Title 24 · California Energy Code
If a term isn't defined in Section 100.1, where do I look next?
If a Part 6 term isn’t in **§ 100.1(b)**, first check the Definitions in Title 24 Parts 1–5; if it’s still not there, use **Webster’s Third (Unabridged)** — but always follow any section-specific note that points you to a particular Part or Article (for example, some electrical sections point to Title 24 Part 3, Article 100).
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
If a word or phrase used in Part 6 is not defined in § 100.1(b), you must look next to the “Definitions” chapters of Title 24, Parts 1 through 5; if it still isn’t found there, the fallback is Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged (1961 edition, through the 2002 addenda), unless the context requires otherwise. This lookup order is established by § 100.1(b).
Plain English rule: if a Part 6 term isn’t in § 100.1, check the Title 24 Parts 1–5 definitions; if still missing, use Webster’s Third (unless the text says otherwise).
Requirements in detail
Priority (lookup) order — short summary
- First: the term as defined in § 100.1 itself.
- Second: the Definitions chapters of Title 24, Parts 1–5 (California Building, Residential, Fire, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, Green, etc.).
- Third: Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged (1961 ed., through 2002 addenda) as the general dictionary fallback, unless the context indicates another meaning.
Quick decision table
| Decision question | What to check | Where to look next | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Is the term defined in Part 6? | Yes → use that definition. | — | § 100.1(b) |
| Not in § 100.1(b)? | Look for the term in Title 24 Parts 1–5 “Definitions” chapters. | Title 24, Parts 1–5 Definitions | § 100.1(b) |
| Still not found in Parts 1–5? | Use the dictionary definition in Webster’s Third (1961 + 2002 addenda) unless the context requires otherwise. | Webster’s Third (Unabridged) | § 100.1(b) |
| Section or subsection points to a specific code (example: electrical) | Follow the section note (it may point to a specific Part/Article such as Title 24 Part 3 Article 100). | Code called out in the section note (e.g., Part 3, Art. 100) | See note to § 130.5 and other sections |
How to apply “context requires otherwise”
- The code itself says the dictionary fallback applies “unless the context requires otherwise.” That means: if the surrounding code text, definitions in a related part, or legislative/technical context gives a specialized meaning, use that specialized meaning rather than the ordinary dictionary sense.
- Example situations: technical terms used in HVAC, electrical, or plumbing where industry standards or other Parts of Title 24 supply a precise meaning.
Exceptions & special cases
- Section-specific notes can override the generic lookup order. For example, Section § 130.5 includes a note that definitions for its terms are governed by § 100.1(b) and tells users that terms not found there are defined in Title 24, Part 3, Article 100 (California Electrical Code) — i.e., some sections explicitly point to a specific Part/Article as the next authority. Follow that direction.
- Some provisions reference other Titles (or state regulations) for definitions or certification/administrative requirements (e.g., Title 24, Part 1 administrative sections or Title 20 for appliance certification) — follow the named authority in those notes.
- If a term is still not found after checking § 100.1 and Parts 1–5, and the context is ambiguous or technical, the code requires using Webster’s Third but allows departure when the context requires otherwise. Document your basis for choosing a meaning (cite the Part/section you relied on).
Common mistakes
- Assuming an industry standard meaning without checking the Parts 1–5 definitions or the specific section note. Always check the code-authorized order first.
- Using an online or abridged dictionary instead of the specified Webster’s Third (Unabridged) when a dictionary fallback is required.
- Missing section-specific notes that point to a different authoritative source (for example, electrical definitions in Title 24 Part 3, Article 100). Those notes are binding guidance for where to look next.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Scenario: You are reviewing lighting controls and the plan reviewer flags “controlled receptacle” in Section § 130.5. You cannot find that phrase in § 100.1.
Step 1 — Check § 100.1(b): confirm it is not defined there. If absent, proceed. § 100.1(b) establishes the next steps.
Step 2 — Check the note attached to Section § 130.5. The note explicitly states that terms in § 130.5 are governed by § 100.1(b) and that terms not found there are defined in Title 24, Part 3, Article 100 (California Electrical Code). So the next authoritative place to look is Part 3, Article 100.
