, structure or system regulated by this code and the referenced codes and standards in case of emergency where necessary to eliminate an immediate hazard to life or property or where such utility connection has been made without the approval required by Section R111.1 or R111.2. The building official shall notify the serving utility and where possible the owner or the owner’s authorized agent and occupant of the building, structure or service system of the decision to disconnect prior to taking such action. If not notified prior to disconnection, the owner, the owner’s authorized agent or occupant of the building, structure or service system shall be notified in writing as soon as practical thereafter.

SECTION R112—MEANS OF APPEALS

R112.1 General. In order to hear and decide appeals of orders, decisions or determinations made by the building official relative to the application and interpretation of this code, there shall be and is hereby created a board of appeals. The board of appeals shall be appointed by the applicable governing authority and shall hold office at its pleasure. The board shall adopt rules of procedure for conducting its business, and shall render all decisions and findings in writing to the appellant with a duplicate copy to the building official.

§ 801.0 High relevance — show source text

I am a licensed contractor or registered design professional who is eligible per the requirements of the Authority Having Jurisdiction to take responsibility for the scope of work specified on this document and attest to the declarations in this statement (responsible person).
I certify that the information provided on this form substantiates that the construction/installation identified on this form complies with the acceptance requirements indicated in the plans and specifications approved by the enforcement agency, and conforms to the applicable acceptance requirements and procedures specified in Section E 801.0 through Section E 806.0.
I have confirmed that the Installation Certificate(s) for the construction/installation identified on this form has been completed and is posted or made available with the permit(s) issued for the building.
I will ensure that a completed, signed copy of this Certificate of Acceptance shall be posted, or made available with the building permit(s) issued for the building, and made available to the enforcement agency for all applicable inspections. I understand that a signed copy of this Certificate of Acceptance is required to be included with the documentation the builder

provides to the building owner at occupancy.	Col2	Col3	Col4
Company Name:	Company Name:	Company Name:	Phone:
Responsible Person’s Name:	Responsible Person’s Name:	Responsible Person’s Signature:	Responsible Person’s Signature:
License:	Date Signed:	Position With Company (Title):	Position With Company (Title):

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APPENDIX E

CERTIFICATE OF ACCEPTANCE MECH-15A	Col2
Thermal Energy Storage (TES) System Acceptance (Page 2 of 3)	Thermal Energy Storage (TES) System Acceptance (Page 2 of 3)
Project Name/Address:	Project Name/Address:
System Name or Identification/Tag:	System Location or Area Served:

Intent: Verify proper operation of distributed energy storage DX systems.

Construction Inspection

Instrumentation to perform test includes, but not limited to: a. No special instrumentation is required for the acceptance tests.

A. Certificate of Compliance Information	Col2	Col3	Col4	Col5	Col6
The following Certificate of Compliance information for both the chiller and the storage tank shall be provided on the plans to document the key TES System parameters and allow plan check comparison to the inputs used in the DOE-2 simulation. DOE-2 keywords are shown in ALL CAPITALS in parentheses.	The following Certificate of Compliance information for both the chiller and the storage tank shall be provided on the plans to document the key TES System parameters and allow plan check comparison to the inputs used in the DOE-2 simulation. DOE-2 keywords are shown in ALL CAPITALS in parentheses.	The following Certificate of Compliance information for both the chiller and the storage tank shall be provided on the plans to document the key TES System parameters and allow plan check comparison to the inputs used in the DOE-2 simulation. _DOE-2 keywords are shown in ALL CAPITALS in parentheses.

§ 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.

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

§ 1603.1.7 High relevance — show source text
** The design load-bearing values of soils shall be shown on the construction documents. 1603.1.7 Flood design data. For buildings located in whole or in part in flood hazard areas as established in Section 1612.3, the documentation pertaining to design, if required in Section 1612.4, shall be included and the following information, referenced to the datum on the community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), shall be shown, regardless of whether flood loads govern the design of the building:
1. Flood design class assigned according to ASCE 24.
2. In flood hazard areas other than coastal high hazard areas or coastal A zones, the elevation of the proposed lowest floor, including the basement.
3. In flood hazard areas other than coastal high hazard areas or coastal A zones, the elevation to which any nonresidential building will be dry floodproofed.
4. In coastal high hazard areas and coastal A zones, the proposed elevation of the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member of the lowest floor, including the basement.
1603.1.8 Special loads. Special loads that are applicable to the design of the building, structure or portions thereof, including but not limited to the loads of machinery or equipment, and that are greater than specified floor and roof loads shall be specified by their descriptions and locations.

