Title 24 · California Energy Code

What are the occupancy sensor and thermostat control requirements for spaces and dwellings?

Homes and spaces must use occupancy sensors (or time switches/timers) to automatically shut off lighting and space conditioning when vacant; thermostats must provide setback scheduling and be capable of specific setpoint ranges and demand‑response behavior (OpenADR/VEN and JA5 compliance) when required by Title 24 (§160.2/§160.3 and §110.12(a)).

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

In California Title 24 the short rule is: spaces and dwelling units must use occupancy sensors or equivalent automatic shut‑off controls for lighting and space‑conditioning, and thermostats must provide setback capability and meet demand‑response (DR) requirements when required. The controlling sections are § 160.3 (space‑conditioning shut‑off / occupied‑standby / thermostat criteria) and § 160.2 (ventilation + occupant sensor interactions), together with the mandatory DR requirements in § 110.12(a) and the cross‑reference to the occupant‑controlled smart thermostat spec JA5.

The single most important rule: spaces that can be vacant must automatically shut off HVAC or lighting (via occupancy sensors, time switch, or manual timer) and thermostats must support occupant setback and, where required, DR features per § 160.3 and § 110.12(a).


Requirements in detail

Key defined terms (first mention bolded)

  • Occupancy sensor — device that detects presence and can automatically shut off systems when a space is vacant.
  • Setback thermostat — a thermostat with programming/clock for multiple daily setback periods (occupant scheduling); required for dwelling heating/cooling unless exempt.
  • Occupied‑standby mode — a reduced‑operation mode a zone goes into when scheduled for occupancy but sensors indicate vacancy; used for ventilation and setpoint resets.
  • Demand Response (DR) control / VEN — thermostats or controls that receive/act on DR signals (OpenADR/Baseline Profile) required by § 110.12(a).
  • JA5 — Reference Joint Appendix 5: technical specifications for occupant‑controlled smart thermostats (thermostats used for DR must comply).

Table — decision‑relevant dimensions and values

Decision / threshold Required value or action Code Reference
Automatic shut‑off method for space‑conditioning during nonuse One of: automatic time switch (with 4‑hour manual override), occupancy sensor, or 4‑hour manual timer § 160.3(a)2D i.a–c
Lighting occupancy sensor auto‑off (small rooms) Turn off lighting in 20 minutes or less when unoccupied (offices ≤250 ft², multipurpose <1,000 ft², conference rooms, restrooms) § 160.5(b)4C v
Occupant sensing zone: vacant detection requirement Sensors must indicate vacancy within 20 minutes or less for room vacancy (and suitable coverage) § 160.2(c)5E i / § 160.3(a)2D ii.b
Occupied‑standby transition timing for HVAC/ventilation In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied‑standby, ventilation shut off (when allowed) and setpoint resets must occur § 160.2(c)5 / § 160.3(a)2D iii
Required setpoint reset when occupant sensing used Set up cooling by ≥2°F and set back heating by ≥2°F; with zone DDC, ≥0.5°F is permitted § 160.3(a)2D iii.b.i–ii
Thermostat setpoint range capability Must be adjustable down to 55°F for heating and up to 85°F for cooling when used for comfort control § 160.3(a)2B i–ii
Thermostats — setback programming Thermostats shall allow programming of at least four periods per 24 hours (setback capability) § 110.2(c) / § 110.2(c)1
DR thermostat communication requirement Must be certified OpenADR 2.0a/2.0b VEN or certified Baseline Profile OpenADR 3.0 VEN (bi‑directional comms) § 110.12(a)1–2
DR thermostat technical spec Demand responsive thermostats must comply with JA5 (Occupant Controlled Smart Thermostats) § 110.12(a)5
Remote DR setpoint change for zonal DDC HVAC Controls must allow remote change of cooling setpoints by 4°F or more (and heating setpoints down by 4°F) for centralized demand shed § 110.12(b)1–2

(Each Code Reference above points to the Title 24 sections that require the item; see the cited extracts for full context.)

Interactions between occupancy sensors, ventilation and thermostats

  • When occupant sensors control ventilation and space conditioning together, occupied‑standby rules apply: sensors must allow a pre‑occupancy purge one hour before scheduled occupancy and must place the zone into occupied‑standby when scheduled occupancy occurs but sensors show vacancy. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied‑standby the ventilation to the zone shall be shut off (when allowed) and the thermostat setpoints must be reset as specified. § 160.2(c)5 / § 160.3(a)2D iii
  • If occupant sensors that control lighting are also used for ventilation control, the ventilation signal must be independent of daylighting or manual lighting overrides. § 160.2(c)5E b

Thermostats in dwelling units and multifamily

  • Every dwelling unit HVAC not on a central EMCS needs a setback thermostat per § 160.3(a)1 and § 110.2(c) setback requirements. Multifamily common areas have additional zone control rules in § 160.3(a)2.
  • Thermostats that apply to heat pumps with supplemental resistance heaters must meet additional controls (outdoor sensor, display, supplementary heater lockout behaviors) referenced elsewhere in Title 24 (see § 150.0(i) & related).

Demand Response specifics

  • When DR controls are required, all DR controls must either be a certified OpenADR VEN or Energy Commission‑certified device that responds to an OpenADR/Baseline Profile VEN and must support bidirectional communications. § 110.12(a)1–2
  • DR thermostats must comply with JA5. The provided document set references JA5 as the required technical spec for occupant‑controlled smart thermostats, but the full JA5 technical content is not included in the provided files here — see the Energy Commission / JA5 reference for explicit test/feature lists. § 110.12(a)5

Exceptions & special cases

  • Thermostat setback/setup requirements may be exempted in specific climate areas (e.g., no setback required where Winter Median of Extremes > 32°F or Summer design dry‑bulb < 100°F for some multifamily/nonresidential exceptions). Check the local climate‑based exceptions in the referenced sections. § 160.3(a)2D ii exceptions
  • Package terminal units, room air conditioners, and similar packaged unitary equipment are often excepted from some DDC / demand‑shed thermostat requirements. § 160.3(a)2B iv (exception)
  • Zones served only by natural ventilation (no mechanical ventilation) are excepted from some occupant sensing ventilation shut‑offs. § 160.3(a)2D iii (exception)
  • Systems that must operate continuously (safety, life‑support, critical processes) may be exempted where operation cannot be interrupted; the enforcing agency may allow demonstrations for continuous operation exemptions. § 160.3 exceptions

If you need a definitive list of exceptions that apply to a given climate zone or specific equipment, consult the full Title 24 text for the cited sections; the provided extracts show the existence of those exceptions but do not list every local‑climate table or cross‑reference.


Common mistakes

  • Assuming any motion sensor satisfies requirements: sensors that control ventilation must provide an independent ventilation signal (not tied to daylighting/manual overrides) and must have suitable coverage for the zone. § 160.2(c)5E
  • Forgetting the timing requirements: failing to implement the 5‑minute occupied‑standby transitions or the 20‑minute vacancy turn‑offs where required will not meet code. § 160.3(a)2D iii / § 160.5(b)4C v
  • Installing a thermostat that cannot be set back (no schedule/clock) or cannot reach 55°F / 85°F limits where required — noncompliant if the system is used for comfort control. § 160.3(a)2B i–ii / § 110.2(c)
  • Thinking any internet‑connected thermostat meets DR: § 110.12(a) requires specific VEN/OpenADR certification or Energy Commission certification and JA5 conformance for DR thermostats. Check certification before assuming compliance.

Worked example — small office zone with shared HVAC + ventilation

Scenario: A 500 ft² conference room is served by a single zone HVAC unit that also supplies mechanical ventilation. The designer installs an occupancy sensor that controls lighting and sends a ventilation signal.

How the rules apply (citations in parentheses):

  1. Because occupant sensors are required for rooms <1,000 ft² and restrooms/conference rooms, install an occupancy sensor that will indicate vacancy within 20 minutes and provide suitable coverage. (Lighting occupancy rule § 160.5(b)4C v and occupied‑standby sensor vacancy § 160.2(c)5E i).

