Title 24 · California Energy Code

Outdoor lighting controls: astronomical time-switches, motion sensors and demand response interactions

If you install permanent outdoor lights in California, the Energy Code requires automatic daylight shutoff (photocell or astronomical time‑switch), scheduled dim/offs and motion sensors where specified; sites with total lighting ≥4,000 W must also provide demand‑response capability that can automatically reduce lighting (with documented testing).

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

All permanently installed outdoor lighting must be automatically shut OFF when daylight is available (controlled by a photocontrol or astronomical time‑switch) per § A6.209.3.3.1. Where multi‑luminaire site lighting is provided (façades, parking lots, canopies, sales areas, etc.), an automatic time‑switch / scheduling control and/or motion sensing controls are required to reduce or turn off power during unoccupied periods; the Green‑Code details for outdoor astronomical time‑switches are in § A6.209.3.3. Demand response requirements apply to buildings with larger lighting loads: nonresidential lighting systems with total installed lighting power ≥ 4,000 watts must be capable of automatically reducing lighting power in response to a utility demand‑response signal per § 110.12(c).

Most important: permanently installed outdoor luminaires must turn off automatically when daylight is available (photocontrol or astronomical time‑switch).

Requirements in detail

1) Astronomical time‑switches & time/scheduling controls (outdoor)

  • Core requirement: outdoor lighting must be controlled by a photocontrol or an outdoor astronomical time‑switch that “automatically turns off the outdoor lighting when daylight is available” (§ A6.209.3.3.1).
  • Outdoor astronomical time‑switch minimum capabilities (bolded thresholds on first mention): sunrise/sunset prediction ±15 minutes, timekeeping accuracy ≤5 minutes per year, automatic daylight savings adjustment, display of date/time/sunrise/sunset and switching times, and per‑channel offset capability of 0–99 minutes before/after sunrise or sunset. These are specified in § A6.209.1.9 (outdoor astronomical controls).
  • Automatic scheduling must allow at least two nighttime periods with independent lighting levels and be capable of reducing lighting power by 50–90% (and separately turning lighting OFF) during scheduled unoccupied periods (this automatic scheduling functionality appears in the outdoor control requirements tied to Part 6 outdoor controls).

2) Motion sensing controls (outdoor)

  • Where required: motion sensing controls must be installed for outdoor luminaires that provide general hardscape, parking lots, outdoor canopies, sales lots and similar, when the bottom of the luminaire is mounted 24 feet above grade or lower. The requirement is set out in the Part 6 outdoor lighting control rules linked to A6.209.3.3.
  • Performance thresholds (bolded): motion sensors must be capable of reducing luminaire power by 50–90% (and separately turning the luminaire OFF) during unoccupied periods; they must return lighting to ON when occupied; they must reduce lighting to the dim/OFF state no later than 15 minutes after area vacated.
  • Zone sizing: no more than 1,500 watts of lighting power shall be controlled by a single sensor or as a single zone.

3) Demand response (DR) interactions and eligibility for Lighting Power Adjustment Factors (PAFs)

  • DR threshold and capability: § 110.12(c) requires buildings with nonresidential lighting systems whose total installed lighting power is 4,000 watts or greater to install controls capable of automatically reducing lighting power in response to a demand response signal. The controls must demonstrate at least a 15% reduction in lighting power for compliance testing.
  • Electronic Message Centers (EMCs): EMCs > 15 kW must be capable of reducing lighting power by ≥30% upon receipt of a demand response signal per § 110.12(d) (see A6 sign controls cross‑reference).
  • PAF interactions (where designers seek a Lighting Power Adjustment Factor under Part 17): to qualify for the PAF for a demand‑responsive control in Table 170.2‑L, the general lighting wattage receiving the PAF must not be within the scope of § 110.12(c) (i.e., cannot be lighting that the code already mandates DR controls for). Additionally, the controlled lighting must be capable of being automatically reduced in response to a demand response signal and must comply with the cited illuminance/uniformity requirements (referenced to § 160.5(b)4B). See the Table 170.2‑L qualifying rules in § 170.2(e).

Decision‑relevant values table

Decision dimension Code requirement / value Code Reference
Daylight shut‑off method required Photocontrol or outdoor astronomical time‑switch § A6.209.3.3.1
Astronomical controller accuracy Sunrise/sunset ±15 min; clock ≤5 min/yr; offsets 0–99 min per channel § A6.209.1.9
Automatic scheduling dimming Reduce power 50–90% during unoccupied scheduled periods; ≥2 nighttime periods Part 6 outdoor control rules (automatic scheduling)
Motion sensor mounting limit Bottom of luminaire ≤ 24 ft above grade Part 6 outdoor control rules (motion sensing)
Motion sensor dimming/timeout Reduce 50–90%; return to dim/OFF ≤ 15 min after vacated; zone ≤ 1,500 W per sensor Part 6 outdoor control rules (motion sensing)
Demand response threshold Building lighting total installed power ≥ 4,000 W → DR controls required § 110.12(c)
DR compliance test reduction Demonstrate ≥15% reduction for compliance testing § 110.12(c)1
PAF demand‑responsive eligibility Lighting receiving the PAF must NOT be in scope of § 110.12(c); must meet automatic DR and uniformity rules § 170.2(e) / Table 170.2‑L

Exceptions & special cases

  • Lighting required by a health or life‑safety statute/ordinance/regulation can be exempted from required OFF/reduction actions (multiple places note these exceptions — see § A6.209.3.1 and Part 6 outdoor control exceptions).
  • Tunnels and large covered areas that must be lit during daylight hours are excepted from the daylight‑availability shut‑off requirements. § A6.209.3.3.1 specifically lists that exception.
  • Small low‑wattage luminaires (for example, luminaires ≤ 40 W) are exempt from motion sensing control requirements in some Part 6 provisions. Check the applicable Part 6 exceptions in § 160.5(c)2C and related lists.
  • If you are claiming a Lighting Power Adjustment Factor (PAF) for demand response under Table 170.2‑L, note that lighting already required to have DR controls under § 110.12(c) cannot be used to claim that particular PAF.

Common mistakes

  • Treating photocell and astronomical time‑switch as interchangeable without meeting the device accuracy/offset/display requirements. Outdoor astronomical controls must meet the specific accuracy, offset and display requirements in § A6.209.1.9.
  • Oversizing motion‑sensor zones: designers sometimes put one sensor on a run that controls > 1,500 W — that violates the zone limit in the outdoor motion‑sensor rules.
  • Forgetting DR thresholds: assuming a site is exempt from § 110.12(c) when total installed lighting power is ≥ 4,000 W. If the threshold is met, DR functionality and acceptance testing are required.
  • Claiming a PAF for demand response while the same luminaires are required by code to have DR controls under § 110.12(c) — Table 170.2‑L and § 170.2(e) prohibit that overlap.
  • Not performing or documenting the acceptance testing: outdoor lighting control systems must be tested per the referenced NA7 acceptance procedures before occupancy (see the acceptance requirements).

Worked example — parking lot + demand response

Scenario: small shopping center with a parking lot served by 20 pole luminaires, each rated 400 W. Total connected lighting power = 20 × 400 W = 8,000 W.

  1. DR threshold: total installed lighting power 8,000 W4,000 W, so § 110.12(c) applies and the building must install DR‑capable lighting controls able to automatically reduce lighting power in response to a utility signal and demonstrate ≥15% reduction for compliance testing.

  2. Motion sensing zoning: each sensor/zone may control no more than 1,500 W. Each luminaire is 400 W, so one sensor can safely control up to floor(1,500 / 400) = 3 luminaires (3 × 400 = 1,200 W). For 20 luminaires you need at least ceil(20 / 3) = 7 sensors (practically, lay out zones for coverage and redundancy). The sensors must be capable of dimming 50–90% or turning OFF, and must reduce to the dim/OFF state within 15 minutes of vacating the area.

  3. Astronomical/time scheduling: install either a photocontrol or an outdoor astronomical time‑switch (recommended for predictable dusk/dawn scheduling). If you use an astronomical device, it must meet the ±15 minute sunrise/sunset prediction and ≤5 min/yr clock tolerance and allow per‑channel offsets (e.g., to keep canopy lights ON longer).