Step 3 — Look up “controlled receptacle” in Title 24, Part 3, Article 100. If that article defines it, use that definition for enforcement and plan review (no Webster step needed). If it’s not in Article 100, fall back to Webster’s Third (Unabridged) per § 100.1(b), but document why the dictionary meaning was used rather than a code definition.
(Important: I have cited the code directions about where to look; I did not invent a definition for "controlled receptacle." To find the actual text of the electrical definition you must consult Title 24 Part 3, Article 100 itself.)
Related provisions
- § 100.1(b) — Definitions and rules of construction (primary authority for lookup order).
- § 130.5 — Note referencing § 100.1(b) and Title 24, Part 3, Article 100 for electrical definitions (example of a section-specific pointer).
- § 160.6 (and its Note) — other sections with notes indicating definitions follow § 100.1(b) and may point to Part 3 Article 100 for electrical terms.
- Title 24, Part 1 administrative sections (e.g., Sections 10-101 to 10-114) — referenced elsewhere in Part 6 for administrative definitions and procedures.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
§ 100.0 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception 1 to Section 100.0(f): If one occupancy constitutes at least 80 percent of the conditioned floor area of the building, the entire building envelope, HVAC and water heating may be designed to comply with the provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy, provided that the applicable lighting requirements in Sections 140.6 through 140.8, 150.0(k), or 160.5 and 170.2(e) are met for each occupancy and space, and mandatory measures in Sections 110.0 through 130.5, 150.0, and 160.0 through 160.9 are met for each occupancy and space.
Exception 2 to Section 100.0(f): If one occupancy constitutes at least 90 percent of the combined conditioned plus unconditioned floor area of the building, the entire building indoor lighting may be designed to comply with only the lighting provisions of Part 6 applicable to that occupancy.
(g) Administrative requirements. Administrative requirements relating to permit requirements, enforcement by the Commission, locally adopted energy standards, interpretations, claims of exemption, approved calculation methods, rights of appeal, and certification and labeling requirements of fenestration products and roofing products are specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 1, Sections 10-101 to 10-114.
(h) Certification requirements for manufactured equipment, products and devices. Part 6 limits the installation of manufactured equipment, products and devices to those that have been certified as specified by Sections 110.0 and 110.1. Requirements for manufactured equipment, products, and devices, when not specified in Title 24 Part 6, are specified in California Code of Regulations, Title 20, Sections 1601–1609.
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 100.1 — DEFINITIONS AND RULES OF CONSTRUCTION
(a) Rules of Construction.
- Where the context requires, the singular includes the plural and the plural includes the singular.
- The use of “and” in a conjunctive provision means that all elements in the provision must be complied with or must exist to make the provision applicable. Where compliance with one or more elements suffices, or where existence of one or more elements makes the provision applicable, “or” (rather than “and/or”) is used.
- “Shall” is mandatory and “may” is permissive.
(b) Definitions. Terms, phrases, words and their derivatives in Part 6 shall be defined as specified in Section 100.1. Terms, phrases, words and their derivatives not found in Section 100.1 shall be defined as specified in the “Definitions” chapters of Title 24, Parts 1 through 5 of the California Code of Regulations. Where terms, phrases, words and their derivatives are not defined in any of the references above, they shall be defined as specified in Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged (1961 edition, through the 2002 addenda), unless the context requires otherwise.
§ 0.67 Medium relevance — show source text
The uplift connection requirements are based on a 33-foot mean roof height.
b. The uplift connection requirements are based on the framing being spaced 24 inches on center. Multiply by 0.67 for framing spaced 16 inches on center and multiply by 0.5 for
framing spaced 12 inches on center.
c. The uplift connection requirements include an allowance for 10 pounds of dead load.
d. The uplift connection requirements include for the effects of 24-inch overhangs.
e. The uplift connection requirements are based on wind loading on end zones as defined in Figure 28.3-1 of ASCE 7. Connection loads for connections located a distance of 20
percent of the least horizontal dimension of the building from the corner of the building are permitted to be reduced by multiplying the table connection value by 0.75.
