Title 24 · California Energy Code

Commissioning, functional performance testing, and acceptance

Title 24 Part 6 requires documented commissioning (OPR, BOD, Cx plan), functional performance testing, systems manuals/training, and signed acceptance before final occupancy.

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

Overview

This part of the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6) sets minimum commissioning and functional performance testing (FPT) requirements for energy‑related building systems — including OPR (Owner’s Project Requirements), BOD (Basis of Design), a commissioning plan, FPT, documentation/training, and a commissioning report — and applies to nonresidential buildings (and specified nonresidential spaces) in the design and construction process per Section 120.8 (§120.8) of the Energy Code.

Functional performance tests must demonstrate correct installation and operation of each component and system interface and tie to the applicable acceptance test requirements for specific systems (for example, as referenced in Sections 120.5, 130.4, 140.9, 160.3(d) and 160.5(e)); FPT reports and the systems manual document results, readings, adjustments, and required training.

Title 24 Part 11 (CALGreen) and the Mechanical Code appendices provide complementary detail, sample forms, and acceptance procedures: CALGreen codifies the commissioning plan and FPT content and reporting (see CALGreen §5.410.2.3–5.410.2.6 and related forms), and Mechanical Code Appendix E (E802/E803) outlines HVAC commissioning, FPT, construction‑document requirements and certificates of acceptance for issuance of final occupancy.

In this section

Code references

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

  • § 5.410.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    Informational Note:

    1. Functional performance testing for heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and lighting controls must be performed in compliance with the California Energy Code.

    5.410.2.1 Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). [N] The expectations and requirements of the building appropriate to its phase shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following:

    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Building sustainable goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.
    4. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after hours operation.
    5. Equipment and systems expectations.
    6. Building occupant and operation and maintenance (O&M) personnel expectations.

    5.410.2.2 Basis of Design (BOD). [N] A written explanation of how the design of the building systems meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project. The Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:

    1. Renewable energy systems.

    2. Landscape irrigation systems.

    3. Water reuse systems.

    5.410.2.3 Commissioning plan. [N] Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    1. General project information.
    2. Commissioning goals.
    3. Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components 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. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.

    5.410.2.4 Functional performance testing. [N] Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system and system- to-system interface in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.

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    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    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.

    5.410.2.5 Documentation and training. [N] A systems manual and systems operations training are required, including Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements in California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 8, Section 5142, and other related regulations.

    5.410.2.5.1 Systems manual. [N] Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner or representative. The systems manual shall include the following:

    1. Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements.

    2. Site contact information.

    3. Basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, site events log.

    4. Major systems.

    5. Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.

    6. A copy of verifications required by the enforcing agency or this code.

    7. Other resources and documentation, if applicable.

  • § 204.4.2 High relevance — show source text

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

    1. Equipment and systems expectations.
    2. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.

    A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the building systems meets the Owner’s Project Requirements shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and updated as necessary during the design and construction phases. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, the Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:

    1. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls.
    2. Indoor lighting system and controls.
    3. Water heating system.
    4. Renewable energy systems.

    A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan. A commissioning plan shall be completed to document the approach to how the project will be commissioned and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. The Commissioning Plan shall include the following at a minimum:

    1. General project information.
    2. Commissioning goals.
    3. Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include at a minimum: a. A detailed 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; and e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities – plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Sections A6.204.4.4 through A6.204.4.6 shall be included.

    A6.204.4.4 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 approved plans and specifications. 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. This shall be reviewed and verified by the CxA.

    A6.204.4.5 Postconstruction documentation and training. A systems manual and systems operations training are required.

    A6.204.4.5.1 Systems manual. Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner and facilities operator. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, the systems manual shall include the following:

    1. Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements.

    2. Site contact information.

    3. Basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, site events log.

    4. Major systems.

    5. Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.

    6. Other resources and documentation.

    A6.204.4.5.2 Systems operations training. The CxA shall oversee the training of the appropriate maintenance staff for each equipment type and/or system. The training shall include, as a minimum, the following:

    1. System/equipment overview (what it is, what it does and what other systems and/or equipment it interfaces with).
    2. Review of the information in the systems manual.
    3. Review of the record drawings on the system/ equipment.

