CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

How do the Tier 1 and Tier 2 checklists work and what do they require?

If a nonresidential project chooses CALGreen Tier 1 or Tier 2, start by meeting all Chapter 5 mandatory rules, then use the Tier 1 (**§ A5.602.1**) or Tier 2 (**§ A5.602.2**) checklist to mark required prerequisites, pick the required number of electives, attach plan/spec references, and submit the completed checklist. The Tier 1/2 performance targets (parking, EV, cool roof, energy, water, waste) are summarized in **§ A5.601** and the project must reach the checklist total (typically 15 for Tier 1; 25 for Tier 2) to claim compliance.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English with the controlling §

Buildings that opt into CALGreen voluntary tiers must use the CALGreen Tier 1 or Tier 2 checklists to demonstrate they have selected and documented the required prerequisite measures and the required number of elective measures for that tier. The checklists are applied to qualifying nonresidential projects (new construction, additions ≥ 1,000 sq ft, or alterations with permit valuation ≥ $200,000) and require that all mandatory Chapter 5 requirements are met before applying tier measures. See § A5.601, § A5.602.1, and § A5.602.2 for scope and checklist instructions.

The single most important rule: meet all mandatory Chapter 5 provisions first, then use the Tier 1 or Tier 2 checklist to prove you selected the required prerequisites plus the required number of electives for the tier. § A5.602.1 and § A5.602.2 require checklist evidence that prerequisites and electives were selected.

Requirements in detail

Purpose and where to find the rules

  • Voluntary tiers are optional measures that a local jurisdiction may adopt/enforce; the tier structure and goals are summarized in § A5.601. The Table in § A5.601 is a performance-summary table that illustrates Tier 1 vs Tier 2 performance goals (energy, water, materials, site features).

  • The procedural checklists and step‑by‑step instructions for using the checklists are in § A5.602.1 (Tier 1 Checklist) and § A5.602.2 (Tier 2 Checklist). These sections state the application thresholds (new construction / additions / alterations) and the checklist workflow: mark prerequisites (Y/N/O), select electives, count totals, and submit documentation.

What the checklists require (high‑level)

  • Meet all mandatory Chapter 5 requirements first (precondition). § A5.602.1 and § A5.602.2 both note this precondition.
  • Comply with all Tier prerequisite measures listed in the checklist (these are required, not elective). Mark each prerequisite as Y (yes).
  • Select the required number of elective measures from the divisions shown; mark selected electives Y and unselected N; count prerequisites + electives to determine whether the tier threshold is met.
  • Documentation of compliance — the completed checklist and referenced plans/specs become part of the project record; verification follows Chapter 7 procedures. § A5.601.4 and the checklist sections specify recordkeeping and submittal expectations.

Decision-relevant dimensions and values (quick reference table)

Decision dimension Tier 1 value (typical) Tier 2 value (typical) Code Reference
Project application threshold (nonresidential) New construction, additions ≥ 1,000 sq ft, or alterations permit valuation ≥ $200,000 Same § A5.602.1 and § A5.602.2
Total number of measures required (checklist total) 15 measures required for Tier 1 (table shows total) 25 measures required for Tier 2 (table shows total) § A5.601 and Tier checklists (Totals)
Designated parking for fuel-efficient vehicles Approx. 35% of spaces Approx. 50% of spaces § A5.601 (Table)
Electric vehicle (EV) charging readiness / capacity Approx. 30% of spaces Approx. 45% of spaces § A5.601 (Table; see A5.106 references)
Cool roof SRI (example values) Roof slope <2:12 SRI **75**; >2:12 SRI 16 Roof slope <2:12 SRI **82**; >2:12 SRI 27 § A5.601 (Cool roof table)
Energy budget (relative to Part 6 allowance) Energy Budget 95% or 90% of Part 6 calculated allowance (examples in table) Energy Budget 90% or 85% of Part 6 calculated allowance § A5.601 (Energy performance rows)
Indoor potable water use reduction 12% savings (Tier 1) 20% savings (Tier 2) § A5.601 (Division A5.3 row)
Construction & demolition waste diversion ≥ 65% reduction (Tier 1) ≥ 80% reduction (Tier 2) § A5.601 / § A5.408.3.1 references in Tier 2 list
Tier prerequisites + electives workflow Mark prerequisites (Y), select electives (Y/N), count totals Same § A5.602.1 and § A5.602.2 (checklist instructions)

Notes: The Table in § A5.601 is illustrative of the targets and points you must achieve and points to the checklist process in § A5.602.1 and § A5.602.2 for verification details.