  2. Because the HVAC system provides ventilation required by § 160.2(c)3 and occupant sensor ventilation control is used, the zone must implement occupied‑standby controls: when scheduled to be occupied but sensors show vacancy, the zone goes to occupied‑standby. In 5 minutes or less, ventilation is shut off (if space temperature is between heating and cooling setpoints) and the thermostat setpoints are reset by ≥2°F (or ≥0.5°F if DDC to the zone). (See § 160.3(a)2D iii and § 160.2(c)5.)

  3. The system needs an automatic shut‑off method for space conditioning during nonuse; an occupancy sensor is an acceptable method. Include an accessible 4‑hour manual override if using an automatic time switch alternative. (§ 160.3(a)2D i.)

  4. If the building participates in DR and thermostats are required to be DR‑capable, the installed thermostats must meet § 110.12(a) (OpenADR/VEN or Energy Commission‑certified) and comply with JA5. Test and verify that the thermostat firmware is certified before final acceptance.

Outcome: The conference room automatically reduces ventilation and shifts setpoints within 5 minutes of occupied‑standby, lighting turns off within 20 minutes of vacancy, and the thermostat provides setback scheduling and DR capability if required.


Related provisions (quick list)

  • § 160.3(a)2D — Shut‑off and reset controls; occupant sensing zone controls (HVAC / occupied‑standby).
  • § 160.2(c)5 — Ventilation pre‑occupancy purge and occupant sensor ventilation control interactions.
  • § 160.5(b)4C v — Occupant sensing controls and 20‑minute lighting vacancy requirement.
  • § 110.12(a) — Mandatory DR control requirements; VEN/OpenADR and JA5 cross‑reference.
  • § 110.12(b) — Demand responsive zonal HVAC remote setpoint changes (4°F remote changes).
  • § 110.2(c) — Setback thermostat requirements (programming / scheduling).
  • § 150.0(i) — Additional thermostat controls for heat pumps with supplemental heat (outdoor sensor, lockout behavior).

If you want, I can:

  • Map these rules to a checklist for a permit submittal (what to show on plans and what to specify in equipment schedules), or
  • Draft a short specification paragraph you can copy into the HVAC or controls scope to ensure compliance with § 160.2 / § 160.3 and § 110.12(a).

Code references

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

  • § 160.3 High relevance — show source text

    The perimeter system has at least one thermostatic control for each building orientation of 50 feet or more; and iv. The perimeter system is controlled by at least one thermostat located in one of the zones served by the system. B. Criteria for zonal thermostatic controls. The individual thermostatic controls required by Section 160.3(a)2A shall meet the following requirements as applicable: i. Where used to control comfort heating, the thermostatic controls shall be capable of being set, locally or remotely, down to 55°F or lower. ii. Where used to control comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall be capable of being set, locally or remotely, up to 85°F or higher. iii. Where used to control both comfort heating and comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall meet Items i and ii and shall be capable of providing a temperature range or deadband of at least 5°F within which the supply of heating and cooling energy to the zone is shut off or reduced to a minimum. Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Biii: Systems with thermostats that require manual changeover between heating and cooling modes. iv. Thermostatic controls for all single zone air conditioners and heat pumps shall comply with the requirements of Sections 110.2(c) and 110.12(a) and, if equipped with DDC to the zone level, with the automatic demand shed controls of Section 110.12(b). Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Biv: Package terminal air conditioners, package terminal heat pumps, room air conditioners and room air-conditioner heat pumps. C. Heat pump controls. All heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall be installed with controls that comply with Section 110.2(b).

    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 .

    D. Shut-off and reset controls for space-conditioning systems. Each space-conditioning system shall be installed with controls that comply with the following: i. The control shall be capable of automatically shutting off the system during periods of nonuse and shall have: a. An automatic time switch control device complying with Section 110.9, with an accessible manual override that allows operation of the system for up to 4 hours; or b. An occupancy sensor; or c. A 4-hour timer that can be manually operated. ii. The control shall automatically restart and temporarily operate the system as required to maintain: a. A setback heating thermostat setpoint if the system provides mechanical heating; and Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Diia: Thermostat setback controls are not required in multifamily buildings in areas where the Winter Median of Extremes outdoor air temperature determined in accordance with Section 170.2(c)1C is greater than 32°F. b. A setup cooling thermostat setpoint if the system provides mechanical cooling.

    212 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

  • § 110.2 High relevance — show source text

    C. Heat pump controls. All heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall be installed with controls that comply with Section 110.2(b).

    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 .

    D. Shut-off and reset controls for space-conditioning systems. Each space-conditioning system shall be installed with controls that comply with the following: i. The control shall be capable of automatically shutting off the system during periods of nonuse and shall have: a. An automatic time switch control device complying with Section 110.9, with an accessible manual override that allows operation of the system for up to 4 hours; or b. An occupancy sensor; or c. A 4-hour timer that can be manually operated. ii. The control shall automatically restart and temporarily operate the system as required to maintain: a. A setback heating thermostat setpoint if the system provides mechanical heating; and Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Diia: Thermostat setback controls are not required in multifamily buildings in areas where the Winter Median of Extremes outdoor air temperature determined in accordance with Section 170.2(c)1C is greater than 32°F. b. A setup cooling thermostat setpoint if the system provides mechanical cooling.

    212 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Diib: Thermostat setup controls are not required in multifamily buildings in areas where the summer design dry-bulb 0.5-percent temperature determined in accordance with Section 170.2(c)1C is less than 100°F.

    iii. Occupant sensing zone controls . Where the system providing space conditioning also provides the ventilation required by Section 160.2(c)3 and includes occupant sensor ventilation control as specified in Section 160.2(c)5E, the occupant sensing zone controls shall additionally comply with the following: a. Occupant sensing zone controls shall comply with the occupant sensor ventilation control device requirements of Section 160.3(c)5E and allow preoccupancy ventilation requirements of Section 160.3(c)5B; and b. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode as described in Section 160.2(c)5: I. Automatically set up the operating cooling temperature setpoint by 2°F or more and set back the operating heating temperature setpoint by 2°F or more; or II. For multiple zone systems with direct digital controls (DDC) to the zone level, set up the operating cooling temperature setpoint by 0.5°F or more and set back the operating heating temperature setpoint by 0.5°F or more. c. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode, mechanical ventilation to the zone shall remain off whenever the space temperature is between the active heating and cooling setpoints. Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Diii : Zones that are only ventilated by a natural ventilation system in accordance with Section 120.1(c)2.

  • § 120.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception 1 to Section 120.2(b)4: Systems serving non-covered process loads that must have constant temperatures to prevent degradation of materials, a process, plants or animals. Exception 2 to Section 120.2(b)4: Package terminal air conditioners, package terminal heat pumps, room air conditioners and room air conditioner heat pumps. Exception 3 to Section 120.2(b)4: Systems serving healthcare facilities.

    (c) Hotel/motel guest room thermostats.

    1. Hotel/motel guest room thermostats shall: A. Have numeric temperature setpoints in °F and °C; and B. Have setpoint stops, which are accessible only to authorized personnel, such that guest room occupants cannot adjust the setpoint more than ±5°F (±3°C); and C. Meet the requirements of Section 110.2(c).

    Exception to Section 120.2(c)1: Thermostats that are integrated into the room heating and cooling equipment.

    (d) Heat pump controls. All heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall be installed with controls that comply with Section 110.2(b).

    (e) Shut-off and reset controls for space-conditioning systems. Each space-conditioning system shall be installed with controls that comply with the following:

    1. The control shall be capable of automatically shutting off the system during periods of nonuse and shall have: A. An automatic time switch control device complying with Section 110.9 with an accessible manual override that allows operation of the system for up to 4 hours; or

    B. An occupancy sensor; or C. A 4-hour timer that can be manually operated. Exception to Section 120.2(e)1: Mechanical systems serving retail stores and associated malls, restaurants, grocery stores, churches and theaters equipped with 7-day programmable timers. 2. The control shall automatically restart and temporarily operate the system as required to maintain: A. A setback heating thermostat setpoint if the system provides mechanical heating; and Exception to Section 120.2(e)2A: Thermostat setback controls are not required in nonresidential buildings in areas where the Winter Median of Extremes outdoor air temperature determined in accordance with Section 140.4(b)3 is greater than 32°F. B. A setup cooling thermostat setpoint if the system provides mechanical cooling. Exception to Section 120.2(e)2B: Thermostat setup controls are not required in nonresidential buildings in areas where the Summer Design Dry Bulb 0.5 percent temperature determined in accordance with Section 140.4(b)3 is less than 100°F.

