CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

When are alternate documentation methods or waivers acceptable?

CALGreen requires documentation of conformance for green measures and lets the local enforcing agency accept alternate documentation or waive certain submittals only when the agency finds the alternate satisfactorily demonstrates substantial conformance with the measure’s intent (see **§ 102.1** and **§ 102.3**).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

  • Construction documents and related data must be submitted with each permit application, but the enforcing agency may require additional documents for special conditions and may waive submittal of documents that are not required to be prepared by a licensed design professional (§ 102.1).
  • Documentation of conformance for applicable CALGreen measures must be provided; alternate methods of documentation are acceptable only when the enforcing agency finds the alternate is satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance with the intent of the measure (§ 102.3).

The single most important rule: alternate documentation or a waiver is permitted only when the enforcing agency (the local code official) finds the alternative or waiver satisfactorily demonstrates substantial conformance with the intent of the CALGreen requirement. § 102.3

Requirements in detail

Who has the authority?

  • The enforcing agency (local building department/state agency with jurisdiction) decides whether to:
    • require additional construction documents for special conditions; or
    • waive submission of documents that are not required to be prepared by a licensed design professional (§ 102.1).
  • For residential projects under HCD authority, projects must still submit the Residential Occupancies Application Checklist and reference measure‑specific documentation; the HCD note reiterates that alternate documentation is acceptable only when found satisfactory by the enforcing agency (§ 102.3 [HCD]).

What the code means by alternate documentation

  • CALGreen does not limit the form of documentation: examples used elsewhere in the code include product certifications, chain-of-custody certifications, receipts/weight tickets, operation & maintenance manuals, checklists, and other evidence “acceptable to the enforcing agency.” See measure-level documentation examples such as § 4.504.5.1 (product certifications / chain of custody) and Appendix documentation lists.

Standard the enforcing agency uses

  • The test is satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance with the intent of the green building measure — this is a case‑by‑case, performance/intent‑based finding by the enforcing agency (§ 102.3).

Table — decision-relevant dimensions and typical values/examples

Decision dimension Typical values / examples Code Reference
Must submit construction documents with permit Yes — one or more sets with the permit application § 102.1
When can submittal be waived? Enforcing agency may waive submission of documents not required to be prepared by a licensed design professional § 102.1 Exception
Verification requirement Documentation of conformance for applicable green measures must be provided § 102.3
Alternate documentation allowed when Proposed alternate is found satisfactory to show substantial conformance with the measure’s intent § 102.3
Examples of acceptable document types Product certifications, chain-of-custody, receipts/weight tickets, checklists, O&M manuals, other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency § 4.504.5.1; Appendix lists (e.g., A6.504.8.5.2) — see measure-level examples
Residential checklist requirement (HCD) Submit Residential Occupancies Application Checklist; reference measure-specific documentation; alternates acceptable if satisfactory to the enforcing agency § 102.3 [HCD]

Exceptions & special cases

  • Licensure-based waiver: The enforcing agency may waive submission of documents that are not required to be prepared by a licensed design professional — this is a narrow procedural waiver of submittal, not a waiver of the underlying code requirement (§ 102.1 Exception).
  • Special conditions: Where special conditions exist the enforcing agency may require additional documents prepared by a licensed design professional — the agency may increase documentation when warranted (§ 102.1).
  • HCD residential projects: HCD explicitly requires the Residential Occupancies Application Checklist and references to measure-specific documentation; HCD reiterates that alternates must still be found satisfactory by the enforcing agency (§ 102.3 [HCD]).
  • Local amendments: Local jurisdictions may adopt more stringent documentation requirements or alternate procedures under the local‑amendment process; check local enforcement rules and findings (see § 101.7.1 for local modifications).

Common mistakes

  • Assuming an alternate submittal is automatically acceptable — it is not. The alternate must be explicitly accepted by the enforcing agency as satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance (§ 102.3).
  • Treating the waiver of document submittal (allowed under § 102.1 for documents not prepared by a licensed design professional) as a waiver of the underlying code requirement — it is only a procedural waiver of required submittal, not of compliance itself.
  • Submitting subjective or unverifiable "attestations" without supporting evidence (invoices, testing reports, weight/haul tickets, product certificates). Many measure‑level sections list acceptable evidence types (product certifications, chain‑of‑custody, receipts) that are commonly accepted.