How the Tier 2 checklist adds prescriptive required items (highlights)

Tier 2 builds on Tier 1 and adds specific mandatory items and higher thresholds. For example, Tier 2 requires (among other things): designated fuel-efficient parking for 50% of spaces, EV charging per Table A5.106.5.3.2, and specific cool‑roof SRI/reflectance values; it also prescribes a set of required actions from Divisions A5.1 through A5.5 (see list in § A5.601.3.4) and requires compliance with multiple division-specific electives and prerequisites.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Voluntary tiers are optional for jurisdictions — a city/county must adopt/enforce them before they are mandatory locally. See § 304.1.1 and the explanation in § A5.601 that tiers are voluntary unless adopted locally.
  • The checklist application scope is limited to projects defined in the checklist application lines (new construction, additions ≥ 1,000 sq ft, alterations ≥ $200,000 valuation). If the project does not meet these thresholds, use the Mandatory Checklist instead. § A5.602 and § A5.602.1–.2 explain this.
  • Local enforcing agencies may grant modifications for practical difficulties (the enforcing agency must document findings). See the voluntary tiers administrative guidance in § 304.1.1.
  • For projects regulated by other state agencies (e.g., OSHPD, DSA), certain health‑facility or school-specific tier rules may apply; Appendix notes show where OSHPD/DSA adoption differs. Check the matrix and applicable agency notes.

Common mistakes

  • Failing to satisfy mandatory Chapter 5 requirements before claiming Tier compliance. The checklists explicitly require mandatory measures be met first. § A5.602.1 / § A5.602.2.
  • Counting only electives and forgetting to include Tier prerequisite measures in the total. The checklist workflow requires counting prerequisites + electives. § A5.602.1 / § A5.602.2.
  • Using the wrong checklist: projects that adopt Tier 2 must use § A5.602.2 (Tier 2 Checklist); Tier 1 projects must use § A5.602.1. Each checklist has differing prerequisite lists and totals.
  • Not documenting checklist selections with plans/specs and the “plan sheet/spec or attach” references required by the checklist; the checklist is documentary evidence for plan review and inspector verification. § A5.602 and Chapter 7 verification requirements apply.

Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers

Scenario: A developer is building a new 20,000 sq ft office building and chooses to pursue CALGreen Tier 2.

Step 1 — Application threshold check: New construction → Tier 2 checklist applies (see § A5.602.2).

Step 2 — Mandatory Chapter 5: The design team confirms all Chapter 5 mandatory items are satisfied (precondition per § A5.602.2).

Step 3 — Tier 2 prerequisites: The team must mark Y for all Tier 2 prerequisite measures in the checklist (examples required under § A5.601.3.4):

  • Provide designated fuel‑efficient parking for 50% of parking capacity (if the project has 100 stalls, that’s 50 stalls reserved) — § A5.601.
  • Provide EV charging infrastructure roughly 45% of spaces (if 100 stalls → 45 EV‑capable/charging stalls) per § A5.601 and Table A5.106 references.
  • Install cool roof meeting the Tier 2 SRI/reflectance (roof slope <2:12 SRI 82 example) — § A5.601.

Step 4 — Division‑specific Tier 2 checklist requirements: Per § A5.601.3.4, the project must meet a number of division prescriptions such as: two of the listed A5.2 energy items (example: day‑lighting adjustments and exhaust heat recovery), indoor potable water savings 20%, construction waste diversion ≥ 80%, specified recycled content or products, resilient flooring requirements, etc. The checklist enumerates these prerequisites and elective choices.

Step 5 — Count measures: The Tier 2 checklist totals required measures are 25 (the team must reach that sum of prerequisites + selected electives). The checklist provides spaces to record “Total number of measures selected” and requires a responsible‑designer declaration verifying Tier 2 compliance. § A5.602.2 and § A5.601 (totals) apply.