  4. Interaction with PAF: if the design team wishes to claim the demand‑responsive PAF in Table 170.2‑L, those same luminaires may not be within the scope of § 110.12(c). Since this parking lot clearly triggers § 110.12(c), it is ineligible for that particular PAF. Instead, design the DR strategy to meet § 110.12(c) testing (≥15% reduction) and document acceptance testing.

Related provisions

  • § A6.209.3.3 (Outdoor lighting controls: photocontrols / astronomical time‑switches and site‑level control expectations) — Green‑Code Appendix A6.
  • § A6.209.1.9 (Outdoor astronomical time‑switch control minimum capabilities) — Green‑Code Appendix A6.
  • § 110.12(c) (Demand responsive lighting controls; ≥4,000 W threshold; 15% test reduction) — California Energy Code Part 1/6.
  • § 160.5(c) / 160.5(a) (Part 6 outdoor lighting control functional requirements, scheduling and motion sensor details) — Part 6 outdoor lighting provisions.
  • § 170.2(e) / Table 170.2‑L (Lighting Power Adjustment Factors and qualification conditions for demand‑responsive PAFs) — Part 17 performance/prescriptive interactions.
  • Acceptance/testing references: Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.8 and NA7.6 (outdoor control acceptance and DR testing).

Code references

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

  • § 160.5 High relevance — show source text

    Exception 6 to Section 160.5(c)1: Luminaires that illuminate the public right of way, including publicly maintained or utility-maintained roadways, sidewalks and bikeways. Exception 7 to Section 160.5(c)1: Outdoor lighting attached to a multifamily building and separately controlled from the inside of a dwelling unit. Exception 8 to Section 160.5(c)1: Luminaires that qualify as exceptions in Sections 5.106.8 of Part 11 of Title 24 and in Section 170.2(e)6A. 2. Controls for outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting shall be independently controlled from other electrical loads, and the controls for outdoor lighting shall meet the following functional requirements: Exception 1 to Section 160.5(c)2: Outdoor lighting not permitted by a health or life safety statute, ordinance or regulation to be turned OFF or reduced.

    Exception 2 to Section 160.5(c)2: Lighting in tunnels required to be illuminated 24 hours per day and 365 days per year. A. Daylight availability. All installed outdoor lighting shall be controlled by a photo control, astronomical time-switch control or other control capable of automatically shutting OFF the outdoor lighting when daylight is available. B. Automatic scheduling controls. i. Automatic scheduling controls shall be installed for all outdoor lighting. Automatic scheduling controls may be installed in combination with motion sensing controls or other outdoor lighting controls. ii. Automatic scheduling controls shall be capable of reducing the outdoor lighting power by 50 to 90 percent, and separately capable of turning the lighting OFF, during scheduled unoccupied periods. iii. Automatic scheduling controls shall allow scheduling of a minimum of two nighttime periods with independent lighting levels, and may include an override function that turns lighting ON during its scheduled dim or OFF state for no more than 2 hours when an override is initiated.

    C. Motion sensing controls . i. Motion sensing controls shall be installed for outdoor luminaires providing lighting for general hardscape, parking lots, and outdoor canopies, where the bottom of the luminaire is mounted 24 feet above grade or lower. ii. Motion sensing controls shall be capable of reducing the outdoor lighting power of each controlled luminaire by 50 to 90 percent, and separately capable of turning the luminaire OFF, during unoccupied periods. iii. Motion sensing controls shall be capable of reducing the lighting to its dim or OFF state no longer than 15 minutes after the area has been vacated, and of returning the lighting to its ON state when the area becomes occupied. iv. No more than 1,500 watts of lighting power shall be controlled by a single sensor or as a single zone. Exception 1 to Section 160.5(c)2C: Luminaires with a maximum rated wattage of 40 watts each are not required to have motion sensing controls. Exception 2 to Section 160.5(c)2C: Applications listed as exceptions to Section 170.2(e)2A and luminaires providing lighting for building façade, ornamental hardscape or outdoor dining are not required to have motion sensing controls. Exception 3 to Section 160.5(c)2C: Lighting subject to a health or life safety statute, ordinance or regulation may have a minimum time-out period longer than 15 minutes or a minimum dimming level above 50 percent when necessary to comply with the applicable law.

  • § 110.9 High relevance — show source text

    Provide an automatic holiday shutoff feature that turns off all connected loads for at least 24 hours and then resumes normally scheduled operation.

    B. Astronomical time-switch controls shall:

    i. Have sunrise and sunset prediction accuracy within plus-or-minus 15 minutes and timekeeping accuracy within 5 minutes per year; ii. Be capable of displaying date, current time, sunrise time, sunset time, and switching times for each step during programming; iii. Be capable of automatically adjusting for daylight savings time; and iv. Have the ability to independently offset the on and off for each channel by at least 90 minutes before and after sunrise or sunset.

    C. Multilevel time-switch controls shall include at least two separately programmable steps per zone. D. Time-switch controls installed outdoors shall have setback functions that allow the lighting on each controlled channel to be switched or dimmed to lower levels. The set back functions shall be capable of being programmed by the user for at least one specific time of day. 2. Daylight responsive controls. Controls that provide daylight responsive controls functionality shall: A. Automatically return to its most recent time delay settings within 60 minutes of the last received input when left in calibration mode;

    B. Have a set point control that easily distinguishes settings to within 10 percent of full-scale adjustment; C. Provide a linear response within 5 percent accuracy over the range of illuminance measured by the light sensor; and D. Be capable of being calibrated in a manner that the person initiating the calibration is remote from the sensor during calibration to avoid influencing calibration accuracy, for example by having a light sensor that is physically separated from where the calibration adjustments are made. 3. Dimmers. Controls that provide dimming functionality shall: A. Be capable of reducing lighting power consumption by a minimum of 65 percent when at its lowest setting; B. Provide reduced flicker operation, meaning that directly controlled light sources shall be provided electrical power such that the light output has an amplitude modulation of less than 30 percent for frequencies less than 200 Hz without causing premature lamp failure; C. Provide an off setting that produces a zero lumen output; and D. For wall box dimmers and associated switches designed for use in three way circuits, be capable of turning lights off, and on to the level set by the dimmer if the lights are off. 4. Occupant sensing controls. Occupant sensing controls include occupant sensors, motion sensors, and vacancy sensors, including those with a partial-ON or partial-OFF function. Occupant sensing controls shall: A. Be capable of automatically turning the controlled lights in the area either off or down no more than 20 minutes after the area has been vacated;

    B. For manual-on controls, have a grace period of no less than 15 seconds and no more than 30 seconds to turn on lighting automatically after the sensor has timed out; and C. Provide a visible status signal that indicates that the device is operating properly, or that it has failed or malfunctioned. The visible status signal may have an override that turns off the signal.

    Exception to Section 110.9(b)4: Occupant sensing control systems may consist of a combination of single or multilevel occupant, motion or vacancy sensor controls, provided that components installed to comply with manual-on requirements shall not be capable of conversion by occupants from manual-on to automatic-on functionality.

    1. Reserved.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 59

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

  • § 160.5 High relevance — show source text

    iii. Automatic scheduling controls shall allow scheduling of a minimum of two nighttime periods with independent lighting levels, and may include an override function that turns lighting ON during its scheduled dim or OFF state for no more than 2 hours when an override is initiated.

    C. Motion sensing controls . i. Motion sensing controls shall be installed for outdoor luminaires providing lighting for general hardscape, parking lots, and outdoor canopies, where the bottom of the luminaire is mounted 24 feet above grade or lower. ii. Motion sensing controls shall be capable of reducing the outdoor lighting power of each controlled luminaire by 50 to 90 percent, and separately capable of turning the luminaire OFF, during unoccupied periods. iii. Motion sensing controls shall be capable of reducing the lighting to its dim or OFF state no longer than 15 minutes after the area has been vacated, and of returning the lighting to its ON state when the area becomes occupied. iv. No more than 1,500 watts of lighting power shall be controlled by a single sensor or as a single zone. Exception 1 to Section 160.5(c)2C: Luminaires with a maximum rated wattage of 40 watts each are not required to have motion sensing controls. Exception 2 to Section 160.5(c)2C: Applications listed as exceptions to Section 170.2(e)2A and luminaires providing lighting for building façade, ornamental hardscape or outdoor dining are not required to have motion sensing controls. Exception 3 to Section 160.5(c)2C: Lighting subject to a health or life safety statute, ordinance or regulation may have a minimum time-out period longer than 15 minutes or a minimum dimming level above 50 percent when necessary to comply with the applicable law.