1603.1.8.1 Photovoltaic panel systems. The dead load of rooftop-mounted photovoltaic panel systems, including rack support systems, shall be indicated on the construction documents.

1603.1.9 Roof rain load data. Design rainfall intensity, i (in/hr) (cm/hr), and roof drain, scupper and overflow locations shall be shown regardless of whether rain loads govern the design.

SECTION 1604—GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

1604.1 General. Building, structures and parts thereof shall be designed and constructed in accordance with strength design, load and resistance factor design, allowable stress design, empirical design or conventional construction methods, as permitted by the applicable material chapters and referenced standards.

1604.2 Strength. Buildings and other structures, and parts thereof, shall be designed and constructed to support safely the factored loads in load combinations defined in this code without exceeding the appropriate strength limit states for the materials of construction. Alternatively, buildings and other structures, and parts thereof, shall be designed and constructed to support safely the nominal loads in load combinations defined in this code without exceeding the appropriate specified allowable stresses for the materials of construction.

Loads and forces for occupancies or uses not covered in this chapter shall be subject to the approval of the building official.

1604.3 Serviceability. Structural systems and members thereof shall be designed to have adequate stiffness to limit deflections as indicated in Table 1604.3.
§ 17920.3 Medium relevance — show source text
What does ministerial review of a permit application involve? A ministerial review ensures that the permit application meets all the applicable objective standards effective at the time of the review and uses no discretionary judgment, opinion, or subjective standards. Agency staff inspect the submitted application, site plan, and building plans for compliance with applicable standards. This often means that the permitting agency (i.e., planning, building, fire departments and utilities) reviews the application using only checklists. (Gov. Code, §§ 66316, 66317, 66320.)

Can an applicant delay the 60-day timeline? Yes. If an applicant would like to request a delay on their application for any reason, they may do so. The 60-day period to approve or deny the permit shall be tolled for the period of the delay. (Gov. Code, § 66317, subd. (a).)

When is an ADU permit application “deemed approved” without formal review? An ADU permit application is “deemed approved” when the permitting agency fails to approve or deny a completed application within 60 days of receiving a completed application (Gov. Code, §§ 66317, subd. (a); 66320, subd. (a)).

Do ADUs need a Certificate of Occupancy? Yes, property owners must obtain a Certificate of Occupancy from the local agency prior to any residential occupancy of an ADU or JADU (Gov. Code, § 66328; 2022 CBC, § 111).

Can the local agency deny a permit application for an unpermitted ADU that was built before 2020? A local agency shall not deny a permit for an unpermitted ADU that was constructed before January 1, 2020, due to the ADU being in violation of building standards, non-compliance with State ADU Law, or any local ordinance regulating ADUs (Gov. Code, § 66332, subd. (a)). However, the local agency may deny the permit if the local agency makes a finding that correcting the violation is necessary to protect the health and safety of the public or occupants of the structure, or if the building is deemed substandard pursuant to section 17920.3 of the Health and Safety Code (Gov. Code, § 66332, subds. (b), (c)).

What happens when an application for an ADU is denied? The permitting agency denying the application must provide the applicant a full set of comments listing items that are defective or deficient and include a description of how the application may be remedied. A full set of comments includes all comments from all reviewers,

36

from every permitting agency. The 60-day countdown continues until the complete list is provided. (Gov. Code, §§ 66317, 66320.) A local agency which has provided a complete set of correction comments has fulfilled this requirement. Following a denial, a subsequent application resets the 60-day period.

