CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

What must be included in the Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan)?

The Cx Plan is a required, project‑specific document completed before permits are issued that lists what systems will be commissioned, how they will be tested (design intent, test conditions, measurable acceptance criteria), who will perform and review the work, and the schedule and responsibilities to ensure the building meets the Owner’s Project Requirements and Basis of Design. **§ 5.410.2.3**

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Green Building Standards Code requires a project-specific Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan) to be completed prior to permit issuance that documents how the project will be commissioned. The Cx Plan must include general project information, commissioning goals, systems to be commissioned (with plans to test systems and components that include design intent, equipment, functions, test conditions and measurable acceptance criteria), commissioning team information, and commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. This requirement is set out in § 5.410.2.3 .

The single most important rule: complete a project-specific Commissioning Plan before permit issuance that lists what will be commissioned, how it will be tested, who will do it, and measurable acceptance criteria. § 5.410.2.3

Requirements in detail

Key defined terms (first use bolded): Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan), Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD), Commissioning team / Commissioning coordinator, Functional Performance Testing (FPT).

At-a-glance table — required Cx Plan elements

Cx Plan element What must be included / decision-relevant values Code reference
General project information Project name, owner, location, building type and area, project schedule, contact info for commissioning provider (minimum) § 5.410.2.3
Commissioning goals Statement of Cx objectives: meeting CALGreen requirements, meeting OPR and BOD, carrying out commissioning activities shown in plans/specs § 5.410.2.3
Systems to be commissioned (plans to test) Must include: (a) explanation of original design intent; (b) list of equipment/systems to be tested and extent of tests; (c) functions to be tested; (d) conditions under which tests are performed; (e) measurable criteria for acceptable performance § 5.410.2.3
Commissioning team information Contact list for owner/rep, architect/engineer(s), designated commissioning representative, GC/subs, (if applicable) CxA — roles and responsibilities § 5.410.2.3
Commissioning process activities, schedule & responsibilities Phased Cx steps from design through occupancy; deliverables, reports, who writes/tests/reviews/approves, schedule for completion and plans for final acceptance § 5.410.2.3

Notes on the “systems to be commissioned” entry:

  • The code requires the Cx Plan to show the plan for testing systems and components — these are not the step‑by‑step test procedures, but must list features, modes and conditions to be tested and measurable pass/fail criteria (see guidance and FPT requirements) § 5.410.2.3 and § 5.410.2.4 .

Recommended structure and minimum content (guided by CALGreen)

  • Start the Cx Plan in the design phase and have it approved by the owner or owner’s representative.
  • Include a short narrative that ties each commissioned system back to the OPR and BOD (these documents must exist per § 5.410.2.1 and § 5.410.2.2).
  • For each commissioned item provide: who tests it (party), prerequisites, precautions, instrumentation, test instructions, acceptance criteria, results documentation and a signature block — consistent with FPT guidance.

Exceptions & special cases

  • Commissioning requirements in Sections 5.410.2 through 5.410.2.6 generally apply except the code lists specific exceptions such as: unconditioned warehouses of any size, areas less than 10,000 square feet used for conditioned accessory spaces within an unconditioned warehouse, and tenant improvements less than 10,000 square feet (see the exceptions in Section 5.410.2). These exceptions affect whether full commissioning is required.
  • Energy‑related systems (HVAC, indoor lighting and controls, water heating and associated controls) may also be subject to the California Energy Code commissioning rules (see Title 24 references; CALGreen directs you to Section 120.8 of the Energy Code for energy-system FPT).
  • For projects regulated by OSHPD or other special jurisdictions, consult applicable Appendix or A6 guidance: the guidance reiterates the same minimum Cx Plan elements and that the plan should be started during design.

Common mistakes

  • Submitting a Cx Plan after permit issuance (the code requires it prior to permit issuance). § 5.410.2.3
  • Treating the Cx Plan as only a checklist; the plan must explain test approaches (design intent, test conditions, measurable criteria), not just list equipment. § 5.410.2.3
  • Omitting roles/responsibilities (who writes tests, who executes, who approves) — the plan must specify these for each phase. § 5.410.2.3
  • Confusing Functional Performance Testing (FPT) procedures with the Cx Plan: the plan describes what will be tested and acceptance criteria; FPT procedures document the how and the actual results (see § 5.410.2.4 and guidance).
  • Forgetting to reference OPR and BOD in the Cx Plan — the plan must show how tests confirm the OPR/BOD. § 5.410.2.1, § 5.410.2.2, § 5.410.2.3

Worked example — 25,000 ft² small office (how the Cx Plan meets § 5.410.2.3)

Scenario: A 25,000 ft² conditioned office building (new construction). The owner requires commissioning for energy and non‑energy systems.