Worked example — single‑family remodel waste documentation

Scenario: A contractor is remodeling a 1,200 ft² single‑family residence and must document construction & demolition (C&D) waste diversion to meet CALGreen requirements. The local enforcing agency requires documentation of compliance with the applicable waste section.

  1. Baseline code duties:

    • Submit construction documents with the permit (one or more sets) — § 102.1.
    • Provide documentation of conformance for applicable green measures (C&D diversion) — § 102.3.

  2. Typical documentation options (measure-level examples):

    • Third‑party hauler weight tickets and diversion receipts (preferred); or
    • Waste management plan + updated on‑site records and photo log; or
    • Chain‑of‑custody or facility certification showing diversion rates. (CALGreen uses product/chain‑of‑custody examples for other measures and allows “other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency” — see § 4.504.5.1 and Appendix examples.)

  3. If the contractor cannot obtain third‑party weight tickets (e.g., rural area), they propose an alternate:

    • Submit a signed waste plan, dated truck manifests that the contractor prepared, photographs of sorted material piles, and signed statements from local recycling facilities confirming acceptance.
    • The enforcing agency reviews the alternate documentation and finds it adequately demonstrates substantial conformance with the diversion intent. The agency documents its acceptance.

Why this works under CALGreen:

  • CALGreen requires documentation and allows alternate methods when the enforcing agency finds them satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance (§ 102.3). The agency's approval is the binding step; the documentation types above match examples the code accepts elsewhere (receipts, chain-of-custody, “other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency”).

If the agency does not accept the alternate, the agency can require the contractor to produce the originally expected evidence or apply a procedural waiver only where allowed (see § 102.1).

Related provisions (CALGreen)

  • § 102.1 — Submittal documents; authority to require additional documents and to waive submission of documents not required to be prepared by a licensed design professional.
  • § 102.3 — Verification; documentation of conformance and acceptance of alternate documentation when satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance.
  • § 101.8 — Alternate materials, designs and methods of construction (general approval criteria — equivalency to intent and performance).
  • § 4.408.5 / § 5.408.1.4 — Documentation requirements for construction waste management (examples of required documentation and accessibility during construction).
  • § 4.504.5.1 — Examples of acceptable documentation for composite wood product compliance (product certification, chain of custody, other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency). These examples illustrate the types of documentation CALGreen accepts at the measure level.
  • Appendix examples (e.g., A6.504.8.5.2) — measure-level lists showing “other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency” and illustrative acceptable documentation types.

Code references

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

  • 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.

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    ADMINISTRATION

  • CALGreen § 7-104 High relevance — show source text
    1. Section 7-104 in the California Administrative Code for the Office of the Statewide Health Planning and Development.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    101.9 Effective date of this code. Only those standards approved by the California Building Standards Commission that are effective at the time an application for a building permit is submitted shall apply to the plans and specifications for, and to the construction performed under, that permit. For the effective dates of the provisions contained in this code, see the appropriate application checklist and the History Note page of this code.

    101.10 Mandatory requirements. This code contains both mandatory and voluntary green building measures. Mandatory and voluntary measures are identified in the appropriate application checklist contained in this code.

    101.11 Effective use of this code. The following steps shall be used to establish which provisions of this code are applicable to a specific occupancy:

    1. Establish the type of occupancy.
    2. Verify which state agency has authority for the established occupancy by reviewing the authorities list in Sections 103 through 106.
    3. Once the appropriate agency has been identified, find the chapter which covers the established occupancy.
    4. The Matrix Adoption Tables at the beginning of Chapters 4 and 5 identify the mandatory green building measures necessary to meet the minimum requirements of this code for the established occupancy.
    5. Voluntary tier measures are contained in Appendix Chapters A4 and A5. A checklist containing each green building measure, both required and voluntary, is provided at the end of each appendix chapter. Each measure listed in the application checklist has a section number which correlates to a section where more information about the specific measure is available.
    6. 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 f

