CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
What happens if a term is not defined in Chapter 2?
If CALGreen Chapter 2 (Section 202) and the code’s referenced documents don’t define a word, CALGreen’s **§ 201.4** says you must give the term its ordinary, commonly accepted meaning as the context implies; check Chapter 2 first, then referenced documents, then apply and document the common-language interpretation.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
If a word or phrase is not defined in Chapter 2, the California Green Building Standards Code tells you to give that term its ordinarily accepted meaning as the context implies — i.e., use the normal, common-language meaning suggested by how the term is used. This is the rule in § 201.4.
If Chapter 2 and the code’s referenced documents don’t define a term, treat it the way an ordinary reader would in that context — use the ordinary, accepted meaning. (See § 201.4.)
Requirements in detail
Core rule (short)
- Look first to Chapter 2 (Section 202) for a defined term. If you find it there, use that definition. § 202 (Chapter 2) contains the code’s defined terms.
- If the term is not in Chapter 2, check the other documents the code references (see § 201.3). If those documents define the term, use that definition.
- If the term is still not defined by those methods, apply an ordinarily accepted meaning that the context implies — this is § 201.4.
Quick decision table
| Decision question | What you do | Outcome / how to apply | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Is the term listed in Chapter 2 (Section 202)? | Use the Chapter 2 definition. | Definition controls for the code text. | § 202 |
| Not in Chapter 2 — is it defined in a referenced California standard or other referenced document? | Use the definition from that referenced document. | Use the external publication’s definition for that term in the CALGreen context. | § 201.3 |
| Not found in Chapter 2 or referenced documents? | Apply the ordinary, commonly accepted meaning implied by context. | Interpret term based on common usage; document the rationale. | § 201.4 |
How to apply “ordinarily accepted meanings”
- Read the phrase in its sentence and in the surrounding provisions to see how the term functions (scope, thresholds, units, related requirements). Then choose the common-language meaning that fits that usage. This step is exactly what § 201.4 directs: use the ordinarily accepted meaning “such as the context implies.”
- Document the interpretive steps in project records or review notes: where you looked (Chapter 2, referenced documents), and the ordinary-language sources or context used to reach the interpretation. The code requires no particular dictionary in § 201.4 for CALGreen.
Exceptions & special cases
- If a referenced California code or a specific adopted standard gives a different definition, that definition applies instead of an ordinary meaning (see § 201.3). Always follow the chain: Chapter 2 → referenced documents → § 201.4 ordinary meaning.
- Some state-adopted codes (other Parts of Title 24) explicitly name a dictionary to supply ordinary meanings where they do so; CALGreen’s § 201.4 itself does not name a specific dictionary — it simply directs the use of ordinarily accepted meanings as context implies. If you are cross-referencing other California codes, check those sections for any named dictionaries.
- Agency adoption matrices and bracketed agency language may affect whether a particular portion of Chapter 2 is in force for a specific State agency application. In those cases confirm which sections of Chapter 2 are adopted for your application before relying on a Chapter 2 definition. (See CALGreen Chapter 2 adoption notes / matrix.)
Common mistakes
- Assuming every technical term is defined in Chapter 2. (Always check § 201.3 and § 202 first.)
- Inventing a specialized technical definition without documenting why the ordinary meaning wouldn’t apply. § 201.4 expects an ordinary meaning unless a code definition controls.
- Failing to check referenced documents (for example, the California Building Code or other referenced standards), then applying ordinary meaning prematurely. That violates the precedence laid out in § 201.3 then § 201.4.
- Not recording the interpretive path (Chapter 2 → referenced docs → ordinary meaning). Lack of documentation causes disputes during plan review or inspection.
Worked example — step-by-step scenario
Scenario: A plan reviewer encounters the phrase “install continuous daylighting controls” in a nonresidential lighting requirement. The phrase “continuous daylighting controls” is not found in the project’s Chapter 2 lookup.
- Step 1 — Check Chapter 2 (Section 202). Result: term not listed. Action: move to Step 2. (Check § 202.)
- Step 2 — Check referenced documents per § 201.3 (California Building Standards Code, referenced standards such as ASHRAE, or other publications cited by CALGreen). Result: no clear definition found in those referenced documents for the exact phrase. (See § 201.3.)