    (d) Sign lighting controls. All sign lighting shall meet the requirements below as applicable:

    1. Indoor signs. All indoor sign lighting other than exit sign lighting shall be controlled with an automatic time-switch control or astronomical time-switch control.

    2. Outdoor signs. Outdoor sign lighting shall meet the following requirements as applicable: A. All outdoor sign lighting shall be controlled with a photocontrol in addition to an automatic time-switch control, or an astronomical time-switch control.

    Exception to Section 160.5(d)2A: Outdoor signs in tunnels, and signs in large permanently covered outdoor areas that are intended to be continuously lit, 24 hours per day and 365 days per year. B. All outdoor sign lighting that is ON both day and night shall be controlled with a dimmer that provides the ability to automatically reduce sign lighting power by a minimum of 65 percent during nighttime hours. Signs that are illuminated at night and for more than 1 hour during daylight hours shall be considered ON both day and night.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 231

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    Exception to Section 160.5(d)2B: Outdoor signs in tunnels and large covered areas that are intended to be illuminated both day and night. 3. Demand responsive electronic message center (EMC) control. See Section 110.12 for requirements for demand responsive EMC controls.

  • § 160.5 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 225

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    F. Dimming controls. Lighting in habitable spaces, including living rooms, dining rooms, kitchens and bedrooms, shall have readily accessible wall-mounted dimming controls that allow the lighting to be manually adjusted up and down. Forward phase cut dimmers controlling LED light sources shall comply with NEMA SSL 7A. Exception 1 to Section 160.5(a)2F: Ceiling fans may provide control of integrated lighting via a remote control. Lighting integral to kitchen range hoods and bathroom exhaust fans. Exception 2 to Section 160.5(a)2F: Luminaires controlled by an occupancy or vacancy sensor providing automaticoff functionality. Exception 3 to Section 160.5(a)2F: Navigation lighting rated less than 5 watts, such as night lights, step lights and path lights. Lighting controlled by automatic-off controls and located internal to drawers, cabinetry with opaque fronts, or cabinetry with doors. G. Independent controls. Lighting integrated with the exhaust fans shall be controlled independently from the fans. The following shall be controlled separately from ceiling-installed lighting such that one can be turned on without turning on the other: i. Undercabinet lighting ii. Undershelf lighting iii. Interior lighting of display cabinets

    iv. Switched outlets

    1. Outdoor lighting controls. In addition to meeting the requirements of Section 160.5(a)1, luminaires providing residential outdoor lighting shall meet the following requirements, as applicable: A. Outdoor lighting attached to a building and separately controlled from the inside of a dwelling unit shall meet the following requirements: i. Controlled by a manual ON and OFF control switch that permits the automatic actions of Item ii or iii below; and ii. Controlled by one of the following controls: a. A photocell and a motion sensor; or b. A photocell and an automatic time switch control; or iii. Controlled by an astronomical time clock control. B. Controls that override to ON shall not be allowed unless the override automatically returns the automatic control to its normal operation within six hours. C. An energy management control system (EMCS) or other controls that provide the specified lighting control functionality and complies with all requirements applicable to the specified controls may be used to meet these requirements.

    (b) Common use services lighting. Lighting systems and equipment in multifamily common services use areas shall comply with the applicable provisions of Sections 160.5(b)1 through 160.5(b)4.

    Exception to Section 160.5(b): Lighting systems in 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 160.5(a).

    NOTE: The requirements of Section 160.5(b) apply to newly constructed buildings. Sections 180.1 and 180.2 specify which requirements of Sections 160.5(b)1 through 160.5(e) also apply to additions and alterations to existing buildings.

    1. Luminaire classification and power. Luminaires shall be classified and their wattage determined as follows: A. Luminaire wattage shall be labeled as follows: i. The maximum rated wattage or relamping rated wattage of a luminaire shall be listed on a permanent, preprinted, factory-installed label, as specified by UL 1574, 1598, 2108 or 8750, as applicable; and ii.
  • § 209.3 High relevance — show source text

    A6.209.3 Outdoor lighting controls and equipment.

    A6.209.3.1 Outdoor lighting. All permanently installed outdoor luminaires employing lamps rated over 100 watts shall either have a lamp efficacy of at least 60 lumens per watt or be controlled by a motion sensor.

    Exceptions:

    1. Lighting required by a health or life safety statute ordinance or regulation, including but not limited to, emergency lighting.

    2. Lighting used in or around swimming pools, water features or other locations subject to Article 680 of Title 24, Part 3, California Electrical Code.

    3. Searchlights.

    4. Theme lighting for use in theme parks.

    5. Lighting for film or live performances.

    6. Temporary outdoor lighting.

    7. Light emitting diode, light emitting capacitors, neon and cold cathode lighting.

    8. Sign lighting.

    A6.209.3.2 Luminaire cutoff requirements. All outdoor luminaires that use lamps rated greater than 175 watts in hardscape areas including parking lots, building entrances, sales and nonsales canopies and all outdoor sales areas shall be designated Cutoff for light distribution. To comply with this requirement, the luminaire shall be rated Cutoff in a photometric test report that includes any tilt or other nonlevel mounting condition of the installed luminaire. Cutoff is a luminaire light distribution classification where the candela per 1000 lamp lumens does not numerically exceed 25 at or above a vertical angle of 90 degrees above nadir and 100 at or above a vertical angle of 80 degrees above nadir. Nadir is in the direction of straight down, as would be indicated by a plumb line. 90 degrees above nadir is horizontal. 80 degrees above nadir is 10 degrees below horizontal.

    Exceptions:

    1. Signs.

    2. Lighting for building facades, public monuments, statues and vertical surfaces of bridges.

    3. Lighting required by a health or life safety statute ordinance or regulation, including but not limited to, emergency lighting.

    4. Temporary outdoor lighting.

    5. Lighting used in or around swimming pools, water features or other locations subject to Article 680 of the California Electrical Code.

    6. Replacement of existing pole mounted luminaires in hardscape areas meeting all of the following conditions:

    7. Where the existing luminaire does not meet the luminaire cutoff requirements in A6.209.3.2; and

    8. Spacing between existing poles is greater than 6 times the mounting height of the existing luminaires; and

    9. Where no additional poles are being added to the site; and

    10. Where new wiring to the luminaires is not being installed; and

    11. Provided that the connected lighting power wattage is not increased.

    A6.209.3.3 Controls for outdoor lighting.

    A6.209.3.3.1 All permanently installed outdoor lighting shall be controlled by a photocontrol or astronomical time switch that automatically turns off the outdoor lighting when daylight is available.

    Exception: Lighting in tunnels and large covered areas that require illumination during daylight hours.

    A6.209.3.3.2 For lighting of building facades, parking lots, sales and nonsales canopies, all outdoor sales areas and student pick-up/drop-off zones where two or more luminaires are used, an automatic time switch shall be installed that is capable of (1) turning off the lighting when not needed and (2) reducing the lighting power (in watts) by at least 50 percent but not exceed

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-27

  • § 130.1 High relevance — show source text

    C. The daylight responsive controls shall meet the following: i. For spaces where the installation of multilevel lighting controls is required under Section 130.1(b), allow the multilevel lighting controls to adjust the light level with continuous dimming; ii. For each space, ensure the combined illuminance from the controlled lighting and daylight is not less than the illuminance from controlled lighting when no daylight is available; iii. For areas other than parking garages, ensure that, when the daylight illuminance is greater than 150 percent of the illuminance provided by the controlled lighting when no daylight is available, the controlled lighting power in that daylight zone shall be reduced by a minimum of 90 percent; and iv. For parking garages, ensure that when daylight illuminance levels measured at the farthest edge of the secondary sidelit zone away from the glazing or opening are greater than 150 percent of the illuminance provided by the controlled lighting when no daylight is available, the controlled lighting power in the combined primary and secondary sidelit daylit zones shall be reduced by 100 percent; and D. Photosensors shall be located so that they are not readily accessible to unauthorized personnel; and E. The location where calibration adjustments are made to the daylight responsive controls shall be readily accessible to authorized personnel but may be inside a locked case or under a cover which requires a tool for access; and F. The automatic daylighting control shall permit the multilevel lighting control to adjust the level of lighting.