    A6.204.4.6 Commissioning report. The CxA shall create a complete report of commissioning process activities undertaken through the design, construction and postconstruction phases of the building project and provided to the owner.

  • § 8-31 High relevance — show source text

    owner, location|| |2|Building type, building area|| |3|Overall project commissioning schedule|| |4|Contact information for individual/company providing commissioning services|| ||COMMISSIONING GOALS|| |5|Meet_California Green Building Standards Code_ requirements for commissioning|| |6|Meeting OPR and BOD requirements|| |7|Carrying out requirements for commissioning activities as specified in plans and specifications|| ||SYSTEMS TO BE COMMISSIONED|| |8|Explanation of the original design intent (refer to OPR and BOD documents)|| |9|Equipment and systems to be tested, functions to be tested, conditions under which the test shall be
    performed and measurable criteria for acceptable performance|| ||COMMISSIONING TEAM INFORMATION|| |10|List of all team members and contact information (i.e. owner, owner’s representative, architect,
    engineers, designated commissioning representative and (if available): general contractor,
    subcontractors and construction manager)|| ||COMMISSIONING PROCESS ACTIVITIES, SCHEDULES and RESPONSIBILITIES|| |11|Prescribed commissioning process steps and activities to be accomplished by the Cx team throughout
    the design to occupancy|| |12|Roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team for each phase of the work|| |13|Required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning
    effort|| |14|Confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance
    staff training||

    1. The following systems shall be tested: renewable energy systems, landscape irrigation systems and water reuse systems.

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE TESTING

    COMPLIANCE FORM

    CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2.4, Functional Performance Testing

    5.410.2.4 Functional performance testing. [N] Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system and system-to-system interface in accordance with the approved plans and specifications. 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.

    Test forms have been developed for each piece of commissioned equipment and system and include the checked elements listed below. These tests have been executed with deficiencies corrected.

    Col1 FUNCTIONAL TEST ELEMENTS INCLUDED
    1. Date and parties participating
    2. Signature block attesting test is complete and accurate
    3. Prerequisites
    4. Precautions
    5. Instrumentation required
    6. Reference to the source of what is being confirmed (sequences, packaged features, etc.)
    7. Detailed step-by-step test instructions
    8. Acceptance criteria
    9. Results
    10. Confirmation of returning to normal
    11. Deficiency list

    Cx Coordinator Signature Date

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  • § 5-26 High relevance — show source text

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    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    dance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity. For I-occupancies that are not regulated by OSHPD or for I-occupancies and L-occupancies that are not regulated by the California Energy Code Section 100.0 Scope, all requirements in Sections 5.410.2 through 5.410.2.6 shall apply.

    Note: For energy-related systems under the scope (Section 100) of the California Energy Code, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls, indoor lighting systems and controls, as well as water heating systems and controls, refer to California Energy Code Section 120.8 for commissioning requirements.

    Commissioning requirements shall include:

    1. Owner’s or owner representative’s project requirements.
    2. Basis of design.
    3. Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents.
    4. Commissioning plan.
    5. Functional performance testing.
    6. Documentation and training.
    7. Commissioning report.

    Exceptions:

    1. Unconditioned warehouses of any size.

    2. Areas less than 10,000 square feet used for offices or other conditioned accessory spaces within unconditioned warehouses.

    3. Tenant improvements less than 10,000 square feet as described in Section 303.1.1.

    4. Open parking garages of any size, or open parking garage areas, of any size, within a structure.

    Note: For the purposes of this section, unconditioned shall mean a building, area or room which does not provide heating and/or air conditioning.

    Informational Note:

    1. Functional performance testing for heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and lighting controls must be performed in compliance with the California Energy Code.