    1. Occupant sensing zone controls. Where the system providing space conditioning also provides the ventilation required by Section 120.1 and includes occupant sensor ventilation control as specified in Section 120.1(d)5, the occupant sensing zone controls shall additionally comply with the following: A. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode as described in Section 120.1(d). i. Automatically set up the operating cooling temperature set point by 2°F or more and set back the operating heating temperature set point by 2°F or more; or ii. For multiple zone systems with Direct Digital Controls (DDC) to the zone level, setup the operating cooling temperature setpoint by 0.5°F or more and setback the operating heating temperature setpoint by 0.5°F or

    more.

  • § 160.5 High relevance — show source text

    Exception 1 to Section 160.5(b)4Civ: Automatic holiday shut-OFF features are not required in restaurants. Exception 2 to Section 160.5(b)4Civ: Areas where occupant sensing controls are installed. v. Occupant sensing controls. In offices 250 square feet or smaller, multipurpose rooms of less than 1,000 square feet, conference rooms, and restrooms, lighting shall be controlled with occupant sensing controls to automatically shut OFF all of the lighting in 20 minutes or less after the control zone is unoccupied. In areas required by Section 160.5(b)4B to have multi-level lighting controls, the occupant sensing controls shall function either as:

    a. A partial-ON occupant sensing control capable of automatically activating between 50 and 70 percent of controlled lighting power, or b. A vacancy sensing control, where all lighting responds to a manual ON input only. In areas not required by Section 160.5(b)4B to have multi-level lighting controls, the occupant sensing controls shall function either as:

    a. An automatic full-on occupant sensing control; or b. A partial-ON occupant sensing control, or c. A vacancy sensing control, where all lighting responds to a manual ON input only. In addition, controls shall be provided that allow the lights to be manually shut OFF in accordance with Section 160.5(b)4A regardless of the sensor status.

    228 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    vi. Full or partial OFF occupant sensing controls. For corridors, stairwells, and offices greater than 250 square feet, parking garages, parking areas, loading areas, and unloading areas, the installed lighting shall meet the following requirements: a. In corridors and stairwells, lighting shall be controlled by occupant sensing controls that separately reduce the lighting power in each space by at least 50 percent when the space is unoccupied. The occupant sensing controls shall be capable of automatically turning the lighting fully ON only in the separately controlled space, and shall be automatically activated from all designed paths of egress. b. In office spaces greater than 250 square feet, general lighting shall be controlled by occupancy sensing controls that meet all of the following: I. The occupancy sensing controls shall be configured so that lighting shall be controlled separately in control zones not greater than 600 square feet. All control zones in offices greater than 250 square feet shall be shown on the plans; and II. In 20 minutes or less after the control zone is unoccupied, the occupancy sensing controls shall uniformly reduce lighting power in the control zone to no more than 20 percent of full power. Control functions that switch control zone lights completely off when the zone is vacant meet this requirement; and III. In 20 minutes or less after the entire office space is unoccupied, the occupancy sensing controls shall automatically turn off lighting in all control zones in the space; and IV. In each control zone, lighting shall be allowed to automatically turn on to any level up to full power upon occupancy within the control zone. When occupancy is detected in any control zone in the space, the lighting in other control zones that are unoccupied shall operate at no more than 20 percent of full power. Exception to Section 160.5(b)4Cvib: Under-shelf or furniture-mounted task lighting controlled by a local switch and either a time switch or an occupancy sensor.

  • § 120.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception to Section 120.2(g): Zones designed to be conditioned continuously.

    (h) Automatic demand shed controls. See Section 110.12 for requirements for automatic demand shed controls.

    (i) Economizer fault detection and diagnostics (FDD). All newly installed air handlers with a mechanical cooling capacity over 33,000 Btu/hr and an installed air economizer shall include a stand-alone or integrated Fault Detection and Diagnostics (FDD) system in accordance with Subsections 120.2(i)1 through 120.2(i)8.

    1. The following temperature sensors shall be permanently installed to monitor system operation: outside air, supply air, and when required for differential economizer operation a return air sensor, and
    2. Temperature sensors shall have an accuracy of ±2°F over the range of 40°F to 80°F; and
    3. The controller shall have the capability of displaying the value of each sensor; and
    4. The controller shall provide system status by indicating the following conditions: A. Free cooling available; B. Economizer enabled;

    C. Compressor enabled; D. Heating enabled, if the system is capable of heating; and E. Mixed-air low limit cycle active. 5. The unit controller shall allow manual initiation of each operating mode so that the operation of cooling systems, economizers, fans and heating system can be independently tested and verified; and 6. Faults shall be reported in one of the following ways: A. Reported to an Energy Management Control System regularly monitored by facility personnel. B. Annunciated locally on one or more zone thermostats, or a device within five (5) feet of zone thermostat(s), clearly visible, at eye level, and meeting the following requirements: i. On the thermostat, device, or an adjacent written sign, display instructions to contact appropriate building personnel or an HVAC technician; and ii. In buildings with multiple tenants, the annunciation shall either be within property management offices or in a common space accessible by the property or building manager. C. Reported to a fault management application which automatically provides notification of the fault to a remote HVAC service provider. 7. The FDD system shall detect the following faults: A. Air temperature sensor failure/fault; B. Not economizing when it should; C. Economizing when it should not; D. Damper not modulating; and

    E. Excess outdoor air.

    1. The FDD System shall be certified to the Energy Commission as meeting requirements of Subsections 120.2(i)1 through 120.2(i)7 in accordance with Section 110.0 and JA6.3. Exception to Section 120.2(i)8: FDD algorithms based in direct digital control systems are not required to be certified to the Energy Commission.

    74 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

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

    (j) Direct Digital Controls (DDC) . Direct Digital Controls to the zone shall be provided as specified by Table 120.2-A. The provided DDC system shall meet the control logic requirements of Sections 120.1(d), 110.12(a) and 110.12(b), and be capable of the following:

    The provided DDC system shall meet the control logic requirements of Sections 110.12(a), 110.12(b) and 120.1(d) and be capable of the following:

    1. Monitoring zone and system demand for fan pressure, pump pressure, heating and cooling;
  • § 160.2 High relevance — show source text

    vi. CO 2 sensors shall be certified by the manufacturer to be accurate within plus or minus 75 ppm at a 600 and 1000 ppm concentration when measured at sea level and 25°C, factory calibrated, and certified by the manufacturer to require calibration no more frequently than once every 5 years. Upon detection of sensor failure, the system shall provide a signal that resets to supply the minimum quantity of outside air to levels required by Section 160.2(c)3 to the zone serviced by the sensor at all times that the zone is occupied. vii. The CO 2 sensor(s) reading for each zone shall be displayed continuously, and shall be recorded on systems with digital direct controls (DDC) to the zone level. E. Occupied-standby zone controls. i. Space-conditioning zones shall include occupied-standby controls complying with Table 160.2-B when all of the following are true: a. All rooms served by the zone are permitted to have their ventilation air reduced to zero while in occupiedstandby mode per Table 160.2-B; and b. Occupant sensors are required by Sections 160.5(b)4Cv and vi; and c. The zone and ventilation system are not served by pneumatic controls. ii. Occupied-standby zone controls shall comply with the following: a. Occupant sensors shall have suitable coverage and placement to detect occupants in the entire space. In 20 minutes or less after no occupancy is detected by any sensors covering the room, occupant sensing controls shall indicate a room is vacant.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 207

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    b. When occupant sensors controlling lighting are also used for ventilation, the ventilation signal shall be independent of daylighting, manual lighting overrides or manual control of lighting. c. When a single zone damper or a single zone system serves multiple spaces, there shall be an occupant sensor in each space and the zone shall not be considered vacant until all spaces in the zone are vacant. d. One hour prior to normal scheduled occupancy, the occupant sensor ventilation control shall allow preoccupancy purge as described in Section 160.2(c)5B. e. When the zone is scheduled to be occupied and occupant sensing controls in all spaces served by the zone indicate the spaces are unoccupied, the zone shall be placed in occupied-standby mode. f. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode, mechanical ventilation to the zone shall be shut off until the space becomes occupied or until ventilation is needed to provide space heating or conditioning. When mechanical ventilation is shut off to the zone, the ventilation system serving the zone shall reduce the system outside air rate by the amount of outside air required for the zone. g. Where the system providing space conditioning also provides ventilation to the zone, in 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode, space-conditioning zone setpoints shall be reset in accordance with Section 120.2(e)3. 6. Ducting for zonal heating and cooling units. Where a return plenum is used to distribute outdoor air to a zonal heating or cooling unit that then supplies the air to a space in order to meet the requirements of Section 160.2(c)3, the outdoor air shall be ducted to discharge either: A. Within 5 feet of the unit; or

    B. Within 15 feet of the unit, substantially toward the unit and at a velocity not less than 500 feet per minute. **7.

  • § 150.0 High relevance — show source text
    1. Defrost.

