CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Where are CALGreen application and verification checklists located?

If your nonresidential project is new, adds ≥ 1,000 sq ft, or is an alteration with valuation ≥ $200,000, CALGreen requires you to complete the Appendix A5 verification checklist: use **§ A5.602** for mandatory-only projects or **§ A5.602.1** / **§ A5.602.2** when adopting Tier 1 or Tier 2, attach plan/spec references, and sign the responsible‑designer declaration.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires

In plain English: for nonresidential projects that are new construction, building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more, CALGreen requires use of a specific verification checklist located in Appendix A5. The mandatory verification checklist is in § A5.602, with separate Tier 1 and Tier 2 verification checklists in § A5.602.1 and § A5.602.2 respectively. These checklists are the forms the enforcing agency expects to be submitted with permit documents to document compliance or voluntary-tier selections.

If your nonresidential project is new, an addition ≥ 1,000 sq ft, or an alteration with valuation ≥ $200,000, use the Appendix A5 checklists — § A5.602, § A5.602.1, or § A5.602.2 as applicable.

Requirements in detail

Where the checklists live (short)

  • The Mandatory Measures Checklist appears in Appendix A5 as § A5.602.
  • The Tier 1 Checklist appears in Appendix A5 as § A5.602.1.
  • The Tier 2 Checklist appears in Appendix A5 as § A5.602.2.

Decision‑relevant quick table

Checklist Application (when to use) Key thresholds / values Purpose / what you mark on the form Code Reference
Mandatory Measures Checklist Nonresidential projects that meet thresholds and that do not trigger a Tier 1/Tier 2 requirement New construction; additions ≥ 1,000 sq ft; alterations with valuation ≥ $200,000 (per § 301.3) Identify required mandatory items and mark Y / N/A / O; attach plan/spec references and responsible designer declaration § A5.602
Tier 1 Checklist Nonresidential projects adopting Tier 1 voluntary measures Same project thresholds as above (see § 301.3) Mark Y / N / O for prerequisites and electives; count total measures selected to confirm Tier 1 compliance; attach plan/spec references; sign declaration § A5.602.1
Tier 2 Checklist Nonresidential projects adopting Tier 2 voluntary measures Same project thresholds as above (see § 301.3) Same procedure as Tier 1 but using Tier 2 prerequisites/electives; count measures to confirm Tier 2 compliance; attach plan/spec references; sign declaration § A5.602.2

Filling and submitting the checklists (practical rules)

  • The checklists use simple codes you must complete on the form: Y = Yes, N/A = Not applicable, O = Other (with explanation). New construction and additions/alterations are indicated with [N] and [A] markers on the forms.
  • For Tier 1 and Tier 2, the instructions require you to: (1) mark prerequisites with Y, (2) select required number of electives (mark Y and mark N on the rest), and (3) count the total number of measures selected and record it on the checklist to demonstrate you meet the tier total.
  • The checklists include an explicit Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement that must be checked/signed to attest accuracy and completeness. Include company, date, license and phone as requested.

Attachments and plan submittal expectations

  • Each checklist has a column for Plan sheet, spec or attachment — you must reference the plan sheets/spec sections or attach supporting documentation showing how each item will be met.
  • Section 102.3 of CALGreen requires documentation of conformance for applicable green building measures be provided to the enforcing agency; this is the section that frames why the checklists and supporting documentation are required at plan intake.

Exceptions & special cases

  • The Mandatory Measures Checklist (§ A5.602) is intended for nonresidential projects that meet the stated thresholds and do not adopt Tier 1 or Tier 2; projects adopting a tier must use the Tier 1 or Tier 2 checklist instead.
  • The checklists include N/A as an option for items that truly do not apply (for example, specific measures intended only for certain occupancies). Use O (Other) with an explanation when the project is atypical.
  • Local enforcing agencies may adopt additional forms or require extra documentation; the checklists are the CALGreen templates but the enforcing agency has discretion on enforcement and additional requirements. See § 102 (Construction documents and installation verification) for enforcement discretion and submittal rules.

Common mistakes

  • Using the wrong checklist (e.g., using the Mandatory checklist when you’ve elected Tier 1 or Tier 2). The code explicitly separates those three checklists.
  • Failing to apply the project thresholds: remember 1,000 sq ft for additions and $200,000 valuation for alterations (pursuant to § 301.3) — if your project doesn’t meet those thresholds the Appendix A5 checklists may not apply.
  • Not attaching plan/spec references in the checklist "Plan Sheet, Spec or Attach" column — the form expects cross-references to drawings/specs or supporting documentation.
  • Forgetting the Responsible Designer's Declaration signature block or leaving required contact/license fields blank — the checklist contains a mandatory attestation block.

Worked example

Scenario: A developer submits plans for a new nonresidential office building, 5,000 sq ft (new construction). The developer wants to pursue Tier 1 voluntary measures.

