Title 24 · California Energy Code

Which projects require commissioning and what systems are in scope?

If you’re building a new nonresidential structure with **10,000 ft² or more** of conditioned space, California’s codes require a documented commissioning program (OPR, BOD, Commissioning Plan, FPTs, training, and report) that at minimum covers **HVAC&R, lighting and controls, domestic hot water, renewables, and the envelope**; see CALGreen **§ 5.410.2** and Energy Code **§ 120.8** for the specific obligations.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English (controlling §)

For new nonresidential buildings with 10,000 square feet or more of conditioned space, building commissioning is required to verify systems meet the owner’s needs and the design documents. This requirement is established in § 5.410.2 of CALGreen and the California Energy Code § 120.8 for energy-related systems. Appendix A6.204.4 (CALGreen) specifies the minimum commissioning process activities and lists the systems that must be covered (HVAC&R, lighting/controls, domestic hot water, renewables, and envelope).

If a nonresidential building (non‑healthcare) has ≥10,000 ft² of conditioned space, the project must include a commissioning program that covers the building’s energy-related systems and other CALGreen-listed systems.

Requirements in detail

Which projects trigger the requirement

  • New buildings 10,000 ft² and over (CALGreen mandatory commissioning requirement): § 5.410.2.
  • The Energy Code applies commissioning to nonresidential buildings (except healthcare) with conditioned space ≥10,000 ft² and requires that all building systems covered by the Energy Code be included in the commissioning scope: § 120.8.

Systems and activities that must be included

CALGreen Appendix A6.204.4 and CALGreen Section 5.410.2 set the minimum commissioning activities and list the systems that must be commissioned. The Energy Code § 120.8 explicitly brings energy‑related systems under commissioning obligations and requires OPR, BOD, commissioning plan, functional performance testing, documentation/training, and a commissioning report.

Key commissioning process items (code requires these deliverables):

  • Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) (documented before design) — § 5.410.2.1 / § 120.8(b).
  • Basis of Design (BOD) (design-phase document covering required systems) — § 5.410.2.2 / § 120.8(c).
  • Commissioning plan (completed prior to permit issuance) — § 5.410.2.3 / § 120.8(f).
  • Functional performance testing (FPT) — § 5.410.2.4 / Energy Code testing provisions.
  • Documentation and training; systems manual; commissioning report — § 5.410.2.5–.6 and A6.204.4.5–.6.

Systems explicitly in scope (minimum)

  • Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems and controls (mechanical and passive) — A6.204.4 / Energy Code BOD list.
  • Indoor lighting and daylighting controls — A6.204.4 / Energy Code BOD list.
  • Domestic hot water (DHW) systems — A6.204.4 / Energy Code BOD list.
  • Renewable energy systems (solar, wind, etc.) — A6.204.4 / Basis of Design items.
  • Building envelope systems — specifically included in Energy Code BOD and commissioning scope.

(These are the minimum systems required; the OPR/BOD may add additional systems that must then be commissioned.)

Decision‑relevant table

Decision dimension Threshold / required value Code reference
Building conditioned area triggering full commissioning ≥10,000 ft² conditioned § 5.410.2 § 120.8
Building types covered Nonresidential (non‑healthcare) — includes nonresidential spaces in mixed buildings § 120.8
Minimum systems in scope HVAC&R, lighting/daylighting controls, domestic hot water, renewables, envelope (plus any systems listed in the OPR) A6.204.4 § 120.8(c)
Required documents / deliverables OPR, BOD, Commissioning Plan (prior to permit), FPTs, documentation & training, Commissioning Report § 5.410.2.1–.6 § 120.8(a),(f)
Systems that require TAB vs commissioning for smaller buildings Testing & adjusting (TAB) required for new buildings <10,000 ft² — commissioning is for ≥10,000 ft² § 5.410.4

Exceptions & special cases

  • Unconditioned warehouses are exempt from the CALGreen commissioning requirement regardless of size (definition: spaces without heating/air conditioning). § 5.410.2 Exceptions.
  • Areas < 10,000 ft² that are conditioned accessory spaces within an unconditioned warehouse are exempt. § 5.410.2 Exceptions.
  • Tenant improvements less than 10,000 ft² are exempt under CALGreen (see Section 303.1.1 referenced in § 5.410.2 exceptions).
  • Open parking garages (any size) are exempt. § 5.410.2 Exceptions.
  • Healthcare facilities follow separate commissioning rules (referenced by the Energy Code — healthcare must follow Title 24, Part 1, Chapter 7). § 120.8 notes healthcare exception.