The applicant may address the proposed remedy and resubmit the application to the permitting agency. A local agency may charge a fee to process a resubmitted application. (Gov. Code, § 66335 subd. (c).)
§ 140.9 Medium relevance — show source text
INDEX

140.9(b)3, 140.9(c), 160.3(d)1, 160.3(d)2, 160.3(d)3, 160.5(e)1, 3 Compliance 10-103(a), 120.8(d), 150.1(b)3, 170.1(d) Installation 10-103(a)3, 150.1(b)3, 150.1(c)7, 150.2(b)1F Verification 10-103(a)5, 150.1(b)3 Certification 110.0(B), 110.2, 110.3(A), 110.4(a), 110.6(a), 110.8(a), 110.8(g), 110.9(c), 110,11, 120.5(b), 130.4(b), 130.4(c), 140.9(a)4, 150.0(n)3, 160.3(d)3, 160.4(c), 160.5(e) Certification Identification Number 10-103(C)3G, 120.5(B), 130.4(c), 160.3(d)3, 160.5(e) Certification Requirements 110.0(B), 110.6(a)1, 110.8(g)1 Certified 110.6(a)6, 110.8(i)1, 120.5(a) Equipment 110.4(a)1, 150.0(h), 150.0(p)1A Lighting Controls Acceptance Test Employer 130.4(c), 160.5(e) Mechanical Acceptance Test Employer 120.5(b), 160.3(d)3 Mechanical Acceptance Test Technician (CMATT) 120.5(b), 160.3(d)3 CFA and Dwelling Unit Adjustment Factors Table 150.1-C, Table 170.2-T CFM Per Square Foot 110.6(A)1, 120.1(D)3, 120.6(c)5, 140.3(a)9, 140.4(e)1, 141.0(b)2Q, 150.1(c)12A, Table 160.2-B, Table 160.2-C, 170.2(c)4N CFM Per Ton 150.0(M)13, 150.1(C)7, 150.2(B)1F, 160.3(b)5L, 170.2(c)3B, 180.2(b)2A Chalk Board 140.6(b)4 Chilled Water piping 120.3(b)2, 160.3(c)1C, 160.4(f)2B Water plant Table 120.2-A, 140.4(h)5, 140.4(j), Table 160.3-C, 170.2(c)4F Water system 120.6(h), 140.4(k)2, 140.4(m), 170.2(c)4C, I, K Water system cooling capacity Table 140.4-E, Table 170.2-E-2 Chiller 10-103(c)3B, 110.2(a), Table 120.2-A, 120.5(a)8, 16, 120.6(b)2A, Table 130.5-B, 140.
§ 1.5 Medium relevance — show source text
**
HOURS| |ITEM
CODE|MEMBRANE
THICKNESS|CONSTRUCTION DETAILS|LOAD|TIME|PRE-BMS-92|BMS-92|POST-BMS-92|POST-BMS-92|POST-BMS-92| |F/C-S-1|0″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 2″
concrete; membrane: none.|145 psf|7 min|||3|1, 2, 3,
8|0| |F/C-S-2|0″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 2″
concrete; membrane: none|145 psf|7 min|||3|1, 2, 3,
8|0| |F/C-S-3|1/2″|10′ × 13′ 6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 2″
concrete, 1:2:4; membrane: furring 12″ o.c.;
clips A, B, G; no extra reinforcement;
1/2″ plaster, 1.5:2.5.|145 psf|1 hr
15 min|||3|2, 3, 8|11/4| |F/C-S-4|1/2″|10′ × 13′ 6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 2″
concrete, 1:2:4; membrane: furring 16″ o.c.;
clips D, E, F, G; diagonal wire reinforcement;
1/2″ plaster, 1.5:2.5.|145 psf|2 hrs
46 min|||3|3, 8|23/4| |F/C-S-5|1/2″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 2″
concrete, 1:2:4; membrane: furring 16″ o.c.;
clips A, B, G; no extra reinforcement;
1/2″ plaster, 1.5:2.5.|145 psf|1 hr
4 min|||3|2, 3, 8|1| |F/C-S-6|1/2″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 2″
concrete, 1:2:4; membrane: furring 16″ o.c.;
clips D, E, F, G; hexagonal mesh
reinforcement;1/2″ plaster.|145 psf|3 hrs
28 min|||3|2, 4, 8|21/3| |F/C-S-7|1/2″|10′ × 13′6″; S.J. 103, 24″ o.c.; deck: 4 lbs rib
lath; 6″ × 6″ 10 × 10 gage reinforcement; 2″
deck gravel concrete; membrane: furring 16″
o.c.
§ 110.2 Medium relevance — show source text
B Ceiling-Mounted Air Conditioners and Condensing Units Serving Computer Rooms–Minimum Efficiency Requirements Table 110.2-M Cellular Foam Insulation 120.4(F), 150.0(M)9,160.3(b)5I, 160.3(c)2G Cement-Based Roof Coatings 110.8(i)4 Central Boiler 140.4(a), 170.2(c)3A Chiller 140.4(a)2 Forced-air 150.0(h)4, 150.0(m)13, 150.0(o), 150.1(c)10, 160.2(b)2A, 160.3(b)4, 160.3(b)5, 170.2(c)3B Furnace 110.5, 110.5(a) Water heating system 110.10(c), 150.1(c)8, 170.2(d)3 Centrifugal Fan Table 110.2-F, 140.4(h), 170.2(C)4F Centrifugal Water Chilling 110.2(a) Certificate of Acceptance 10-103(a)4, 10-103(b)1B, 10-103.1(c)3, 110.6(a)6, 120.5(a), 120.5(b), 120.6(a)7, 120.6(b)6, 120.6(c)8, 120.6(e)6, 120.6(f), 120.6(g), 120.6(i), 130.4(a), 130.4(c),