f. For wall-to-wall and wall-to-foundation connections, the capacity of the uplift connector is permitted to be reduced by 100 pounds for each full wall above. (For example, if a
500-pound rated connector is used on the roof framing, a 400-pound rated connector is permitted at the next floor level down).
g. Interpolation is permitted for intermediate values of_V_ and roof spans.
h. The rated capacity of approved tie-down devices is permitted to include up to a 60-percent increase for wind effects where allowed by material specifications. The required
rating of approved uplift connectors is based on allowable stress design loads.
i._ V_ shall be determined in accordance with Section 1609.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 1.61 km/hr, 1 pound = 0.454 Kg, 1 pound/foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. The uplift connection requirements are based on a 33-foot mean roof height.
b. The uplift connection requirements are based on the framing being spaced 24 inches on center. Multiply by 0.67 for framing spaced 16 inches on center and multiply by 0.5 for
framing spaced 12 inches on center.
c. The uplift connection requirements include an allowance for 10 pounds of dead load.
d. The uplift connection requirements include for the effects of 24-inch overhangs.
e. The uplift connection requirements are based on wind loading on end zones as defined in Figure 28.3-1 of ASCE 7. Connection loads for connections located a distance of 20
percent of the least horizontal dimension of the building from the corner of the building are permitted to be reduced by multiplying the table connection value by 0.75.
f. For wall-to-wall and wall-to-foundation connections, the capacity of the uplift connector is permitted to be reduced by 100 pounds for each full wall above. (For example, if a
500-pound rated connector is used on the roof framing, a 400-pound rated connector is permitted at the next floor level down).
g. Interpolation is permitted for intermediate values of_V_ and roof spans.
h. The rated capacity of approved tie-down devices is permitted to include up to a 60-percent increase for wind effects where allowed by material specifications. The required
rating of approved uplift connectors is based on allowable stress design loads.
i._ V_ shall be determined in accordance with Section 1609.3.|§ 201.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION A4.201—GENERAL
A4.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards in the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). It is the intent of these voluntary provisions to encourage local jurisdictions through codification to achieve exemplary performance in the area of building energy efficiency. Local jurisdictions adopting these voluntary provisions as mandatory local energy efficiency standards shall submit the required application and receive the required approval of the California Energy Commission in compliance with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 prior to enforcement. Once the required filing has been verified and finding has been made by the Energy Commission, local jurisdictions shall file an ordinance expressly marking the local modification along with findings and receive the required acceptance from the California Building Standards Commission in compliance with Section 101.7 of this code, prior to enforcement. (Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 is available at https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/build- ing-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency
SECTION A4.202—DEFINITIONS
A4.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.
ENERGY BUDGET.
LONG-TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC).
RECOVERED ENERGY, ON-SITE.
SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM.
SECTION A4.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH FOR NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUILDINGS
A4.203.1 Energy efficiency. Newly constructed low-rise residential buildings shall comply with Sections A4.203.1.1 through A4.203.1.4.
A4.203.1.1 Long-term system cost (LSC). LSC rating for the building’s Proposed Design shall be computed by Compliance Software certified by the Energy Commission as specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 100.1 and 150.1(b), and shall reduce the LSC required in the Compliance Software for minimum performance-based compliance with the California Energy Code by the compliance margin specified in Table A4.203.1.1. The rating shall be included in the Certificate of Compliance documentation.