  • CALGreen § 504.8.5.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    A6.504.8.5.2 Documentation. Verification of compliance with this section shall be provided as requested by the enforcing agency. Documentation shall include at least one of the following:

    1. Product certifications and specifications.
    2. Chain of custody certifications.
    3. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    A6.504.9 Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) control. [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] Where outdoor areas are provided for smoking, prohibit smoking within 25 feet of building entries, outdoor air intakes and operable windows and within the building, if not already prohibited by other laws or regulations, or as enforced by ordinances, regulations or policies of any city, county, city and county, California Community College, campus of the California State University or campus of the University of California, whichever are more stringent. When ordinances, regulations or policies are not in place, post signage to inform building occupants of the prohibitions.

    SECTION A6.505 [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]—INDOOR MOISTURE CONTROL

    A6.505.2 Indoor moisture control. Buildings shall meet or exceed the provisions of California Building Code, CCR, Title 24, Part 2, Sections 1203 and Chapter 14.

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST [OSHPD 1, 2 and 4]

    FEATURE OR MEASURE COMPLIANCE LEVELS Col3 Col4 NOTES
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2
    DIVISION A6.1 – PLANNING AND DESIGN
    SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development
    **A6.106.9 Building orientation.**Locate and orient the building as follows:
    1. When site and location permit, orient the building with the long sides facing north and
    south.
    2. Protect the building from thermal loss, drafts and degradation of the building envelope
    caused by wind and wind-driven materials such as dust.
    DIVISION A6.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY
    SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures
    A6.203.1 Energy performance. [OSHPD 1]
    **A6.203.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1.
  • CALGreen § 4.506 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. At least three random moisture readings shall be performed on wall and floor framing with documentation acceptable to the enforcing agency provided at the time of approval to enclose the wall and floor framing.

    Insulation products which are visibly wet or have a high moisture content shall be replaced or allowed to dry prior to enclosure in wall or floor cavities. Wet-applied insulation products shall follow the manufacturers’ drying recommendations prior to enclosure.

    SECTION 4.506—INDOOR AIR QUALITY AND EXHAUST

    4.506.1 Bathroom exhaust fans. Each bathroom shall be mechanically ventilated and shall comply with the following:

    1. Fans shall be ENERGY STAR compliant and be ducted to terminate outside the building.
    2. Unless functioning as a component of a whole house ventilation system, fans must be controlled by a humidity control. a. Humidity controls shall be capable of adjustment between a relative humidity range of ≤ 50 percent to a maximum of 80 percent. A humidity control may utilize manual or automatic means of adjustment. b. A humidity control may be a separate component to the exhaust fan and is not required to be integral (i.e., built-in).

    Notes:

    1. For the purposes of this section, a bathroom is a room which contains a bathtub, shower or tub/shower combination.
    2. Lighting integral to bathroom exhaust fans shall comply with the California Energy Code.

    SECTION 4.507—ENVIRONMENTAL COMFORT

    4.507.1 Reserved.

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    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    4.507.2 Heating and air-conditioning system design. Heating and air-conditioning systems shall be sized, designed and have their equipment selected using the following methods:

    1. The heat loss and heat gain is established according to ANSI/ACCA 2 Manual J—2016 ( Residential Load Calculation ), ASHRAE handbooks or other equivalent design software or methods.
    2. Duct systems are sized according to ANSI/ACCA 1 Manual D—2016 ( Residential Duct Systems ), ASHRAE handbooks or other equivalent design software or methods.
    3. Select heating and cooling equipment according to ANSI/ACCA 3 Manual S—2014 ( Residential Equipment Selection ) or other equivalent design software or methods.

    Exception: Use of alternate design temperatures necessary to ensure the systems function are acceptable.

    SECTION 4.508—OUTDOOR AIR QUALITY (RESERVED)

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 5 – NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    DIVISION 5.1 – PLANNING AND DESIGN

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

  • CALGreen § 4.408.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    4.408.3 Waste management company. Utilize a waste management company, approved by the enforcing agency, which can provide verifiable documentation that the percentage of construction and demolition waste material diverted from the landfill complies with Section 4.408.1.