What the Cx Plan must contain (by code):

  1. General project information: project name, owner, location, building area 25,000 ft², schedule, Cx provider contact. § 5.410.2.3
  2. Commissioning goals: confirm OPR/BOD performance for HVAC, lighting controls, domestic hot water and a photovoltaic array; meet CALGreen commissioning requirements. § 5.410.2.3
  3. Systems to be commissioned — plans to test including:
    • a. Design intent: narrative tying HVAC sequence and energy strategy back to the OPR/BOD. § 5.410.2.3
    • b. Equipment list and extent: AHUs, VAV boxes, lighting control panels, DHW heaters, PV inverter and combiner — list included and whether each is 100% tested or sampled. § 5.410.2.3
    • c/d/e. Functions, test conditions and measurable criteria: e.g., verify AHU supply temperature control within the sequence under normal and part‑load conditions and that VAV boxes modulate to maintain space setpoints. The code requires measurable criteria but DOES NOT prescribe numeric pass/fail values — those must be set in the project OPR/BOD or by the owner/engineer and documented in the Cx Plan. § 5.410.2.3
  4. Commissioning team information: owner rep, architect, MEP engineer, Cx coordinator, GC and key subcontractors with contact info and roles. § 5.410.2.3
  5. Process activities/schedules/responsibilities: design‑phase review, pre‑functional checklists, installation checkout, FPT timing (including opposite‑season testing if required), final acceptance and training confirmation; who signs off at each stage. § 5.410.2.3

Illustrative numeric example (NOT specified by CALGreen — owner/engineer must define): “AHU supply air temp control accuracy: ±2°F at design flow during normal operation” — this kind of measurable acceptance criterion belongs in the Cx Plan, but the code does not set these numeric values. § 5.410.2.3

Related provisions

  • § 5.410.2.1 — Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR) (OPR must be documented before design).
  • § 5.410.2.2 — Basis of Design (BOD) (BOD must explain how design meets OPR).
  • § 5.410.2.4 — Functional Performance Testing (FPT) (FPT procedures and test content that follow the Cx Plan).
  • § 5.410.2.5 — Documentation and training; § 5.410.2.5.1 Systems manual (post‑construction deliverables tied to the Cx Plan).
  • § 5.410.2.6 — Commissioning Report (final report that must include commissioning process documents).
  • California Energy Code references (e.g., Title 24 Section 120.8 / Section 100) — energy‑system commissioning and FPT may be governed there in addition to CALGreen.

Code references

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

  • CALGreen § 5.410.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    Informational Note:

    1. Functional performance testing for heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and lighting controls must be performed in compliance with the California Energy Code.

    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.

    5.410.2.2 Basis of Design (BOD). [N] 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. The Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:

    1. Renewable energy systems.

    2. Landscape irrigation systems.

    3. Water reuse systems.

    5.410.2.3 Commissioning plan. [N] Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    1. General project information.
    2. Commissioning goals.
    3. Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include: a. An explanation of the original design intent. b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests.

    c. Functions to be tested.

    d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.

    5.410.2.4 Functional performance testing. [N] Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system and system- to-system interface in accordance with the approved plans and specifications.

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    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    Functional performance testing reports shall contain information addressing each of the building components tested, the testing methods utilized, and include any readings and adjustments made.

    5.410.2.5 Documentation and training. [N] A systems manual and systems operations training are required, including Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements in California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 8, Section 5142, and other related regulations.

    5.410.2.5.1 Systems manual. [N] Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner or representative. The systems manual shall include the following:

    1. Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements.

    2. Site contact information.

    3. Basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, site events log.

    4. Major systems.

    5. Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.