Step 6 — Documentation and submittal: The completed checklist, plan sheet references, specs and attachments are submitted with construction documents per § A5.602.2 and Chapter 7 verification requirements. The enforcing agency uses those documents for plan check and field verification.

Related provisions (CALGreen sections to consult)

  • § A5.601 — Nonresidential Tier 1 and Tier 2 performance table and Tier descriptions.
  • § A5.602.1 — CALGreen Verification Guidelines: Tier 1 Checklist (application, instructions, prerequisites/electives workflow).
  • § A5.602.2 — CALGreen Verification Guidelines: Tier 2 Checklist (application, instructions, prerequisites/electives workflow).
  • § A5.601.3.4 — Tier 2 specific required voluntary measures from Divisions A5.1–A5.5 (lists core items: parking, EV, cool roof, water/energy/materials thresholds).
  • § 304.1.1 — Voluntary tiers: adoption and modifying authority by local jurisdictions.
  • Chapter 7 (verification & records) — describes verification procedures and how checklist/documentation become part of the project record (referenced by § A5.601.4).

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CALGreen § 304.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 304—VOLUNTARY TIERS

    304.1 Purpose. Voluntary tiers are intended to further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.

    304.1.1 Tiers. The provisions of Divisions A4.6 and A5.6 outline means, in the form of voluntary tiers, for achieving enhanced construction levels by incorporating additional measures for residential and nonresidential new construction. Voluntary tiers may be adopted by local governments and, when adopted, enforced by local enforcing agencies. Buildings complying with tiers specified for each occupancy contain additional prerequisite and elective green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each tier. See Section 101.7 of this code for procedures and requirements related to local amendments, additions or deletions, including changes to energy standards.

    [BSC & HCD] Where there are practical difficulties involved in complying with the threshold levels of a tier, the enforcing agency may grant modifications for individual cases. The enforcing agency shall first find that a special individual reason makes the strict letter of the tier impractical and that modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of the measure. The details of any action granting modification shall be recorded and entered in the files of the enforcing agency.

    SECTION 305 [OSHPD 1]— CALGreen TIER 1 AND CALGreen TIER 2

    305.1 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 buildings contain voluntary green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level.

    305.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. To achieve CALGreen Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/main/page_ downloads_ sbd_healthcare.html.

    305.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.

    SECTION 306 [DSA-SS]—VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    306.1 Purpose. For public schools and community colleges, voluntary measures further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.

    306.1.1 Appendix A5, Divisions A5.1 through A5.5, outline means of achieving enhanced sustainable design and construction by incorporating voluntary measures that exceed the mandatory measures.

    306.1.2 Chapter 5 Nonresidential Mandatory Measures that are not adopted as mandatory measures by DSA-SS are voluntary measures recommended and encouraged for the design, construction, verification and maintenance of non-energy systems.

    Note: The building commissioning requirements for energy efficiency specified in the California Energy Code are required.

    3-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 4 – RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

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

  • CALGreen § 602.2 High relevance — show source text
    Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
    Check the appropriate box(es) for the list below.
    □ Mandatory: I attest that the mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.
    □ Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected meet or exceed the total number required
    to achieve Tier 1 compliance.
    □ Partial Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected do not meet the total number
    required to achieve Tier 1 compliance: however, partial Tier 1 compliance has been achieved.    		 Col2
    Signature:
    Company: Date:
    Address: License:
    City/State/Zip: Phone:

    APPENDIX A5-54 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A5.602.2

    CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES

    TIER 2 CHECKLIST

    Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 2 voluntary measures.

    Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 2 voluntary measures.

    Instructions:

    Comply with all Tier 2 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.

    Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 2 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.

    Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.

    Count the total number of Tier 2 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 2 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 2 compliance.

    Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)

    [N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3

    [A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
    Scope with Exception    		 5.105.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with
    note    		 5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
    less than 1 acre of land    		 5.106.1 through
    5.106.
  • CALGreen § 304.3.3 High relevance — show source text

    For Risk Categories I, II and III, the Tier 1 and Tier 2 procedures need not be considered for the BSE-1E earthquake hazard level.
    b. For Risk Category III, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on the Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be
    based on_MS_-factors that are the average of the values for Collapse Prevention and Life Safety.
    c. For Risk Category IV, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be based
    on_MS_-factors for Life Safety.|a. For Risk Categories I, II and III, the Tier 1 and Tier 2 procedures need not be considered for the BSE-1E earthquake hazard level.
    b. For Risk Category III, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on the Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be
    based on_MS_-factors that are the average of the values for Collapse Prevention and Life Safety.
    c. For Risk Category IV, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be based
    on_MS_-factors for Life Safety.|a. For Risk Categories I, II and III, the Tier 1 and Tier 2 procedures need not be considered for the BSE-1E earthquake hazard level.
    b. For Risk Category III, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on the Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be
    based on_MS_-factors that are the average of the values for Collapse Prevention and Life Safety.
    c. For Risk Category IV, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be based
    on_MS_-factors for Life Safety.|

    304.3.3 Criteria for incidental and minor structural alteration, additions, or repairs of pre-1973 code buildings. [OSHPD 1R, 2, 4 & 5] Provisions of this section shall apply to hospital buildings which were originally designed to pre-1973 building codes, and had no major structural alterations, additions or repairs using 1973 California Building Standards Code or later editions with an OSHPD permit. 1. Nonstructural components. Component importance factor, I p , shall be permitted to be 1.0. Exception: Components required for life safety purposes after an earthquake, including emergency, standby or alternative power systems, mechanical smoke removal systems, fire protection sprinkler systems, fire alarm control panels and egress stairways shall have a component importance factor (I p ) of 1.5.

    SECTION 305—IN-SITU LOAD TESTS

    [BS] 305.1 General. Where used, in-situ load tests shall be conducted in accordance with Section 1708 of the California Building Code .

    SECTION 306—ACCESSIBILITY FOR EXISTING BUILDINGS

    [DSA-AC] Public buildings, public accommodations, commercial facilities and public housing regulated by the Division of the State Architect-Access Compliance in Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code, Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1 shall comply with Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code, Chapter 11B.

  • CALGreen § 602.1 High relevance — show source text

    )_|TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
    Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
    CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)| |CATEGORY|ENVIRONMENTAL
    PERFORMANCE GOAL|TIER 1|TIER 2| |All|Minimum Mandatory
    (See Mandatory Checklist)|Meet all of the provisions
    of Chapter 5 (See Tier 1 Checklist)|Meet all of the provisions
    of Chapter 5 (See Tier 2 Checklist)| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and Design|Reuse of existing building|See Section A5.105.1 and Section
    A5.105.2 requirements|See Section A5.105.1 and Section
    A5.105.2 requirements| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and Design|Designated Parking for
    Fuel Efficient Vehicles
    (Tier 1 and Tier 2 only)|Approx. 35% of total spaces|Approx. 50% of total spaces| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and Design|Electric Vehicle Charging|Approx. 30% of total spaces|Approx. 45% of total spaces| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and Design|Cool Roof to Reduce
    Heat Island Effect|Roof Slope < 2:12 SRI 75
    Roof Slope > 2:12 SRI 16|Roof Slope < 2:12 SRI 82
    Roof Slope > 2:12 SRI 27| |DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and Design||1 additional Elective from Division A5.1|3 additional Electives from Division A5.1| |DIVISION 5.2
    Energy Efficiency|Energy Performance2a, 2b|Outdoor lighting power 90%
    of Part 6 allowance|Outdoor lighting power 90%
    of Part 6 allowance| |||If applicable, solar water-heating system
    with minimum solar savings fraction of 0.15|If applicable, solar water-heating system
    with minimum solar savings fraction of 0.15| |||Warehouse door seals|Warehouse door seals| |||Comply with day lighting requirements|Comply with day lighting requirements| |||Exhaust heat recovery|Exhaust heat recovery| |||Energy Budget 95% or 90%
    of Part 6 calculated value of allowance|Energy Budget 90% or 85%
    of Part 6 calculated value of allowance| |DIVISION 5.3
    Water Efficiency
    and Conservation|Indoor Water Use|12% Savings|20% Savings| |DIVISION 5.3
    Water Efficiency
    and Conservation||1 additional Elective from Division A5.3|3 additional Electives from Division A5.3| |DIVISION 5.4
    Material Conservation
    and Resource Efficiency3|Construction Waste Reduction|At least 65% reduction|At least 80% reduction| |**DIVISION 5.