TABLE A4.203.1.1—RECOMMENDED LSC MARGINS BY CLIMATE ZONES Col2 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE CLIMATE ZONE TOTAL LSC COMPLIANCE MARGIN 1 2.70 2 1.62 3 1.10 4 1.11 5 1.01 6 0.24 7 0.24 8 0.21 9 0.20 10 0.18 11 1.11 12 1.05 13 0.96 14 1.21 15 0.59 16 1.68 Note: Community shared options complying with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115 may be used to achieve LSC targets. Note: Community shared options complying with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-115 may be used to achieve LSC targets. 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-9
§ 130.5 Medium relevance — show source text
Install a control capable of automatically shutting OFF the controlled receptacles when the space is typically unoccupied, either at the receptacle or circuit level. When an automatic time switch control is installed it shall incorporate an override control that allows the controlled receptacle to remain ON for no more than 2 hours when an override is initiated and an automatic holiday “shut-OFF” feature that turns OFF all loads for at least 24 hours and then resumes the normally scheduled operation. Countdown timer switches shall not be used to comply with the automatic time switch control requirements; and 2. Install at least one controlled receptacle within 6 feet from each uncontrolled receptacle or install a multiple-receptacle outlet with at least one controlled and one uncontrolled receptacle. Where receptacles are installed in modular furniture in open office areas, at least one controlled receptacle shall be installed at each workstation; and 3. Provide a permanent marking for controlled receptacles or circuits to differentiate them from uncontrolled receptacles or circuits; and 4. For hotel and motel guest rooms, install controlled receptacles for at least one-half of the 120-volt receptacles in each guestroom. Electric circuits serving controlled receptacles in guestrooms shall have captive card key controls, occupant sensing controls, or automatic controls so the power is switched OFF no longer than 20 minutes after the guestroom has been vacated.
Exception 1 to Section 130.5(d): Receptacles that are only for the following purposes: i. Receptacles specifically for refrigerators and water dispensers in kitchen area. ii. Receptacles located a minimum of six feet above the floor that are specifically for clocks. iii. Receptacles for network copiers, fax machines, A/V and data equipment other than personal computers in copy
rooms.
iv. Receptacles on circuits rated more than 20 amperes. v. Receptacles connected to an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) that are intended to be in continuous use, 24 hours per day/365 days per year, and are marked to differentiate them from other uncontrolled receptacles or circuits.
Exception 2 to Section 130.5(d): Receptacles in healthcare facilities.
(e) Demand responsive controls and equipment. See Section 110.12 for requirements for demand responsive controls and equipment, including demand responsive controls for controlled receptacles.
Note: Definitions of terms and phrases in Section 130.5 are determined as specified in Section 100.1(b). Terms and phrases not found in Section 100.1(b) shall be defined as specified in Title 24, Part 3, Article 100 of the California Electrical Code.
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.
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§ 0.67 Medium relevance — show source text
Multiply by 0.67 for framing spaced 16 inches on center and multiply by 0.5 for
framing spaced 12 inches on center.
c. The uplift connection requirements include an allowance for 10 pounds of dead load.
d. The uplift connection requirements include for the effects of 24-inch overhangs.
e. The uplift connection requirements are based on wind loading on end zones as defined in Figure 28.3-1 of ASCE 7. Connection loads for connections located a distance of 20
percent of the least horizontal dimension of the building from the corner of the building are permitted to be reduced by multiplying the table connection value by 0.75.
f. For wall-to-wall and wall-to-foundation connections, the capacity of the uplift connector is permitted to be reduced by 100 pounds for each full wall above. (For example, if a
500-pound rated connector is used on the roof framing, a 400-pound rated connector is permitted at the next floor level down).
g. Interpolation is permitted for intermediate values of_V_ and roof spans.
h. The rated capacity of approved tie-down devices is permitted to include up to a 60-percent increase for wind effects where allowed by material specifications. The required
rating of approved uplift connectors is based on allowable stress design loads.
i._ V_ shall be determined in accordance with Section 1609.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 1.61 km/hr, 1 pound = 0.454 Kg, 1 pound/foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. The uplift connection requirements are based on a 33-foot mean roof height.
b. The uplift connection requirements are based on the framing being spaced 24 inches on center. Multiply by 0.67 for framing spaced 16 inches on center and multiply by 0.5 for
framing spaced 12 inches on center.
c. The uplift connection requirements include an allowance for 10 pounds of dead load.
d. The uplift connection requirements include for the effects of 24-inch overhangs.
e. The uplift connection requirements are based on wind loading on end zones as defined in Figure 28.3-1 of ASCE 7. Connection loads for connections located a distance of 20
percent of the least horizontal dimension of the building from the corner of the building are permitted to be reduced by multiplying the table connection value by 0.75.