    A. If a heat pump is equipped with an installer adjustable defrost delay timer, the delay timer shall be set to greater than or equal to 90 minutes. B. The installer shall certify on the Certificate of Installation (CF2R) that the control configuration has been tested in accordance with the testing procedure in the CF2R.

    Exception 1 to Section 150.0(h)6. Dwelling units in Climate Zones 6 and 7.

    Exception 2 to Section 150.0(h)6. Dwelling units with a conditioned floor area of 500 square feet or less in Climate Zones 3, 5 through 10, and 15. 7. Supplementary heating control configuration. Heat pumps with supplementary heat, including, but not limited to, electric resistance heaters or gas furnace supplementary heating, shall comply with the following requirements: A. Lock out supplementary heating above an outdoor air temperature of not greater than 35°F. There are additional thermostat requirements in section 150.0(i)2. B. The installer shall certify on the Certificate of Installation that the control configuration has been tested in accordance with the testing procedure found in the CF2R. C. The controls may allow supplementary heater operation above 35°F only during defrost or when the user selects emergency operation.

    Exception 1 to Section 150.0(h)7: For buildings with a conditioned floor area less than 500 square feet, and for buildings of any size in Climate Zones 7 and 15, heat pumps with supplementary heaters shall have controls that meet Item i or ii:

    i. Option A:

    1. That prevent supplementary heater operation when the heating load can be met by the heat pump alone; and

    2. In which the cut-on temperature for heat pump heating is higher than the cut-on temperature for supplementary heating, and the cut-off temperature for heat pump heating is higher than the cut-off temperature for supplementary heating. ii. Option B: The controls may allow supplementary heater operation during defrost mode and transient periods, such as start-ups and following a room thermostat setpoint advance, if the controls prevent the unnecessary operation of supplementary heating.

    Exception 2 to Section 150.0(h)7: Room air-conditioner heat pumps. 8. Sizing of electric resistance supplementary heat. Where heat pumps have electric resistance heat, the capacity of electric resistance heat shall not exceed the heat pump nominal cooling capacity (at 95°F ambient conditions) multiplied by 2.7 kW per ton, rounded up to the closest kW. 9. Capacity variation with third-party thermostats. Variable or multi-speed systems shall comply with the following requirements: A. The space conditioning system and thermostat together shall be capable of responding to heating and cooling loads by modulating system compressor speed, and meet thermostat requirements in Section 150.0(i)2. B. The installer shall certify on the Certificate of Installation that the control configuration has been tested in accordance with the testing procedure found in the CF2R.

    (i) Thermostats.

    1. Setback thermostats. All heating or cooling systems, including heat pumps, not controlled by a central energy management control system (EMCS) shall have a setback thermostat, as specified in Section 110.2(c).
    2. Thermostats that are applied to heat pumps with supplemental heating. In addition to the requirements in Section 150.0(i)1, thermostats controlling heat pumps with electric resistance supplementary heat or gas furnace supplementary heat shall comply with the following requirements: A. The thermostat shall receive outdoor air temperature from an outdoor air temperature sensor or from an internet weather service.
  • § 140.3 High relevance — show source text

    2(b)2 Sealed Joints 140.3(a)9 Sealed Sheet Metal 160.3(b)5A-F Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) Seer Rating 150.1(b)3, 170.1(d)2 Secondary Loop 140.4(e)3, 170.2(c)4C Secondary Sidelit Daylit Zone 130.1(d), 140.6(a)3A, B, C, Table 140.6-A, 140.6(d), 160.5(b)4, 170.2(e) Senior Housing 160.5(a) Sensible And Latent Heat Gain 140.4(b)7, 170.2(c)2 Sensible Energy Recovery Ratio 140.4(q), 170.2(c)4O Sensible Recovery Efficiency 160.2(b)2B, 170.2(c)3 Sensor Accuracy 140.4(e), 170.2(c)4C Sensor Calibration Data 140.4(e)2, 170.2(c)4C Sensor High Limit Control 170.2(c)4C Separate Control 130.1(b), 130.1(c), 130.1(d), 160.5(b)4 Separately Controlled 160.5(B) Separation Of Electrical Circuits 130.5(b), 141.0(b), 160.6(b), 180.2(b) Server Room 130.1(c)2 Service Electrical Metering 130.5(a), 160.6, 141.0(b)2P, Q, R, 180.2(b) Service Panel 110.10(e), 150.0(n), 150.0(t), 150.0(u), 150.0(v), 160.9(a) Service Water Heating 110.3(c), Table 120.3-A, 120.3(a), 140.1(a), 140.1(b), 140.5(c), Table 141.0-E, 170.1(a), 170.1(b),

    180.2 Setback 110.2(c), 110.9(b), 120.2(e), 140.4(b)12, 150.0(i), 150.2(b), 160.3(a), 170.2(c), 180.2(b) Setback Functions 110.9(b)1 Setback Thermostat 110.2(c), 150.0(i), 150.2(b)1F, 180.2(b)2A Setpoint 110.12(b), 110.2(b), 110.2(c), 110.9(b)2, 120.1(d), 120.2(c), 120.2(e), 120.2(j), 120.2(k),120.6(b), 140.4(d), Table 140.4-G, 140.4(e)2, 140.4(k)6, 140.4(n), 160.2(b)5, 160.3.

  • § 120.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception to Section 120.2(e)1: Mechanical systems serving retail stores and associated malls, restaurants, grocery stores, churches and theaters equipped with 7-day programmable timers. 2. The control shall automatically restart and temporarily operate the system as required to maintain: A. A setback heating thermostat setpoint if the system provides mechanical heating; and Exception to Section 120.2(e)2A: Thermostat setback controls are not required in nonresidential buildings in areas where the Winter Median of Extremes outdoor air temperature determined in accordance with Section 140.4(b)3 is greater than 32°F. B. A setup cooling thermostat setpoint if the system provides mechanical cooling. Exception to Section 120.2(e)2B: Thermostat setup controls are not required in nonresidential buildings in areas where the Summer Design Dry Bulb 0.5 percent temperature determined in accordance with Section 140.4(b)3 is less than 100°F.

    1. Occupant sensing zone controls. Where the system providing space conditioning also provides the ventilation required by Section 120.1 and includes occupant sensor ventilation control as specified in Section 120.1(d)5, the occupant sensing zone controls shall additionally comply with the following: A. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode as described in Section 120.1(d). i. Automatically set up the operating cooling temperature set point by 2°F or more and set back the operating heating temperature set point by 2°F or more; or ii. For multiple zone systems with Direct Digital Controls (DDC) to the zone level, setup the operating cooling temperature setpoint by 0.5°F or more and setback the operating heating temperature setpoint by 0.5°F or

    more.

    B. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode, mechanical ventilation to the zone shall remain off whenever the space temperature is between the active heating and cooling setpoints. Exception 1 to Sections 120.2(e)1, 2, 3: Where it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency that the system serves an area that must operate continuously. Exception 2 to Sections 120.2(e)1, 2, 3: Systems with full load demands of 2 kW or less, if they have a readily accessible manual shut-off switch.