Step‑by‑step (grounded in CALGreen checklists):

  1. Determine the applicable checklist: since this is new construction and the owner is adopting voluntary Tier 1 measures, use § A5.602.1 (Tier 1 Checklist).
  2. Complete the header identifying project type: mark [N] for New construction on the Tier 1 form.
  3. For each Tier 1 prerequisite listed on the checklist, enter Y and list the plan sheet or spec that shows compliance (e.g., "Roof plan Sheet A2; Spec Section 07-01").
  4. Select required number of elective measures (per table on the Tier 1 checklist), mark selected electives Y, mark others N, and write the total number of measures selected at the end of the checklist to demonstrate the total meets Tier 1 required total.
  5. Attach supporting documents (product data, calculations, commissioning forms, etc.) referenced in the checklist plan/spec column. The enforcing agency uses these attachments at plan intake to verify conformance under § 102.3.
  6. Complete and sign the Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement on the checklist, include company, license and date. Submit with permit application.

If the owner had chosen not to adopt any voluntary tier, they would instead complete the Mandatory Measures Checklist (§ A5.602) following the same plan/reference and signature steps.

Related provisions

  • § A5.602 — CALGreen Verification Guidelines Mandatory Measures Checklist (Appendix A5).
  • § A5.602.1 — CALGreen Verification Guidelines Tier 1 Checklist (Appendix A5).
  • § A5.602.2 — CALGreen Verification Guidelines Tier 2 Checklist (Appendix A5).
  • § A5.601 — CALGreen Tier 1 and Tier 2 overview and how tiers relate to Chapter 5.
  • § 301.3 — Project types / applicability thresholds referenced by the Appendix A5 checklists (see application statements in A5.602 family).
  • § 102.3 — Documentation of conformance and requirement to provide verification to the enforcing agency (plan intake context).
  • § 5.410.2 — Commissioning requirements and associated documentation/forms referenced by checklists (when applicable for systems).

Code references

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

  • CALGreen § 8-40 High 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 § 102.1 High relevance — show source text
    1. The application checklist identifies which measures are required by this code and allows users to check off which voluntary items have been selected to meet voluntary tier levels if desired or mandated by a city, county, or city and county.

    SECTION 102—CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS AND INSTALLATION VERIFICATION

    102.1 Submittal documents. Construction documents and other data shall be submitted in one or more sets with each application for a permit. Where special conditions exist, the enforcing agency is authorized to require additional construction documents to be prepared by a licensed design professional and may be submitted separately.

    Exception: The enforcing agency is authorized to waive the submission of construction documents and other data not required to be prepared by a licensed design professional.

    102.2 Information on construction documents. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and scope of the proposed green building feature and show that it will conform to the provisions of this code, the California Building Standards Code and other relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations as determined by the enforcing agency.

    102.3 Verification. Documentation of conformance for applicable green building measures shall be provided to the enforcing agency. Alternate methods of documentation shall be acceptable when the enforcing agency finds that the proposed alternate documentation is satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance with the intent of the proposed green building measure.

    [HCD] Documentation of conformance for applicable green building measures shall be provided to the enforcing agency. All projects shall submit a completed Residential Occupancies Application Checklist that includes Chapter 4 residential mandatory measures and Tier 1 or Tier 2, as applicable. References to the measure-specific documentation used to show compliance shall be included. Alternate methods of documentation shall be acceptable when the enforcing agency finds that the proposed alternate documentation is satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance with the intent of the proposed green building measure.

    Note: HCD’s Residential Occupancies Application Checklist that includes the minimum criteria for documentation is available at: http://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/calgreen/cal-green-forms.shtml.

    SECTION 103—BUILDING STANDARDS COMMISSION

    103.1 BSC-CG. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, the enforcement agency, and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.

    1. Application— All occupancies where no state agency has the authority to adopt green building standards applicable to those occupancies. Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law. Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Sections 18930.5(a), 18938 and 18940.5. Reference— Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.5, commencing with Section 18901.
    2. Graywater systems. The construction, installation and alteration of graywater systems for indoor and outdoor uses in nonresidential occupancies. Application— All occupancies where no state agency has the authority to adopt green building standards applicable to those occupancies. Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law. Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Section 18941.8. Reference— Health and Safety Code Section 18941.8.