    5.410.2.1 Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). [N] The expectations and requirements of the building appropriate to its phase shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following:

    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Building sustainable goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.
    4. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after hours operation.
    5. Equipment and systems expectations.
    6. Building occupant and operation and maintenance (O&M) personnel expectations.

    5.410.2.2 Basis of Design (BOD). [N] A written explanation of how the design of the building systems meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project. The Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:

    1. Renewable energy systems.

    2. Landscape irrigation systems.

    3. Water reuse systems.

    5.410.2.3 Commissioning plan. [N] Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    1. General project information.
    2. Commissioning goals.
    3. Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components 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. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.

  • § 204.4.1 High relevance — show source text

    The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The design team shall develop the Basis of Design (BOD). The CxA shall review these documents for clarity and completeness. The owner and design team shall be responsible for updates to their respective documents, develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents and develop and implement a commissioning plan. The CxA shall verify the installation and performance of the systems to be commissioned, verify that training and operation and maintenance documentation have been provided to the owner’s operations staff and complete a commissioning report.

    Commissioning process activities shall be completed for the following energy-related systems, at a minimum:

    1. Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls.
    2. Lighting and daylighting controls.
    3. Domestic hot water systems.
    4. Renewable energy systems (wind, solar, etc.).
    5. Building envelope systems.

    A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented by the owner and the designer before the design phase of the project begins. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, this documentation shall include the following:

    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Energy efficiency goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-3

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

    1. Equipment and systems expectations.
    2. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.

    A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the building systems meets the Owner’s Project Requirements shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and updated as necessary during the design and construction phases. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, the Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:

    1. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls.
    2. Indoor lighting system and controls.
    3. Water heating system.
    4. Renewable energy systems.

    A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan. A commissioning plan shall be completed to document the approach to how the project will be commissioned and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. The Commissioning Plan shall include the following at a minimum:

    1. General project information.
    2. Commissioning goals.
    3. Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include at a minimum: a. A detailed 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; and e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities – plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Sections A6.204.4.4 through A6.204.4.6 shall be included.

  • § 203.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    [OSHPD 1]**
    **A6.203.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1]**Buildings must comply with the latest edition of
    “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures.”
    A.5.203.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] Buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings
    By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by 15 percent.||||| |SECTION A6.204 Prescriptive Measures||||| |**A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances.**All equipment and appliances provided
    by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment
    or appliance.||||| |A6.204.4 Commissioning. Building commissioning for all building systems covered by T24,
    Part 6, process systems and renewable energy systems shall be included in the design and
    construction processes of the building project. Commissioning requirements shall include as
    a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.
    **A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).**Documented before the design phase of
    the project begins the OPR shall include items listed in Section A6.204.4.
    **A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD).**A written explanation of how the design of the building
    systems meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and
    updated periodically to cover the systems listed in Section A6.204.4.2.
    **A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan.**A commissioning plan describing how the project will be
    commissioned shall be started during the design phase of the building project and shall
    include as a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.3.
    A6.204.4.4 Functional performance testingshall demonstrate the correct installation and
    operation of each component, system and system-to-system interface in accordance with
    the approved plans and specifications.
    **A6.204.4.5 Post construction documentation and training.**A systems manual and
    systems operations training are required.
    **A6.204.4.5.1 Systems manual.**The systems manual shall be delivered to the building
    owner and facilities operator and shall include the items listed in Section A6.204.4.5.1.
    A6.204.4.5.2 Systems operations training. The training of the appropriate maintenance
    staff for each equipment type and/or system shall include as a minimum items listed in
    Section A6.204.4.5.2.
    **A6.204.4.6 Commissioning report.**A complete report of commissioning process activities
    undertaken through the design, construction and postconstruction phases of the building
    project shall be completed and provided to the owner.||







    |







    || |**A6.204.6 Building orientation and shading.

  • § 120.5 High relevance — show source text

    (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. Training materials shall include the following: A. System and equipment overview (i.e., what the equipment is, what it does and with what other systems or equipment it interfaces); B. Review and demonstration of operation, servicing and preventive maintenance procedures; C. Review of the information in the systems manual; and D. Review of the record drawings on the systems and equipment.