    Exception 3 to Sections 120.2(e) 1 and 2: Systems serving hotel/motel guest rooms, if they have a readily accessible manual shut-off switch.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 73

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

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

    1. Hotel and motel guest rooms shall have captive card key controls, occupancy sensing controls or automatic controls such that, no longer than 30 minutes after the guest room has been vacated, setpoints are set up at least +5°F (+3°C) in cooling mode and set down at least -5°F (-3°C) in heating mode.

    Exception to Section 120.2(e): Systems serving healthcare facilities.

    (f) Dampers for air supply and exhaust equipment. Outdoor air supply and exhaust equipment shall be installed with dampers that automatically close upon fan shutdown.

    Exception 1 to Section 120.2(f): Equipment that serves an area that must operate continuously.

    Exception 2 to Section 120.2(f): Gravity and other nonelectrical equipment that has readily accessible manual damper controls.

  • § 803.2.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    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).

    (2) Zone temperature and scheduling controls for constant volume, single-zone, unitary air conditioner and heat pump systems (Form MECH-3A).

    (3) Duct leakage on a subset of small single-zone systems depending on the ductwork location (Form MECH-4A).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • § 160.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    (a) Controls. Space-conditioning systems serving dwelling units and common use areas in multifamily buildings shall comply with applicable requirements of Section 160.3(a)1 or 160.3(a)2.

    1. Dwelling unit thermostats. All heating or cooling systems, including heat pumps, not controlled by a central energy management control system (EMCS) shall have a setback thermostat, as specified in Section 110.2(c).
    2. Common use area controls . Heating or cooling systems serving common use areas of multifamily buildings shall comply with application requirements of Sections 160.3(a)2A through 160.3(a)2J. Exception to Section 160.3(a)2: Heating or cooling systems exclusively serving dwelling units and common use areas providing shared provisions for living, eating, cooking or sanitation to dwelling units that would otherwise lack these provisions may instead comply with Section 160.3(a)1. A. Thermostatic controls for each zone. The supply of heating and cooling energy to each space-conditioning zone shall be controlled by an individual thermostatic control that responds to temperature within the zone and that meets the applicable requirements of Section 160.3(a)2B. An energy management control system (EMCS) may be installed to comply with the requirements of one or more thermostatic controls if it complies with all applicable requirements for each thermostatic control. Exception to Section 160.3(a)2A: An independent perimeter heating or cooling system may serve more than one zone without individual thermostatic controls if:

    i. All zones are also served by an interior cooling system; and ii. The perimeter system is designed solely to offset envelope heat losses or gains; and iii. The perimeter system has at least one thermostatic control for each building orientation of 50 feet or more; and iv. The perimeter system is controlled by at least one thermostat located in one of the zones served by the system. B. Criteria for zonal thermostatic controls. The individual thermostatic controls required by Section 160.3(a)2A shall meet the following requirements as applicable: i. Where used to control comfort heating, the thermostatic controls shall be capable of being set, locally or remotely, down to 55°F or lower. ii. Where used to control comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall be capable of being set, locally or remotely, up to 85°F or higher. iii. Where used to control both comfort heating and comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall meet Items i and ii and shall be capable of providing a temperature range or deadband of at least 5°F within which the supply of heating and cooling energy to the zone is shut off or reduced to a minimum. Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Biii: Systems with thermostats that require manual changeover between heating and cooling modes. iv. Thermostatic controls for all single zone air conditioners and heat pumps shall comply with the requirements of Sections 110.2(c) and 110.12(a) and, if equipped with DDC to the zone level, with the automatic demand shed controls of Section 110.12(b). Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Biv: Package terminal air conditioners, package terminal heat pumps, room air conditioners and room air-conditioner heat pumps. C. Heat pump controls. All heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall be installed with controls that comply with Section 110.2(b).

  • § 160.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Diib: Thermostat setup controls are not required in multifamily buildings in areas where the summer design dry-bulb 0.5-percent temperature determined in accordance with Section 170.2(c)1C is less than 100°F.

    iii. Occupant sensing zone controls . Where the system providing space conditioning also provides the ventilation required by Section 160.2(c)3 and includes occupant sensor ventilation control as specified in Section 160.2(c)5E, the occupant sensing zone controls shall additionally comply with the following: a. Occupant sensing zone controls shall comply with the occupant sensor ventilation control device requirements of Section 160.3(c)5E and allow preoccupancy ventilation requirements of Section 160.3(c)5B; and b. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode as described in Section 160.2(c)5: I. Automatically set up the operating cooling temperature setpoint by 2°F or more and set back the operating heating temperature setpoint by 2°F or more; or II. For multiple zone systems with direct digital controls (DDC) to the zone level, set up the operating cooling temperature setpoint by 0.5°F or more and set back the operating heating temperature setpoint by 0.5°F or more. c. In 5 minutes or less after entering occupied-standby mode, mechanical ventilation to the zone shall remain off whenever the space temperature is between the active heating and cooling setpoints. Exception to Section 160.3(a)2Diii : Zones that are only ventilated by a natural ventilation system in accordance with Section 120.1(c)2. Exception 1 to Sections 160.3(a)2Di, ii and iii: Where it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency that the system serves an area that must operate continuously. Exception 2 to Sections 160.3(a)2Di, ii and iii: Systems with full load demands of 2 kW or less, if they have a readily accessible manual shut-off switch. E. Dampers for air supply and exhaust equipment. Outdoor air supply and exhaust equipment shall be installed with dampers that automatically close upon fan shutdown. Exception 1 to Section 160.3(a)2E: Equipment that serves an area that must operate continuously. Exception 2 to Section 160.3(a)2E: Gravity and other nonelectrical equipment that has readily accessible manual damper controls. Exception 3 to Section 160.3(a)2E: At combustion air intakes and shaft vents. Exception 4 to Section 160.3(a)2E: Where prohibited by other provisions of law. F. Isolation area devices . Each space-conditioning system serving multiple zones with a combined conditioned floor area of more than 25,000 square feet shall be designed, installed and controlled to serve isolation areas. i. Each zone, or any combination of zones not exceeding 25,000 square feet, shall be a separate isolation area. ii. Each isolation area shall be provided with isolation devices, such as valves or dampers that allow the supply of heating or cooling to be reduced or shut off independently of other isolation areas. iii. Each isolation area shall be controlled by a device meeting the requirements of Section 160.3(a)2Di. Exception to Section 160.3(a)2F: Zones designed to be conditioned continuously. G. **Automatic demand shed controls.

  • § 120.2 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. All zones are also served by an interior cooling system; and
    2. The perimeter system is designed solely to offset envelope heat losses or gains; and
    3. The perimeter system has at least one thermostatic control for each building orientation of 50 feet or more; and
    4. The perimeter system is controlled by at least one thermostat located in one of the zones served by the system.

    (b) Criteria for zonal thermostatic controls. The individual thermostatic controls required by Section 120.2(a) shall meet the following requirements as applicable:

    1. Where used to control comfort heating, the thermostatic controls shall be capable of being set, locally or remotely, down to 55°F or lower.

    2. Where used to control comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall be capable of being set, locally or remotely, up to 85°F or higher.

    3. Where used to control both comfort heating and comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall meet Items 1 and 2 and shall be capable of providing a temperature range or dead band of at least 5°F within which the supply of heating and cooling energy to the zone is shut off or reduced to a minimum.

    72 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

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

    Exception 1 to Section 120.2(b)3: Systems with thermostats that require manual changeover between heating and cooling modes. Exception 2 to Section 120.2(b)3: Systems serving healthcare facilities. 4. Thermostatic controls for all single zone, air conditioners and heat pumps shall comply with the requirements of Sections 110.2(c) and 110.12(a) and, if equipped with DDC to the Zone level, with the Automatic Demand Shed Controls of Section 110.12(b). Exception 1 to Section 120.2(b)4: Systems serving non-covered process loads that must have constant temperatures to prevent degradation of materials, a process, plants or animals. Exception 2 to Section 120.2(b)4: Package terminal air conditioners, package terminal heat pumps, room air conditioners and room air conditioner heat pumps. Exception 3 to Section 120.2(b)4: Systems serving healthcare facilities.