  • CALGreen § 602.1 High relevance — show source text

    VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3

    A5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3 A5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-13 A5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A5-19 A5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-25 A5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-35 A5.6 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41 A5.601 CALGren Tier 1 and Tier 2. . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41

    A5.602 CALGreen Verification Guidelines Mandatory Measures Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-44

    A5.602.1 CALGreen Verification Guidelines

    Tier 1 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-48

    A5.602.2 CALGreen Verification Guidelines

    Tier 2 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-55

    APPENDIX A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH

    FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.1 Site Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-32 A6.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-33

    INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INDEX-1

    HISTORY NOTE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIST-1

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE vii

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

    viii 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 1 – ADMINISTRATION

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

    |Adopting

  • CALGreen § 602.1 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-39

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

    APPENDIX A5-40 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.6 – VOLUNTARY TIERS

    SECTION A5.601—CALGreen TIER 1 AND TIER 2 Col2 Col3 Col4
    TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
    Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
    CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)    		 TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
    Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
    CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)    		 TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
    Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
    CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)    		 TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
    Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
    CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)
    CATEGORY ENVIRONMENTAL
    PERFORMANCE GOAL    		 TIER 1 TIER 2
    All Minimum Mandatory
    (See Mandatory Checklist)    		 Meet all of the provisions
    of Chapter 5 (See Tier 1 Checklist)    		 Meet all of the provisions
    of Chapter 5 (See Tier 2 Checklist)
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and Design    		 Reuse of existing building See Section A5.105.1 and Section
    A5.105.2 requirements    		 See Section A5.105.1 and Section
    A5.105.2 requirements
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and Design    		 Designated Parking for
    Fuel Efficient Vehicles
    (Tier 1 and Tier 2 only)    		 Approx. 35% of total spaces Approx. 50% of total spaces
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and Design    		 Electric Vehicle Charging Approx. 30% of total spaces Approx. 45% of total spaces
    **DIVISION 5.
  • CALGreen § 405.4 High relevance — show source text
    1. From Division A5.4,

    a. Comply with recycled content of 15 percent of materials based on estimated total cost, or use two products from Table A5.405.4 for at least 75 percent by cost in Section A5.405.4.1. b. Comply with the 80-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.

    1. From Division A5.5,

    a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 100 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7.1. Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list and no added formaldehyde in Section A5.504.4.8.1.

    c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division. 6. Comply with three additional elective measures selected from any division.

    1 Cool roof is required for compliance with Tiers 1 and 2 and may be used to meet energy standards in Part 6, exceed energy standards and to mitigate heat island effect.

    A5.601.4 Compliance verification. Compliance with Section A5.601.2 or A5.601.3 shall be as required in Chapter 7 of this code. Compliance documentation shall be made part of the project record as required in Section 5.410.2 or 5.410.3.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-43

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A5.602

    CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES MANDATORY MEASURES CHECKLIST

    Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet one of the following: new construction, building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3 AND do not trigger a Tier 1 or Tier 2 requirement:

    Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included)

    — N/A = Not Applicable (code section does not apply to the project mainly used for additions and alterations) O = Other (provide explanation)

    [N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3

    [A ] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N/A O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
    Scope with Exception    		 5.105.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with
    note    		 5.105.2 and
    5.105.2.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb less
    than 1 acre of land    		 5.106.
  • CALGreen § 8-40 Medium relevance — show source text

    . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40

    APPENDIX A4 RESIDENTIAL

    VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3

    A4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3 A4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-9 A4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A4-13 A4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-15 A4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-19 A4.6 Tier 1 and Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-21

    Division A4.6—Residential Occupancies Application Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-23 A4.7 Residential Model Ordinance . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-31

    APPENDIX A5 NONRESIDENTIAL

    VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3

    A5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3 A5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-13 A5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A5-19 A5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-25 A5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-35 A5.6 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41 A5.601 CALGren Tier 1 and Tier 2. . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41

    A5.602 CALGreen Verification Guidelines Mandatory Measures Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-44