    103.1.1 Adopting agency identification. The provisions of this code applicable to buildings identified in this section will be identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables under the acronym BSC-CG.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 1-5

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

    ADMINISTRATION

  • 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 § 301.3 High relevance — show source text

    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    		 5.106.1 through
    5.106.2
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Short-term bicycle parking (with exception) 5.106.4.1.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Long-term bicycle parking 5.106.4.1.2
    through
    5.106.4.1.2.3
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design    		 Mandatory Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] with Section 5.106.3.1,
    5.106.5.3.2 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1
    OR Independently
    Power Allocation Method:
    Section 5.106.5.3.6 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.6    		 5.106.5.3.1,
    5.106.5.3.2,
    Table 5.106.5.3.1,
    5.106.5.3.2.1,
    5.106.5.3.2.2,
    5.106.5.3.2.3,
    5.106.5.3.2.4,
    5.106.5.3.3,
    5.106.5.3.4 and
    5.106.5.3.5
    OR
    5.106.5.3.3,
    5.106.5.3.4,
    5.106.5.3.5,
    5.106.5.3.6,
  • CALGreen § 1-5 Medium relevance — show source text

    102 Construction Documents

    and Installation Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5

    103 Building Standards Commission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5 104 Department of Housing and Community Development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6 105 Division of the State Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6

    106 Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6

    CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3

    201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3

    202 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3

    CHAPTER 3 GREEN BUILDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3

    301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3

    302 Mixed Occupancy Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 303 Phased Projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 304 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 305 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    306 Voluntary Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    CHAPTER 4 RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . . . . . 4-3

    4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3 4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7 4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-9 4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . 4-11 4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

    CHAPTER 5 NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . 5-3

  • 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.
  • CALGreen § 405.4 Medium 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 § 602.1 Medium 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 § 602.2 Medium 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 § 7.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    d. Executed installation checklists

    e. Executed Functional Performance Test (FPT) forms

    f. Recommendations for end-of-warranty review activities

    7.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance during on-site enforcement by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning report, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the Cx Report has been completed.

    8-22 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    PART 2 SAMPLE FORMS AND TEMPLATES FOR COMMISSIONING

    Note: Following are examples of templates and/or forms that may be used or adopted for verification compliance with commissioning. Code users may provide their own documents as permitted by the enforcing agency. For each subsection of commissioning, samples are provided; in a few cases with narrative templates, and in most cases with compliance forms. Simplified forms or more detailed forms, but not both, may be selected to submit for each project.

    CALGreen COMPLIANCE FORM

    OWNER’S PROJECT REQUIREMENTS (OPR)

    The following form may be required to be printed on the permit set of construction drawings or submitted separately. Italicized text indicates direct or partial quotes from the CALGreen Code.

    CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2.1, Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR)

    5.410.2.1 Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). [N] The expectations and requirements of the building appropriate to its phase shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following: 1. Environmental and sustainability goals. 2. Building sustainable goals. 3. Indoor environmental quality requirements. 4. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after hours operation. 5. Equipment and systems expectations. 6. Building occupant and operation and maintenance (O&M) personnel expectations.

    Col1 OPR ELEMENTS INCLUDED
    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Building sustainable goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.
    4. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation,
    and need for after-hours operation.
    5. Equipment and systems expectations.
    6. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.

    Owner/Owner’s Representative Signature Date

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-23

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    OWNER’S PROJECT REQUIREMENTS (OPR)

    COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST

    INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS

    Project Address: _________________________________________________________

    Permit Number: _____________________________

  • CALGreen § 3.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    3.2 Compliance Method:

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

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

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

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

    8-16 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

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

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

    1. Meeting requirements

    2. Commissioning schedule management procedures

    3. Issue and noncompliance management procedures

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

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

    iii. Conditions of test

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

    1. Definitions section.

    3.3 Enforcement:

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

    Reference: 4 Commissioning plan

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.3, Commissioning plan.

    4.1 Intent:

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

    4.2 Compliance Method:

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

    1. General project information - Provide project-identifying information including but not limited to the following: i. Project name, owner, location. ii. Building type, building area. iii. Project schedule. iv. Contact information of individual/company providing the commissioning services.
  • CALGreen § 507.4.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    507.4.1.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Performance method|5.507.4.2||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Site features|5.507.4.2.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Documentation of compliance|5.507.4.2.2||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Interior sound transmission (with note)|5.507.4.3||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Ozone depletion and greenhouse gas reductions|5.508.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)|5.508.1.1||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Halons|5.508.1.2||||| |(continued)
    DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality|Mandatory|Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction for retail food
    stores 8,000 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.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly in the code do I find the mandatory and voluntary checklists?

Mandatory checklist: § A5.602 in Appendix A5. Tier 1: § A5.602.1. Tier 2: § A5.602.2.

My project is a 900 sq ft addition. Do I need to use the Appendix A5 checklists?

No — the Appendix A5 checklists apply to additions of 1,000 square feet or greater (and the other listed thresholds). Check the specific applicability language in § A5.602.

If I adopt Tier 1, do I still need to meet Chapter 5 mandatory measures?

Yes — the Tier 1 and Tier 2 checklists both state that all applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying the voluntary tier measures.

What is the expected evidence or attachments for checklist items?

Each checklist has a “Plan Sheet, Spec or Attach” column; you must reference drawings, specs, or attach supporting documentation. The enforcing agency may request documentation of conformance per § 102.3.

Do I have to sign the checklist?

Yes — the forms include a Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement (signature, company, date, license) to attest that the checklist is accurate and complete.

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

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

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)