    Note: The owner or contractor may make the determination if the construction and demolition waste materials will be diverted by a waste management company.

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    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    4.408.4 Waste stream reduction alternative [LR]. Projects that generate a total combined weight of construction and demolition waste disposed of in landfills, which do not exceed 3.4 pounds per square foot of the building area shall meet the minimum 65 percent construction waste reduction requirement in Section 4.408.1.

    4.408.4.1 Waste stream reduction alternative. Projects that generate a total combined weight of construction and demolition waste disposed of in landfills, which do not exceed 2 pounds per square foot of the building area, shall meet the minimum 65 percent construction waste reduction requirement in Section 4.408.1.

    4.408.5 Documentation. Documentation shall be provided to the enforcing agency which demonstrates compliance with Section 4.408.2, Items 1 through 5, Section 4.408.3 or Section 4.408.4.

    Notes:

    1. Sample forms found in “A Guide to the California Green Building Standards Code (Residential)” located at http://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/calgreen/cal-green-forms.html may be used to assist in documenting compliance with this section.
    2. Mixed construction and demolition debris (C&D) processors can be located at the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle).

    SECTION 4.409—LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.410—BUILDING MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION

    4.410.1 Operation and maintenance manual. At the time of final inspection, a manual, compact disc, web-based reference or other media acceptable to the enforcing agency which includes all of the following shall be placed in the building:

    1. Directions to the owner or occupant that the manual shall remain with the building throughout the life cycle of the structure.

    2. Operation and maintenance instructions for the following: a. Equipment and appliances, including water-saving devices and systems, HVAC systems, photovoltaic systems, electric vehicle chargers, water-heating systems and other major appliances and equipment. b. Roof and yard drainage, including gutters and downspouts. c. Space conditioning systems, including condensers and air filters. d. Landscape irrigation systems.

    e. Water reuse systems. 3. Information from local utility, water and waste recovery providers on methods to further reduce resource consumption, including recycle programs and locations. 4. Public transportation and/or carpool options available in the area. 5. Educational material on the positive impacts of an interior relative humidity between 30–60 percent and what methods an occupant may use to maintain the relative humidity level in that range. 6. Information about water-conserving landscape and irrigation design and controllers which conserve water. 7. Instructions for maintaining gutters and downspouts and the importance of diverting water at least 5 feet away from the foundation.

  • CALGreen § 5.408.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Note: The owner or contractor shall make the determination if the construction and demolition waste material will be diverted by a waste management company.

    Exceptions to Sections 5.408.1.1 and 5.408.1.2:

    1. Excavated soil and land-clearing debris.
    2. Alternate waste reduction methods developed by working with local agencies if diversion or recycle facilities capable of compliance with this item do not exist.
    3. Demolition waste meeting local ordinance or calculated in consideration of local recycling facilities and markets.

    5.408.1.3 Waste stream reduction alternative. The combined weight of new construction disposal that does not exceed two pounds per square foot of building area may be deemed to meet the 65 percent minimum requirement as approved by the enforcing agency.

    5.408.1.4 Documentation. Documentation shall be provided to the enforcing agency which demonstrates compliance with Sections 5.408.1.1 through 5.408.1.3. The waste management plan shall be updated as necessary and shall be accessible during construction for examination by the enforcing agency.

    Notes:

    1. Sample forms found in “A Guide to the California Green Building Standards Code (Nonresidential)” located at https://www.dgs.ca.gov/BSC/Resources/Page-Content/Building-Standards-Commission-Resources-ListFolder/CALGreen may be used to assist in documenting compliance with the waste management plan.
    2. Mixed construction and demolition debris (C&D) processors can be located at the California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle).

    5.408.2 Universal waste. [A] Additions and alterations to a building or tenant space that meet the scoping provisions in Section 301.3 for nonresidential additions and alterations, shall require verification that Universal Waste items such as fluorescent lamps and ballast and mercury containing thermostats as well as other California prohibited Universal Waste materials are disposed of properly and are diverted from landfills. A list of prohibited Universal Waste materials shall be included in the construction documents.