- Step 3 — Apply § 201.4: adopt an ordinarily accepted meaning that the context implies. For this project the context (lighting controls chapter that distinguishes “continuous” vs. “occupancy-sensor” operation) implies “continuous daylighting controls” means controls that continuously adjust electric lighting output in response to daylight level (i.e., continuously variable dimming rather than only on/off). Document: cite § 201.4, show search in Chapter 2 and referenced docs, and record why the ordinary meaning fits the provision’s performance objective. (Apply § 201.4.)
Note: CALGreen does not direct use of a particular dictionary for this ordinary-meaning step; the reviewer’s rationale and the context-driven interpretation are what the Code requires per § 201.4.
Related provisions
- § 201.1 — Scope (use Chapter 2 definitions unless otherwise stated).
- § 201.2 — Interchangeability (grammatical rules: tense, gender, singular/plural).
- § 201.3 — Terms defined in other documents (use definitions from referenced California codes and publications where applicable).
- § 202 — Chapter 2 definitions (the list of defined terms to check first).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CALGreen § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
REPAIR|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |ROOF REPLACEMENT|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |SPC SEISMIC SEPARATION||||||||||X|X|||||||||||||| |SUBSTANDARD BUILDING||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |SUBSTANTIAL STRUCTURAL
DAMAGE||||||||||X|X|||||||||||||| |UNREINFORCED CONCRETE||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |UNREINFORCED MASONRY||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |UNSAFE|||X|X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |VOLUNTARY STRUCTURAL
IMPROVEMENTS||||||||||X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |WORK AREA|||X||||||||||||||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the other California Codes, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them in those codes. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] For terms not defined in this chapter, refer to Chapters 6 and 7 of the California Administrative Code, and Chapter 2 of the California Building Code. [DSA-SS & DSA-SS/CC] Definitions of terms given in Section 4-207 or 4-314 of the California Administrative Code govern over those in Section 202.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this chapter, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the single-family or multi- family dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2.)
CALGreen § 1.5 High relevance — show source text
The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words stated in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; and the singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Code, Cali- fornia Existing Building Code, California Fire Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have their ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. A building or structure used to shelter or support any material, equipment, chattel or occupancy other than a habitable building.
AGRICULTURE (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Land used for agricultural purposes as defined in a Local Jurisdiction's zoning ordinances. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(a)]
APPLICABLE BUILDING. A building that has residential, commercial, educational, institutional or similar occupancy type use.
[A] APPROVED. Acceptable to the code official.
[A] APPROVED AGENCY. An established and recognized organization that is regularly engaged in conducting tests, furnishing inspection services or furnishing product evaluation or certification where such organization has been approved by the code official.
[A] BUILDING. Any structure intended for supporting or sheltering any occupancy.
BUILDING (applicable to CCR, Title 14 provisions only). Any Structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or Occupancy, except those classified as Utility and Miscellaneous Group U. [CCR Title 14 §1270.01(c)]
CALGreen § 2-4 High relevance — show source text
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code. General definitions are located in Section 202 and occupancy classification definitions are located in Section 203.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Code, Cali- fornia Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS
[BG] 24-HOUR BASIS. The actual time that a person is an occupant within a facility for the purpose of receiving care. It shall not include a facility that is open for 24 hours and is capable of providing care to someone visiting the facility during any segment of the 24 hours.
3D PRINTER. A machine used in the additive manufacturing process for fabricating objects through the deposition of a material using a print head, nozzle or other printer technology.
[M] ACCESS (TO). That which enables a device, appliance or equipment to be reached by ready access or by a means that first requires the removal or movement of a panel or similar obstruction [see also “Ready access (to)”].
[BE] ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS. A continuous and unobstructed way of egress travel from any accessible point in a building or facility to a public way.
[BE] ACCESSIBLE ROUTE. A continuous, unobstructed path that complies with Chapter 11 of the California Building Code .
ACTIVE RF EMITTING DEVICE. Any type of circuit component that requires an AC or DC power source with the ability to electrically control electron flow and/or amplification of RF signal, including but not limited to signal boosters, repeaters, bidirectional amplifiers and fiber-distributed antenna systems.