    Exception 1 to Section 130.1(d): Areas under skylights where it is documented that existing adjacent structures or natural objects block direct sunlight for more than 1,500 daytime hours per year between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

    Exception 2 to Section 130.1(d): Areas adjacent to vertical glazing below an overhang, where the overhang covers the entire width of the vertical glazing, no vertical glazing is above the overhang, and the ratio of the overhang projection to the overhang rise is greater than 1.5 for south, east and west orientations or greater than 1 for north orientations.

    Exception 3 to Section 130.1(d): Where daylight responsive controls are not required for the primary sidelit daylit zones, and where the total wattage of general lighting luminaires in the secondary sidelit daylit zones is less than 85 watts, daylight responsive controls are not required for the secondary sidelit zone.

    Exception 4 to Section 130.1(d): Reserved.

    Exception 5 to Section 130.1(d): Rooms that have a total glazing area of less than 24 square feet, or parking garage areas with a combined total of less than 36 square feet of glazing or opening.

    Exception 6 to Section 130.1(d): For parking garages, luminaires located in the daylight adaptation zone.

    Exception 7 to Section 130.1(d): Luminaires in sidelit daylit zones in retail merchandise sales and wholesale showroom areas.

    (e) Demand responsive controls. See Section 110.12 for requirements for demand responsive lighting controls.

    (f) Occupancy sensing controls interactions with space-conditioning systems. For space-conditioning system zones serving only spaces that are required to have occupant sensing controls as specified in Sections 130.1(c)5 and 6, and where Table 120.1-A allows the ventilation air to be reduced to zero when the space is in occupied-standby mode, the space-conditioning system shall be permitted to be controlled by occupancy sensing controls as specified in Section 120.2(e)3.

  • § 160.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    (c) Outdoor lighting and control equipment. Multifamily buildings shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 160.5(c)1 through 160.5(c)2.

    1. Luminaire shielding requirements. All outdoor luminaires of 6,200 initial luminaire lumens or greater shall comply with backlight, uplight, and glare (BUG) (in accordance with ANSI/IES TM-15-20, Annex A) requirements in accordance with Title 24, Part 11, Section 5.106.8. Exception 1 to Section 160.5(c)1: Signs. Exception 2 to Section 160.5(c)1: Lighting for building facades, public monuments, public art, statues and vertical surfaces of bridges. Exception 3 to Section 160.5(c)1: Lighting not permitted by a health or life safety statute, ordinance or regulation to be a cutoff luminaire.

    Exception 4 to Section 160.5(c)1: Temporary outdoor lighting .

    230 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    Exception 5 to Section 160.5(c)1: Replacement of existing pole mounted luminaires in hardscape areas meeting all of the following conditions: A. Where the existing luminaire does not meet the luminaire BUG requirements in Section 160.5(c)1; and B. Spacing between existing poles is greater than six times the mounting height of the existing luminaires; and C. Where no additional poles are being added to the site; and D. Where new wiring to the luminaires is not being installed; and E. Provided that the connected lighting power wattage is not increased. Exception 6 to Section 160.5(c)1: Luminaires that illuminate the public right of way, including publicly maintained or utility-maintained roadways, sidewalks and bikeways. Exception 7 to Section 160.5(c)1: Outdoor lighting attached to a multifamily building and separately controlled from the inside of a dwelling unit. Exception 8 to Section 160.5(c)1: Luminaires that qualify as exceptions in Sections 5.106.8 of Part 11 of Title 24 and in Section 170.2(e)6A. 2. Controls for outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting shall be independently controlled from other electrical loads, and the controls for outdoor lighting shall meet the following functional requirements: Exception 1 to Section 160.5(c)2: Outdoor lighting not permitted by a health or life safety statute, ordinance or regulation to be turned OFF or reduced.

    Exception 2 to Section 160.5(c)2: Lighting in tunnels required to be illuminated 24 hours per day and 365 days per year. A. Daylight availability. All installed outdoor lighting shall be controlled by a photo control, astronomical time-switch control or other control capable of automatically shutting OFF the outdoor lighting when daylight is available. B. Automatic scheduling controls. i. Automatic scheduling controls shall be installed for all outdoor lighting. Automatic scheduling controls may be installed in combination with motion sensing controls or other outdoor lighting controls. ii. Automatic scheduling controls shall be capable of reducing the outdoor lighting power by 50 to 90 percent, and separately capable of turning the lighting OFF, during scheduled unoccupied periods. iii.

  • § 209.1.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    If the device is placed in calibration mode, automatically restore its time delay settings to normal operation programmed time delays after no more than 60 minutes; and 5. Have a setpoint control that easily distinguishes settings to within 10 percent of full scale adjustment; and 6. Have a light sensor that has a linear response with 5 percent accuracy over the range of illuminance measured by the light sensor; and 7. Have a light sensor that is physically separated from where calibration adjustments are made or is capable of being calibrated in a manner that the person initiating calibration is remote from the sensor during calibration to avoid influencing calibration accuracy. A6.209.1.7 Interior photosensors. Interior photosensor shall not have a mechanical slide cover or other device that permits easy unauthorized disabling of the control and shall not be incorporated into a wall-mounted occupant-sensor. A6.209.1.8 Multilevel astronomical time-switch controls. Multilevel astronomical time-switch controls used to control lighting in daylit zones shall:

    1. Contain at least two separately programmable steps per zone that reduces illuminance in a relatively uniform manner as specified in Section A6.209.2.2; and
    2. Have a separate offset control for each step of 1 to 240 minutes; and
    3. Have sunrise and sunset prediction accuracy within +/- 15 minutes and timekeeping accuracy within 5 minutes per year; and

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-23

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

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

    1. Store astronomical time parameters (used to develop longitude, latitude, time zone) for at least 7 days if power is interrupted; and
    2. Display date/time, sunrise and sunset and switching times for each step; and
    3. Have an automatic daylight savings time adjustment; and
    4. Have automatic time switch capabilities specified in Section A6.209.1.3.

    A6.209.1.9 Outdoor astronomical time-switch controls. Outdoor astronomical time-switch controls used to control outdoor lighting as specified in Section A6.209.3.3 shall:

    1. Contain at least two separately programmable steps per function area; and

    2. Have the ability to independently offset the on and off times for each channel by 0 to 99 minutes before or after sunrise or sunset; and

    3. Have sunrise and sunset prediction accuracy within +/- 15 minutes and timekeeping accuracy within 5 minutes per year; and

    4. Store astronomical time parameters (used to develop longitude, latitude, time zone) for at least 7 days if power is interrupted; and

    5. Display date/time, sunrise and sunset; and

    6. Have an automatic daylight savings time adjustment; and

    7. Have automatic time switch capabilities specified in Section A6.209.1.3.

  • § 209.5 Medium relevance — show source text

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

    Exception 3 to Section A6.209.5: Traffic Signs. Traffic signs shall meet the requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations.

    A6.209.6 Sign lighting controls. All signs with permanently connected lighting shall meet the requirements below:

    1. Automatic time switch control. All signs with permanently connected lighting shall be controlled with an automatic time switch control that complies with the applicable requirements of Section A6.209.1.
    2. Photocontrol or outdoor astronomical time switch control. All outdoor signs shall be controlled with a photocontrol or outdoor astronomical time switch control.