    (i) Commissioning report. A complete report of commissioning process activities undertaken through the design, construction and reporting recommendations for post- construction phases of the building project shall be completed and provided to the owner or owner’s representative.

    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 120.9—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR COMMERCIAL BOILERS

    (a) Combustion air positive shut-off shall be provided on all newly installed boilers as follows:

    1. All boilers with an input capacity of 2.5 MMBtu/h (2,500,000 Btu/h) and above, in which the boiler is designed to operate with a nonpositive vent static pressure.
    2. All boilers where one stack serves two or more boilers with a total combined input capacity per stack of 2.5 MMBtu/h (2,500,000 Btu/h).

    (b) Boiler combustion air fans with motors 10 horsepower or larger shall meet one of the following for newly installed boilers:

    1. The fan motor shall be driven by a variable speed drive, or
    2. The fan motor shall include controls that limit the fan motor demand to no more than 30 percent of the total design wattage at 50 percent of design air volume.
  • § 4.3 High relevance — show source text

    For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii. List the required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning effort.

    iv. Include the confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance staff training.

    4.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning plan, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the Cx Plan has been completed.

    Reference: 5 Functional performance testing

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.4, Functional performance testing.

    5.1 Intent:

    Develop and implement the functional performance tests to document, as set forth in the commissioning plan, that all components, equipment, systems and system-to-system interfaces were installed as specified, and operate according to the Owner’s Project Requirements, Basis of Design, and plans and specifications.

    The following systems to be functionally tested are listed in the Basis of Design (Section 5.410.2.2 of the code):

    1. Renewable energy systems

    2. Landscape irrigation systems

    3. Water reuse systems

    5.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is demonstrated by developing and implementing test procedures for each piece of commissioned equipment and interfaces between equipment and systems according to the building-specific commissioning plan. Tests should include verification of proper operation of all equipment features, each part of the sequence of operation, overrides, lockouts, safeties, alarms, occupied and unoccupied modes, loss of normal power, exercising a shutdown, startup, low load through full load (as much as is possible) and back, staging and standby functions, scheduling, energy efficiency strategies and loop tuning.

    Elements of acceptable test procedures include:

    1. Date and party—Identification of the date of the test and the party conducting the test.

    2. Signature block—Signature of the designated commissioning lead and the equipment installing contractor attesting that the recorded test results are accurate.

    3. Prerequisites—Any conditions or related equipment checkout or testing that needs to be completed before conducting this test.

    4. Precautions—Identification of the risks involved to the test team members and the equipment and how to mitigate them.

    5. Instrumentation—Listing of the instrumentation and tools necessary to complete the test.

    6. Reference—In each procedure item, identify the source for what is being confirmed (e.g., sequence of operation ID, operating feature, specification requirement, etc.).

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    1. Test instructions—Step-by-step instructions of how to complete the test, including functions to test and the conditions under which the tests should performed.

    2. Acceptance criteria—Measurable pass / fail criteria for each step of the test, as applicable.

    3. Results—Expected system response and space to document the actual response, readings, results and adjustments.

    4. Return to normal—Instructions that all systems and equipment are to be returned to their as-found state at the conclusion of the tests.

    5. Deficiencies—A list of deficiencies and how they were mitigated.

    5.3 Enforcement:

  • § 5.410.2.4 High relevance — show source text

    c. Functions to be tested.

    d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.

    5.410.2.4 Functional performance testing. [N] Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system and system- to-system interface in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.

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    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    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.

    5.410.2.5 Documentation and training. [N] A systems manual and systems operations training are required, including Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements in California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 8, Section 5142, and other related regulations.

    5.410.2.5.1 Systems manual. [N] Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner or representative. The systems manual shall include the following:

    1. Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements.

    2. Site contact information.

    3. Basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, site events log.

    4. Major systems.

    5. Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.