Special note: The Energy Code requires that all building systems/components covered by Sections 110.0, 120.0, 130.0 and 140.0 be included in the commissioning scope (except those only related to covered processes) — so scope can be broader than the CALGreen minimum when systems are covered by those Energy Code sections. § 120.8.

Common mistakes

  • Treating gross floor area as the trigger instead of conditioned floor area required by § 120.8 — always confirm whether the threshold uses conditioned space. § 120.8.
  • Omitting building envelope from the commissioning scope when the OPR/BOD includes envelope performance — the Energy Code explicitly includes envelope components in the BOD/commissioning requirements. § 120.8(c).
  • Waiting until construction to prepare the OPR, BOD, and Commissioning Plan — CALGreen and the Energy Code require these documents early (OPR before design; Commissioning Plan prior to permit). § 5.410.2.1–.3 and § 120.8(b),(f).
  • Confusing testing & adjusting (TAB) with full commissioning — TAB is the required compliance activity for small new buildings (<10,000 ft²) but does not substitute for commissioning for larger buildings. § 5.410.4.
  • Not documenting commissioning measures in the construction documents — the code requires commissioning measures to appear in the construction documents. § 120.8(e) / § 5.410.2.3.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A developer plans a new nonresidential office building with 12,000 ft² conditioned floor area (non‑healthcare). Does commissioning apply, and what must be commissioned?

  1. Trigger: Because conditioned area is 12,000 ft² (≥10,000 ft²), full commissioning is required under § 5.410.2 (CALGreen) and Energy Code § 120.8.
  2. Early documents: Owner must prepare an OPR before design (documenting energy goals, hours, equipment expectations, envelope expectations) and the design team must prepare a BOD that covers at minimum HVAC & controls, indoor lighting & controls, water heating, any renewables, and building envelope. § 5.410.2.1–.2 and § 120.8(b)–(c).
  3. Commissioning Plan: A project‑specific Commissioning Plan must be completed prior to permit issuance and must list systems, tests, measurable acceptance criteria, team roles, and schedules (see § 5.410.2.3 and § 120.8(f)).
  4. Functional testing & deliverables: The project will perform Functional Performance Tests (FPTs) on HVAC/controls (including system‑to‑system interactions), lighting controls, DHW, and any PV or other renewables; prepare a systems manual and owner training; and deliver a commissioning report signed/assembled by the CxA. A6.204.4.4–.6 and § 5.410.2.4–.6.
  5. Enforcement/compliance: The inspector may ask for the commissioning specifications at plan intake, copies of the Commissioning Plan, or the final commissioning report to confirm compliance. § 5.410.2 guidance.

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § 5.410.2 — Commissioning for new buildings 10,000 ft² and over (CALGreen).
  • § 5.410.4 — Testing and adjusting for new buildings less than 10,000 ft² (CALGreen).
  • A6.204.4 — Commissioning process activities and systems in scope (Appendix CALGreen).
  • § 120.8 — Nonresidential building commissioning (California Energy Code, Part 6).
  • Energy Code cross‑references for additional testing: Sections 120.5, 120.6, 130.4, and 140.9(b)3 (these are referenced as additional testing requirements in CALGreen guidance).

Code references

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

  • § 5-26 High relevance — show source text

    5-26 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    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.

  • § 5.410 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 5.410—BUILDING MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION

    5.410.1 Recycling by occupants. Provide readily accessible areas that serve the entire building and are identified for the depositing, storage and collection of non-hazardous materials for recycling, including (at a minimum) paper, corrugated cardboard, glass, plastics, organic waste and metals, or meet a lawfully enacted local recycling ordinance, if more restrictive.

    Exception: Rural jurisdictions that meet and apply for the exemption in Public Resources Code 42649.82 (a)(2)(A) et seq. shall also be exempt from the organic waste portion of this section.

    5.410.1.1 Additions. All additions conducted within a 12-month period under single or multiple permits, resulting in an increase of 30 percent or more in floor area, shall provide recycling areas on site.

    Exception: Additions within a tenant space resulting in less than a 30-percent increase in the tenant space floor area.

    5.410.1.2 Sample ordinance. Space allocation for recycling areas shall comply with Chapter 18, Part 3, Division 30 of the Public Resources Code. Chapter 18 is known as the California Solid Waste Reuse and Recycling Access Act of 1991 (Act).

    Note: A sample ordinance for use by local agencies may be found in Appendix A of the document at the CalRecycle’s web site.

    5.410.2 Commissioning. [N] New buildings 10,000 square feet and over. For new buildings 10,000 square feet and over, building commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the building project to verify that the building systems and components meet the owner’s or owner representative’s project requirements. Commissioning shall be performed in accor

    5-26 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    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:

  • § 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

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

    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY 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.