    Exception: Outdoor signs in tunnels and large covered areas that require illumination during daylight hours. 3. Dimming. All outdoor signs shall be controlled with a dimmer that provides the ability to automatically reduce sign power by a minimum of 65 percent during nighttime hours. Exceptions:

    1. Signs that are illuminated for less than 1 hour per day during daylight hours.
    2. Outdoor signs in tunnels and large covered areas that require illumination during daylight hours.
    3. Metal halide, high pressure sodium, cold cathode and neon lamps used to illuminated signs or parts of signs.
    4. Demand Responsive Electronic Message Center Control. An Electronic Message Center (EMC) having a new connected lighting power load greater than 15 kW shall have a control installed that is capable of reducing the lighting power by a minimum of 30 percent when receiving a demand response signal that is sent out by the local utility.
    5. EMCs required by a health or life safety statue ordinance or regulation, including but not limited to exit signs and traffic signs.

    A6.209.7 Nonresidential lighting control acceptance. Before an occupancy permit is granted for a new building or space or a new lighting system serving a building, space or site is operated for normal use, all indoor and outdoor lighting controls serving the building, space or site shall be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance. A Certificate of Acceptance shall be submitted to the enforcement agency under Section 10-103(a) of Title 24, Part 1, that:

    1. Certifies that plans, specifications, installation certificates and operating and maintenance information meet the requirements of Title 24, Part 6.

    2. Certifies that automatic daylighting controls meet the applicable requirements of Sections A6.209.1 and A6.209.2.3.2.4.

    3. Certifies that when a multilevel astronomical time switch is used to meet Exception 3 to Section A6.209.2.3.2.2 all general lighting in the skylit area is controlled by a multilevel astronomical time switch that meets the applicable requirements of Section A6.209.1 and that has an override switch that meets the requirements of Section A209.2.4.2.

    4. Certifies that lighting controls meet the requirements of Sections A6.209.2.1 through A6.209.2.3 and Title 24, Part 6, Sections 131(e) and (f) and 146(a)2, as applicable.

    5. Certifies that automatic lighting controls meet the applicable requirements of Sections A6.209.1 and A6.209.2.4.

    6. Certifies that occupant-sensors meet the applicable requirements of Sections A6.209.1 and A6.209.2.4.

    7. Certified that outdoor lighting controls meet the applicable requirements of Sections A6.209.1 and A6.209.3.

  • § 130.2 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. Motion sensing controls. A. Motion sensing controls shall be installed for outdoor luminaires providing lighting for general hardscape, parking lots, outdoor sales lots, vehicle service station hardscape, service station canopies, sales canopies, and non-sales canopies, where the bottom of the luminaire is mounted 24 feet above grade or lower. B. Motion sensing controls shall be capable of reducing the outdoor lighting power of each controlled luminaire by 50 to 90 percent, and separately capable of turning the luminaire OFF, during unoccupied periods. C. Motion sensing controls shall be capable of reducing the lighting to its dim or OFF state no longer than 15 minutes after the area has been vacated, and of returning the lighting to its ON state when the area becomes occupied. D. No more than 1,500 watts of lighting power shall be controlled by a single sensor or as a single zone.

    Exception 1 to Section 130.2(c)3: Luminaires with a maximum rated wattage of 40 watts each are not required to have motion sensing controls.

    Exception 2 to Section 130.2(c)3: Applications listed as Exceptions to Section 140.7(a) and luminaires providing lighting for a building façade, ornamental hardscape or outdoor dining are not required to have motion sensing controls.

    Exception 3 to Section 130.2(c)3: Lighting subject to a health or life safety statute, ordinance, or regulation may have a minimum time-out period longer than 15 minutes or a minimum dimming level above 50 percent when necessary to comply with the applicable law.

    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.

    100 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR LIGHTING SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT, AND ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

    SECTION 130.3—SIGN LIGHTING CONTROLS

    Nonresidential buildings other than healthcare facilities, and hotel/motel buildings shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 130.3(a)1 through 130.3(a)3.

    (a) Controls for sign lighting. All sign lighting shall meet the requirements below as applicable:

    1. Indoor signs. All indoor sign lighting other than exit sign lighting shall be controlled with an automatic time-switch control or astronomical time-switch control.

    2. Outdoor signs. Outdoor sign lighting shall meet the following requirements as applicable: A. All outdoor sign lighting shall be controlled with a photocontrol in addition to an automatic time-switch control, or an astronomical time-switch control.

    Exception to Section 130.3(a)2A: Outdoor signs in tunnels, and signs in large permanently covered outdoor areas that are intended to be continuously lit, 24 hours per day and 365 days per year. B. All outdoor sign lighting that is ON both day and night shall be controlled with a dimmer that provides the ability to automatically reduce sign lighting power by a minimum of 65 percent during nighttime hours. Signs that are illuminated at night and for more than 1 hour during daylight hours shall be considered ON both day and night.

  • § 207.3.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    **
    A6.207.3.3 Installation.||


    |


    || |A6.207.4 Natural gas central furnaces, cooking equipment and pool and spa heaters.
    Pilot lights prohibited.||||| |A6.207.5 Controls for space-conditioning systems.
    A6.207.5.1 Thermostatic controls for each zone.
    A6.207.5.2 Criteria for zonal thermostatic controls.
    A6.207.5.3 Heat pump controls.
    A6.207.5.4 Dampers for air supply and exhaust equipment.
    A6.207.5.5 Automatic demand shed controls.||




    |




    || |A6.207.6 Pipe insulation.||||| |SECTION A6.209 Lighting||||| |A6.209.1 Lighting control devices, ballasts and luminaires.
    A6.209.1.1 All devices: Instructions and calibration.
    A6.209.1.2 Indicator lights.
    A6.209.1.3 Automatic time switch control devices.
    A6.209.1.4 Occupant sensors, motion sensors and vacancy sensors.
    A6.209.1.5 Multilevel occupant sensor.
    A6.209.1.6 Automatic daylighting control devices.
    A6.209.1.7 Interior Photosensors.
    A6.209.1.8 Multilevel astronomical time-switch controls.
    A6.209.1.9 Outdoor astronomical time-switch controls.
    A6.209.1.10 Dimmers.||









    |









    || |A6.209.2 Indoor lighting controls.
    A6.209.2.1 Area controls.
    A6.209.2.2 Multilevel lighting controls.
    A6.209.2.3 Daylight areas.
    A6.209.2.3.1 Daylight area.
    A6.209.2.3.1.2 Daylight area, primary sidelit.
    **A6.209.2.3.1.3 Daylight area, secondary sidelit.

  • § 209.5.2.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    A6.209.5.2.4 Fluorescent lamps with a minimum color rendering index (CRI) of 80; or

    A6.209.5.2.5 Light emitting diodes (LEDs) with a power supply having an efficiency of 80 percent or greater; or

    Exception: Single voltage external power supplies that are designed to convert 120 volt AC input into lower voltage DC or AC output and have a nameplate output power less than or equal to 250 watts, shall comply with the applicable requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, Title 20.

    A6.209.5.2.6 Compact fluorescent lamps that do not contain medium screw base sockets (E24/E26); or

    A6.209.5.2.7 Electronic ballasts with a fundamental output frequency not less than 20 kHz;

    Exception 1 to Section A6.209.5: Unfiltered incandescent lamps that are not part of an electronic message center (EMC), an internally illuminated sign or an externally illuminated sign.

    Exception 2 to Section A6.209.5: Exit signs. Exit signs shall meet the requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-31

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

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

    Exception 3 to Section A6.209.5: Traffic Signs. Traffic signs shall meet the requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations.

    A6.209.6 Sign lighting controls. All signs with permanently connected lighting shall meet the requirements below:

    1. Automatic time switch control. All signs with permanently connected lighting shall be controlled with an automatic time switch control that complies with the applicable requirements of Section A6.209.1.
    2. Photocontrol or outdoor astronomical time switch control. All outdoor signs shall be controlled with a photocontrol or outdoor astronomical time switch control.