    Note: Refer to the Universal Waste Rule link at: https://dtsc.ca.gov/universalwaste/

    5.408.3 Excavated soil and land clearing debris. 100 percent of trees, stumps, rocks and associated vegetation and soils resulting primarily from land clearing shall be reused or recycled. For a phased project, such material may be stockpiled on site until the storage site is developed.

    Exception: Reuse, either on-site or off-site, of vegetation or soil contaminated by disease or pest infestation.

    Notes:

    1. If contamination by disease or pest infestation is suspected, contact the County Agricultural Commissioner and follow its direction for recycling or disposal of the material. (www.cdfa.ca.gov/exec/ county/county_contacts.html)
    2. For a map of known pest and/or disease quarantine zones, consult with the California Department of Food and Agriculture. (www.cdfa.ca.gov)

    SECTION 5.409—LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT

    5.409.1 Scope.

  • CALGreen § 8-603.5 Medium relevance — show source text

    **Power-assisted door or doors may be considered an
    equivalent alternative to level landings, strikeside clearance and door-opening forces
    required by regular code.
    8-603.5 Toilet rooms. In lieu of separate-gender toilet facilities as required in the regular
    code, an accessible unisex toilet may be designated.
    **8-603.6 Exterior and interior ramps and lifts.**Alternatives listed in order of priority are:
    1.A lift or a ramp of greater than standard slope but no greater than 1:10, for horizontal
    distances not to exceed 5 feet (1525 mm). Signs shall be posted at upper and lower
    levels to indicate steepness of the slope.
    2.Access by ramps of 1:6 slope for horizontal distance not to exceed 13 inches (330 mm).
    Signs shall be posted at upper and lower levels to indicate steepness of the slope.|Applies|Applies|Applies| |SECTION 8-604 — EQUIVALENT FACILITATION
    Use of other designs and technologies, or deviation from particular technical and scoping
    requirements, are permitted if the application of the alternative provisions contained in
    Section 8-603 would threaten or destroy the historical significance or character-defining
    features of the qualified historical building or property.
    1.Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by-item or case-by-case basis.
    2.Access provided by experiences, services, functions, materials and resources through
    methods including, but not limited to, maps, plans, videos, virtual reality and related
    equipment, at accessible levels. The alternative design and/or technologies used will
    provide substantially equivalent or greater accessibility to, and usability of, the
    facility.
    3.The official charged with the enforcement of the standards shall document the reasons
    for the application of the design and/or technologies and their effect on the historical
    significance or character-defining features. Such documentation shall be in accordance
    with Section 8-602.2, Item 2, and shall include the opinion and comments of state or
    local accessibility officials, and the opinion and comments of representative local
    groups of people with disabilities. Such documentation shall be retained in the
    permanent file of the enforcing agency. Copies of the required documentation should
    be available at the facility upon request.
    ** Note:**For commercial facilities and places of public accommodation
    (Title III entities).
    Equivalent facilitation for an element of a building or property when applied as a waiver
    of an ADA accessibility requirement will not be entitled to the Federal Department of
    Justice certification of this code as rebuttable evidence of compliance for that element.|Applies|Waivers
    If a builder
    applies for a
    waiver of an ADA
    accessibility
    requirement for
    an element of a
    building, he or
    she will not be
    entitled to
    certification’s
    rebuttable
    evidence of
    compliance for
    that element. This
    limitation on the
    certification
    determination
    should be noted
    in any publication
    of Chapter 8-6 if
    certification is
    granted.|Applies| |**Notes:**The regular code for Chapter 8-6 is contained in Title 24, Part 2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B, which contain standards for new construction.
    Provisions of this chapter may be used in conjunction with all other provisions of the regular code and ADA regulations.

  • CALGreen § 407.6 Medium relevance — show source text

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    APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A4.407.6 Door protection. Exterior doors to the dwelling are covered to prevent water intrusion by one or more of the following:

    1. An awning at least 4 feet in depth is installed.

    2. The door is protected by a roof overhang at least 4 feet in depth.

    3. The door is recessed at least 4 feet.

    4. Other methods which provide equivalent protection.

    A4.407.7 Roof overhangs. A permanent overhang or awning at least 2 feet in depth is provided at all exterior walls.