    6. A copy of verifications required by the enforcing agency or this code.

    7. Other resources and documentation, if applicable.

  • CALGreen § 8-29 High relevance — show source text

    shown in the specifications and cross referenced| |2|List of commissioned equipment and systems| |3|Cx roles and responsibilities of all parties| |4|Meeting requirements| |5|Commissioning schedule management procedures| |6|Procedures for addressing outstanding issues or noncompliance| |7|Requirements for execution and documentation of installation and equipment start-up| |8|Specific testing requirements for each system type| |9|Submittal review and approval requirements| |10|Contents and approval process of the commissioning plan| |11|Cx documentation and reporting requirements| |12|Facility staff training requirements and verification procedures| |13|O&M manual review and approval procedures| |14|Systems manual development and approval procedures| |15|Definitions|

    Commissioning Agent Acknowledgment

    I have reviewed the construction documents listed above and verified their compliance with the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD) and commissioning plan.

    Name: _______________________________________

    Company Name (if applicable): _____________________________________________

    Agent’s Signature: __________________________________ Date: ______________

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    COMMISSIONING PLAN

    COMPLIANCE FORM

    The following form may be required to be printed on the permit set of construction drawings or submitted separately.

    CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2.3, Commissioning Plan

    5.410.2.3 Commissioning plan. [N] Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    (See Cx plan elements checklist below.)

    The commissioning plan should be started during the design phase of the building project. Include the checked elements listed below and approved by the owner or owner’s representative.

    Col1 COMMISSIONING PLAN ELEMENTS1 INCLUDED
    1. General project information
    2. Commissioning goals
    3. Systems to be commissioned—see BOD
    3a. An explanation of original design intent
    3b. Equipment and systems to be commissioned and tested, including extent of tests
    3c. Functions to be tested and conditions of tests1
    3d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed
    3e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance
    4. Cx team information
    5. Cx process activities, schedules and responsibilities
    1. These are not the detailed step-by-step test procedures but are lists of features, elements, modes and conditions of tests for specific equipment.

    Owner / Owner’s Representative Signature Date

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    COMMISSIONING PLAN

    COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST

    INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS

    Project Address: ________________________________________________________

    Permit Number: _____________________________

    ITEM # COMMISSIONING PLAN ITEMS1 PAGE NUMBER IN
    COMMISSIONING
    PLAN DOCUMENT
    GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION
    1 Project name, owner,
  • CALGreen § 3.3 High relevance — show source text
    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.

    2. Commissioning goals – Document the commissioning goals, including but not limited to: i. Meeting CALGreen code requirements for commissioning. ii. Meeting OPR and BOD requirements. iii. Carrying out requirements for commissioning activities as specified in plans and specifications.

    3. Systems to be commissioned – See BOD a. An explanation of the original design intent - Document the performance objectives and design intent for each system listed to be commissioned in a written narrative

          - Refer to the OPR and BOD documents

    b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests i. Provide a list of equipment and systems to be tested

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    ii. Describe the range and extent of tests to be performed for each system component, and interface between systems c. Functions to be tested - Provide example functional test procedures to identify the level of testing detail required

           See (Section 5.410.2.4) FPT guidance for more information

    d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed - Identify the conditions under which the major operational system functions are to be tested, including: i. Normal operations and part-load operations. ii. Seasonal testing requirements. iii. Restart of equipment and systems after power loss. iv. System alarm confirmations. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance - Include measurable criteria for acceptable performance of each system to be tested 4. Commissioning team information - Provide a contact list for all commissioning team members, including but not limited to: i. Owner, owner’s representative. ii. Architect, engineers. iii. Designated commissioning representative. iv. General contractor, subcontractors and construction manager. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities i. Establish prescribed commissioning process steps and activities to be accomplished by the Cx team throughout the design to occupancy. ii. For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii.

  • CALGreen § 5-26 High relevance — show source text

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    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    dance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity. For I-occupancies that are not regulated by OSHPD or for I-occupancies and L-occupancies that are not regulated by the California Energy Code Section 100.0 Scope, all requirements in Sections 5.410.2 through 5.410.2.6 shall apply.

    Note: For energy-related systems under the scope (Section 100) of the California Energy Code, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls, indoor lighting systems and controls, as well as water heating systems and controls, refer to California Energy Code Section 120.8 for commissioning requirements.

    Commissioning requirements shall include:

    1. Owner’s or owner representative’s project requirements.
    2. Basis of design.
    3. Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents.
    4. Commissioning plan.
    5. Functional performance testing.
    6. Documentation and training.
    7. Commissioning report.

    Exceptions:

    1. Unconditioned warehouses of any size.

    2. Areas less than 10,000 square feet used for offices or other conditioned accessory spaces within unconditioned warehouses.

