CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
Where are the CALGreen verification and Tier checklists found (compliance documentation)?
For nonresidential projects that trigger Appendix A5 (new construction, additions ≥ 1,000 ft², or alterations with permit valuation ≥ $200,000), CALGreen provides three compliance checklists in Appendix A5: **§ A5.602** (Mandatory), **§ A5.602.1** (Tier 1), and **§ A5.602.2** (Tier 2). Use the checklist that matches whether you’re doing mandatory-only work or pursuing a voluntary tier, mark each row **Y/N/O**, attach the plans/specs called out in the checklist, and confirm all Chapter 5 mandatory measures are complete before counting tier electives.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
The CALGreen compliance checklists for nonresidential projects are located in Appendix A5: use the Mandatory Measures checklist (§ A5.602) for projects that meet the nonresidential thresholds but are not opting into a tier, the Tier 1 checklist (§ A5.602.1) when pursuing CALGreen Tier 1, and the Tier 2 checklist (§ A5.602.2) when pursuing CALGreen Tier 2. These checklists apply to nonresidential new construction, building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more (see the Application statements in each checklist) — each checklist explains how to mark compliance and what attachments to provide.
Use the checklist that matches your project trigger: § A5.602 for mandatory-only projects, § A5.602.1 for projects adopting Tier 1, and § A5.602.2 for projects adopting Tier 2.
Requirements in detail
Which checklist to use
- If the project is nonresidential and does not adopt voluntary tiers, use the Mandatory Measures checklist — § A5.602. The checklist’s Application paragraph lists the project triggers (new construction, 1,000 ft²+ additions, or alterations with $200,000+ permit valuation).
- If the project opts into Tier 1, use § A5.602.1 (Tier 1 Checklist). The Tier 1 checklist repeats the same project triggers and instructs the user to comply with Tier 1 prerequisites and then select required electives.
- If the project opts into Tier 2, use § A5.602.2 (Tier 2 Checklist). The Tier 2 checklist likewise repeats triggers and requires compliance with Tier 2 prerequisites plus additional electives.
How to fill and submit the checklists
- Mark each row as Y = Yes, N = No, or O = Other and provide attachments (plan sheet/spec or other documentation) as indicated on the checklist. The checklists explicitly define the Y/N/O convention in their Instructions.
- The checklists require that all applicable mandatory Chapter 5 measures be met before applying voluntary tier measures (note in the Tier 1 and Tier 2 checklists).
- The checklists include columns for Plan sheet, spec or attachment — you must reference the sheet or spec where the compliance item is shown.
Decision-relevant dimensions and where they appear
| Decision dimension / value | What it means for compliance | How to record it on the checklist | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project trigger (use checklist) | New construction, additions ≥ 1,000 ft², or alterations with permit valuation ≥ $200,000 determines checklist applicability | Choose A5.602 or A5.602.1 or A5.602.2 per Application text | § A5.602; § A5.602.1; § A5.602.2 |
| Y / N / O marking | Show whether an item is included, not included, or explained as Other | Mark the column and attach evidence (plans, specs) | § A5.602 Instructions; § A5.602.1 Instructions; § A5.602.2 Instructions |
| Prerequisites vs. electives | Prerequisite measures must be met; electives are selected to reach tier thresholds | Checklist separates mandatory/prerequisite rows from elective rows and requires a total count | § A5.602.1; § A5.602.2 (Instructions to comply with prerequisites and select electives) |
| Attachment evidence | Plans/specs or other documentation showing compliance | Use “Plan sheet, spec or attach” column on checklist | § A5.602 checklists (table column) |
(If you need the specific elective counts or the specific design measures that qualify for Tier 1 or Tier 2, those are enumerated in Appendix A5 (for example § A5.601 lists Tier elements). See Related provisions below for direct references.)
Exceptions & special cases
- The Tier checklists both state: “All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 1 (or Tier 2).” That is a prerequisite — you cannot count voluntary-tier electives until Chapter 5 mandatory items are satisfied.
- The Application language repeats that the checklists are for nonresidential projects meeting the size/valuation triggers; residential/checklist forms live in Appendix A4 (see Appendix A4 for residential application checklists). The A5 checklists are specifically for nonresidential voluntary measures.
- The checklists allow “O = Other (provide explanation)” where a project cannot strictly meet a line item; the form requires an explanation and attachment. Use this only when an alternate compliance method is appropriate and documented.