f. For wall-to-wall and wall-to-foundation connections, the capacity of the uplift connector is permitted to be reduced by 100 pounds for each full wall above. (For example, if a
500-pound rated connector is used on the roof framing, a 400-pound rated connector is permitted at the next floor level down).
g. Interpolation is permitted for intermediate values of_V_ and roof spans.
h. The rated capacity of approved tie-down devices is permitted to include up to a 60-percent increase for wind effects where allowed by material specifications. The required
rating of approved uplift connectors is based on allowable stress design loads.
i._ V_ shall be determined in accordance with Section 1609.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 1.61 km/hr, 1 pound = 0.454 Kg, 1 pound/foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a.§ 0.67 Medium relevance — show source text
The uplift connection requirements are based on the framing being spaced 24 inches on center. Multiply by 0.67 for framing spaced 16 inches on center and multiply by 0.5 for
framing spaced 12 inches on center.
c. The uplift connection requirements include an allowance for 10 pounds of dead load.
d. The uplift connection requirements include for the effects of 24-inch overhangs.
e. The uplift connection requirements are based on wind loading on end zones as defined in Figure 28.3-1 of ASCE 7. Connection loads for connections located a distance of 20
percent of the least horizontal dimension of the building from the corner of the building are permitted to be reduced by multiplying the table connection value by 0.75.
f. For wall-to-wall and wall-to-foundation connections, the capacity of the uplift connector is permitted to be reduced by 100 pounds for each full wall above. (For example, if a
500-pound rated connector is used on the roof framing, a 400-pound rated connector is permitted at the next floor level down).
g. Interpolation is permitted for intermediate values of_V_ and roof spans.
h. The rated capacity of approved tie-down devices is permitted to include up to a 60-percent increase for wind effects where allowed by material specifications. The required
rating of approved uplift connectors is based on allowable stress design loads.
i._ V_ shall be determined in accordance with Section 1609.3.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 1.61 km/hr, 1 pound = 0.454 Kg, 1 pound/foot = 14.5939 N/m.
a. The uplift connection requirements are based on a 33-foot mean roof height.
b. The uplift connection requirements are based on the framing being spaced 24 inches on center. Multiply by 0.67 for framing spaced 16 inches on center and multiply by 0.5 for
framing spaced 12 inches on center.
c. The uplift connection requirements include an allowance for 10 pounds of dead load.
d. The uplift connection requirements include for the effects of 24-inch overhangs.
e. The uplift connection requirements are based on wind loading on end zones as defined in Figure 28.3-1 of ASCE 7. Connection loads for connections located a distance of 20
percent of the least horizontal dimension of the building from the corner of the building are permitted to be reduced by multiplying the table connection value by 0.75.
f. For wall-to-wall and wall-to-foundation connections, the capacity of the uplift connector is permitted to be reduced by 100 pounds for each full wall above. (For example, if a
500-pound rated connector is used on the roof framing, a 400-pound rated connector is permitted at the next floor level down).
g. Interpolation is permitted for intermediate values of_V_ and roof spans.
h. The rated capacity of approved tie-down devices is permitted to include up to a 60-percent increase for wind effects where allowed by material specifications.§ 130.5 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception 2 to Section 130.5(d): Receptacles in healthcare facilities.
(e) Demand responsive controls and equipment. See Section 110.12 for requirements for demand responsive controls and equipment, including demand responsive controls for controlled receptacles.
Note: Definitions of terms and phrases in Section 130.5 are determined as specified in Section 100.1(b). Terms and phrases not found in Section 100.1(b) shall be defined as specified in Title 24, Part 3, Article 100 of the California Electrical Code.
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.
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PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY
SECTION 140.0—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES
Nonresidential and hotel/motel buildings shall comply with all of the following: (a) The requirements of Sections 100.0 through 110.12 applicable to the building project (mandatory measures for all buildings). (b) The requirements of Sections 120.0 through 130.5 (mandatory measures for nonresidential and hotel/motel buildings). (c) Either the performance compliance approach (energy budgets) specified in Section 140.1 or the prescriptive compliance approach specified in Section 140.2 for the climate zone in which the building will be located. Climate zones are shown in Figure 100.1-A.