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INDEX

140.9(b)3, 140.9(c), 160.3(d)1, 160.3(d)2, 160.3(d)3, 160.5(e)1, 3 Compliance 10-103(a), 120.8(d), 150.1(b)3, 170.1(d) Installation 10-103(a)3, 150.1(b)3, 150.1(c)7, 150.2(b)1F Verification 10-103(a)5, 150.1(b)3 Certification 110.0(B), 110.2, 110.3(A), 110.4(a), 110.6(a), 110.8(a), 110.8(g), 110.9(c), 110,11, 120.5(b), 130.4(b), 130.4(c), 140.9(a)4, 150.0(n)3, 160.3(d)3, 160.4(c), 160.5(e) Certification Identification Number 10-103(C)3G, 120.5(B), 130.4(c), 160.3(d)3, 160.5(e) Certification Requirements 110.0(B), 110.6(a)1, 110.8(g)1 Certified 110.6(a)6, 110.8(i)1, 120.5(a) Equipment 110.4(a)1, 150.0(h), 150.0(p)1A Lighting Controls Acceptance Test Employer 130.4(c), 160.
§ 170.2 Medium relevance — show source text
2(f), 170.2(g) Enclosure air leakage 150.1(b)3 Energy use 140.4(f), 170.2(c)4D Envelope 100.0(b), 100.0(f), 110.7, 120.0, 120.6(h)4, 120.8(b), 120.8(c), 140.3, 140.3(d)2, 141.0(b)2P, 141.1(c)2, Table 150.1-A, 160.1 Facade 130.2(b), 130.2(c)3, Table 140.7-B, 160.5, Table 170.2-S Loads 140.4(f), 140.4(k)4, 140.4(p)4, 170.2(c)4D, 170.2(c)4I, 170.2(c)4N Model 150.1(b)3 Permit 10-103(a), 10-103(b), 10-104(a), 10-105(c), 10-107(a), 10-109(c)2, 10115(a, c), 100.0(a)2, 140.6(a)2C, 150.1(b)3, 150.2(b)1M, 170.1(d), 170.2(e)2B, 180.2(b)5B, Plan 140.3(c), 170.2(b)2 Roof space 140.10(a)1, 150.1(c)14, 170.2(f), 170.2(g) Shell 140.3(a)9C, 141.0(b)2O, Q Bureau of Household Goods and