Common mistakes
- Using the mandatory checklist (§ A5.602) when the project is explicitly adopting Tier 1 or Tier 2 — doing so omits the tier prerequisites and elective-counting logic. Confirm tier adoption before selecting the checklist.
- Forgetting to attach plan sheets/spec references in the “Plan sheet, spec or attach” column — the checklists require a referenced attachment for each checked item.
- Marking items as Y without meeting the Chapter 5 mandatory measures first (Tier checklists explicitly require Chapter 5 compliance before voluntary measures).
- Counting electives incorrectly because the project didn’t verify which items are prerequisites vs. selectable electives — the checklist tables separate these; follow the Instructions to count totals.
Worked example — step-by-step scenario
Scenario: A commercial tenant build-out (nonresidential) that is an addition of 1,200 ft² and the owner wants Tier 1 recognition.
- Confirm checklist applicability: the addition is ≥ 1,000 ft², so Appendix A5 applies; because the owner wants Tier 1, use § A5.602.1 — Tier 1 Checklist.
- Confirm Chapter 5 mandatory measures are met (the Tier 1 checklist notes that all Chapter 5 mandatory requirements must be met prior to applying Tier 1). Resolve any outstanding mandatory items first.
- On the § A5.602.1 form: mark Y for all Tier 1 prerequisite measures listed on the table, enter Y/N/O for elective lines, and in the “Plan sheet, spec or attach” column reference the drawing sheet or spec page showing compliance (e.g., “A2.1 — Electrical: EV conduit noted; Spec 26-XXX — EV charger raceway”).
- Count the total number of prerequisites + selected electives per the checklist Instructions. If the total meets the required Tier 1 threshold (as defined by Appendix A5 Tier tables), sign the Documentation Author’s declaration on the checklist. (The checklist provides the fields and declaration block for this purpose.)
Note: The checklist itself gives the procedural steps — the exact elective totals or measure lists are specified elsewhere in Appendix A5 (see A5.601 and the checklists’ tables). Use those sections together with § A5.602.1 when preparing submittals.
Related provisions
- § A5.601 — CALGreen Tier 1 and Tier 2 descriptions and required voluntary measures (tables showing items such as EV parking percentages, cool-roof SRI thresholds, and elective counts).
- Chapter 5 (e.g., Sections 5.105–5.508) — The checklists reference specific Chapter 5 sections for each line item (checklist rows list the Chapter 5 code section numbers).
- Section 102.3 — Verification and documentation requirements for submittal (construction documents shall show location, nature and scope; documentation of conformance shall be provided).
- Appendix A4 — Residential checklists and Tier info (for residential occupancies; A5 is nonresidential).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CALGreen § 602.1 High relevance — show source text
VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3
A5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3 A5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-13 A5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A5-19 A5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-25 A5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-35 A5.6 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41 A5.601 CALGren Tier 1 and Tier 2. . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41
A5.602 CALGreen Verification Guidelines Mandatory Measures Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-44
A5.602.1 CALGreen Verification Guidelines
Tier 1 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-48
A5.602.2 CALGreen Verification Guidelines
Tier 2 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-55
APPENDIX A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH
FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.1 Site Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-32 A6.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-33
INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INDEX-1
HISTORY NOTE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIST-1
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CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 1 – ADMINISTRATION
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
|Adopting
CALGreen § 102.1 High relevance — show source text
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 § 602.2 High relevance — show source text
Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
Check the appropriate box(es) for the list below.
□ Mandatory: I attest that the mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.
□ Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected meet or exceed the total number required
to achieve Tier 1 compliance.
□ Partial Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected do not meet the total number
required to achieve Tier 1 compliance: however, partial Tier 1 compliance has been achieved.Col2 Signature: Company: Date: Address: License: City/State/Zip: Phone: APPENDIX A5-54 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.602.2
CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES
TIER 2 CHECKLIST
Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 2 voluntary measures.
Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 2 voluntary measures.
Instructions:
Comply with all Tier 2 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.
Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 2 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.
Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.
Count the total number of Tier 2 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 2 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 2 compliance.
Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)
[N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3
[A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACHDIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
Scope with Exception5.105.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with
note5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
less than 1 acre of land5.106.1 through
5.106.CALGreen § 602.1 High relevance — show source text
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A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
DIVISION A5.6 – VOLUNTARY TIERS
SECTION A5.601—CALGreen TIER 1 AND TIER 2 Col2 Col3 Col4 TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)CATEGORY ENVIRONMENTAL
PERFORMANCE GOALTIER 1 TIER 2 All Minimum Mandatory
(See Mandatory Checklist)Meet all of the provisions
of Chapter 5 (See Tier 1 Checklist)Meet all of the provisions
of Chapter 5 (See Tier 2 Checklist)DIVISION 5.1
Planning and DesignReuse of existing building See Section A5.105.1 and Section
A5.105.2 requirementsSee Section A5.105.1 and Section
A5.105.2 requirementsDIVISION 5.1
Planning and DesignDesignated Parking for
Fuel Efficient Vehicles
(Tier 1 and Tier 2 only)Approx. 35% of total spaces Approx. 50% of total spaces DIVISION 5.1
Planning and DesignElectric Vehicle Charging Approx. 30% of total spaces Approx. 45% of total spaces **DIVISION 5. CALGreen § 405.4 High relevance — show source text
- From Division A5.4,
a. Comply with recycled content of 15 percent of materials based on estimated total cost, or use two products from Table A5.405.4 for at least 75 percent by cost in Section A5.405.4.1. b. Comply with the 80-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.
- From Division A5.5,
a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 100 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7.1. Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list and no added formaldehyde in Section A5.504.4.8.1.
c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division. 6. Comply with three additional elective measures selected from any division.
1 Cool roof is required for compliance with Tiers 1 and 2 and may be used to meet energy standards in Part 6, exceed energy standards and to mitigate heat island effect.
A5.601.4 Compliance verification. Compliance with Section A5.601.2 or A5.601.3 shall be as required in Chapter 7 of this code. Compliance documentation shall be made part of the project record as required in Section 5.410.2 or 5.410.3.
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.602
CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES MANDATORY MEASURES CHECKLIST
Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet one of the following: new construction, building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3 AND do not trigger a Tier 1 or Tier 2 requirement:
Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included)
— N/A = Not Applicable (code section does not apply to the project mainly used for additions and alterations) O = Other (provide explanation)
[N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3
[A ] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N/A O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACHDIVISION 5.1
Planning and
DesignMandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
Scope with Exception5.105.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
DesignMandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with
note5.105.2 and
5.105.2.1DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
DesignMandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb less
than 1 acre of land5.106. CALGreen § 8-40 High relevance — show source text
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40
APPENDIX A4 RESIDENTIAL
VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3
A4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3 A4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-9 A4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A4-13 A4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-15 A4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-19 A4.6 Tier 1 and Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-21
Division A4.6—Residential Occupancies Application Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-23 A4.7 Residential Model Ordinance . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-31
APPENDIX A5 NONRESIDENTIAL
VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3
A5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3 A5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-13 A5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A5-19 A5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-25 A5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-35 A5.6 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41 A5.601 CALGren Tier 1 and Tier 2. . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41
A5.602 CALGreen Verification Guidelines Mandatory Measures Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-44
A5.602.1 CALGreen Verification Guidelines
Tier 1 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-48
A5.602.2 CALGreen Verification Guidelines
Tier 2 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-55
APPENDIX A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH
CALGreen § 507.3 Medium relevance — show source text
5**
Environmen-
tal
Quality|Select One|Elective|Views|A5.507.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmen-
tal
Quality|Select One|Elective|Interior office spaces|A5.507.3.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmen-
tal
Quality|Select One|Elective|Multi-occupant spaces (with exceptions)|A5.507.3.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmen-
tal
Quality|Select One|Elective|Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)|A5.508.1.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmen-
tal
Quality|Select One|Elective|Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)|A5.508.1.4||||| |Additional
Measures|Additional
Measures||Select 1 additional measure from any division|Add section #||||| |Total number of Measures required|Total number of Measures required|Total number of Measures required|Total number of Measures required|15||||| |Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected||||||Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
Check the appropriate box(es) for the list below.
□ Mandatory: I attest that the mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.
□ Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected meet or exceed the total number required
to achieve Tier 1 compliance.
□ Partial Tier 1 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected do not meet the total number
required to achieve Tier 1 compliance: however, partial Tier 1 compliance has been achieved.Col2 Signature: Company: Date: Address: License: City/State/Zip: Phone: APPENDIX A5-54 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.602.2
CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES
TIER 2 CHECKLIST
Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 2 voluntary measures.
Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 2 voluntary measures.
Instructions:
Comply with all Tier 2 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.
Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 2 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.
CALGreen § 405.4 Medium relevance — show source text
- From Division A5.4,
a. Comply with recycled content of 10 percent of materials based on estimated total cost, or use two products from Table A5.405.4 for at least 75 percent by cost in Section A5.405.4. b. Comply with the 65-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division.
- From Division A5.5,
a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 90 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list in Section A5.504.4.8. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division. 6. Comply with one additional elective measure selected from any division.
1 Cool roof is required for compliance with Tiers 1 and 2 and may be used to meet energy standards in Part 6, exceed energy standards and to mitigate heat island effect.
A5.601.3 CALGreen Tier 2.
A5.601.3.1 Prerequisites. To achieve CALGreen tier status, a project must meet all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 5 and, in addition, meet the provisions of this section.
A5.601.3.2 Energy performance. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards.
A5.601.3.3 Tier 2. Comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Section A5.203.1.1 and Section A5.203.1.2.2.
A5.601.3.4 Voluntary measures for Tier 2. In addition to the provisions of Sections A5.601.3.1 and A5.601.3.3 above, compliance with the following voluntary measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 2:
- From Division A5.1, a. Comply with the designated parking requirements for fuel efficient vehicles for a minimum of 50 percent of parking capacity per Section A5.106.5.1. b. Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] and Table A5.106.5.3.2 with footnotes. c. Comply with thermal emittance, solar reflectance or SRI values for cool roofs in Section A5.106.11.2 and Table A5.106.11.2.3. [1]
d. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
From Division A5.2 comply with TWO of the following:
Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.
Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.
Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.
Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.
Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.
From Division A5.3,
CALGreen § 5.508.2 Medium relevance — show source text
000 square feet or more|5.508.2
through
5.508.2.6.3||||| |||END OF MANDATORY PROVISIONS||||||Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
□ Mandatory: I attest that this mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.Col2 Signature: Signature: Company: Date: Address: License: City/State/Zip: Phone: 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-47
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.602.1
CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES
TIER 1 CHECKLIST
Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 1 voluntary measures.
Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 1 voluntary measures.
Instructions:
Comply with all Tier 1 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.
Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 1 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.
Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.
Count the total number of Tier 1 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 1 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 1 compliance.
Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)
[N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3
[A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACHDIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
Scope with Exception5.105.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with note 5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1 DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
less than 1 acre of land5.106.1 through
5.106.2DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)Mandatory Short-term bicycle parking 5.106.4.1. CALGreen § 602.1 Medium relevance — show source text
)_|TABLE A5.601 NONRESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS: Green Building Standards Code Proposed Performance Approach
Note: This table is intended only as an aid in illustrating the nonresidential tier structure (Refer to Checklists A5.602, A5.602.1 and A5.602.2 for
CALGreen verification guidelines for Mandatory Checklist, Tier 1 Checklist and Tier 2 Checklist.)| |CATEGORY|ENVIRONMENTAL
PERFORMANCE GOAL|TIER 1|TIER 2| |All|Minimum Mandatory
(See Mandatory Checklist)|Meet all of the provisions
of Chapter 5 (See Tier 1 Checklist)|Meet all of the provisions
of Chapter 5 (See Tier 2 Checklist)| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design|Reuse of existing building|See Section A5.105.1 and Section
A5.105.2 requirements|See Section A5.105.1 and Section
A5.105.2 requirements| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design|Designated Parking for
Fuel Efficient Vehicles
(Tier 1 and Tier 2 only)|Approx. 35% of total spaces|Approx. 50% of total spaces| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design|Electric Vehicle Charging|Approx. 30% of total spaces|Approx. 45% of total spaces| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design|Cool Roof to Reduce
Heat Island Effect|Roof Slope < 2:12 SRI 75
Roof Slope > 2:12 SRI 16|Roof Slope < 2:12 SRI 82
Roof Slope > 2:12 SRI 27| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design||1 additional Elective from Division A5.1|3 additional Electives from Division A5.1| |DIVISION 5.2
Energy Efficiency|Energy Performance2a, 2b|Outdoor lighting power 90%
of Part 6 allowance|Outdoor lighting power 90%
of Part 6 allowance| |||If applicable, solar water-heating system
with minimum solar savings fraction of 0.15|If applicable, solar water-heating system
with minimum solar savings fraction of 0.15| |||Warehouse door seals|Warehouse door seals| |||Comply with day lighting requirements|Comply with day lighting requirements| |||Exhaust heat recovery|Exhaust heat recovery| |||Energy Budget 95% or 90%
of Part 6 calculated value of allowance|Energy Budget 90% or 85%
of Part 6 calculated value of allowance| |DIVISION 5.3
Water Efficiency
and Conservation|Indoor Water Use|12% Savings|20% Savings| |DIVISION 5.3
Water Efficiency
and Conservation||1 additional Elective from Division A5.3|3 additional Electives from Division A5.3| |DIVISION 5.4
Material Conservation
and Resource Efficiency3|Construction Waste Reduction|At least 65% reduction|At least 80% reduction| |**DIVISION 5.CALGreen § 304.1 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION 304—VOLUNTARY TIERS