Note to Section 140.0(c): The Commission periodically updates, publishes and makes available to interested persons and local enforcement agencies precise descriptions of the climate zones, which is available by zip code boundaries depicted in the Reference Joint Appendices along with a list of the communities in each zone.
Note to Section 140.0: The requirements of Sections 140.1 through 140.10 apply to newly constructed buildings. Section 141.0 specifies which requirements of Sections 140.1 through 140.10 also apply to additions or alterations to existing buildings.
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 140.1—PERFORMANCE APPROACH: ENERGY BUDGETS
A building complies with the performance standards if the energy consumption calculated for the proposed design building is no greater than the energy budget calculated for the standard design building using Commission-certified compliance software as specified by Sections 10-109(c) and 10-116.
§ 1.4.2. Medium relevance — show source text
K. Duct system sealing and leakage testing. When space-conditioning systems utilize forced air duct systems to supply conditioned air to an individual dwelling unit, the ducts shall be sealed, as confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing, in accordance with all applicable procedures specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1. Air handler airflow for calculation of duct leakage rate compliance targets shall be determined according to methods specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.1.4.2. For multifamily dwellings with the air-handling unit installed and the ducts connected directly to the air handler, regardless of duct system location: i. The total leakage of the duct system shall not exceed 12 percent of the air handler airflow as determined utilizing the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.1; or ii. The duct system leakage to outside shall not exceed 6 percent of the air handler airflow as determined utilizing the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix Section RA3.1.4.3.4.
- Exception 1 to Section 160.3(b)5K: The field verification and ECC-Provider data registry requirements of Reference Residential Appendix RA2 and RA3 are not required for multifamily dwelling units in buildings four
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MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS
habitable stories and greater. The installer shall certify that diagnostic testing was performed in accordance with the applicable procedures. Exception 2 to Section 160.3(b)5K: Multifamily dwelling units in buildings four habitable stories and greater in Climate Zones 1, 3, 5 and 7. L. System airflow rate and fan efficacy. Space-conditioning systems that utilize forced air ducts to supply cooling to an individual dwelling unit shall: i. Static pressure probe. Have a hole for the placement of a static pressure probe (HSPP), or a permanently installed static pressure probe (PSPP) in the supply plenum downstream of the air conditioning evaporator coil. The size, location and labeling of the HSPP or PSPP shall conform to the requirements specified in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3.1.1 as confirmed by field verification and diagnostic testing; and Exception to Section 160.3(b)5Li: Systems that cannot conform to the specifications for hole location in Reference Residential Appendix Figure RA3.3-1 shall not be required to provide holes as described in Figure RA3.3-1.
ii. Single zone central forced air systems. Demonstrate, in every control mode, airflow greater than or equal to 350 cfm per ton of nominal cooling capacity through the return grilles, and an air-handling unit fan efficacy less than or equal to the maximum W/cfm specified in Subsection a or b below. The airflow rate and fan efficacy requirements in this section shall be confirmed by field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the procedures given in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.3. a. 0.45 W/cfm for gas furnace air-handling units. b. 0.58 W/cfm for air-handling units that are not gas furnaces. Exception 1 to Section 160.3(b)5Lii: Standard ducted systems without zoning dampers may comply by meeting the applicable requirements in Table 160.3-A or 160.3-B as confirmed by field verification and diagnostic testing in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix Sections RA3.1.4.4 and RA3.1.4.5.
§ 140.6 Medium relevance — show source text
Class IV facility is normally used for recreational play and there is limited or no provision for spectators.
14. The additional videoconferencing lighting power shall be allowed provided the videoconferencing studio meets all the requirements of Section 140.6(c)2Gvii.|136 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
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NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE
COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY
- Allowed indoor lighting power allotments for all lighting power allotments other than general lighting shall be restricted as follows:
When using the area category method, allowed indoor lighting power allotments for specialized task work, precision commercial and industrial work, white board or chalk board, accent, display, decorative, videoconferencing studio, wall display, floor display, task, or very valuable display case, may not be increased as a result of, or otherwise traded off against, decreasing any other allotment.