ADDITIVE MANUFACTURING. A process of joining materials to make objects from 3D model data, usually layer upon layer, sometimes referred to as 3D printing. This code recognizes two types of additive manufacturing:
Industrial additive manufacturing. 3D printing operations that typically utilize combustible powders or metals, an inert gas supply, a combustible dust collection system, or that create a hazardous (classified) location area or zone outside the equipment.
CALGreen § 106.3 High relevance — show source text
11B- 106.3 Undefined terms. The meaning of terms not specifically listed in Section 11B- 106.5, and not defined in Chapter 2, Section 202, or in referenced standards shall be as defined by collegiate dictionaries in the sense that the context implies.
11B- 106.4 Interchangeability . See Chapter 2, Section 201.2.
11B- 106.5 Defined terms . The following terms are defined in Chapter 2, Section 202.
ACCESS AISLE
ACCESSIBILITY
ACCESSIBILITY FUNCTION BUTTON
ACCESSIBLE
ACCESSIBLE ELEMENT
ACCESSIBLE MEANS OF EGRESS
ACCESSIBLE ROUTE
ACCESSIBLE SPACE
ADAPTABLE
ADDITION
ADJUSTED CONSTRUCTION COST
ADMINISTRATIVE AUTHORITY
ADULT CHANGING FACILITY
AISLE
ALTERATION
AMUSEMENT ATTRACTION
AMUSEMENT RIDE
AMUSEMENT RIDE SEAT
ANSI
APPROVED
APPROVED TESTING AGENCY
AREA OF REFUGE
AREA OF SPORT ACTIVITY
ASSEMBLY AREA
ASSISTIVE LISTENING SYSTEM (ALS)
AUTOMATIC DOOR
AUTOMATIC TELLER MACHINE (ATM)
BATHROOM
BLENDED TRANSITION
BOARDING PIER
BOAT LAUNCH RAMP
BOAT SLIP
BOTTLE FILLING STATION
BUILDING
BUILDING OFFICIAL
CATCH POOL
CCR
CHARACTERS
CHILDREN’S USE
CIRCULATION PATH
CLEAR
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ACCESSIBILITY TO PUBLIC BUILDINGS, PUBLIC ACCOMMODATIONS, COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS AND PUBLIC HOUSING
CLEAR FLOOR SPACE
CLOSED-CIRCUIT TELEPHONE
COMMERCIAL FACILITIES
COMMERCIAL PLACE OF PUBLIC AMUSEMENT
COMMON USE
COMPLY WITH
CROSS SLOPE
CURB CUT
CURB RAMP
DESIGNATED PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
DESIGNATED-ORIENTED ELEVATOR
DETECTABLE WARNING
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
DISABILITY
DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL ASSOCIATIONS
DORMITORY
DRIVE AISLE
DRIVE-UP ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION
DRIVEWAY
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGER
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING SPACE (EV SPACE)
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION (EVCS)
CALGreen § 1.11. High relevance — show source text
Way_||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Waiting Room|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Walk||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Waterline||||||||||||||||||X||||||| |Wet Bar|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Wheelchair||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Wheelchair Space|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Winery Caves|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Work Area Equipment|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Workstation_ (2nd paragraph_
only)|||||||X||||||||||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purposes of the code.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [A], [BG] or [BS] will be considered by one of the code development committees meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Energy Code, Califor- nia Existing Building Code, California Fire Code, California Green Building Standards Code, California Electrical Code, California Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
For applications listed in Section 1.11 regulated by the Office of the State Fire Marshal, where terms are not defined through the meth- ods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Webster’s Third New International Dictionary of the English Language, Unabridged, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
[BG] 24-HOUR BASIS. The actual time that a person is an occupant within a facility for the purpose of receiving care. It shall not include a facility that is open for 24 hours and is capable of providing care to someone visiting the facility during any segment of the 24 hours.
[BS] AAC MASONRY. Masonry made of autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) units, manufactured without internal reinforcement and bonded together using thin- or thick-bed mortar.
CALGreen § 203.7.3 High relevance — show source text
Title 19, Division 1]||||X|||||||||||||||||||| |Chapter / Section|||||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.3.6 - 203.7.3.8|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.7.4.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2.1|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.2.2|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.3.3|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.9.4|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.12|||X||||||||||||||||||||| |203.13|||X|||||||||||||||||||||- The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purpose of the code. General definitions are located in Section 202 and occupancy classification definitions are located in Section 203.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other codes. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Code, Cali- fornia Mechanical Code or California Plumbing Code, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those codes.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined through the methods authorized by this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies. Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, 11th Edition, shall be considered as providing ordinarily accepted meanings.