    Exception: Outdoor signs in tunnels and large covered areas that require illumination during daylight hours. 3. Dimming. All outdoor signs shall be controlled with a dimmer that provides the ability to automatically reduce sign power by a minimum of 65 percent during nighttime hours. Exceptions:

    1. Signs that are illuminated for less than 1 hour per day during daylight hours.
    2. Outdoor signs in tunnels and large covered areas that require illumination during daylight hours.
    3. Metal halide, high pressure sodium, cold cathode and neon lamps used to illuminated signs or parts of signs.
    4. Demand Responsive Electronic Message Center Control. An Electronic Message Center (EMC) having a new connected lighting power load greater than 15 kW shall have a control installed that is capable of reducing the lighting power by a minimum of 30 percent when receiving a demand response signal that is sent out by the local utility.
    5. EMCs required by a health or life safety statue ordinance or regulation, including but not limited to exit signs and traffic signs.
  • § 130.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    The setting of the limit is verified by the acceptance test required by Section 130.4(a)7; and iv. The construction documents specify which lighting systems shall have their maximum light output or maximum power draw set to no greater than 85 percent of full light output or full power draw. K. To qualify for the PAF for a demand responsive control in Table 140.6-A, the general lighting wattage receiving the PAF shall not be within the scope of Section 110.12(c) and a demand responsive control shall meet all of the following requirements: i. The controlled lighting shall be capable of being automatically reduced in response to a demand response signal; and ii. General lighting shall be reduced in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 130.1(b). L. To qualify for the PAFs for clerestory fenestration, horizontal slats, or light shelves in Table 140.6-A, the daylighting design shall meet the requirements in Section 140.3(d). The PAFs shall only apply to lighting in a primary or secondary sidelit daylit zone where continuous dimming daylighting controls meeting the requirements of Section 130.1(d) are installed.

    TABLE 140.6-A—LIGHTING POWER ADJUSTMENT FACTORS (PAF) Col2 Col3
    TYPE OF CONTROL TYPE OF AREA FACTOR
    1. Daylight continuous dimming plus
    OFF control
    Luminaires in skylit daylit zone or primary sidelit daylit zone or secondary sidelit daylit zone 0.10
    2. Occupant sensing controls in offices
    larger than 250 square feet
    One sensor controlling an area that is no larger than 125 square feet 0.30
    3. Occupant sensing controls in offices
    larger than 250 square feet
    One sensor controlling an area that is 126-250 square feet 0.20
    4. Institutional tuning Luminaires in non-daylit areas:
    Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this tuning PAF.
    0.10
    4. Institutional tuning Luminaires in daylit areas:
    Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this tuning PAF.
    0.05
    5. Demand responsive control General lighting luminaires not in the scope of Section 110.12(c).
    If DR controls are required of Section 110.12(c), this PAF is not available for any lighting in the
    project. Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this demand
    responsive control PAF.
    0.05
    6. Clerestory fenestration Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to the clerestory.
    Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.
    0.05
    7. Horizontal slats Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to vertical fenestration with interior or exterior horizontal slats.
    Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.
    0.05
    8. Light shelves Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to clerestory fenestration with interior or exterior light
    shelves. This PAF may be combined with the PAF for clerestory fenestration.
    Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.
    0.10
    a.
  • § 170.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    xi. To qualify for the PAF for a demand responsive control in Table 170.2-L, the general lighting wattage receiving the PAF shall not be within the scope of Section 110.12(c) and a demand responsive control shall meet all of the following requirements: a. The controlled lighting shall be capable of being automatically reduced in response to a demand response signal; and b. General lighting shall be reduced in a manner consistent with the illuminance uniformity requirements of Section 160.5(b)4B. xii. To qualify for the PAFs for clerestory fenestration, horizontal slats or light shelves in Table 170.2-L, the daylighting design shall meet the requirements in Section 170.2(b). The PAFs shall only apply to lighting in a primary or secondary sidelit daylit zone where continuous dimming daylighting controls meeting the requirements of Section 160.5(b)4D are installed.

    TABLE 170.2-L—LIGHTING POWER ADJUSTMENT FACTORS (PAF) Col2 Col3
    TYPE OF CONTROL TYPE OF AREA FACTOR
    1. Daylight Continuous
    Dimming Plus OFF Control
    Luminaires in skylit daylit zone or primary sidelit daylit zone 0.10
    2. Occupant Sensing Controls
    in Office Spaces Larger Than
    250 Square Feet
    In open plan offices > 250 square feet: One sensor controlling an area that is:
    No larger than 125 square feet
    0.30
    2. Occupant Sensing Controls
    in Office Spaces Larger Than
    250 Square Feet
    In open plan offices > 250 square feet: One sensor controlling an area that is:
    From 126 to 250 square feet
    0.20
    3. Institutional Tuning Luminaires in nondaylit areas.
    Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this tuning PAF.
    0.10
    3. Institutional Tuning Luminaires in daylit areas.
    Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this tuning PAF.
    0.05
    4. Demand Responsive
    Control
    General lighting luminaires not in the scope of Section 110.12(c). Luminaires that qualify for other
    PAFs in this table may also qualify for this demand responsive control PAF.
    0.05
    5. Clerestory Fenestration Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to the clerestory. Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming
    plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.
    0.05
    6. Horizontal Slats Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to vertical fenestration with interior or exterior horizontal slats.
    Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.
    0.05
    7. Light Shelves Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to clerestory fenestration with interior or exterior light shelves.
    This PAF may be combined with the PAF for clerestory fenestration. Luminaires that qualify for
    daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.
    0.10
    a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 170.2(e)1Aii.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined.
    c.
  • § 110.9 Medium relevance — show source text

    Multilevel time-switch controls 110.9(b)1 Multiscene control station 140.6(a)3G, H, I Multiscene programmable control system 140.6(c)2, 150.0(k)2, 160.5(a)2 Nonprogrammable double-throw switch 40.6(a)1, 140.6(a)2, 170.2(e)2 Occupant sensing control 110.9(b)4, 6, 120.1(d)5A, 120.2(e), 130.1, 130.1(c), 130.1(f), 130.1(f)7, 130.5(d), 140.6(a)2I, 140.6(a)3, Table 140.6-A, 160.2(c), 160.2(c)5E, 160.5(b)4, 160.5(b)4C, 160.6(d), 170.2(e)2, 170.2(e)2B, Table 170.2-L, Table

    170.2-M Occupant sensor 110.9(b)4, 120.1(d), 120.2(e), 150.0(k)2, 160.2(c), Outdoor lighting controls 130.2(c)1, 130.2(c)2, 130.2(c)3, 130.4(a)6, 160.5(a)3, 160.5(c), 160.5(e) Outdoor time-switch controls 110.9(b)1 Partial off occupant sensing controls 130.1(c)6, 130.1(c)7, 160.5(b)4 Partial-OFF Sensors 110.9(b)4, 130.1(c)1, 160.5(b)4C Partial-on occupant sensing controls 130.1(c)5, 160.5(b)4C Partial-ON Sensors 110.9(b)4, 130.1(f)7, 160.5(b)4F Photocell 150.0(k)3, 160.5(a)3A Photocontrol 130.2(c)1, 130.3(a)2, 160.5(d)2A Photosensor 130.1(d)4, 160.5(b)4D Shut-off control 130.4(a), 160.5(d)2B Sign lighting controls 130.3, 160.5(d) Time switch 110.4(b), 110.9(b)1, 120.2(e)1A, 120.6(b)3A, 120.6(h)2B, 6B, 130.1(c)3 – 6, 130.1(f)5, 130.2(c)1, 130.3(a), 130.5(d)1, 140.6(a)3G,

    150.0(k)3, 160.3(a)2D, 160.5(a)2A, 160.5(b)4C, 160.5(b)4F, 160.5(c)2A, 160.5(d), 160.6(d)1 Vacancy sensing controls 130.1(c)5B Vacancy sensor 110.9(b)4, 140.6(a)3, 150.0(k)1, 2, 160.5(a)1, 2 Line Voltage Switch 140.6(a)1, 140.6(a)2, 170.

  • § 160.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception 3 to Section 160.5(c)2C: Lighting subject to a health or life safety statute, ordinance or regulation may have a minimum time-out period longer than 15 minutes or a minimum dimming level above 50 percent when necessary to comply with the applicable law.