304.1 Purpose. Voluntary tiers are intended to further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.
304.1.1 Tiers. The provisions of Divisions A4.6 and A5.6 outline means, in the form of voluntary tiers, for achieving enhanced construction levels by incorporating additional measures for residential and nonresidential new construction. Voluntary tiers may be adopted by local governments and, when adopted, enforced by local enforcing agencies. Buildings complying with tiers specified for each occupancy contain additional prerequisite and elective green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each tier. See Section 101.7 of this code for procedures and requirements related to local amendments, additions or deletions, including changes to energy standards.
[BSC & HCD] Where there are practical difficulties involved in complying with the threshold levels of a tier, the enforcing agency may grant modifications for individual cases. The enforcing agency shall first find that a special individual reason makes the strict letter of the tier impractical and that modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of the measure. The details of any action granting modification shall be recorded and entered in the files of the enforcing agency.
SECTION 305 [OSHPD 1]— CALGreen TIER 1 AND CALGreen TIER 2
305.1 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 buildings contain voluntary green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level.
305.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. To achieve CALGreen Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/main/page_ downloads_ sbd_healthcare.html.
305.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.
SECTION 306 [DSA-SS]—VOLUNTARY MEASURES
306.1 Purpose. For public schools and community colleges, voluntary measures further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.
306.1.1 Appendix A5, Divisions A5.1 through A5.5, outline means of achieving enhanced sustainable design and construction by incorporating voluntary measures that exceed the mandatory measures.
306.1.2 Chapter 5 Nonresidential Mandatory Measures that are not adopted as mandatory measures by DSA-SS are voluntary measures recommended and encouraged for the design, construction, verification and maintenance of non-energy systems.
Note: The building commissioning requirements for energy efficiency specified in the California Energy Code are required.
3-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 4 – RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
CALGreen § 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:
- Product certifications and specifications.
- Chain of custody certifications.
- 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.
APPENDIX A6.1-36 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
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
CALGreenVOLUNTARY
CALGreenVOLUNTARY
CALGreenVOLUNTARY
CALGreenFEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
CALGreenTier 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.
Frequently asked questions
Where in the CALGreen document will I find the Mandatory, Tier 1 and Tier 2 checklists?
Mandatory: § A5.602 (Appendix A5). Tier 1: § A5.602.1. Tier 2: § A5.602.2 — each checklist’s Application paragraph states the project triggers.
Do I have to meet Chapter 5 mandatory items before using a Tier checklist?
Yes. Both the Tier 1 and Tier 2 checklists state that all applicable Chapter 5 mandatory requirements must be met prior to applying voluntary tier measures.
How should I mark items on the checklist?
Use Y = Yes, N = No, O = Other (provide explanation). Each checked line should reference the plan sheet, spec or attachment showing compliance.
What attachments are expected with the checklist?
The checklists include a “Plan sheet, spec or attach” column — attach the pages or documents that demonstrate compliance (plans, specs, certifications). The checklists also contain a Documentation Author’s declaration block to sign.
My project is residential — do I use these A5 checklists?
No. Appendix A5 checklists are for nonresidential projects. Residential checklist and tiers are in Appendix A4.
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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What voluntary measures apply to public schools and community colleges?
What defines CALGreen Tier 1 and Tier 2 performance thresholds?
What are Voluntary Tiers and how can jurisdictions adopt them?
Voluntary tiers and voluntary measures (Sections 304–306 and Appendix A5)
California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)