(c) Calculation of allowed indoor lighting power: specific methodologies. The allowed indoor lighting power for each building type, or each primary function area shall be calculated using only one of the methods in Subsection 1 or 2 below as applicable.
- Complete building method. Requirements for using the complete building method include all of the following: A. The complete building method shall be used only for building types, as defined in Section 100.1, that are specifically listed in Table 140.6-B. (For example, retail and wholesale stores, hotel/motel, and high-rise residential buildings shall not use this method.)
B. The complete building method shall be used only on projects involving: i. Entire buildings with one type of use occupancy; or ii. Mixed occupancy buildings where one type of use makes up at least 90 percent of the entire building (in which case, when applying the complete building method, it shall be assumed that the primary use is 100 percent of the building); or iii. A tenant space where one type of use makes up at least 90 percent of the entire tenant space (in which case, when applying the complete building method, it shall be assumed that the primary use is 100 percent of the tenant space). C. The complete building method shall be used only when the applicant is applying for a lighting permit and submits plans and specifications for the entire building or the entire tenant space. D. Under the complete building method, the allowed indoor lighting power allotment is the lighting power density value times the floor area of the entire building. E. For buildings including a parking garage plus another type of use listed in Table 140.6-B, the parking garage portion of the building and other type of use portion of the building shall each separately use the Complete Building Method. 2. Area category method. Requirements for using the area category method include all of the following: A. The area category method shall be used only for primary function areas, as defined in Section 100.1, that are listed in Table 140.6-C. For primary function areas not listed, selection of a reasonably equivalent type shall be permitted. B. Primary function areas in Table 140.6-C shall not apply to a complete building. Each primary function area shall be determined as a separate area. C. For purposes of compliance with Section 140.6(c)2, an “area” shall be defined as all contiguous areas that accommodate or are associated with a single primary function area listed in Table 146.0-C.
§ 3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception: Construction documents for buildings constructed in accordance with the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308 shall indicate the following structural design information:
Floor and roof dead and live loads.
Ground snow load, p g, and allowable stress design ground snow load, p g(asd) .
Basic wind speed, V, mph (m/s), and allowable stress design wind speed, V asd , as determined in accordance with Section 1609 A .3.1 and wind exposure.
Seismic design category and site class.
Flood design data, if located in flood hazard areas established in Section 1612 A .3.
Design load-bearing values of soils.
Rain load data.
[DSA-SS] Additional requirements are included in Section 4-210 and 4-317 of the California Administrative Code (Part 1, Title 24, C.C.R).
[OSHPD 1] Additional requirements are included in Section 7-115 and 7-125 of the California Administrative Code.
1603 A .1.1 Floor live load. The uniformly distributed, concentrated and impact floor live load used in the design shall be indicated for floor areas. Use of live load reduction in accordance with Section 1607 A .13 shall be indicated for each type of live load used in the design.
1603 A .1.2 Roof live load. The roof live load used in the design shall be indicated for roof areas. 1603 A .1.3 Roof snow load data. The ground snow load, p g, shall be indicated. In areas where the ground snow load, p g , exceeds 15 pounds per square foot (psf) (0.72 kN/m [2] ), the following additional information shall also be provided, regardless of whether snow loads govern the design of the roof:
- Flat-roof snow load, p f .
- Snow exposure factor, C e .
- Risk category.
- Thermal factor, C t .
- Slope factor(s), C s .
- Drift surcharge load(s), p d , where the sum of p d and p f exceeds 30 psf (1.44 kN/m [2] ) .
- Width of snow drift(s), w .
- Winter wind parameter for snow drift, W 2 .
1603 A .1.4 Wind and tornado design data. The following information related to wind loads and, where required by Section 1609 A .5, tornado loads shall be shown, regardless of whether wind or tornado loads govern the design of the lateral force-resisting system of the structure:
- Basic wind speed, V, mph (m/s), tornado speed, V T, mph (m/s), and allowable stress design wind speed, V asd, mph (m/s), as determined in accordance with Section 1609 A .3.1.