    3. Tenant improvements less than 10,000 square feet as described in Section 303.1.1.

    4. Open parking garages of any size, or open parking garage areas, of any size, within a structure.

    Note: For the purposes of this section, unconditioned shall mean a building, area or room which does not provide heating and/or air conditioning.

    Informational Note:

    1. Functional performance testing for heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and lighting controls must be performed in compliance with the California Energy Code.

    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.

    5.410.2.2 Basis of Design (BOD). [N] 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. The Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:

    1. Renewable energy systems.

    2. Landscape irrigation systems.

    3. Water reuse systems.

    5.410.2.3 Commissioning plan. [N] Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    1. General project information.
    2. Commissioning goals.
    3. Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include: a. An explanation of the original design intent. b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests.

    c. Functions to be tested.

    d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.

  • CALGreen § 204.4.1 High relevance — show source text

    The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The design team shall develop the Basis of Design (BOD). The CxA shall review these documents for clarity and completeness. The owner and design team shall be responsible for updates to their respective documents, develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents and develop and implement a commissioning plan. The CxA shall verify the installation and performance of the systems to be commissioned, verify that training and operation and maintenance documentation have been provided to the owner’s operations staff and complete a commissioning report.

    Commissioning process activities shall be completed for the following energy-related systems, at a minimum:

    1. Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls.
    2. Lighting and daylighting controls.
    3. Domestic hot water systems.
    4. Renewable energy systems (wind, solar, etc.).
    5. Building envelope systems.

    A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented by the owner and the designer before the design phase of the project begins. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, this documentation shall include the following:

    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Energy efficiency goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-3

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

    1. Equipment and systems expectations.
    2. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.

    A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the building systems meets the Owner’s Project Requirements shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and updated as necessary during the design and construction phases. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, the Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:

    1. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls.
    2. Indoor lighting system and controls.
    3. Water heating system.
    4. Renewable energy systems.

    A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan. A commissioning plan shall be completed to document the approach to how the project will be commissioned and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. The Commissioning Plan shall include the following at a minimum:

    1. General project information.
    2. Commissioning goals.
    3. Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include at a minimum: a. A detailed explanation of the original design intent; b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests; c. Functions to be tested;

    d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed; and e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities – plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Sections A6.204.4.4 through A6.204.4.6 shall be included.

  • CALGreen § 8-30 High relevance — show source text

    The commissioning plan should be started during the design phase of the building project. Include the checked elements listed below and approved by the owner or owner’s representative.

    Col1 COMMISSIONING PLAN ELEMENTS1 INCLUDED
    1. General project information
    2. Commissioning goals
    3. Systems to be commissioned—see BOD
    3a. An explanation of original design intent
    3b. Equipment and systems to be commissioned and tested, including extent of tests
    3c. Functions to be tested and conditions of tests1
    3d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed
    3e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance
    4. Cx team information
    5. Cx process activities, schedules and responsibilities
    1. These are not the detailed step-by-step test procedures but are lists of features, elements, modes and conditions of tests for specific equipment.

    Owner / Owner’s Representative Signature Date

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    COMMISSIONING PLAN

    COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST

    INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS

    Project Address: ________________________________________________________

    Permit Number: _____________________________

    ITEM # COMMISSIONING PLAN ITEMS1 PAGE NUMBER IN
    COMMISSIONING
    PLAN DOCUMENT
    GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION
    1 Project name, owner, location
    2 Building type, building area
    3 Overall project commissioning schedule
    4 Contact information for individual/company providing commissioning services
    COMMISSIONING GOALS
    5 Meet_California Green Building Standards Code_ requirements for commissioning
    6 Meeting OPR and BOD requirements
    7 Carrying out requirements for commissioning activities as specified in plans and specifications
    SYSTEMS TO BE COMMISSIONED
    8 Explanation of the original design intent (refer to OPR and BOD documents)
    9 Equipment and systems to be tested, functions to be tested, conditions under which the test shall be
    performed and measurable criteria for acceptable performance
    COMMISSIONING TEAM INFORMATION
    10 List of all team members and contact information (i.e. owner, owner’s representative, architect,
    engineers, designated commissioning representative and (if available): general contractor,
    subcontractors and construction manager)
    COMMISSIONING PROCESS ACTIVITIES, SCHEDULES and RESPONSIBILITIES
    11 Prescribed commissioning process steps and activities to be accomplished by the Cx team throughout
    the design to occupancy
    12 Roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team for each phase of the work
    13 Required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning
    effort
    14 Confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance
    staff training
    1. The following systems shall be tested: renewable energy systems, landscape irrigation systems and water reuse systems.