    SECTION A4.408—CONSTRUCTION WASTE REDUCTION, DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

    A4.408.1 Enhanced construction waste reduction. Nonhazardous construction and demolition debris generated at the site is diverted to recycle or salvage in compliance with one of the following:

    Tier 1. At least a 65 percent reduction. Any mixed recyclables that are sent to mixed-waste recycling facilities shall include a qualified third party verified facility average diversion rate. Verification of diversion rates shall meet minimum certification eligibility guidelines, acceptable to the local enforcing agency.

    Tier 2. At least a 75 percent reduction with a third-party verification as required for Tier 1.

    Exceptions:

    1. Equivalent or alternative waste reduction methods are developed by working with local agencies if diversion or recycle facilities capable of compliance with this item do not exist.
    2. The enforcing agency may make exceptions to the requirements of this section when jobsites are located in areas beyond the haul boundaries of the diversion facility.

    A4.408.1.1 Documentation. Documentation shall be provided to the enforcing agency which demonstrates compliance with this section. Documentation shall be in compliance with Section 4.408.5.

    SECTION A4.409—LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.410—BUILDING MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.411 —INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

    A4.411.1 Innovative concepts and local environmental conditions. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the use of any alternate material, appliance, installation, device, arrangement, method, design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code. This code does not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county government to make necessary changes to the provisions contained in this code pursuant to Section 101.7.1.

    APPENDIX A4-18 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A4.5 – ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

    SECTION A4.501—GENERAL (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.502—DEFINITIONS

    A4.502.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    MERV.

    NO ADDED FORMALDEHYDE (NAF) BASED RESINS.

    ULTRA-LOW EMITTING FORMALDEHYDE (ULEF) RESINS.

    SECTION A4.503—FIREPLACES (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.504—POLLUTANT CONTROL

  • CALGreen § 8-604 Medium relevance — show source text

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    ACCESSIBILITY

    SECTION 8-604 — EQUIVALENT FACILITATION

    Use of other designs and technologies, or deviation from particular technical and scoping requirements, are permitted if the application of the alternative provisions contained in Section 8-603 would threaten or destroy the historical significance or characterdefining features of the historical building or property.

    1. Such alternatives shall be applied only on an item-by- item or a case-by-case basis.
    2. Access provided by experiences, services, functions, materials and resources through methods including, but not limited to, maps, plans, videos, virtual reality and related equipment, at accessible levels. The alternative design and/or technologies used will provide substantially equivalent or greater accessibility to, and usability of, the facility.
    3. The official charged with the enforcement of the standards shall document the reasons for the application of the design and/or technologies and their effect on the historical significance or character-defining features. Such documentation shall be in accordance with Section 8-602.2, Item 2, and shall include the opinion and comments of state or local accessibility officials, and the opinion and comments of representative local groups of people with disabilities. Such documentation shall be retained in the permanent file of the enforcing agency. Copies of the required documentation should be available at the facility upon request.

    Note: For commercial facilities and places of public accommodation (Title III entities).

    Equivalent facilitation for an element of a building or property when applied as a waiver of an ADA accessibility requirement will not be entitled to the Federal Department of Justice certification of this code as rebuttable evidence of compliance for that element.

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    8-7 STRUCTURAL REGULATIONS

    SECTION 8-701 — PURPOSE, INTENT AND SCOPE

    8-701.1 Purpose. The purpose of the CHBC is to provide alternative regulations to the regular code for the structural safety of buildings designated as qualified historical buildings or properties. The CHBC requires enforcing agencies to accept any reasonably equivalent alternatives to the regular code when dealing with qualified historical buildings or properties.

    8-701.2 Intent. The intent of this chapter is to encourage the preservation of qualified historical buildings or structures while providing standards for a minimum level of building performance with the objective of preventing partial or total structural collapse such that the overall risk of life-threatening injury as a result of structural collapse is low.

    8-701.3 Application. The alternative structural regulations provided by Section 8-705 are to be applied in conjunction with the regular code whenever a structural upgrade or reconstruction is undertaken for qualified historical buildings or properties.