SECTION 202—GENERAL DEFINITIONS
CALGreen § 2-1 Medium relevance — show source text
RESIDENTIAL
CODE|||||||||†||†||†|||||||||| |LOW-RISE
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING|||||||||†||†||†|||||||||| |PLANTS|||||||||†||†||†|||||||||| |RESIDENTIAL BUILDING|||||||||†||†||†|||||||||| |RESILIENT FLOORING|||||||||†||†||†||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: †.
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SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other documents. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Stan- dards Code or other referenced documents, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those publications.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined as specified in this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
2 X 2 RULE. [BSC-CG] Visual markers are the most effective collision deterrents if spaced no more than 2 inches (5.1 cm) apart, a distance through which most birds cannot fly.
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. [HCD] An attached or detached residential dwelling unit that provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons and is located on a lot with a proposed or existing primary residence. Accessory dwelling units shall include permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation on the same parcel as the singlefamily or multifamily dwelling is or will be situated. (See Government Code Section 65852.2.)
ACCESSORY OCCUPANCIES. [HCD] Occupancies that are ancillary to the main occupancy of residential building(s) or portions thereof. Accessory occupancies shall include, but are not limited to, Group U occupancies. (See Section 312 of the California Build- ing Code. )
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. [HCD] A structure that is accessory to and incidental to that of the dwelling(s) and that is located on the same lot.
ADDITION. An extension or increase in floor area of an existing building or structure.
ADHESIVE MARKER. [BSC-CG] An individual marker(s) applied to the first surface of glass (surface 1) in a pattern or as a custom decal.
ADJUST. To regulate fluid flow rate and air patterns at the terminal equipment, such as to reduce fan speed or adjust a damper.
AGRIFIBER PRODUCTS. Agrifiber products include wheatboard, strawboard, panel substrates and door cores, not including furniture, fixtures and equipment (FF&E) not considered base building elements.
CALGreen § 2-1 Medium relevance — show source text
CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt entire CA chapter X X X Adopt entire chapter as
amended (amended sections
listed below)X X X Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowChapter/Section 201 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL
CODE† † † LOW-RISE
RESIDENTIAL BUILDING† † † PLANTS † † † RESIDENTIAL BUILDING † † † RESILIENT FLOORING † † † The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: †.
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SECTION 201—GENERAL
201.1 Scope. Unless otherwise stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this code, have the meanings shown in this chapter.
201.2 Interchangeability. Words used in the present tense include the future; words stated in the masculine gender include the feminine and neuter; the singular number includes the plural and the plural, the singular.
201.3 Terms defined in other documents. Where terms are not defined in this code and are defined in the California Building Stan- dards Code or other referenced documents, such terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them as in those publications.
201.4 Terms not defined. Where terms are not defined as specified in this section, such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
SECTION 202—DEFINITIONS
CALGreen § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
only those sections that
are listed below|||||||X||||||||||X|X||||||| |Chapter / Section||||||||||||||||||||||||| |Testing Agency||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |Text Telephone||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Toddler|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Torque-Controlled
Post-Installed Anchor||||||||X|X|X|X|X||X|X|||||||||| |Transfer Device|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Transient Lodging||||X|X|X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Transit Boarding Platform|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Transition Plate|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Tread||||X|X|X||||||||||||||||||| |Treatment of Water||||||||||||||||||X||||||| |TTY||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Turnover Time||||||||||||||||||X||||||| |Type A Unit||||†|†|†||||||||||||||||||| |Type B Unit||||†|†|†||||||||||||||||||| |Uniformity Coefficient||||||||||||||||||X||||||| |Unreasonable Hardship||||X|X|X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Use Zone|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Valuation Threshold|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Variable Message Signs (VMS)|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Variable Message Sign (VMS)
Characters|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Vehicular or Pedestrian Arrival
Points||||||X||||||||||||||||||| |Vehicular Way||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Waiting Room|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Walk||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Waterline||||||||||||||||||X||||||| |Wet Bar|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Wheelchair||||||X|X|||||||||||||||||| |Wheelchair Space|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Winery Caves|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |Work Area Equipment|||||||X|||||||||||||||||| |Workstation_ (2nd paragraph_
only)|||||||X||||||||||||||||||The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.