Services 110.8 Bypass Duct 150.1(c)13, 170.2(c)3

C

Calculated Design Loads 140.4(B)11, 170.2(c)2K Calculations 10-103(A)1A, 110.8(I)3, 120.7(a)3, 140.3(a)9, 140.4(b), 140.4(k)8, 140.5(c), 140.10(a)2A, 150.1(c)14, 150.2(a)1D, 170.2(c)2, 170.2(d)3A, 170.2(e)6D, 170.2(f), 170.2(g), 180.1(b) Calibration 10-103.1(C)3B, 10-111(D)5A, 120.1(d)4F, 120.6(d)7, 130.1(d), 140.4(e)2D, 140.9(c)3, 160.2(c)5D, 160.5(b), 170.2(c)4C Calibration Mode 110.9(b)2 California Building Code (CBC) 110.8(C), 120.1(C)3, 130.1(a), 150.1(c)4, 150.2(a), 150.2(b), 160.2(c)3, 160.5(b)4, 180.2(b)1B Electrical Code (CEC) 130.1(C)1, 130.5(A), 130.5(b), 130.5(c), 130.5(e), 140.
§ 150.0 Medium relevance — show source text
150.0(s), 160.4(a), 160.5(b), 160.6(c), 160.9(a), 160.9(b), 160.9(c)1, 180.2(b)4B Branch Circuit Conductor 130.5(C), 150.0(tv), 160.6(c), 160.9(a-c) BTU/HR 110.2(D), 110.3(C)1, 110.3(C)3, 110.3(c)6, 110.5(b), 110.8(d)2, 120.2(i), 120.6(a), 120.6(b)2B, 120.6(i), 120.6(j)3, 140.4(a)2, 140.4(e)1, 140.4(k)4, Table 140.4-I, 150.0(n)4, 150.1(c)6, 150.1(c)8, 160.3(a)2H, 160.4(a), 160.4(d), 170.2(c)3-4, Table 170.2-K

Building Cavities 120.4(a), 150.0(m)1, 160.3(b)5A, 160.3(c)2A Commissioning 120.8 Components 110.0, 120.8(g), 140.3(a), 141.0(b)2Q Design 10-103, 10-105, 120.8, 140.10(a), 150.19(c)14, 160.2(a), 160.2(b)2A, 170.2(f), 170.2(g) Enclosure air leakage 150.1(b)3 Energy use 140.4(f), 170.2(c)4D Envelope 100.0(b), 100.0(f), 110.7, 120.0, 120.6(h)4, 120.8(b), 120.8(c), 140.3, 140.3(d)2, 141.0(b)2P, 141.1(c)2, Table 150.1-A, 160.1 Facade 130.2(b), 130.2(c)3, Table 140.7-B, 160.5, Table 170.2-S Loads 140.4(f), 140.4(k)4, 140.4(p)4, 170.2(c)4D, 170.2(c)4I, 170.2(c)4N Model 150.1(b)3 Permit 10-103(a), 10-103(b), 10-104(a), 10-105(c), 10-107(a), 10-109(c)2, 10115(a, c), 100.0(a)2, 140.6(a)2C, 150.1(b)3, 150.2(b)1M, 170.1(d), 170.2(e)2B, 180.2(b)5B, Plan 140.3(c), 170.2(b)2 Roof space 140.10(a)1, 150.1(c)14, 170.2(f), 170.2(g) Shell 140.3(a)9C, 141.0(b)2O, Q Bureau of Household Goods and
§ 120.8 Medium relevance — show source text
Nonresidential buildings other than healthcare facilities, with conditioned space of 10,000 square feet or more, shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 120.8(a) through 120.8(i) in the building design and construction processes. All building systems and components covered by Sections 110.0, 120.0, 130.0, and 140.0 shall be included in the scope of the commissioning requirements in this Section, excluding those related solely to covered processes.

Nonresidential buildings other than healthcare facilities, with conditioned space of less than 10,000 square feet shall comply with the design review requirements specified in Sections 120.8(d), and shall include any measures or requirements necessary for completing this review in the construction documents in a manner consistent with Section 120.8(e).

Healthcare facilities shall instead comply with the applicable requirements of Chapter 7 of the California Administrative Code (Title 24, Part 1).

NOTE: Nonresidential buildings include nonresidential spaces such as nonresidential function areas within hotel/motel and highrise residential buildings. The requirements of Section 120.8 apply based on the square footage of the nonresidential spaces.

The commissioning described in this Section is in addition to any commissioning required by Title 24, Part 11, Section 5.410.2, 5.410.4 and subsections.