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  • CALGreen § 3.2 High 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

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    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 § 8-17 High relevance — show source text
    • Refer to the OPR and BOD documents

    b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests i. Provide a list of equipment and systems to be tested

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    ii. Describe the range and extent of tests to be performed for each system component, and interface between systems c. Functions to be tested - Provide example functional test procedures to identify the level of testing detail required

           See (Section 5.410.2.4) FPT guidance for more information

    d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed - Identify the conditions under which the major operational system functions are to be tested, including: i. Normal operations and part-load operations. ii. Seasonal testing requirements. iii. Restart of equipment and systems after power loss. iv. System alarm confirmations. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance - Include measurable criteria for acceptable performance of each system to be tested 4. Commissioning team information - Provide a contact list for all commissioning team members, including but not limited to: i. Owner, owner’s representative. ii. Architect, engineers. iii. Designated commissioning representative. iv. General contractor, subcontractors and construction manager. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities i. Establish prescribed commissioning process steps and activities to be accomplished by the Cx team throughout the design to occupancy. ii. For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii. List the required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning effort.

    iv. Include the confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance staff training.

    4.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning plan, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the Cx Plan has been completed.

    Reference: 5 Functional performance testing

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.4, Functional performance testing.

    5.1 Intent:

    Develop and implement the functional performance tests to document, as set forth in the commissioning plan, that all components, equipment, systems and system-to-system interfaces were installed as specified, and operate according to the Owner’s Project Requirements, Basis of Design, and plans and specifications.

    The following systems to be functionally tested are listed in the Basis of Design (Section 5.410.2.2 of the code):

    1. Renewable energy systems

    2. Landscape irrigation systems

    3. Water reuse systems

    5.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is demonstrated by developing and implementing test procedures for each piece of commissioned equipment and interfaces between equipment and systems according to the building-specific commissioning plan. Tests should include verification of proper operation of all equipment features, each part of the sequence of operation, overrides, lockouts, safeties, alarms, occupied and unoccupied modes, loss of normal power, exercising a shutdown, startup, low load through full load (as much as is possible) and back, staging and standby functions, scheduling, energy efficiency strategies and loop tuning.

  • CALGreen § 10-103 High relevance — show source text
    1. Basis of design;
    2. Design phase design review;
    3. Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents;
    4. Commissioning plan;
    5. Functional performance testing;
    6. Documentation and training; and
    7. Commissioning report.

    (b) Owner’s or Owner Representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). The energy-related expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following:

    1. Energy efficiency goals;
    2. Ventilation requirements;
    3. Project documentation requirements, including facility functions, hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation;
    4. Equipment and systems expectations; and
    5. Building envelope performance expectations.

    (c) Basis of design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the building systems and components meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project, and updated as necessary during the design and construction phases. The basis of design document shall cover the following systems and components:

    1. Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls;
    2. Indoor lighting system and controls;
    3. Water heating systems and controls;
    4. Any other building equipment or system listed in the OPR; and
    5. Any building envelope component considered in the OPR.

    (d) Design phase design review.

    1. Design reviewer requirements. The design reviewer shall be the signer of the Design Review Kickoff Certificate(s) of Compliance and Construction Document Design Review Checklist Certificate(s) of Compliance as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103(a)1.
    2. Design review kickoff. During the schematic design phase of the building project, the owner or owner’s representative, design team and design reviewer must meet to discuss the project scope, schedule and how the design reviewer will coordinate with the project team. The building owner or owner’s representative shall include the Design Review Kickoff Certificate of Compliance form in the certificate of compliance documentation (as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103).
    3. Construction documents design review. The construction documents design review Checklist Certificate of Compliance shall list the items checked by the design reviewer during the construction document review. The completed form shall be returned to the owner and design team for review and sign-off. The building owner or owner’s representative shall include this form in the certificate of compliance documentation (as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103).

    (e) Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents. Complete descriptions of all measures or requirements necessary for commissioning shall be included in the construction documents (plans and specifications). Commissioning measures or requirements shall be clear, detailed and complete to clarify the commissioning process.