    (d) Sign lighting controls. All sign lighting shall meet the requirements below as applicable:

    1. Indoor signs. All indoor sign lighting other than exit sign lighting shall be controlled with an automatic time-switch control or astronomical time-switch control.

    2. Outdoor signs. Outdoor sign lighting shall meet the following requirements as applicable: A. All outdoor sign lighting shall be controlled with a photocontrol in addition to an automatic time-switch control, or an astronomical time-switch control.

    Exception to Section 160.5(d)2A: Outdoor signs in tunnels, and signs in large permanently covered outdoor areas that are intended to be continuously lit, 24 hours per day and 365 days per year. B. All outdoor sign lighting that is ON both day and night shall be controlled with a dimmer that provides the ability to automatically reduce sign lighting power by a minimum of 65 percent during nighttime hours. Signs that are illuminated at night and for more than 1 hour during daylight hours shall be considered ON both day and night.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 231

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    Exception to Section 160.5(d)2B: Outdoor signs in tunnels and large covered areas that are intended to be illuminated both day and night. 3. Demand responsive electronic message center (EMC) control. See Section 110.12 for requirements for demand responsive EMC controls.

    (e) Lighting control acceptance and installation certificate requirement. Multifamily common use areas shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 160.5(e)1 through 160.5(e)3.

    1. Lighting control acceptance requirements. Before an occupancy permit is granted, indoor and outdoor lighting controls serving the building, area or site and installed to comply with Section 160.5(b)4D, 160.5(b)4C, 160.5(b)4E, 160.5(c)2 or 170.2(e)1Aiij shall be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance as specified by Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6 and NA7.8. A Certificate of Acceptance shall be submitted to the enforcement agency under Section 10-103(a) of Part 1 that the equipment and systems meet the acceptance requirements:

    A. Reserved;

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

    F. Outdoor lighting controls shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.8; and G. Lighting systems receiving the Institutional Tuning Power Adjustment Factor shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.4. H. Demand responsive controls required to control controlled receptacles shall be tested in accordance with Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6.5. 2. **Lighting control installation certificate requirements.

  • § 170.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    or furniture mounted luminaires that comply with Section 170.2(e)1Aii and provide general lighting directly above the controlled area; and d. Qualifying luminaires shall be controlled by occupant sensing controls that meet all of the following requirements, as applicable: I. Infrared sensors shall be equipped by the manufacturer, or fitted in the field by the installer, with lenses or shrouds to prevent them from being triggered by movement outside of the controlled

    area.

    II. Ultrasonic sensors shall be tuned to reduce their sensitivity to prevent them from being triggered by movements outside of the controlled area. III. All other sensors shall be installed and adjusted as necessary to prevent them from being triggered by movements outside of the controlled area. e. Occupant sensing control zones, in offices greater than 250 square feet, shall be shown on the plans.

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 259

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

    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES

    x. To qualify for the PAF for an Institutional Tuning in Table 170.2-L, the tuned lighting system shall comply with all of the following requirements: a. The lighting controls shall limit the maximum output or maximum power draw of the controlled lighting to 85 percent or less of full light output or full power draw; and b. The means of setting the limit is accessible only to authorized personnel; and c. The setting of the limit is verified by the acceptance test required by Section 160.5(e)1G; and d. The construction documents specify which lighting systems shall have their maximum light output or maximum power draw set to no greater than 85 percent of full light output or full power draw. xi. To qualify for the PAF for a demand responsive control in Table 170.2-L, the general lighting wattage receiving the PAF shall not be within the scope of Section 110.12(c) and a demand responsive control shall meet all of the following requirements: a. The controlled lighting shall be capable of being automatically reduced in response to a demand response signal; and b. General lighting shall be reduced in a manner consistent with the illuminance uniformity requirements of Section 160.5(b)4B. xii. To qualify for the PAFs for clerestory fenestration, horizontal slats or light shelves in Table 170.2-L, the daylighting design shall meet the requirements in Section 170.2(b). The PAFs shall only apply to lighting in a primary or secondary sidelit daylit zone where continuous dimming daylighting controls meeting the requirements of Section 160.5(b)4D are installed.

    TABLE 170.2-L—LIGHTING POWER ADJUSTMENT FACTORS (PAF) Col2 Col3
    TYPE OF CONTROL TYPE OF AREA FACTOR
    1. Daylight Continuous
    Dimming Plus OFF Control
    Luminaires in skylit daylit zone or primary sidelit daylit zone 0.10
    2. Occupant Sensing Controls
    in Office Spaces Larger Than
    250 Square Feet
    In open plan offices > 250 square feet: One sensor controlling an area that is:
    No larger than 125 square feet
    0.30
    2.
  • § 140.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    I. To qualify for the PAF for an occupant sensing control controlling the general lighting in large office areas above workstations, in accordance with Table 140.6-A, the following requirements shall be met: i. The office area shall be greater than 250 square feet; and ii. This PAF shall be available only in office areas which contain workstations; and iii. Controlled luminaires shall only be those that provide general lighting directly above the controlled area, or furniture mounted luminaires that comply with Section 140.6(a)2 and provide general lighting directly above the controlled area; and

    iv. Qualifying luminaires shall be controlled by occupant sensing controls that meet all of the following requirements, as applicable: a. Infrared sensors shall be equipped by the manufacturer, of fitted in the field by the installer, with lenses or shrouds to prevent them from being triggered by movement outside of the controlled area. b. Ultrasonic sensors shall be tuned to reduce their sensitivity to prevent them from being triggered by movements outside of the controlled area.

    c. All other sensors shall be installed and adjusted as necessary to prevent them from being triggered by movements outside of the controlled area.

    v. Occupant sensing control zones, in offices greater than 250 square feet, shall be shown on the plans. J. To qualify for the PAF for an Institutional Tuning in Table 140.6-A, the tuned lighting system shall comply with all of the following requirements: i. The lighting controls shall limit the maximum output or maximum power draw of the controlled lighting to 85 percent or less of full light output or full power draw; and ii. The means of setting the limit is accessible only to authorized personnel; and iii. The setting of the limit is verified by the acceptance test required by Section 130.4(a)7; and iv. The construction documents specify which lighting systems shall have their maximum light output or maximum power draw set to no greater than 85 percent of full light output or full power draw. K. To qualify for the PAF for a demand responsive control in Table 140.6-A, the general lighting wattage receiving the PAF shall not be within the scope of Section 110.12(c) and a demand responsive control shall meet all of the following requirements: i. The controlled lighting shall be capable of being automatically reduced in response to a demand response signal; and ii. General lighting shall be reduced in a manner consistent with the requirements of Section 130.1(b). L. To qualify for the PAFs for clerestory fenestration, horizontal slats, or light shelves in Table 140.6-A, the daylighting design shall meet the requirements in Section 140.3(d). The PAFs shall only apply to lighting in a primary or secondary sidelit daylit zone where continuous dimming daylighting controls meeting the requirements of Section 130.1(d) are installed.