    SECTION 8-702 — GENERAL

    8-702.1 The CHBC shall not be construed to allow the enforcing agency to approve or permit a lower level of safety of structural design and construction than that which is reasonably equivalent to the regular code provisions in occupancies which are critical to the safety and welfare of the public at large, including, but not limited to, public and private schools, hospitals, municipal police and fire stations and essential services facilities.

    8-702.2 Nothing in these regulations shall prevent voluntary and partial seismic upgrades when it is demonstrated that such upgrades will improve life safety and when a full upgrade would not otherwise be required.

  • CALGreen § 4.504.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    4.504.4 Resilient flooring systems. Where resilient flooring is installed, at least 80 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.

    https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx

    4.504.5 Composite wood products. Hardwood plywood, particleboard and medium density fiberboard composite wood products used on the interior or exterior of the building shall meet the requirements for formaldehyde as specified in ARB’s Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood (17 CCR 93120 et seq.) as shown in Table 4.504.5.

    4.504.5.1 Documentation. Verification of compliance with this section shall be provided as requested by the enforcing agency. Documentation shall include at least one of the following:

    1. Product certifications and specifications.
    2. Chain of custody certifications.
    3. Product labeled and invoiced as meeting the Composite Wood Products regulation (see CCR, Title 17, Section 93120, et seq .).

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    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    1. Exterior grade products marked as meeting the PS-1 or PS-2 standards of the Engineered Wood Association, the Australian AS/NZS 2269, European 636 3S, and Canadian CSA O121, CSA O151, CSA O153 and CSA O325 standards.
    2. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency.
    TABLE 4.504.5—FORMALDEHYDE LIMITS1
    Maximum Formaldehyde Emissions in Parts per Million    		 Col2
    PRODUCT CURRENT LIMIT
    Hardwood plywood veneer core 0.05
    Hardwood plywood composite core 0.05
    Particleboard 0.09
    Medium density fiberboard 0.11
    Thin medium density fiberboard2 0.13
    1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333. For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of 5/16 inch (8 mm).    		 1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333. For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of 5/16 inch (8 mm).

    SECTION 4.505—INTERIOR MOISTURE CONTROL

    4.505.1 General. Buildings shall meet or exceed the provisions of the California Building Standards Code.

  • CALGreen § 8-602.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Such documentation shall be in accordance
    with Section 8-602.2, Item 2, and shall include the opinion and comments of state or
    local accessibility officials, and the opinion and comments of representative local
    groups of people with disabilities. Such documentation shall be retained in the
    permanent file of the enforcing agency. Copies of the required documentation should
    be available at the facility upon request.
    ** Note:**For commercial facilities and places of public accommodation
    (Title III entities).
    Equivalent facilitation for an element of a building or property when applied as a waiver
    of an ADA accessibility requirement will not be entitled to the Federal Department of
    Justice certification of this code as rebuttable evidence of compliance for that element.|Applies|Waivers
    If a builder
    applies for a
    waiver of an ADA
    accessibility
    requirement for
    an element of a
    building, he or
    she will not be
    entitled to
    certification’s
    rebuttable
    evidence of
    compliance for
    that element. This
    limitation on the
    certification
    determination
    should be noted
    in any publication
    of Chapter 8-6 if
    certification is
    granted.|Applies| |**Notes:**The regular code for Chapter 8-6 is contained in Title 24, Part 2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B, which contain standards for new construction.
    Provisions of this chapter may be used in conjunction with all other provisions of the regular code and ADA regulations.|**Notes:**The regular code for Chapter 8-6 is contained in Title 24, Part 2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B, which contain standards for new construction.
    Provisions of this chapter may be used in conjunction with all other provisions of the regular code and ADA regulations.|**Notes:**The regular code for Chapter 8-6 is contained in Title 24, Part 2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B, which contain standards for new construction.
    Provisions of this chapter may be used in conjunction with all other provisions of the regular code and ADA regulations.|**Notes:**The regular code for Chapter 8-6 is contained in Title 24, Part 2, Vol.1, Chapter 11B, which contain standards for new construction.
    Provisions of this chapter may be used in conjunction with all other provisions of the regular code and ADA regulations.|

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    HISTORY NOTE APPENDIX

    2025 California Historical Building Code California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 8

    HISTORY:

    For prior history, see the History Note Appendix to the California Historical Building Code, 2022 Triennial Edition, effective January 1, 2023.