    (f) Commissioning plan. Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    1. General project information;
    2. Commissioning goals;
    3. Systems to be commissioned; and
    4. Plans to test systems and components, which shall include: A. An explanation of the original design intent; B. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests; C. Functions to be tested;

    D. Conditions under which the test shall be performed; E. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance; F. Commissioning team information; and G. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Sections 120.8(g) through 120.8(i) shall be included.

  • CALGreen § 8-28 High relevance — show source text

    |List of commissioned equipment and systems|| |3.|Cx roles and responsibilities of all parties|| |4.|Meeting requirements|| |5.|Commissioning schedule management procedures|| |6.|Procedures for addressing outstanding issues or noncompliance|| |7.|Requirements for execution and documentation of installation and equipment start-up|| |8.|Specific testing requirements for each system type1|| |9.|Submittal review and approval requirements|| |10.|Contents and approval process of the commissioning plan|| |11.|Cx documentation and reporting requirements|| |12.|Facility staff training requirements and verification procedures|| |13.|O&M manual review and approval procedures|| |14.|Systems manual development and approval procedures|| |15.|Definitions||

    1. These are not the detailed step-by-step test procedures but are lists of features, elements, modes and conditions of tests for specific equipment.

    Owner / Owner’s Representative Date or Designer of Record Signature

    8-28 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Cx MEASURES IN CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

    INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS

    Project Address: ________________________________________________________

    Permit Number: _____________________________

    ITEM # COMMISSIONING MEASURES ITEMS
    1 Measures shown in the specifications and cross referenced
    2 List of commissioned equipment and systems
    3 Cx roles and responsibilities of all parties
    4 Meeting requirements
    5 Commissioning schedule management procedures
    6 Procedures for addressing outstanding issues or noncompliance
    7 Requirements for execution and documentation of installation and equipment start-up
    8 Specific testing requirements for each system type
    9 Submittal review and approval requirements
    10 Contents and approval process of the commissioning plan
    11 Cx documentation and reporting requirements
    12 Facility staff training requirements and verification procedures
    13 O&M manual review and approval procedures
    14 Systems manual development and approval procedures
    15 Definitions

    Commissioning Agent Acknowledgment

    I have reviewed the construction documents listed above and verified their compliance with the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD) and commissioning plan.

    Name: _______________________________________

    Company Name (if applicable): _____________________________________________

    Agent’s Signature: __________________________________ Date: ______________

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-29

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    COMMISSIONING PLAN

    COMPLIANCE FORM

    The following form may be required to be printed on the permit set of construction drawings or submitted separately.

    CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2.3, Commissioning Plan

    5.410.2.3 Commissioning plan. [N] Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned. The commissioning plan shall include the following:

    (See Cx plan elements checklist below.)

  • CALGreen § 8-27 High relevance — show source text
    Architect/Engineer/Designer Acknowledgement
    I hereby acknowledge the Basis of Design (BOD) document has been completed and meets the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).    		 Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    Name License Number Signature Date
    Architect of Record
    Landscape Architect
    Renewable Energy System Designer
    Other (specify):

    Commissioning Agent Acknowledgment

    I have reviewed the Basis of Design (BOD) and verified that it meets the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR):

    Name: _____________________________________________

    Company Name (if applicable): ____________________________________________

    Agent’s Signature: __________________________________ Date: ___________

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-27

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Cx MEASURES IN CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

    COMPLIANCE FORM

    The following form may be required to be printed on the permit set of construction drawings or submitted separately.

    CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2, Commissioning Measures in the Construction Documents

    5.410.2. Commissioning measures shall be shown in the construction documents.

    The commissioning measures shown in the construction documents include the checked elements listed below and have been approved by the owner, owner’s representative or designer of record.

    Col1 COMMISSIONING MEASURE ELEMENTS1 INCLUDED
    1. Measures shown in the specifications and cross referenced
    2. List of commissioned equipment and systems
    3. Cx roles and responsibilities of all parties
    4. Meeting requirements
    5. Commissioning schedule management procedures
    6. Procedures for addressing outstanding issues or noncompliance
    7. Requirements for execution and documentation of installation and equipment start-up
    8. Specific testing requirements for each system type1
    9. Submittal review and approval requirements
    10. Contents and approval process of the commissioning plan
    11. Cx documentation and reporting requirements
    12. Facility staff training requirements and verification procedures
    13. O&M manual review and approval procedures
    14. Systems manual development and approval procedures
    15. Definitions
    1. These are not the detailed step-by-step test procedures but are lists of features, elements, modes and conditions of tests for specific equipment.