  • § 5.410.2 High relevance — show source text

    Reference: Section 5.410.2, Commissioning.

    Introduction:

    The purpose of this code is to improve public health, safety and general welfare by enhancing the design and construction of buildings through the use of concepts that reduce negative and increase positive environmental impacts. Commissioning is a vital element in this effort.

    Definitions used in the CALGreen Cx Reference standard:

    Acronyms

    BOD Basis of Design

    Cx Commissioning

    FPT Functional Performance Test

    HVAC Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning

    O&M Operations and Maintenance

    OPR Owner’s Project Requirements

    Glossary:

    Acceptance Criteria— The conditions that must be met for systems or equipment to meet defined and expected outcomes.

    Commissioning (Cx)— Building commissioning as required in this code involves a quality assurance process that begins during design and continues to occupancy. Commissioning verifies that the new building operates as the owner intended and that building staff are prepared to operate and maintain its systems and equipment. Exceptions are allowed for dry storage warehouses of any size and conditioned spaces under 10,000 square feet accessory to them; and for tenant improvements under 10,000 square feet within a larger space.

    Owner— The individual or entity holding title to the property on which the building is constructed.

    Commissioning Coordinator— The person who coordinates the commissioning process. This can be either a third-party commissioning provider or an experienced member of the design team or owner in-house staff member.

    Commissioning Team— The key members of each party involved with the project designated to provide insight and carry out tasks necessary for a successful commissioning project. Team members may include the commissioning coordinator, owner or owner’s representative, building staff, design professionals, contractors or manufacturer’s representatives and testing specialists.

    Independent Third-Party Commissioning Professional— A commissioning consultant contracted directly by the owner who is not responsible to, or affiliated with, any other member of the design and construction team.

    Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals— Documents that provide information necessary for operating and maintaining installed equipment and systems.

    Owner Representative— An individual or entity assigned by the owner to act and sign on the owner’s behalf.

    Process Equipment— Energy-using equipment and components that are not used for HVAC, electrical, plumbing and irrigation operations. Such devices would include but are not limited to heat transfer, water purifying, air cleaning, air vacuum and air compressing.

    Sequence of Operation— A written description of the intended performance and operation of each control element and feature of the equipment and systems.

    Selecting Trained Personnel (for Commissioning)

    This code requires that “Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity.” The trained personnel manage and facilitate the commissioning process. The trained personnel develop and implement the commissioning tasks and documentation identified in Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6. Trained personnel may include appropriate members of owner staff, contractor and design team as well as independent commissioning professionals.

    It is essential that there is a single person designated to lead and manage the commissioning activities. In practice, this individual has been referenced by various identifiers such as commissioning authority, agent, provider, coordinator, lead, etc. In this guide the term “commissioning coordinator” is used.

  • § 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 A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

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

    Independent Third-Party Commissioning Professional— A commissioning consultant contracted directly by the owner who is not responsible to, or affiliated with, any other member of the design and construction team.

    Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals— Documents that provide information necessary for operating and maintaining installed equipment and systems.

    Owner Representative— An individual or entity assigned by the owner to act and sign on the owner’s behalf.

    Process Equipment— Energy-using equipment and components that are not used for HVAC, electrical, plumbing and irrigation operations. Such devices would include but are not limited to heat transfer, water purifying, air cleaning, air vacuum and air compressing.

    Sequence of Operation— A written description of the intended performance and operation of each control element and feature of the equipment and systems.

    Selecting Trained Personnel (for Commissioning)

    This code requires that “Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity.” The trained personnel manage and facilitate the commissioning process. The trained personnel develop and implement the commissioning tasks and documentation identified in Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6. Trained personnel may include appropriate members of owner staff, contractor and design team as well as independent commissioning professionals.

    It is essential that there is a single person designated to lead and manage the commissioning activities. In practice, this individual has been referenced by various identifiers such as commissioning authority, agent, provider, coordinator, lead, etc. In this guide the term “commissioning coordinator” is used.

    The designated commissioning coordinator may be an independent, third-party commissioning professional, a project design team member (e.g., engineer or architect), an owner’s engineer or facility staff, contractor or specialty subcontractor. Methods of evaluating the designated commissioning coordinator and trained personnel include review of the following:

    1. Technical knowledge;
    2. Relevant experience;
    3. Potential conflict of interest concerns;
    4. Professional certifications and training;
    5. Communication and organizational skills; and
    6. Reference and sample work products.