(a) Summary of commissioning requirements. Commissioning shall include completion of the following items:
1. Owner’s or owner representative’s project requirements;
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NONRESIDENTIAL, HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES, AND COVERED PROCESSES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS
1. Basis of design;
2. Design phase design review;
3. Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents;
4. Commissioning plan;
5. Functional performance testing;
6. Documentation and training; and
7. Commissioning report.
(b) Owner’s or Owner Representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). The energy-related expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following:
1. Energy efficiency goals;
2. Ventilation requirements;
3. Project documentation requirements, including facility functions, hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation;
4. Equipment and systems expectations; and
5. Building envelope performance expectations.
(c) Basis of design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the building systems and components meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project, and updated as necessary during the design and construction phases. The basis of design document shall cover the following systems and components:
1. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls;
2. Indoor lighting system and controls;
3. Water heating systems and controls;
4. Any other building equipment or system listed in the OPR; and
5. Any building envelope component considered in the OPR.
(d) Design phase design review.
1. Design reviewer requirements. The design reviewer shall be the signer of the Design Review Kickoff Certificate(s) of Compliance and Construction Document Design Review Checklist Certificate(s) of Compliance as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103(a)1.
2. Design review kickoff. During the schematic design phase of the building project, the owner or owner’s representative, design team and design reviewer must meet to discuss the project scope, schedule and how the design reviewer will coordinate with the project team.
§ 160.5 Medium relevance — show source text
(e) Lighting control acceptance and installation certificate requirement. Multifamily common use areas shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 160.5(e)1 through 160.5(e)3.
1. Lighting control acceptance requirements. Before an occupancy permit is granted, indoor and outdoor lighting controls serving the building, area or site and installed to comply with Section 160.5(b)4D, 160.5(b)4C, 160.5(b)4E, 160.5(c)2 or 170.2(e)1Aiij shall be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance as specified by Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6 and NA7.8. A Certificate of Acceptance shall be submitted to the enforcement agency under Section 10-103(a) of Part 1 that the equipment and systems meet the acceptance requirements:
A. Reserved;

B. Reserved; C. Daylight responsive controls shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.1; D. Lighting shut-OFF controls shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.2; E. Demand responsive lighting controls shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.3; and

F. Outdoor lighting controls shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.8; and G. Lighting systems receiving the Institutional Tuning Power Adjustment Factor shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.4. H. Demand responsive controls required to control controlled receptacles shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.5. 2. Lighting control installation certificate requirements. To be recognized for compliance with Part 6, an Installation Certificate shall be submitted in accordance with Section 10-103(a) for any lighting control system, energy management control system, interlocked lighting system, lighting power adjustment factor, or additional wattage available for a videoconference studio, in accordance with the following requirements, as applicable: A. Certification that when a lighting control system is installed to comply with lighting control requirements in Part 6, it complies with the applicable requirements of Section 110.9 and complies with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.1.

B. Certification that when an energy management control system is installed to function as a lighting control required by Part 6, it functionally meets all applicable requirements for each application for which it is installed, in accordance with Sections 110.9, 160, 170 and 180, and complies with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.2. C. Certification that interlocked lighting systems used to serve an approved area comply with Section 170.2(e)2A and comply with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.4. D. Certification that lighting controls installed to earn a lighting power adjustment factor (PAF) comply with Section 170.2(e)2B and comply with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.5.

E. Reserved.
§ 3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
O101.2 Qualifications. Registered design professionals shall possess the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to demonstrate compliance with this code.

O101.3 Construction document preparation. Construction documents required by this code shall be prepared in adequate detail and submitted for review and approval in accordance with Section 107.

O101.3.1 Review. Construction documents submitted in accordance with this code shall be reviewed for code compliance with the appropriate code provisions in accordance with Section 107.

O101.4 Construction. Construction shall comply with the approved construction documents submitted in accordance with this code, and shall be verified and approved to demonstrate compliance with this code.

O101.4.1 Facility operating policies and procedures. Policies, operations, training and procedures shall comply with approved documents submitted in accordance with this code, and shall be verified and approved to demonstrate compliance with this code.