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2 DEFINITIONS
User notes:
About this chapter: Codes, by their very nature, are technical documents. Every word, term and punctuation mark can add to or change the meaning of a technical requirement. It is necessary to maintain a consensus on the specific meaning of each term contained in the code. Chapter 2 performs this function by stating clearly what specific terms mean for the purposes of the code.
ICC code development note: Code change proposals to sections preceded by the designation [A], [BG] or [BS] will be considered by one of the code development committees meeting during the 2025 (Group B) Code Development Cycle.
SECTION 201—GENERAL
CALGreen § 1-5 Medium relevance — show source text
102 Construction Documents
and Installation Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5
103 Building Standards Commission. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5 104 Department of Housing and Community Development. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6 105 Division of the State Architect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6
106 Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6
CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
201 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
202 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-3
CHAPTER 3 GREEN BUILDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
301 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-3
302 Mixed Occupancy Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 303 Phased Projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 304 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 305 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4
306 Voluntary Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4
CHAPTER 4 RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . . . . . 4-3
4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3 4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7 4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-9 4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . 4-11 4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13
CHAPTER 5 NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . 5-3
CALGreen § 0.0479 Medium relevance — show source text
1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.|For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.|For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.|For SI: 1 mile per hour = 0.447 m/s, 1 pound per square foot = 0.0479 kPa.|
R804.3.2.1.1 Eave overhang. Eave overhangs shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm) measured horizontally.
R804.3.2.1.2 Rake overhangs. Rake overhangs shall not exceed the limitations provided for Option 1 or 2 in Figure R804.3.2.1.2. Outlookers at gable endwalls shall be installed in accordance with Figure R804.3.2.1.2. The required strength for uplift connectors required for Option 1 shall be determined in accordance with AISI S230, Table F3-4.
FIGURE R804.3.2.1.2—GABLE ENDWALL OVERHANG DETAILS
OPTION #1
350S162-33 BLOCKING
BETWEEN OUTLOOKERS
W/#8 SCREWS @ 6" O.C. TO WALL TRACK
(MIN.3 SCREWS EACH)
2-#8 SCREWS
(OUTLOOKER TO WALL TRACK)
#8 SCREWS @ 6" O.C. MAX (REF. AISI S230 TABLE F2-5)
350S162-33 (W/O HOLES)
ALIGN WITH EACH GABLE
GABLE END
WALL STUD
UPLIFT ANCHOR ATTACHED TO
EACH OUTLOOKER AND GABLE WALL STUD. (REF. AISI S230 TABLE F3-4 FOR REQUIRED CONNECTION
G Col2 Col3 Col4 #8 .
)
1'-0" MAX1'-0" MAX 1'-0" MIN 1'-0" MIN (RE .
)
1'-0" MAX1'-0" MAX ROOF RAF
350S162-33
OUTLOOK R
ALIGN WITH
WALL STUD
UPLIFT ANC
EACH OUTL
WALL STUDROOF RAF
350S162-33
OUTLOOK R
ALIGN WITH
WALL STUD
UPLIFT ANC
EACH OUTL
WALL STUDSTRENGTH)
OPTION #2 (NOT APPLICABLE FOR WIND SPEEDS > 130 mph)
#8 SCREWS @ 6" O.C. "MAX" (REF. AISI S230 TABLE F2-5)
350S162-33 @ 2'-0" O.C. W/CONTINUOUS TRACK
EACH END
2-#8 SCREWS
TO EACH STUD
WALL SHEATHING
GABLE END
WALL STUD
For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 mile per hour = 1.6 kph.
ROOF RAFTER
GABLE ENDWALL ARE NOT PERMITTED IN THIS REGION
UNLESS AN APPROVED TENSION TIE IS PROVIDED.