    (c) Hotel/motel guest room thermostats.

    1. Hotel/motel guest room thermostats shall: A. Have numeric temperature setpoints in °F and °C; and B. Have setpoint stops, which are accessible only to authorized personnel, such that guest room occupants cannot adjust the setpoint more than ±5°F (±3°C); and C. Meet the requirements of Section 110.2(c).

    Exception to Section 120.2(c)1: Thermostats that are integrated into the room heating and cooling equipment.

    (d) Heat pump controls. All heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall be installed with controls that comply with Section 110.2(b).

    (e) Shut-off and reset controls for space-conditioning systems. Each space-conditioning system shall be installed with controls that comply with the following:

    1. The control shall be capable of automatically shutting off the system during periods of nonuse and shall have: A. An automatic time switch control device complying with Section 110.9 with an accessible manual override that allows operation of the system for up to 4 hours; or

    B. An occupancy sensor; or C. A 4-hour timer that can be manually operated.

  • § 110.10 Medium relevance — show source text

    The potential solar zone area is the total area of any low-sloped roofs where the annual solar access is 70 percent or greater and any steep-sloped roofs oriented between 90 degrees and 300 degrees of true north where the annual solar access is 70 percent or greater. Solar access is the ratio of solar insolation including shade to the solar insolation without shade. Shading from obstructions located on the roof or any other part of the building shall not be included in the determination of annual solar access. Exception 5 to Section 110.10(b)1A: Single-family residences having a solar zone total area no less than 150 square feet and where all thermostats are demand responsive controls and comply with Section 110.12(a), and are capable of receiving and responding to Demand Response Signals prior to granting of an occupancy permit by the enforcing

    agency. Exception 6 to Section 110.10(b)1A: Single-family residences meeting the following conditions: A. All thermostats are demand responsive controls that comply with Section 110.12(a), and are capable of receiving and responding to Demand Response Signals prior to granting of an occupancy permit by the enforcing agency. B. Comply with one of the following measures: i. Install a dishwasher that meets or exceeds the ENERGY STAR [®] Program requirements with a refrigerator that meets or exceeds the ENERGY STAR Program requirements, a whole house fan driven by an electronically commutated motor, or an SAE J1772 Level 2 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE or EV charger) with a minimum of 40 amperes; or ii. Install a home automation system capable of, at a minimum, controlling the appliances and lighting of the dwelling and responding to demand response signals; or iii. Install alternative plumbing piping to permit the discharge from the clothes washer and all showers and bathtubs to be used for an irrigation system in compliance with the California Plumbing Code and any applicable local ordinances; or iv. Install a rainwater catchment system designed to comply with the California Plumbing Code and any applicable local ordinances, and that uses rainwater flowing from at least 65 percent of the available roof area.

    B. Multifamily buildings, hotel/motel occupancies and nonresidential buildings. The solar zone shall be located on the roof or overhang of the building or on the roof or overhang of another structure located within 250 feet of the building or on covered parking installed with the building project, and shall have a total area no less than 15 percent of the total roof area of the building excluding any skylight area. The solar zone requirement is applicable to the entire building, including mixed occupancy.

    Exception 1 to Section 110.10(b)1B: High-rise multifamily buildings, hotel/motel occupancies, and nonresidential buildings with a permanently installed solar electric system having a nameplate DC power rating, measured under Standard Test Conditions, of no less than one watt per square foot of roof area.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 61

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

    ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS

    Exception 2 to Section 110.10(b)1B: High-rise multifamily buildings, hotel/motel occupancies with a permanently installed domestic solar water-heating system complying with Section 150.1(c)8Biii.

  • § 110.10 Medium relevance — show source text

    (b) Solar zone.

    1. Minimum solar zone area. The solar zone shall have a minimum total area as described below. The solar zone shall comply with access, pathway, smoke ventilation and spacing requirements as specified in Title 24, Part 9 or other Parts of Title 24 or in any requirements adopted by a local jurisdiction. The solar zone total area shall be comprised of areas that have no dimension less than five feet and are no less than 80 square feet each for buildings with roof areas less than or equal to 10,000 square feet or no less than 160 square feet each for buildings with roof areas greater than 10,000 square feet. A. Single-family residences. The solar zone shall be located on the roof or overhang of the building and have a total area no less than 250 square feet. Exception 1 to Section 110.10(b)1A: Single-family residences with a permanently installed domestic solar waterheating system meeting the installation criteria specified in the Reference Residential Appendix RA4 and with a minimum solar savings fraction of 0.50. Exception 2 to Section 110.10(b)1A: Single-family residences with three habitable stories or more and with a total floor area less than or equal to 2000 square feet and having a solar zone total area no less than 150 square feet. Exception 3 to Section 110.10(b)1A: Single-family residences located in the Wildland-Urban Interface Fire Area as defined in Title 24, Part 2 and having a whole house fan and having a solar zone total area no less than 150 square feet.

    Exception 4 to Section 110.10(b)1A: Buildings with a designated solar zone area that is no less than 50 percent of the potential solar zone area. The potential solar zone area is the total area of any low-sloped roofs where the annual solar access is 70 percent or greater and any steep-sloped roofs oriented between 90 degrees and 300 degrees of true north where the annual solar access is 70 percent or greater. Solar access is the ratio of solar insolation including shade to the solar insolation without shade. Shading from obstructions located on the roof or any other part of the building shall not be included in the determination of annual solar access. Exception 5 to Section 110.10(b)1A: Single-family residences having a solar zone total area no less than 150 square feet and where all thermostats are demand responsive controls and comply with Section 110.12(a), and are capable of receiving and responding to Demand Response Signals prior to granting of an occupancy permit by the enforcing

    agency. Exception 6 to Section 110.10(b)1A: Single-family residences meeting the following conditions: A. All thermostats are demand responsive controls that comply with Section 110.12(a), and are capable of receiving and responding to Demand Response Signals prior to granting of an occupancy permit by the enforcing agency. B. Comply with one of the following measures: i. Install a dishwasher that meets or exceeds the ENERGY STAR [®] Program requirements with a refrigerator that meets or exceeds the ENERGY STAR Program requirements, a whole house fan driven by an electronically commutated motor, or an SAE J1772 Level 2 Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE or EV charger) with a minimum of 40 amperes; or ii. Install a home automation system capable of, at a minimum, controlling the appliances and lighting of the dwelling and responding to demand response signals; or iii.

  • § 2.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    B. Certified to the Energy Commission as being capable of responding to a demand response signal from a certified OpenADR 2.0b or a certified Baseline Profile OpenADR 3.0 Virtual End Node by automatically implementing the control functions requested by the Virtual End Node for the equipment it controls. 2. All demand responsive controls shall be capable of communicating with the VEN using a wired or wireless bidirectional communication protocol.

    1. Reserved.

    2. When the demand response signal is disabled or unavailable, all demand responsive controls shall continue to perform all other control functions provided by the control.

    3. Demand responsive control thermostats shall comply with Reference Joint Appendix 5 (JA5), Technical Specifications for Occupant Controlled Smart Thermostats. (b) Demand Responsive Zonal HVAC Controls. Nonresidential HVAC systems with DDC to the Zone level shall be programmed to allow centralized demand shed for noncritical zones as follows:

    4. The controls shall have a capability to remotely increase the operating cooling temperature set points by 4 degrees or more in all noncritical zones on signal from a centralized contact or software point within an Energy Management Control System (EMCS).

    5. The controls shall have a capability to remotely decrease the operating heating temperature set points by 4 degrees or more in all noncritical zones on signal from a centralized contact or software point within an EMCS.

    6. The controls shall have capabilities to remotely reset the temperatures in all noncritical zones to original operating levels on signal from a centralized contact or software point within an EMCS.

    7. The controls shall be programmed to provide an adjustable rate of change for the temperature increase, decrease, and reset.