    Owner / Owner’s Representative Date or Designer of Record Signature

    8-28 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Cx MEASURES IN CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS

    INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS

    Project Address: ________________________________________________________

    Permit Number: _____________________________

    ITEM # COMMISSIONING MEASURES ITEMS
    1 Measures shown in the specifications and cross
  • CALGreen § 5.410.2 High relevance — show source text

    Reference: Section 5.410.2, Commissioning.

    Introduction:

    The purpose of this code is to improve public health, safety and general welfare by enhancing the design and construction of buildings through the use of concepts that reduce negative and increase positive environmental impacts. Commissioning is a vital element in this effort.

    Definitions used in the CALGreen Cx Reference standard:

    Acronyms

    BOD Basis of Design

    Cx Commissioning

    FPT Functional Performance Test

    HVAC Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning

    O&M Operations and Maintenance

    OPR Owner’s Project Requirements

    Glossary:

    Acceptance Criteria— The conditions that must be met for systems or equipment to meet defined and expected outcomes.

    Commissioning (Cx)— Building commissioning as required in this code involves a quality assurance process that begins during design and continues to occupancy. Commissioning verifies that the new building operates as the owner intended and that building staff are prepared to operate and maintain its systems and equipment. Exceptions are allowed for dry storage warehouses of any size and conditioned spaces under 10,000 square feet accessory to them; and for tenant improvements under 10,000 square feet within a larger space.

    Owner— The individual or entity holding title to the property on which the building is constructed.

    Commissioning Coordinator— The person who coordinates the commissioning process. This can be either a third-party commissioning provider or an experienced member of the design team or owner in-house staff member.

    Commissioning Team— The key members of each party involved with the project designated to provide insight and carry out tasks necessary for a successful commissioning project. Team members may include the commissioning coordinator, owner or owner’s representative, building staff, design professionals, contractors or manufacturer’s representatives and testing specialists.

    Independent Third-Party Commissioning Professional— A commissioning consultant contracted directly by the owner who is not responsible to, or affiliated with, any other member of the design and construction team.

    Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals— Documents that provide information necessary for operating and maintaining installed equipment and systems.

    Owner Representative— An individual or entity assigned by the owner to act and sign on the owner’s behalf.

    Process Equipment— Energy-using equipment and components that are not used for HVAC, electrical, plumbing and irrigation operations. Such devices would include but are not limited to heat transfer, water purifying, air cleaning, air vacuum and air compressing.

    Sequence of Operation— A written description of the intended performance and operation of each control element and feature of the equipment and systems.

    Selecting Trained Personnel (for Commissioning)

    This code requires that “Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity.” The trained personnel manage and facilitate the commissioning process. The trained personnel develop and implement the commissioning tasks and documentation identified in Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6. Trained personnel may include appropriate members of owner staff, contractor and design team as well as independent commissioning professionals.

    It is essential that there is a single person designated to lead and manage the commissioning activities. In practice, this individual has been referenced by various identifiers such as commissioning authority, agent, provider, coordinator, lead, etc. In this guide the term “commissioning coordinator” is used.

Frequently asked questions

Who must prepare the Cx Plan?

The code requires a project‑specific Cx Plan completed prior to permit issuance; it should be prepared and approved by the owner or owner’s representative and developed with input from the design team and commissioning provider where applicable. § 5.410.2.3

When must the Cx Plan be submitted?

The Cx Plan must be completed prior to permit issuance; inspectors may accept a copy of the plan or a signed attestation that the owner‑approved Cx Plan is included in the construction documents. § 5.410.2.3

Does CALGreen specify numeric acceptance values?

No — CALGreen requires measurable criteria for acceptable performance be included in the Cx Plan, but it does not prescribe numeric acceptance thresholds; those values are set by the OPR/BOD or project team and documented in the plan. § 5.410.2.3

Are sample forms available for the Cx Plan?

Yes — CALGreen provides sample compliance forms and templates showing the required elements and checklists to include in the Cx Plan and commissioning submittals. See the compliance form examples and guidance. § 5.410.2.3

What happens if systems are covered by the Energy Code?

For energy‑related systems (HVAC, lighting controls, water heating), the California Energy Code contains additional commissioning and FPT requirements; CALGreen references those sections and requires coordination. § 5.410.2.3

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Commissioning requirements, OPR, plans, reports and sample forms

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