    1. Adoption of the 2025 California Historical Building Code, CCR Title 24, Part 8, carrying forward existing amendments from the 2022 edition. Effective on January 1, 2026.

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  • CALGreen § 4.406.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    4.406.1 Rodent proofing. Annular spaces around pipes, electric cables, conduits or other openings in sole/bottom plates at exterior walls shall be protected against the passage of rodents by closing such openings with cement mortar, concrete masonry or a similar method acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    SECTION 4.407—WATER RESISTANCE AND MOISTURE MANAGEMENT (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.408—CONSTRUCTION WASTE REDUCTION, DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

    4.408.1 Construction waste management. Recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum of 65 percent of the nonhazardous construction and demolition waste in accordance with either Section 4.408.2, 4.408.3 or 4.408.4, or meet a more stringent local construction and demolition waste management ordinance.

    Exceptions:

    1. Excavated soil and land-clearing debris.
    2. Alternate waste reduction methods developed by working with local agencies if diversion or recycle facilities capable of compliance with this item do not exist or are not located reasonably close to the jobsite.
    3. The enforcing agency may make exceptions to the requirements of this section when isolated jobsites are located in areas beyond the haul boundaries of the diversion facility.

    4.408.2 Construction waste management plan. Submit a construction waste management plan in conformance with Items 1 through 5. The construction waste management plan shall be updated as necessary and shall be available during construction for examination by the enforcing agency.

    1. Identify the construction and demolition waste materials to be diverted from disposal by recycling, reuse on the project or salvage for future use or sale.

    2. Specify if construction and demolition waste materials will be sorted on-site (source-separated) or bulk mixed (single stream).

    3. Identify diversion facilities where the construction and demolition waste material will be taken.

    4. Identify construction methods employed to reduce the amount of construction and demolition waste generated.

    5. Specify that the amount of construction and demolition waste materials diverted shall be calculated by weight or volume, but not by both.

    4.408.3 Waste management company. Utilize a waste management company, approved by the enforcing agency, which can provide verifiable documentation that the percentage of construction and demolition waste material diverted from the landfill complies with Section 4.408.1.

    Note: The owner or contractor may make the determination if the construction and demolition waste materials will be diverted by a waste management company.

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    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    4.408.4 Waste stream reduction alternative [LR]. Projects that generate a total combined weight of construction and demolition waste disposed of in landfills, which do not exceed 3.4 pounds per square foot of the building area shall meet the minimum 65 percent construction waste reduction requirement in Section 4.408.1.

    4.408.4.1 Waste stream reduction alternative. Projects that generate a total combined weight of construction and demolition waste disposed of in landfills, which do not exceed 2 pounds per square foot of the building area, shall meet the minimum 65 percent construction waste reduction requirement in Section 4.408.1.

    4.408.5 Documentation. Documentation shall be provided to the enforcing agency which demonstrates compliance with Section 4.408.2, Items 1 through 5, Section 4.408.3 or Section 4.408.4.

    Notes:

Frequently asked questions

When can I rely on an alternate document without contacting the building department?

You should not assume acceptance — alternates are acceptable only after the enforcing agency finds them satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance (§ 102.3). Contact the enforcing agency early.

Does a waiver under § 102.1 excuse compliance with the code?

No. The § 102.1 Exception can waive submission of certain documents (those not required to be prepared by a licensed design professional), but it does not waive the underlying code requirements.

What kinds of alternate evidence are commonly accepted?

Commonly accepted items include product certifications, chain-of-custody documents, weight/haul tickets, operation & maintenance manuals, and other evidence acceptable to the enforcing agency — see measure-level examples such as § 4.504.5.1.

If the enforcing agency asks for additional documentation, can they require a licensed design professional to prepare it?

Yes. For special conditions the enforcing agency is authorized to require additional construction documents prepared by a licensed design professional (§ 102.1).

Are residential projects handled differently?

HCD explicitly requires submission of the Residential Occupancies Application Checklist and measure references; alternates still must be found satisfactory by the enforcing agency (§ 102.3 [HCD]).

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