O101.4.2 Maintenance. Maintenance of the performance-based design shall be ensured throughout the life of the building or portion thereof.

O101.4.3 Changes. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible to ensure that any change to the facility, process or system does not increase the hazard level beyond that originally designed without approval and that changes shall be documented in accordance with the code.

O101.5 Documentation. The registered design professional shall prepare appropriate documentation for the project, clearly detailing the approach and rationale for the design submittal, the construction and the future use of the building, facility or process.

O101.5.1 Reports and manuals. The design report shall document the steps taken in the design analysis, clearly identifying the criteria, parameters, inputs, assumptions, sensitivities and limitations involved in the analysis. The design report shall clearly identify bounding conditions, assumptions and sensitivities that clarify the expected uses and limitations of the performance analysis. This report shall verify that the design approach is in compliance with the applicable codes and acceptable methods and shall be submitted for concurrence by the building official prior to the construction documents being completed. The report shall document the design features to be incorporated based on the analysis.

The design report shall address the following:
1. Project scope.
2. Goals and objectives.
3. Performance criteria.
4. Hazard scenarios.
5. Design fire loads and hazards.
6. Final design.
7. Evaluation.
APPENDIX O-2 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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APPENDIX O—PERFORMANCE-BASED APPLICATION
1. Bounding conditions and critical design assumptions.
2. Critical design features.
3. System design and operational requirements.
4. Operational and maintenance requirements.
5. Commissioning testing requirements and acceptance criteria.
6. Frequency of certificate renewal.
7. Supporting documents and references.
8. Preliminary site and floor plans.
O101.5.2 Design submittal. Applicable construction documents shall be submitted to the building official for review. The documents shall be submitted in accordance with the jurisdiction’s procedures and in sufficient detail to obtain appropriate permits.

O101.6 Review. Construction documents submitted in accordance with this code shall be reviewed for code compliance with the appropriate code provisions.

O101.6.1 Peer review. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall be responsible for retaining and furnishing the services of a registered design professional or recognized expert, who will perform as a peer reviewer, where required and approved by the building official.
§ 6.4. Medium relevance — show source text
1. Outdoor lighting controls shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.8; and
2. Lighting systems receiving the Institutional Tuning Power Adjustment Factor shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.4.
3. Demand responsive controls required to control controlled receptacles shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.5.
(b) Lighting control installation certificate requirements. To be recognized for compliance with Part 6 an installation certificate shall be submitted in accordance with Section 10-103(a) for any lighting control system, energy management control system, interlocked lighting system, lighting power adjustment factor, or additional wattage available for a videoconference studio, in accordance with the following requirements, as applicable:
1. Certification that when a lighting control system is installed to comply with lighting control requirements in Part 6 it complies with the applicable requirements of Section 110.9; and complies with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.1.
2. Certification that when an energy management control system is installed to function as a lighting control required by Part 6 it functionally meets all applicable requirements for each application for which it is installed, in accordance with Sections 110.9, 130.0 through 130.5, 140.6 through 150.0, and 150.2; and complies with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.2.
3. Reserved.
4. Reserved.
5. Certification that interlocked lighting systems used to serve an approved area comply with Section 140.6(a)1; and comply with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.4.
6. Certification that lighting controls installed to earn a lighting power adjustment factor (PAF) comply with Section 140.6(a)2; and comply with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.5.
2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 101

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NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR LIGHTING SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT, AND ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
1. Certification that additional lighting wattage installed for a videoconference studio complies with Section 140.6(c)2Gvii; and complies with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.7.6.
(c) When certification is required by Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-103.1, the acceptance testing specified by Section 130.4 shall be performed by a certified lighting controls acceptance test technician (CLCATT). If the CLCATT is operating as an employee, the CLCATT shall be employed by a certified lighting controls acceptance test employer. The CLCATT shall disclose on the Certificate of Acceptance a valid CLCATT certification identification number issued by an approved acceptance test technician certification provider. The CLCATT shall complete all certificate of acceptance documentation in accordance with the applicable requirements in Section 10-103(a)4.