    TABLE 140.6-A—LIGHTING POWER ADJUSTMENT FACTORS (PAF) Col2 Col3
    TYPE OF CONTROL TYPE OF AREA FACTOR
    1. Daylight continuous dimming plus
    OFF control
    Luminaires in skylit daylit zone or primary sidelit daylit zone or secondary sidelit daylit zone 0.10
    2. Occupant sensing controls in offices
    larger than 250 square feet
    One sensor controlling an area that is no larger than 125 square feet 0.30
    3.
  • § 140.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 140.6(a)2.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined below.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 140.6(a)2.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined below.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 140.6(a)2.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined below.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 131

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE

    COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    1. Lighting wattage excluded. The watts of the following indoor lighting applications may be excluded from adjusted indoor lighting power. (Indoor lighting not listed below shall comply with all applicable nonresidential indoor lighting requirements in Part 6): A. In theme parks: lighting for themes and special effects; B. Studio lighting for film or photography, provided that these lighting systems are in addition to and separately switched from a general lighting system; C. Lighting for dance floors, lighting for theatrical and other live performances, and theatrical lighting used for religious worship, provided that these lighting systems are additions to a general lighting system and are separately controlled by a multiscene or theatrical cross-fade control station accessible only to authorized operators; Lighting intended for makeup, hair, and costume preparation in performing arts facility dressing rooms, provided that the lighting is separately switched from the general lighting system, switched independently at each dressing station, and is controlled with a vacancy sensor. D. In civic facilities, transportation facilities, convention centers and hotel function areas: lighting for temporary exhibits, if the lighting is in addition to a general lighting system, and is separately controlled from a panel accessible only to authorized operators; E. Lighting installed by the manufacturer in walk-in coolers or freezers, vending machines, food preparation equipment, and scientific and industrial equipment; F. Examination and surgical lights, low ambient night lights and lighting integral to medical equipment, provided that these lighting systems are additions to and separately switched from a general lighting system; G. Lighting for plant growth or maintenance in non-CEH spaces, if it is controlled by a multilevel astronomical timeswitch control that complies with the applicable provisions of Section 110.9; H. Lighting equipment that is for sale; I. Lighting demonstration equipment in lighting education facilities; J. Lighting that is required for exit signs subject to the CBC. Exit signs shall meet the requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations; K. Exitway or egress illumination that is normally off and that is subject to the CBC; L. In hotel/motel buildings, lighting in guest rooms (lighting in hotel/motel guestrooms shall comply with Section 130.0(b).
  • § 160.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    (e) Lighting control acceptance and installation certificate requirement. Multifamily common use areas shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 160.5(e)1 through 160.5(e)3.

    1. Lighting control acceptance requirements. Before an occupancy permit is granted, indoor and outdoor lighting controls serving the building, area or site and installed to comply with Section 160.5(b)4D, 160.5(b)4C, 160.5(b)4E, 160.5(c)2 or 170.2(e)1Aiij shall be certified as meeting the Acceptance Requirements for Code Compliance as specified by Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.6 and NA7.8. A Certificate of Acceptance shall be submitted to the enforcement agency under Section 10-103(a) of Part 1 that the equipment and systems meet the acceptance requirements:

    A. Reserved;

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

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

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

    E. Reserved.

  • § 0.10 Medium relevance — show source text

    Institutional Tuning|Luminaires in nondaylit areas.
    Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this tuning PAF.|0.10| |3. Institutional Tuning|Luminaires in daylit areas.
    Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this tuning PAF.|0.05| |4. Demand Responsive
    Control|General lighting luminaires not in the scope of Section 110.12(c). Luminaires that qualify for other
    PAFs in this table may also qualify for this demand responsive control PAF.|0.05| |5. Clerestory Fenestration|Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to the clerestory. Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming
    plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.|0.05| |6. Horizontal Slats|Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to vertical fenestration with interior or exterior horizontal slats.
    Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.|0.05| |7. Light Shelves|Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to clerestory fenestration with interior or exterior light shelves.
    This PAF may be combined with the PAF for clerestory fenestration. Luminaires that qualify for
    daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.|0.10| |a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 170.2(e)1Aii.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 170.2(e)1Aii.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 170.2(e)1Aii.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|

    C. Lighting wattage excluded. The watts of the following indoor lighting applications may be excluded from Adjusted Indoor Lighting Power: i. Lighting installed by the manufacturer in walk-in coolers or freezers, vending machines and food preparation equipment. ii. Lighting that is required for exit signs subject to the CBC. Exit signs shall meet the requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations. iii. Exit way or egress illumination that is normally off and that is subject to the CBC. iv. Temporary lighting systems. v. Lighting systems in qualified historic buildings, as defined in the California Historical Building Code (Title 24, Part 8), are exempt from the lighting power density allowances if they consist solely of historic lighting components or replicas of historic lighting components. If lighting systems in qualified buildings contain some historic lighting components or replicas of historic components, combined with other lighting components, only those historic or historic replica components are exempt. All other lighting systems in qualified historic buildings shall comply with the lighting power density allowances.

  • § 6.4. Medium relevance — show source text

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

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

    E. Reserved.

    1. When certification is required by Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-103.1, the acceptance testing specified by Section 160.5(e) shall be performed by a Certified Lighting Controls Acceptance Test Technician (CLCATT). If the CLCATT is operating as an employee, the CLCATT shall be employed by a Certified Lighting Controls Acceptance Test Employer. The CLCATT shall disclose on the Certificate of Acceptance a valid CLCATT certification identification number issued by an approved Acceptance Test Technician Certification Provider. The CLCATT shall complete all Certificate of Acceptance documentation in accordance with the applicable requirements in Section 10-103(a)4.

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

    SECTION 160.6—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRIC POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

    Multifamily buildings shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 160.6(a) through 160.6(e).

    (a) Service electrical metering. Each electrical service or feeder that provides power to the common use areas (interior and exterior) shall have a permanently installed metering system that measures electrical energy use in accordance with Table 160.6-A.

    Exception to Section 160.6(a): Service or feeder for which the utility company provides a metering system for the multifamily building that indicates instantaneous kW demand and kWh for a utility-defined period.

    232 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

  • § 126-250 Medium relevance — show source text

    Occupant sensing controls in offices
    larger than 250 square feet|One sensor controlling an area that is 126-250 square feet|0.20| |4. Institutional tuning|Luminaires in non-daylit areas:
    Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this tuning PAF.|0.10| |4. Institutional tuning|Luminaires in daylit areas:
    Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this tuning PAF.|0.05| |5. Demand responsive control|General lighting luminaires not in the scope of Section 110.12(c).
    If DR controls are required of Section 110.12(c), this PAF is not available for any lighting in the
    project. Luminaires that qualify for other PAFs in this table may also qualify for this demand
    responsive control PAF.|0.05| |6. Clerestory fenestration|Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to the clerestory.
    Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.|0.05| |7. Horizontal slats|Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to vertical fenestration with interior or exterior horizontal slats.
    Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.|0.05| |8. Light shelves|Luminaires in daylit areas adjacent to clerestory fenestration with interior or exterior light
    shelves. This PAF may be combined with the PAF for clerestory fenestration.
    Luminaires that qualify for daylight dimming plus OFF control may also qualify for this PAF.|0.10| |a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 140.6(a)2.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined below.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 140.6(a)2.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined below.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|a. To qualify for any of the power adjustment factors in this table, the installation shall comply with the applicable requirements in Section 140.6(a)2.
    b. Only one PAF may be used for each qualifying luminaire unless combined below.
    c. Lighting controls that are required for compliance with Part 6 shall not be eligible for a PAF.|

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 131

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE

    COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    1. Lighting wattage excluded. The watts of the following indoor lighting applications may be excluded from adjusted indoor lighting power. (Indoor lighting not listed below shall comply with all applicable nonresidential indoor lighting requirements in Part 6): A. In theme parks: lighting for themes and special effects; B. Studio lighting for film or photography,

Frequently asked questions

Can I use either a photocell or an astronomical time‑switch to meet the daylight shut‑off requirement?

Yes. § A6.209.3.3.1 allows a photocontrol or an outdoor astronomical time‑switch to automatically turn off outdoor lighting when daylight is available; if you use an astronomical controller, it must meet the accuracy/offset/display requirements in § A6.209.1.9.

If my site's total lighting is 3,900 W, do I need demand response controls?

No — § 110.12(c) requires DR controls only when total installed lighting power is 4,000 W or greater. However, other control requirements (photocontrols, scheduling, motion sensors where applicable) still apply.

How long can motion sensors keep lights dimmed before turning fully off?

Motion sensing controls must reduce lighting to the dim or OFF state no longer than 15 minutes after the area is vacated; they must also be capable of 50–90% reduction or turning OFF during unoccupied periods.

Can luminaires controlled for DR also be used to claim the DR PAF in Table 170.2‑L?

No. The PAF for demand‑responsive control in Table 170.2‑L is not available for general lighting that is within the scope of § 110.12(c). The code explicitly prohibits using those same luminaires to claim that PAF.

What acceptance testing is required before occupancy?

Outdoor lighting controls and any demand‑responsive controls must be tested per the referenced acceptance procedures (see Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA7.8 for outdoor controls and NA7.6.3 for DR), and a Certificate of Acceptance must be submitted.

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