8-38 2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE
CALGreen § 2.875 Medium relevance — show source text
Table 9 Data and Material Codes for PVC Swedge Reducers [1]
Reducer
Size
(inches)Dimensions (inches) Col3 Col4 Col5 Material
CodeReducer
Size
(inches)Minimum Length Minimum Length Typical Belled End ID Typical Belled End ID Typical Belled End ID Reducer
Size
(inches)A B C D D 3 x 2 2.875 1.750 3.515 2.393 018585 4 x 3 3.375 2.875 4.515 3.515 018584 5 x 4 4.000 3.375 5.593 4.515 360777 6 x 5 5.000 4.000 6.658 5.593 360778 1 � Both belled ends must be chamferred 0.3 inches (min) by 45 .
062288 Page 6 of 20 Rev. #20: 03−25−22
UG-1: Conduits Greenbook Underground Conduits
PVC and HDPE Conduit and Fittings (continue)
Table 10 High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Conduit Directional
Figure 9 HDPE Conduit
Figure 10 PE Mechanical Coupling
Figure 11 PVC (Bore-Gard, Schedule 40
Table 10 High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Condu Boring Conduit 1 Col2 Col3 Col4 uit Directional Col6 Conduit Conduit Conduit Conduit Mechanical
Couplings2, 3Mechanical
Couplings2, 3Size Length
(feet)Description Material
CodeSize
(inches)Material
Code2” Sch 80 500 Coil4 360511 2 360690 2” Sch 80 40 Stick 360017 360017 360017 3” Sch 80 500 Coil4 360644 3 360691 3” Sch 80 40 Stick 360018 360018 360018 4” Sch 80 625 Coil5 360014 4 360692 4” Sch 80 40 Stick 360015 360015 360015 5” SDR 13.5 450 Coil5 360012 5 360694 5” SDR 13.5 40 Stick 360013 360013 360013 6” SDR 13.5 450 Coil5 360010 6 360695 6” SDR 13.5 40 Stick 360011 360011 360011 1 Color must be black with at least 3 red longitudinal strips. 2 May be used to connect PE conduit to PVC conduit (except in directional drilling apps.) 3 Mechanical couplings are not designed for directional drilling. Fusion joints are required. 4 No reel. 5 With reel.
Table 11 PVC (Bore-Gard) Directional Boring Conduit
Frequently asked questions
When should I stop looking and apply § 201.4?
After you have checked Chapter 2 (Section 202) and the code’s referenced documents per § 201.3. If none define the term, apply an ordinarily accepted meaning under § 201.4.
Does CALGreen tell me which dictionary to use for ordinary meanings?
No. CALGreen’s § 201.4 requires use of ordinarily accepted meanings “such as the context implies” but does not specify a particular dictionary. Document your interpretive basis.
If a referenced standard and Chapter 2 conflict, which wins?
Use the definition prescribed by the code’s precedence: where a term is defined in a referenced document and that document is applicable under § 201.3, that definition applies for CALGreen usage. Then only apply ordinary meanings under § 201.4 if neither Chapter 2 nor referenced documents define the term.
Must my interpretation match how other agencies interpret the same term?
Not necessarily. Some State agencies adopt only parts of Chapter 2 or have different referenced materials; always confirm which portions of Chapter 2 and which referenced documents apply to your agency or project (see Chapter 2 adoption notes / matrix).
How should I record my interpretation?
Record (1) the search in Chapter 2, (2) the check of referenced documents under § 201.3, (3) the ordinary meaning chosen under § 201.4, and (4) the contextual rationale — attach to plan review notes or the project’s compliance documentation.
More in California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
- Administration (Chapter 1)
- Nonresidential Voluntary Measures (Appendix A5 — divisions A5.1–A5.6, electives & verification)
- Residential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 4)
- Definitions (Chapter 2)
- Voluntary Standards for Health Facilities (Appendix A6 / OSHPD guidance)
- Green Building – scope, mixed occupancies, phased projects (Chapter 3)
- Residential Voluntary Measures (Appendix A4 — divisions A4.1–A4.6, tiers & model ordinance)
- Nonresidential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 5)
- Compliance verification, construction documents & checklists (Section 102, Chapter 7, Appendix checklists)
- Referenced Organizations and Standards (Chapter 6)
- Voluntary Tiers and CALGreen Tier 1 / Tier 2 (performance tiers, thresholds)
- Installer and Special Inspector Qualifications (Chapter 7)
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