    8. The controls shall have the following features: A. Disabled. Disabled by authorized facility operators; and B. Manual control. Manual control by authorized facility operators to allow adjustment of heating and cooling set points globally from a single point in the EMCS; and C. Automatic Demand Shed Control. Upon receipt of a demand response signal, the space-conditioning systems shall conduct a centralized demand shed, as specified in Sections 110.12(b)1 and 110.12(b)2, for noncritical zones during the demand response period.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 63

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

    ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS

    (c) Demand Responsive Lighting Controls. Buildings with nonresidential lighting systems having a total installed lighting power of 4,000 watts or greater that are subject to the requirements of Section 130.1(b) or 160.5(b)4B shall install controls that are capable of automatically reducing lighting power in response to a demand response signal.

    1. For compliance testing, the lighting controls shall demonstrate a 15-percent or greater reduction in lighting power as described in NA7.6.3. The controls may provide additional demand responsive functions or abilities.
    2. For buildings where demand response controls are required, demand responsive controls shall control the general lighting in the spaces required to meet Section 130.1(b) or 160.5(b)4B.
    3. General lighting shall be reduced in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 130.1(b) or 160.5(b)4B. Exception to Section 110.12(c): Spaces where a health or life safety statute, ordinance, or regulation does not permit the general lighting to be reduced are not required to install demand responsive controls and do not count toward the 4,000-watt threshold.
  • § 150.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception 2 to Section 150.0(h)7: Room air-conditioner heat pumps. 8. Sizing of electric resistance supplementary heat. Where heat pumps have electric resistance heat, the capacity of electric resistance heat shall not exceed the heat pump nominal cooling capacity (at 95°F ambient conditions) multiplied by 2.7 kW per ton, rounded up to the closest kW. 9. Capacity variation with third-party thermostats. Variable or multi-speed systems shall comply with the following requirements: A. The space conditioning system and thermostat together shall be capable of responding to heating and cooling loads by modulating system compressor speed, and meet thermostat requirements in Section 150.0(i)2. B. The installer shall certify on the Certificate of Installation that the control configuration has been tested in accordance with the testing procedure found in the CF2R.

    (i) Thermostats.

    1. Setback thermostats. All heating or cooling systems, including heat pumps, not controlled by a central energy management control system (EMCS) shall have a setback thermostat, as specified in Section 110.2(c).
    2. Thermostats that are applied to heat pumps with supplemental heating. In addition to the requirements in Section 150.0(i)1, thermostats controlling heat pumps with electric resistance supplementary heat or gas furnace supplementary heat shall comply with the following requirements: A. The thermostat shall receive outdoor air temperature from an outdoor air temperature sensor or from an internet weather service.

    B. The thermostat shall display the outdoor air temperature. C. As described in Section 150.0(h)7, the thermostat and heat pump shall lock out supplementary heat when the outdoor air temperature is above 35°F. D. The thermostat shall have an indicator to notify when supplementary heat or emergency heat is in use. E. During defrost or when the user selects emergency heating, supplementary heat operation is permitted above 35°F. F. The installer shall certify on the Certificate of Installation that the system has been tested in accordance with the testing procedure found in the CF2R.

    Exception to Section 150.0(i)2A, B, and C: Where supplementary heat is locked out above 35°F by another control device in accordance with Section 150.0(h)7.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 161

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

    SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS— MANDATORY FEATURES AND DEVICES

    Exception 1 to Section 150.0(i)2: Systems compliant with Exception 1 to Section 150.0(h)7.

    Exception 2 to Section 150.0(i)2: Room air-conditioner heat pumps.

    (j) Insulation for piping and tanks.

    1. Water piping, solar water-heating system piping, and space-conditioning system line insulation thickness and conductivity. Piping shall be insulated as follows: A. All domestic hot water piping shall be insulated as specified in Section 609.12 of the California Plumbing Code . B. Piping for space-conditioning systems, solar water-heating system collector loop, and distribution piping for steam and hydronic heating system shall meet the requirements of Section 120.3(a). Exception 1 to Section 150.0(j)1: Factory-installed piping within space-conditioning equipment certified under Section 110.1 or 110.2.

    Exception 2 to Section 150.0(j)1: Piping that penetrates framing members shall not be required to have pipe insulation for the distance of the framing penetration.

  • § 1-20 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: An independent perimeter heating or cooling system may serve more than one zone without individual thermostatic controls if:

    1. All zones are also served by an interior cooling system;
    2. The perimeter system is designed solely to offset envelope heat losses or gains;

    APPENDIX A6.1-20 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

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

    1. The perimeter system has at least one thermostatic control for each building orientation of 50 feet or more; and
    2. The perimeter system is controlled by at least one thermostat located in one of the zones served by the system.

    A6.207.5.2 Criteria for zonal thermostatic controls. The individual thermostatic controls required by Section A6.207.5.1 shall meet the following requirements as applicable:

    1. Where used to control comfort heating, the thermostatic controls shall be capable of being set, locally or remotely, down to 55°F or lower.

    2. Where used to control comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall be capable of being set, locally or remotely, up to 85°F or higher.

    3. Where used to control both comfort heating and comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall meet Items 1 and 2 and shall be capable of providing a temperature range or dead band of at least 5°F within which the supply of heating and cooling energy to the zone is shut off or reduced to a minimum. Exception: Systems with thermostats that require manual changeover between heating and cooling modes.

    4. Thermostatic controls for all unitary single zone, air conditioners, heat pumps and furnaces, shall comply with the setback thermostat requirements of Section A6.207.1.3 or, if equipped with DDC to the Zone level, with the Automatic Demand Shed Controls of Section A6.207.5.5.

    Exception: Systems serving zones that must have constant temperatures to prevent degradation of materials, a process, plants or animals.

    A6.207.5.3 Heat pump controls. All heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall be installed with controls that comply with Section A6.207.1.2.

    A6.207.5.4 Dampers for air supply and exhaust equipment. Outdoor air supply and exhaust equipment shall be installed with dampers that automatically close upon fan shutdown.

    Exceptions:

    1. Where it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency that the equipment serves an area that must operate continuously.

    2. Gravity and other nonelectrical equipment that has readily accessible manual damper controls.

    3. At combustion air intakes and shaft vents.

    4. Where prohibited by other provisions of law.

    A6.207.5.5 Automatic demand shed controls. HVAC systems with DDC to the Zone level shall be programmed to allow centralized demand shed for noncritical zones as follows:

  • § 207.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. Where used to control both comfort heating and comfort cooling, the thermostatic controls shall meet Items 1 and 2 and shall be capable of providing a temperature range or dead band of at least 5°F within which the supply of heating and cooling energy to the zone is shut off or reduced to a minimum. Exception: Systems with thermostats that require manual changeover between heating and cooling modes.
    2. Thermostatic controls for all unitary single zone, air conditioners, heat pumps and furnaces, shall comply with the setback thermostat requirements of Section A6.207.1.3 or, if equipped with DDC to the Zone level, with the Automatic Demand Shed Controls of Section A6.207.5.5.

    Exception: Systems serving zones that must have constant temperatures to prevent degradation of materials, a process, plants or animals.

    A6.207.5.3 Heat pump controls. All heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall be installed with controls that comply with Section A6.207.1.2.

    A6.207.5.4 Dampers for air supply and exhaust equipment. Outdoor air supply and exhaust equipment shall be installed with dampers that automatically close upon fan shutdown.

    Exceptions:

    1. Where it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency that the equipment serves an area that must operate continuously.

    2. Gravity and other nonelectrical equipment that has readily accessible manual damper controls.

    3. At combustion air intakes and shaft vents.

    4. Where prohibited by other provisions of law.

    A6.207.5.5 Automatic demand shed controls. HVAC systems with DDC to the Zone level shall be programmed to allow centralized demand shed for noncritical zones as follows:

    1. The controls shall have a capability to remotely setup the operating cooling temperature set points by 4 degrees or more in all noncritical zones on signal from a centralized contact or software point within an Energy Management Control System (EMCS).
    2. The controls shall remotely set down the operating heating temperature set points by 4 degrees or more in all noncritical zones on signal from a centralized contact or software point within an EMCS.
    3. The controls shall have capabilities to remotely reset the temperatures in all noncritical zones to original operating levels on signal from a centralized contact or software point within an EMCS.
    4. The controls shall be programmed to provide an adjustable rate of change for the temperature setup and reset.