    6. A copy of verifications required by the enforcing agency or this code.

    7. Other resources and documentation, if applicable.

    5.410.2.5.2 Systems operations training. [N] A program for training of the appropriate maintenance staff for each equipment type and/or system shall be developed and documented in the commissioning report and shall include the following:

    1. System/equipment overview (what it is, what it does and with what other systems and/or equipment it interfaces).
    2. Review and demonstration of servicing/preventive maintenance.
    3. Review of the information in the systems manual.
    4. Review of the record drawings on the system/ equipment.

    5.410.2.6 Commissioning report. [N] A report of commissioning process activities undertaken through the design and construction phases of the building project shall be completed and provided to the owner or representative.

    5.410.3 Reserved.

    5.410.4 Testing and adjusting. New buildings less than 10,000 square feet. Testing and adjusting of systems shall be required for new buildings less than 10,000 square feet or new systems to serve an addition or alteration subject to Section 303.1.

    5.410.4.1 Reserved.

    Note: For energy-related systems under the scope (Section 100) of the California Energy Code, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls, indoor lighting system and controls, as well as water heating systems and controls, refer to California Energy Code Section 120.8 for commissioning requirements and Sections 120.5, 120.6, 130.4 and 140.9(b)3 for additional testing requirements of specific systems.

    5.410.4.2 Systems. Develop a written plan of procedures for testing and adjusting systems. Systems to be included for testing and adjusting shall include, as applicable to the project:

    1. Renewable energy systems.

    2. Landscape irrigation systems.

    3. Water reuse systems.

  • § 803.2 High relevance — show source text

    (1) Visual inspection of the equipment and installation.

    (2) Review of the certification requirements.

    (3) Functional tests of the systems and controls.

    E 803.2 Construction Documents. Details of commissioning acceptance requirements shall be incorporated into the construction documents, including information that describes the details of the functional tests to be performed. This information shall be permitted to be integrated into the specifications for testing and air balancing, energy management and control system, equipment startup procedures or commissioning. It is possible that the work will be performed by a combination of the test and balance (TAB) contractor,

    480 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

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

    APPENDIX E

    mechanical/electrical contractor, and the energy management control system (EMCS) contractor, so applicable roles and responsibilities shall be clearly called out.

    E 803.2.1 Roles and Responsibilities. The roles and responsibilities of the persons involved in commissioning acceptance are included in Section E 803.2.1.1 through Section E 803.2.1.3.

    E 803.2.1.1 Field Technician. The field technician shall be responsible for performing and documenting the results of the acceptance procedures on the certificate of acceptance forms. The field technician shall sign the certificate of acceptance to certify that the information he provides on the certificate of acceptance is true and correct.

    E 803.2.1.2 Responsible Person. The responsible person shall be the contractor or registered design professional of record. A certificate of acceptance shall be signed by a responsible person to take responsibility for the scope of work specified by the certificate of acceptance document. The responsible person shall perform the field testing and verification work, and where this is the case, the responsible person shall complete and sign both the field technician’s signature block and the responsible person’s signature block on the certificate of acceptance form. The responsible person assumes responsibility for the acceptance testing work performed by the field technician agent or employee. E 803.2.1.3 Certificate of Acceptance. The certificate of acceptance shall be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction in order to receive the final certificate of occupancy. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall not release a final certificate of occupancy unless the submitted certificate of acceptance demonstrates that the specified systems and equipment have been shown to be performing in accordance with the applicable acceptance requirements. The Authority Having Jurisdiction has the authority to require the field technician and responsible person to demonstrate competence, to its satisfaction. Certificate of acceptance forms are located in Section E 806.0.

    E 804.0 Commissioning Tests. E 804.1 General. Functional tests shall be performed on new equipment and systems installed in either new construction or retrofit applications in accordance with this section. The appropriate certificate of acceptance form along with each specific test shall be completed and submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction before a final occupancy permit can be granted.

    E 804.2 Tests. Functional testing shall be performed on the devices and systems listed in this section. The functional test results are documented using the applicable certificate of acceptance forms shown in parenthesis and located in Section E 806.0. The functional tests shall be performed in accordance with Section E 805.0 using the following forms:

    (1) Minimum ventilation controls for constant and variable air volume systems (Form MECH-2A).