    8-14 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Selection of “trained,” qualified personnel is required by this code. In order to meet this requirement, the commissioning provider should be evaluated via the methods discussed above. In addition, various organizations have training and certification programs that may be a source for identification of qualified commissioning providers.

    For information about enforcement and compliance of each commissioning element see Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6.

    For compliance forms and templates see Part 2 following this standard.

    Reference: 1 Owner’s Project Requirements

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.1, Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR).

    1.1 Intent:

    The Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) documents the functional requirements of a project and expectations of the building use and operation as it relates to systems being commissioned. The document describes the physical and functional building characteristics desired by the owner and establishes performance and acceptance criteria. The OPR is most effective when developed during predesign and used to develop the Basis of Design (BOD) during the design process. The level of detail and complexity of the OPR will vary according to building use, type and systems.

    1.2 Compliance Method:

  • § 204.4.2 High relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY 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.

  • § 3.3 High relevance — show source text
    1. Definitions section.

    3.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning specifications, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative or designer of record attesting that the owner-approved commissioning specifications are included in the construction documents.

    Reference: 4 Commissioning plan

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.3, Commissioning plan.

    4.1 Intent:

    The Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan) establishes the commissioning process guideline for the project and commissioning team’s level of effort by identifying the required Cx activities to ensure that the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) and the Basis of Design (BOD) are met. The Cx Plan also includes a commissioning schedule from design to occupancy.

    4.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is demonstrated by preparation of a project-specific Cx Plan that includes the elements listed in the code section above. The following gives guidance for developing the components of the commissioning plan:

    1. General project information - Provide project-identifying information including but not limited to the following: i. Project name, owner, location. ii. Building type, building area. iii. Project schedule. iv. Contact information of individual/company providing the commissioning services.

    2. Commissioning goals – Document the commissioning goals, including but not limited to: i. Meeting CALGreen code requirements for commissioning. ii. Meeting OPR and BOD requirements. iii. Carrying out requirements for commissioning activities as specified in plans and specifications.

    3. Systems to be commissioned – See BOD a. An explanation of the original design intent - Document the performance objectives and design intent for each system listed to be commissioned in a written narrative

          - Refer to the OPR and BOD documents

    b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests i. Provide a list of equipment and systems to be tested

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    ii. Describe the range and extent of tests to be performed for each system component, and interface between systems c. Functions to be tested - Provide example functional test procedures to identify the level of testing detail required

           See (Section 5.410.2.4) FPT guidance for more information

    d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed - Identify the conditions under which the major operational system functions are to be tested, including: i. Normal operations and part-load operations. ii. Seasonal testing requirements. iii. Restart of equipment and systems after power loss. iv. System alarm confirmations. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance - Include measurable criteria for acceptable performance of each system to be tested 4. Commissioning team information - Provide a contact list for all commissioning team members, including but not limited to: i. Owner, owner’s representative. ii. Architect, engineers. iii. Designated commissioning representative. iv. General contractor, subcontractors and construction manager. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities i. Establish prescribed commissioning process steps and activities to be accomplished by the Cx team throughout the design to occupancy. ii. For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii.

  • § 5.410.2.6 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    5.410.4.3 Procedures. Perform testing and adjusting procedures in accordance with manufacturer's specifications and applicable standards on each system.

    5.410.4.3.1 HVAC balancing. In addition to testing and adjusting, before a new space-conditioning system serving a building or space is operated for normal use, balance the system in accordance with the procedures defined by the Testing Adjusting and Balancing Bureau National Standards; the National Environmental Balancing Bureau Procedural Standards; Associated Air Balance Council National Standards or as approved by the enforcing agency.

    5.410.4.4 Reporting. After completion of testing, adjusting and balancing, provide a final report of testing signed by the individual responsible for performing these services.

    5.410.4.5 Operation and maintenance (O & M) manual. Provide the building owner or representative with detailed operating and maintenance instructions and copies of guaranties/warranties for each system. O & M instructions shall be consistent with OSHA requirements in CCR, Title 8, Section 5142, and other related regulations.

    5.410.4.5.1 Inspections and reports. Include a copy of all inspection verifications and reports required by the enforcing

    agency.

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 5 – NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    DIVISION 5.5 – ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

  • § 3.2 High relevance — show source text

    3.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is achieved by including commissioning requirements in the project specifications. The commissioning specifications should include the following:

    1. Primary (and optionally all) commissioning requirements are included in the general specification division (typically Division 1) and clear cross references of all commissioning requirements to and from the general division are included to ensure all subcontractors are held to them.