    A6.207.6 Pipe insulation. The piping for all space- conditioning and service water-heating systems with fluid temperatures listed in Table A6.207.6-A shall have the amount of insulation specified in Subsection A6.207.6.1 or A6.207.6.2. Insulation conductivity shall be determined in accordance with ASTM C335 at the mean temperature listed in Table A6.207.6-A and shall be rounded to the nearest 1 / 100 Btu-inch per hour per square foot per °F.

    Insulation shall be protected from damage, including that due to sunlight, moisture, equipment maintenance and wind, including but not limited to, the following:

    Insulation exposed to weather shall be suitable for outdoor service, e.g., protected by aluminum, sheet metal, painted canvas or plastic cover. Cellular foam insulation shall be protected as above or painted with a coating that is water retardant and provides shielding from solar radiation that can cause degradation of the material.

    Insulation covering chilled water piping and refrigerant suction piping located outside the conditioned space shall include a vapor retardant located outside the insulation (unless the insulation is inherently vapor retardant), all penetrations and joints of which shall be sealed.

  • § 110.10 Medium relevance — show source text

    Install alternative plumbing piping to permit the discharge from the clothes washer and all showers and bathtubs to be used for an irrigation system in compliance with the California Plumbing Code and any applicable local ordinances; or iv. Install a rainwater catchment system designed to comply with the California Plumbing Code and any applicable local ordinances, and that uses rainwater flowing from at least 65 percent of the available roof area.

    B. Multifamily buildings, hotel/motel occupancies and nonresidential buildings. The solar zone shall be located on the roof or overhang of the building or on the roof or overhang of another structure located within 250 feet of the building or on covered parking installed with the building project, and shall have a total area no less than 15 percent of the total roof area of the building excluding any skylight area. The solar zone requirement is applicable to the entire building, including mixed occupancy.

    Exception 1 to Section 110.10(b)1B: High-rise multifamily buildings, hotel/motel occupancies, and nonresidential buildings with a permanently installed solar electric system having a nameplate DC power rating, measured under Standard Test Conditions, of no less than one watt per square foot of roof area.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 61

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

    ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS

    Exception 2 to Section 110.10(b)1B: High-rise multifamily buildings, hotel/motel occupancies with a permanently installed domestic solar water-heating system complying with Section 150.1(c)8Biii.

    Exception 3 to Section 110.10(b)1B: Buildings with a designated solar zone area that is no less than 50 percent of the potential solar zone area. The potential solar zone area is the total area of any low-sloped roofs where the annual solar access is 70 percent or greater and any steep-sloped roofs oriented between 90 degrees and 300 degrees of true north where the annual solar access is 70 percent or greater. Solar access is the ratio of solar insolation including shade to the solar insolation without shade. Shading from obstructions located on the roof or any other part of the building shall not be included in the determination of annual solar access.

    Exception 4 to Section 110.10(b)1B: Low-rise and high-rise multifamily buildings with all thermostats in each dwelling unit are demand response controls that comply with Section 110.12(a), and are capable of receiving and responding to Demand Response Signals prior to granting of an occupancy permit by the enforcing agency. In addition, either A or B below:

    A. In each dwelling unit, comply with one of the following measures: i. Install a dishwasher that meets or exceeds the ENERGY STAR Program requirements with either a refrigerator that meets or exceeds the ENERGY STAR Program requirements or a whole house fan driven by an electronically commutated motor; or ii. Install a home automation system that complies with Section 110.12(a) and is capable of, at a minimum, controlling the appliances and lighting of the dwelling and responding to demand response signals; or iii. Install alternative plumbing piping to permit the discharge from the clothes washer and all showers and bathtubs to be used for an irrigation system in compliance with the California Plumbing Code and any applicable local ordinances; or iv.

  • § 110.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    ranges:

     - Minimum Leaving Evaporator Fluid Temperature: 36°F
    
    - Maximum Leaving Condenser Fluid Temperature: 115°F
    
      - LIFT ≥ 20°F and ≤ 80°F
    

    Centrifugal chillers designed to operate outside of these ranges are not covered by this exception.

    Exception 2 to Section 110.2(a): Positive displacement (air-cooled and water-cooled) chillers with a leaving evaporator fluid temperature higher than 32°F shall show compliance with Table 110.2-D when tested or certified with water at standard rating conditions, per the referenced test procedure.

    Exception 3 to Section 110.2(a): Equipment primarily serving refrigerated warehouses or commercial refrigeration.

    (b) Controls for heat pumps with supplementary heaters.

    Control requirements for heat pumps with supplementary heaters in single-family residential buildings are specified in Section 150.0(h)7 and Section 150.0(i)2. Heat pumps with supplementary heaters in nonresidential and multifamily buildings shall have controls:

    1. That prevent supplementary heater operation when the heating load can be met by the heat pump alone; and
    2. In which the cut-on temperature for heat pump heating is higher than the cut-on temperature for supplementary heating, and the cut-off temperature for heat pump heating is higher than the cut-off temperature for supplementary heating. Exception 1 to Section 110.2(b): The controls may allow supplementary heater operation during: A. Defrost; and

    B. Transient periods such as start-ups and following room thermostat setpoint advance, if the controls provide preferential rate control, intelligent recovery, staging, ramping or another control mechanism designed to preclude the unnecessary operation of supplementary heating.

    Exception 2 to Section 110.2(b): Room air-conditioner heat pumps.

    40 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS

    (c) Thermostats. All heating or cooling systems not controlled by a central energy management control system (EMCS) shall have a setback thermostat.

    1. Setback capabilities. All thermostats shall have a clock mechanism that allows the building occupant to program the temperature setpoints for at least four periods within 24 hours. Thermostats for heat pumps shall meet the requirements of Section 110.2(b).

    Exception to Section 110.2(c): Gravity gas wall heaters, gravity floor heaters, gravity room heaters, noncentral electric heaters, fireplaces or decorative gas appliances, wood stoves, room air conditioners and room air-conditioner heat pumps.

    (d) Gas-fired and oil-fired furnace standby loss controls. Gas-fired and oil-fired forced-air furnaces with input ratings ≥ 225,000 Btu/hr shall also have an intermittent ignition or interrupted device (IID), and have either power venting or a flue damper. A vent damper is an acceptable alternative to a flue damper for furnaces where combustion air is drawn from the conditioned space. All furnaces with input ratings ≥ 225,000 Btu/hr, including electric furnaces, that are not located within the conditioned space shall have jacket losses not exceeding 0.75 percent of the input rating.

    (e) Open and closed-circuit cooling towers. All open and closed-circuit cooling tower installations shall comply with the following:

    1. Be equipped with conductivity controls that maximize cycles of concentration based on local water quality conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly must an “occupancy sensor” do for ventilation?

It must detect occupants with suitable coverage, indicate vacancy within the code time limits, and provide an independent ventilation signal (not tied to daylighting or manual lighting overrides). When used for occupant‑sensor ventilation control it must allow pre‑occupancy purge and meet the occupied‑standby timing and shut‑off rules in § 160.2/§ 160.3.

Are smart thermostats automatically compliant with DR rules?

No. For DR compliance a thermostat must be a certified OpenADR VEN or be Energy Commission‑certified to respond to those signals and must meet JA5 requirements; internet connectivity alone does not guarantee compliance. § 110.12(a) requires VEN/OpenADR or certification and cross‑references JA5.

How fast must HVAC setpoints change when occupant sensing triggers occupied‑standby?

Setbacks must occur in 5 minutes or less after entering occupied‑standby. The amount is ≥2°F for typical systems or ≥0.5°F for multiple‑zone systems with DDC to the zone. § 160.3(a)2D iii.

Do lighting occupancy sensors count for HVAC shut‑off too?

They can if wired to provide a separate ventilation/HVAC control signal that meets the independence and coverage requirements. The ventilation signal must be independent of daylighting or lighting overrides. § 160.2(c)5E.

Where can I find the technical features thermostats must have for DR?

The code requires compliance with JA5 (Reference Joint Appendix 5). The JA5 technical specification contains the detailed feature and test requirements; the code extracts here reference JA5 but do not contain the full JA5 text. § 110.12(a)5.

More in California Energy Code

Ask about the California Energy Code

Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Energy Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.

Start Free Trial

Related in the California Energy Code