  • § 203.2 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION A6.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

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

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

    A6.203.2.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.

    SECTION A6.204—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH

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

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

    The owner and designer shall designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review and oversee the completion of the commissioning process activities. The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The design team shall develop the Basis of Design (BOD). The CxA shall review these documents for clarity and completeness. The owner and design team shall be responsible for updates to their respective documents, develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents and develop and implement a commissioning plan. The CxA shall verify the installation and performance of the systems to be commissioned, verify that training and operation and maintenance documentation have been provided to the owner’s operations staff and complete a commissioning report.

    Commissioning process activities shall be completed for the following energy-related systems, at a minimum:

    1. Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls.
    2. Lighting and daylighting controls.
    3. Domestic hot water systems.
    4. Renewable energy systems (wind, solar, etc.).
    5. Building envelope systems.

    A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented by the owner and the designer before the design phase of the project begins. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, this documentation shall include the following:

    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Energy efficiency goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-3

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

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

    1. Equipment and systems expectations.
    2. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.
  • § 801.0 High relevance — show source text

    Part I

    E 801.0 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems Commissioning. E 801.1 Applicability. The provisions of this section apply to the commissioning of commercial and institutional HVAC systems.

    E 802.0 Commissioning. E 802.1 Commissioning Requirements. HVAC commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the project to verify that the HVAC systems and components meet the owner’s project requirements and in accordance with this appendix. Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this appendix by personnel trained and certified in commissioning by a nationally recognized organization. Commissioning requirements shall include the following:

    (1) Owner’s project requirements

    (2) Basis of design

    (3) Commissioning measures shown in the construction doc uments

    (4) Commissioning plan

    (5) Functional performance

    (6) Testing

    (7) Post construction documentation and training

    (8) Commissioning report

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 479

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

    APPENDIX E

    HVAC systems and components covered by this appendix as well as process equipment and controls, and renewable energy systems shall be included in the scope of the commissioning requirements. E 802.2 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The performance goals and requirements of the HVAC system shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include not less than the following:

    (1) Environmental and sustainability goals

    (2) Energy efficiency goals

    (3) Indoor environmental quality requirements

    (4) Equipment and systems performance goals

    (5) Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations E 802.3 Basis of Design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the HVAC system meets the owner’s project requirements 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 not less than the following systems:

    (1) Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls

    (2) Water heating systems

    (3) Renewable energy systems E 802.4 Commissioning Plan. A commissioning plan shall be completed to document the approach to how the project will be commissioned, and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. The commissioning plan shall include not less than the following:

    (1) General project information

    (2) Commissioning goals

    (3) Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include not less than the following:

    (a) A detailed 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.

    (4) Commissioning team information.

    (5) Commissioning process activities, schedules, and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Section E 802.5 through Section E 802.7 shall be included.

    E 802.5 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 approved plans and specifications. Functional performance testing reports shall contain information addressing each of the building components tested, the testing methods utilized, and readings and adjustments made.

Frequently asked questions

Which projects must comply with the Energy Code commissioning and FPT requirements?

Nonresidential buildings (including nonresidential spaces within other occupancies) must comply with the mandatory commissioning items in Section 120.8; the section also specifies different sub‑requirements based on conditioned area and excludes healthcare facilities (which follow other Title 24 provisions).

What deliverables and documents are required?

Typical required deliverables are the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD), commissioning plan (prepared prior to permit issuance), functional performance test reports, a systems manual, documented systems‑operations training, and a final commissioning report. CALGreen provides minimum content and sample FPT forms for these deliverables (CALGreen §5.410.2.1–5.410.2.6).

Who performs and signs off on commissioning and acceptance?

The owner designates a Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead and verify the process; the Mechanical Code’s Appendix E describes roles (field technician, responsible person) and requires certificates of acceptance—signed by responsible parties—before the Authority Having Jurisdiction issues final occupancy.

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