§ 120.6 Medium relevance — show source text
Exception to Section 120.6(a)2: Underslab heating systems controlled such that the electric resistance heat is thermostatically controlled and disabled during the summer on-peak period defined by the local electric utility. 3. Evaporators. New fan-powered evaporators used in coolers and freezers shall conform to the following: A. Single phase fan motors less than 1 hp and less than 460 Volts in newly installed evaporators shall be electronicallycommutated motors or shall have a minimum motor efficiency of 70 percent when rated in accordance with NEMA Standard MG 1-2006 at full load rating conditions. B. Evaporator fans served either by a suction group with multiple compressors or by a single compressor with variable capacity capability shall be variable speed and the speed shall be controlled in response to space temperature or humidity. Exception 1 to Section 120.6(a)3B: Addition, alteration or replacement of less than all of the evaporators in an existing refrigerated space that does not have speed-controlled evaporators. Exception 2 to Section 120.6(a)3B: Coolers within refrigerated warehouses that maintain a controlled atmosphere for which a licensed engineer has certified that the types of products stored will require constant operation at 100 percent of the design airflow. Exception 3 to Section 120.6(a)3B: Areas within refrigerated warehouses that are designed solely for the purpose of quick chilling/freezing of products, including but not limited to spaces with design cooling capacities of greater than 240 Btu/hr-ft [2] (2 tons per 100 square feet). C. Evaporator fans served by a single compressor that does not have variable capacity shall utilize controls to reduce airflow by at least 40 percent for at least 75 percent of the time when the compressor is not running. Exception to Section 120.6(a)3C: Areas within refrigerated warehouses that are designed solely for the purpose of quick chilling/freezing of products [space with design cooling capacities of greater than 240 Btu/hr-ft [2] (2 tons per 100 square feet)]. D. Fan-powered evaporators utilizing volatile refrigerants shall meet the applicable efficiency requirements listed in Table 120.6-A-2.
Evaporator specific efficiency is defined as the gross total refrigeration capacity (Btu/h) divided by the electrical input power at 100 percent fan speed at rating conditions listed in Table 120.6-A-2 following the test procedure listed in Table 120.6-A-2.
80 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
NONRESIDENTIAL, HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES, AND COVERED PROCESSES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS
Exception to Section 120.6(a)3D: Evaporators designed solely for the purpose of quick chilling/freezing of products, including but not limited to spaces with design cooling capacities of greater than 240 Btu/hr-ft [2] (2 tons per 100 ft [2] ). E. The applied static pressure drop for evaporators shall not exceed 0.5 in. water. Exception to Section 120.6(a)3E: Evaporators designed solely for the purpose of quick chilling/freezing of products, including but not limited to spaces with design cooling capacities of greater that 240 Btu/hr-ft [2] (2 tons per 100 ft [2] ).
Frequently asked questions
How authoritative is Webster’s Third in this context?
The code explicitly directs the use of Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged (1961 edition, through the 2002 addenda) as the fallback definition source when the term is not in § 100.1 or Title 24 Parts 1–5, unless context requires otherwise. § 100.1(b)
If a section points to a specific Part, do I still follow § 100.1(b)?
Yes — section notes are part of the code’s structure. If a section calls out a specific Part/Article as the definitional source (for example, an electrical section pointing to Part 3, Article 100), follow that specific direction after confirming § 100.1(b)’s lookup order.
What if the Part 3/Article 100 definition conflicts with Webster’s?
Use the code-authorized definition (Part 3/Article 100) for code interpretation. The dictionary is only a fallback when no code source provides the term. § 100.1(b) makes the code definitions primary.
Must I record my lookup path in a plan review or interpretation memo?
Yes — when you rely on a definition outside § 100.1 (for example a Part/Article definition or Webster’s), document which source you used and why (the code requires following the ordered sources). This helps reviewers and appeals understand your rationale.
Where do I find the Titles/Parts referenced (Parts 1–5 or Part 3 Article 100)?
The referenced definitions chapters are in the separate Title 24 Parts (Building, Residential, Electrical, Mechanical, Plumbing, etc.). Section notes in Part 6 will often point you to the exact Part/Article when applicable — for example, § 130.5’s note points to Part 3, Article 100 for electrical terms.
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