    A5.602.1 CALGreen Verification Guidelines

    Tier 1 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-48

    A5.602.2 CALGreen Verification Guidelines

    Tier 2 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-55

    APPENDIX A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH

  • CALGreen § 106.9 Medium relevance — show source text
    FEATURE OR MEASURE COMPLIANCE LEVELS Col3 Col4 NOTES
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2
    DIVISION A6.1 – PLANNING AND DESIGN
    SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development
    **A6.106.9 Building orientation.**Locate and orient the building as follows:
    1. When site and location permit, orient the building with the long sides facing north and
    south.
    2. Protect the building from thermal loss, drafts and degradation of the building envelope
    caused by wind and wind-driven materials such as dust.
    DIVISION A6.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY
    SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures
    A6.203.1 Energy performance. [OSHPD 1]
    **A6.203.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1]**Buildings must comply with the latest edition of
    “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures.”
    A.5.203.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] Buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings
    By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by 15 percent.
    SECTION A6.204 Prescriptive Measures
    **A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances.**All equipment and appliances provided
    by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment
    or appliance.
    A6.204.4 Commissioning. Building commissioning for all building systems covered by T24,
    Part 6, process systems and renewable energy systems shall be included in the design and
    construction processes of the building project. Commissioning requirements shall include as
    a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.
    **A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).**Documented before the design phase of
    the project begins the OPR shall include items listed in Section A6.204.4.
    **A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD).**A written explanation of how the design of the building
    systems meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and
    updated periodically to cover the systems listed in Section A6.204.4.2.
    **A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan.
  • CALGreen § 304.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    [BS] 304.3.2 Reduced seismic criteria. Where required, seismic evaluation or design shall comply with one of the following methodologies, which shall not be applied in combination with each other:

    1. Section 1613 of the California Building Code using 75 percent of the prescribed forces. Values of R, Ω 0 and C d used for analysis shall be as specified in Section 304.3.1 of this code.

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE 3-5

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

    PROVISIONS FOR ALL COMPLIANCE METHODS

    1. Applicable chapters of Appendix A of this code, for structures or portions of structures specified in Items 2.1 through 2.4 subject to the limitations of the respective chapter. 2.1. Chapter A1 for unreinforced masonry bearing wall buildings assigned to Risk Category I or II. 2.2. Chapter A2 for the wall anchorage system in reinforced concrete and reinforced masonry wall buildings with flexible diaphragms assigned to Risk Category I or II. 2.3. Chapter A3 for cripple walls and sill plate anchorage in residential buildings of light-frame wood construction assigned to Risk Category I or II. 2.4. Chapter A4 for soft, weak or open-front wall conditions in multiple-unit residential buildings of wood construction assigned to Risk Category I or II.
    2. ASCE 41, using the performance objective in Table 304.3.2 for the applicable risk category.
    [BS] TABLE 304.3.2—PERFORMANCE OBJECTIVES FOR USE IN ASCE 41 FOR COMPLIANCE WITH REDUCED CRITERIA FORCES Col2 Col3
    RISK CATEGORY
    (Based on IBC Table 1604.5)    		 STRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR USE
    WITH BSE-1E EARTHQUAKE HAZARD LEVEL    		 STRUCTURAL PERFORMANCE LEVEL FOR USE
    WITH BSE-2E EARTHQUAKE HAZARD LEVEL
    I Life Safety (S-3).
    See Note a    		 Collapse Prevention (S-5)
    II Life Safety (S-3).
    See Note a    		 Collapse Prevention (S-5)
    III Damage Control (S-2).
    See Note a    		 Limited Safety (S-4).
    See Note b
    IV Immediate Occupancy (S-1) Life Safety (S-3).
    See Note c
    a. For Risk Categories I, II and III, the Tier 1 and Tier 2 procedures need not be considered for the BSE-1E earthquake hazard level.
    b. For Risk Category III, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on the Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be
    based on_MS_-factors that are the average of the values for Collapse Prevention and Life Safety.
    c. For Risk Category IV, the Tier 1 screening checklists shall be based on Collapse Prevention, except that checklist statements using the Quick Check provisions shall be based
    on_MS_-factors for Life Safety.    		 a. For Risk Categories I, II and III, the Tier 1 and Tier 2 procedures need not be considered for the BSE-1E earthquake hazard level.
    b.
  • CALGreen § 507.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    5**
    Environmen-
    tal
    Quality|Select One|Elective|Views|A5.507.3||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmen-
    tal
    Quality|Select One|Elective|Interior office spaces|A5.507.3.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmen-
    tal
    Quality|Select One|Elective|Multi-occupant spaces (with exceptions)|A5.507.3.2||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmen-
    tal
    Quality|Select One|Elective|Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)|A5.508.1.3||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmen-
    tal
    Quality|Select One|Elective|Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)|A5.508.1.4||||| |Additional
    Measures|Additional
    Measures||Select 1 additional measure from any division|Add section #||||| |Total number of Measures required|Total number of Measures required|Total number of Measures required|Total number of Measures required|15||||| |Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected||||||

    Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
    Check the appropriate box(es) for the list below.
    □ Mandatory: I attest that the mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.
    □ Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected meet or exceed the total number required
    to achieve Tier 1 compliance.
    □ Partial Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected do not meet the total number
    required to achieve Tier 1 compliance: however, partial Tier 1 compliance has been achieved.    		 Col2
    Signature:
    Company: Date:
    Address: License:
    City/State/Zip: Phone:

    APPENDIX A5-54 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A5.602.2

    CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES

    TIER 2 CHECKLIST

    Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 2 voluntary measures.

    Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 2 voluntary measures.

    Instructions:

    Comply with all Tier 2 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.

    Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 2 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.

  • CALGreen § 5.508.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    000 square feet or more|5.508.2
    through
    5.508.2.6.3||||| |||END OF MANDATORY PROVISIONS||||||

    Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
    □ Mandatory: I attest that this mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.    		 Col2
    Signature: Signature:
    Company: Date:
    Address: License:
    City/State/Zip: Phone:

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-47

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A5.602.1

    CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES

    TIER 1 CHECKLIST

    Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 1 voluntary measures.

    Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 1 voluntary measures.

    Instructions:

    Comply with all Tier 1 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.

    Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 1 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.

    Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.

    Count the total number of Tier 1 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 1 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 1 compliance.

    Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)

    [N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3

    [A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
    Scope with Exception    		 5.105.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with note 5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
    less than 1 acre of land    		 5.106.1 through
    5.106.2
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Short-term bicycle parking 5.106.4.1.

Frequently asked questions

Who must use the Tier 1 or Tier 2 checklist?

Nonresidential projects that are new construction, additions of 1,000 sq ft or greater, or alterations with permit valuation $200,000 or more that are opting into Tier 1 or Tier 2 must use the corresponding checklist. § A5.602.1 / § A5.602.2

Must mandatory Chapter 5 measures be complied with before applying a tier?

Yes — the checklists state explicitly that all applicable mandatory Chapter 5 requirements must be met prior to applying Tier 1 or Tier 2 voluntary measures. § A5.602.1 / § A5.602.2

How do I prove I met the tier requirements?

Complete the Tier checklist (mark prerequisites Y, select electives Y/N), total the measures (prerequisites + electives), attach plans/specs or sheet references where each measure is shown, and submit as part of the construction documents per the checklist instructions and Chapter 7 verification rules. § A5.602.1–.2 and § A5.601.4

Are the tiers mandatory statewide?

No — the tiers are voluntary measures that local jurisdictions may adopt and enforce; check local adoption. § 304.1.1 and § A5.601 explain adoption/voluntary status.

Where are the numeric thresholds (parking %, water savings, waste diversion) shown?

Numeric thresholds and performance targets are summarized in the Tier performance table in § A5.601 and are augmented by the detailed division provisions and the Tier 2 required lists in § A5.601.3.4. The Tier checklists reference the specific division sections for exact compliance language.

More in California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Ask about the CALGreen

Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) for your project — any code section, any scenario.

Start Free Trial

Related in the CALGreen

Where are CALGreen application and verification checklists located?

What verification is required for whole‑building life‑cycle assessment (WBLCA)?

Application checklists, CALGreen verification guidelines & voluntary tiers (Appendix A4/A5)

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)