    2. A list of the systems and assemblies covered by the commissioning requirements.

    3. Roles and responsibilities of all parties, including: i. General contractor and subcontractors, vendors, construction manager ii. Commissioning provider lead

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    iii. Owner, facility staff iv. Architect and design engineers v. Include the noncontractor parties in the construction specifications (information used only to provide the contractor with context for their work).

    vi. Include who writes checklists and tests, who reviews and approves test forms, who directs tests, who executes tests, who documents test results, and who approves completed tests. These roles may vary by system or assembly.

    1. Meeting requirements

    2. Commissioning schedule management procedures

    3. Issue and noncompliance management procedures

    4. Requirements for execution and documentation of installation, checkout and start up, including controls point-to-point checks and calibrations

    5. Specific testing requirements by system, including: i. Monitoring and trending ii. Opposite season or deferred testing requirements, functions and modes to be tested

    iii. Conditions of test

    iv. Acceptance criteria, and any allowed sampling v. Include details of the format and rigor of the test forms required to document test execution vi. Include example forms is recommended 9. Submittal review requirements and approval process. 10. Content, authority and approval process of the commissioning plan. 11. Commissioning documentation and reporting requirements. 12. Facility staff training requirements and verification procedures. 13. O&M manual review and approval procedures. 14. System’s manual development and approval requirements and procedures.

    1. Definitions section.

    3.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning specifications, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative or designer of record attesting that the owner-approved commissioning specifications are included in the construction documents.

    Reference: 4 Commissioning plan

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.3, Commissioning plan.

    4.1 Intent:

    The Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan) establishes the commissioning process guideline for the project and commissioning team’s level of effort by identifying the required Cx activities to ensure that the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) and the Basis of Design (BOD) are met. The Cx Plan also includes a commissioning schedule from design to occupancy.

    4.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is demonstrated by preparation of a project-specific Cx Plan that includes the elements listed in the code section above. The following gives guidance for developing the components of the commissioning plan:

    1. General project information - Provide project-identifying information including but not limited to the following: i. Project name, owner, location. ii. Building type, building area. iii. Project schedule. iv. Contact information of individual/company providing the commissioning services.
  • § 8-30 High relevance — show source text

    The commissioning plan should be started during the design phase of the building project. Include the checked elements listed below and approved by the owner or owner’s representative.

    Col1 COMMISSIONING PLAN ELEMENTS1 INCLUDED
    1. General project information
    2. Commissioning goals
    3. Systems to be commissioned—see BOD
    3a. An explanation of original design intent
    3b. Equipment and systems to be commissioned and tested, including extent of tests
    3c. Functions to be tested and conditions of tests1
    3d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed
    3e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance
    4. Cx team information
    5. Cx process activities, schedules and responsibilities
    1. These are not the detailed step-by-step test procedures but are lists of features, elements, modes and conditions of tests for specific equipment.

    Owner / Owner’s Representative Signature Date

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    COMMISSIONING PLAN

    COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST

    INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS

    Project Address: ________________________________________________________

    Permit Number: _____________________________

    ITEM # COMMISSIONING PLAN ITEMS1 PAGE NUMBER IN
    COMMISSIONING
    PLAN DOCUMENT
    GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION
    1 Project name, 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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  • § 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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    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.

Frequently asked questions

Do tenant improvements always need commissioning?

Not always. Under CALGreen, tenant improvements less than 10,000 ft² are an exception to the mandatory commissioning requirement; however, if energy‑related systems are in scope of the Energy Code or the OPR/BOD lists additional systems, design review or other code provisions may still apply. § 5.410.2 Exceptions.

Is the building envelope always required to be commissioned?

The building envelope is included in the Energy Code BOD/commissioning scope when it is considered in the OPR; § 120.8 lists envelope components in the basis of design items that must be covered. Check the OPR/BOD — if envelope performance is part of the OPR, it must be commissioned. § 120.8(c).

Who can be the Commissioning Authority (CxA)?

The code requires trained personnel with experience. The CxA may be an independent third‑party, a qualified member of the design team, owner staff, or other qualified party — but the person must be designated and have appropriate experience. See definitions and guidance in Appendix A.

When must the Commissioning Plan be completed?

The Commissioning Plan must be started during the design phase and completed prior to permit issuance; it must include systems, tests, acceptance criteria, and team roles. § 5.410.2.3 and § 120.8(f).

If a building is <10,000 ft², is any review required?

Yes — buildings less than 10,000 ft² must still comply with certain design review requirements from the Energy Code (see § 120.8(d)) and CALGreen requires testing and adjusting (TAB) for these smaller buildings. § 120.8(d) and § 5.410.4.

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