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

SECTION 130.5—ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
§ 804.3 Medium relevance — show source text
(3) Duct leakage on a subset of small single-zone systems depending on the ductwork location (Form MECH-4A).

(4) Air economizer controls for economizers that are not factory installed and tested (Form MECH-5A).

(5) Demand-controlled ventilation control systems (Form MECH-6A).

(6) Supply fan variable flow controls (Form MECH-7A).

(7) Valve leakage for hydronic variable flow systems and isolation valves on chillers and boilers in plants with more than one chiller or boiler being served by the same primary pumps through a common header (Form MECH8A).

(8) Supply water temperature reset control strategies programmed into the building automation system for water systems (e.g., chilled, hot, or condenser water) (Form MECH-9A).

(9) Hydronic variable flow controls on a water system where the pumps are controlled by variable frequency drives (e.g., chilled and hot water systems; water-loop heat pump systems) (Form MECH-10A).

(10)Automatic demand shed control (Form MECH-11A).

(11)Fault detection and diagnostic for DX units (Form MECH-12A).

(12)Automatic fault detection and diagnostic systems (AFDD) (Form MECH-13A).

(13)Distributed energy storage DEC/DX AC systems (Form MECH-14A).

(14)Thermal energy storage (TES) systems (Form MECH15A). E 804.3 Acceptance Process. The functional testing process shall comply with Section E 804.3.1 through Section E 804.3.4.

E 804.3.1 Plan Review. The installing contractor, registered design professional of record, owner’s agent, or the person responsible for certification of the acceptance testing on the certificate of acceptance (responsible person) shall review the plans and specifications to ensure that they are in accordance with the acceptance requirements. This is typically done prior to signing a certificate of compliance. E 804.3.2 Construction Inspection. The installing contractor, registered design professional of record, owner’s agent, or the person responsible for certification of the acceptance testing on the certificate of acceptance (responsible person) shall perform a construction inspection prior to testing to ensure that the equipment that is installed is capable of complying with the requirements of this appendix and is calibrated. The installation of associated systems and equipment necessary for proper system operation is required to be completed prior to the testing.

2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 481

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

APPENDIX E

E 804.3.3 Acceptance Testing. One or more field technicians shall perform the acceptance testing; identify performance deficiencies; ensure that they are corrected; and where necessary, repeat the acceptance procedures until the specified systems and equipment are performing in accordance with the acceptance requirements. The field technician who performs the testing shall sign the certificate of acceptance to certify the information has been provided to document the results of the acceptance procedures is true and correct.

The responsible person shall review the test results from the acceptance requirement procedures provided by the field technician and sign the certificate of acceptance to certify compliance with the acceptance requirements. The responsible person shall be permitted to perform the field technician’s responsibilities, and shall then sign the field technician declaration on the certificate of acceptance to certify that the information on the form is true and correct.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly is the “approved calculation method” required in the permit application?

The performance approach requires a compliance demonstration produced by Commission‑certified/approved compliance software or the approved alternative calculation method described in Part 1; the performance sections require the software output be submitted as part of the certificate documentation.

Do I need signed design‑review forms for every project?

If you are using the performance approach, Part 6 specifically requires the Design Review Kickoff Certificate and the Construction Document Design Review Checklist be included in the Certificate of Compliance documentation (the design reviewer is the signer referenced in § 10‑103(a)1).

What if my compliance relies on equipment performance (e.g., higher SEER)?

If installed equipment performance above prescriptive minimums is part of the compliance strategy, you must perform the required field verification tests and submit the resulting Certificates of Installation/Verification under the Part 1 certificate pathways. The performance sections require those results be documented.

Can I use community shared solar or BESS to meet the budget?

Yes — but only if the community shared system is approved by the Energy Commission per Part 1 § 10‑115, and you must follow the Commission’s methods for calculating credits and include that documentation in your submittal.

What if Part 6 references a Part 1 certificate I can’t find in my jurisdiction’s forms?

Part 6 points to Part 1 § 10‑103 for the exact certificate forms and submittal process. If your jurisdiction’s intake or forms aren’t clear, request the Part 1 certificate forms from the enforcing agency or building department; the performance sections expect the Part 1 certificates to accompany the permit application.

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