CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

What are Voluntary Tiers and how can jurisdictions adopt them?

Voluntary tiers are optional higher-performance green-building packages (Tier 1 and Tier 2) listed in Appendices A4 (residential) and A5 (nonresidential). The statewide Code describes them in **§ 304.1** and **§ 304.1.1** and says local governments may adopt these tiers by ordinance (using the model language and checklists in the appendices) and then have their local enforcing agency require the tier checklists at plan check and inspections.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Voluntary tiers are optional, higher-level green-building packages (Tier 1 and Tier 2) intended to encourage more sustainable design and reduced environmental impact. The Code says these Voluntary tiers are described in Division A4.6 (residential) and Division A5.6 (nonresidential) and may be adopted by local governments and, when adopted, enforced by local enforcing agencies (§ 304.1 and § 304.1.1) . The same text also directs users to follow local amendment procedures (see § 101.7) when making such local changes to the Code .

The single most important rule: Voluntary tiers are optional statewide, but a city or county can adopt the Tier 1/Tier 2 measures from Appendix A4 or A5 by ordinance and then enforce them locally (see § 304.1.1) .

Requirements in detail

What is a “Voluntary Tier”?

Voluntary tier — an organized set of prerequisite and elective green building measures assembled at a higher-performance threshold (Tier 1 or Tier 2) and listed in the appendices (A4 for residential and A5 for nonresidential) § 304.1.1 .
The appendices provide checklists and performance or prescriptive approaches to reach each tier; the Code’s appendices are intended to be adopted by reference if a jurisdiction decides to make them mandatory locally .

Who can adopt them?

Local governments (city, county, city & county) may adopt voluntary tiers and enforce them through their local enforcing agency § 304.1.1 .
Appendix guidance explains the voluntary measures are designed “to be adopted by reference and made mandatory by local ordinance pursuant to Section 101.7” (model ordinance language and sample resolutions are provided) .

How adoption normally happens (decision-relevant steps)

Decision dimension	Typical option/value	Code Reference
Source of tier measures	Appendix A4 (residential) or Appendix A5 (nonresidential)	§ 304.1.1
Who may adopt	City, county, city & county (local government)	§ 304.1.1
Legal mechanism to make them mandatory	Adopt by reference in a local ordinance or resolution following local amendment procedures (see § 101.7)	Appendix guidance and model language A4.701.1; § 304.1.1
Enforcement after adoption	Local enforcing agency enforces adopted tiers as mandatory measures	§ 304.1.1
Relief / modifications	Enforcing agency may grant case-by-case modifications where strict compliance is impractical; record of modification required	§ 304.1.1
Examples of Tier requirements (nonresidential illustrative values)	Designated parking for fuel-efficient vehicles (Tier 1 ≈ 35%, Tier 2 ≈ 50%); EV charging (Tier 1 ≈ 30%, Tier 2 ≈ 45%) — see Appendix A5 tables	Appendix A5.601 / Table A5.601 (A5.601.3 and tables)

Notes:

The appendices include checklists and specific elective/prerequisite items used to reach Tier thresholds; jurisdictions adopting tiers normally adopt the associated appendix checklists and verification guidance as part of the reference package .
Some occupancy types (e.g., OSHPD health facilities) have separate Tier references in other sections (see Sections 305 and A6 references) — review the applicable appendix for the occupancy in question .

Procedural mechanics (practical)

Use the model ordinance / sample resolution provided in the appendices as a starting point. The Code includes a sample resolution and a residential model ordinance that shows required insertion items (factual findings, applicability, whether Tier 1 or Tier 2 is chosen, and any local additions) to make the appendices enforceable locally .
Cross-reference local amendment rules: the Code text explicitly points users to § 101.7 for “procedures and requirements related to local amendments, additions or deletions, including changes to energy standards” when adopting tiers locally § 304.1.1 .

Exceptions & special cases

Modification for practical difficulties: If compliance with a tier threshold presents practical difficulties, the enforcing agency may grant modifications for individual cases after finding that strict compliance is impractical and that the modification conforms with the intent of the measure; any granted modification must be recorded in the enforcing agency’s files § 304.1.1 .
State agencies / special occupancies: Some state agencies or special occupancies (e.g., certain health facility authorities) may have additional or parallel voluntary measures sections (see § 305 and Appendix A6 references) — confirm agency applicability before adopting or enforcing tiers locally .
Partial adoption: A jurisdiction can adopt entire appendix chapters or only listed sections (matrix adoption tables illustrate options), but such choices should be documented clearly in the adopting ordinance or resolution (sample matrix language is included in the appendices) .

Common mistakes

Treating voluntary tiers as automatically mandatory statewide — they are optional statewide; only become mandatory in a jurisdiction after a local adoption action § 304.1.1 .
Adopting an appendix measure informally (e.g., administrative policy) without a formal ordinance or resolution and clear reference to the adopted appendix language — the appendices are intended “to be adopted by reference and made mandatory by local ordinance pursuant to Section 101.7” (model language provided) .
Forgetting to document modifications and the rationale when an enforcing agency grants relief for practical difficulties — the Code requires the enforcing agency to record modification details § 304.1.1 .
Applying nonresidential Appendix A5 numeric examples (e.g., parking/EV percentages) to residential projects — use Appendix A4 for residential tier measures and A5 for nonresidential; the two appendices have different checklists and thresholds .

Worked example — city adoption and numerical application

Scenario: The City of Sunnyvale (example) decides to adopt Appendix A5 Tier 1 for all new commercial projects over 5,000 sq ft.

Adoption step (legal):
- City Council adopts an ordinance adopting Appendix A5 Tier 1 measures by reference and inserts required findings and applicability language per the residential model ordinance / sample resolution provided in the appendices (use A4.701.1 guidance and the sample resolution language as a template) .
- The ordinance references local amendment procedures (per § 101.7) as required by the Code (see § 304.1.1) .
Enforcement step (technical):
- The city’s building department requires applicants to submit the Tier 1 checklist and verification documentation from Appendix A5 (checklist A5.602.1) at plan check and final inspection .
Numerical application (parking and EV example):
- Project: a 200-space parking lot for a new office building.
- Appendix A5 (Table A5.601 examples) lists typical Tier 1 values: designated parking for fuel-efficient vehicles ≈ 35%, EV charging ≈ 30% for Tier 1 projects.
- Calculation:
  - Fuel-efficient vehicle spaces required (Tier 1 ≈ 35%): 0.35 × 200 = 70 designated spaces.
  - EV charging (Tier 1 ≈ 30%): 0.30 × 200 = 60 EV-capable/charging locations.
- The project must meet the checklist prerequisites and the selected electives for Tier 1 as adopted locally; if the developer can demonstrate practical difficulty for a specific requirement, the enforcing agency may consider a modification (but must document the finding) § 304.1.1 .

Related provisions

§ 304.1 — Voluntary tiers purpose (definition and intent)
§ 304.1.1 — Voluntary tiers, adoption by local governments, modification authority; cross-references § 101.7
§ 305.1 / § 305.1.1 / § 305.1.2 — CALGreen Tier 1 and Tier 2 guidance for specific (OSHPD) occupancies and the “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” reference for certain healthcare Tiers
A4.701.1 — Residential model ordinance language and guidance on adopting voluntary measures by reference (model text and instructions)
A5.601 — Nonresidential Tier 1 and Tier 2 checklists, tables and typical performance targets (examples: parking/EV percentages, elective lists and verification guidance)
A5.602 / A5.602.1 / A5.602.2 — CALGreen verification checklists for Tier 1 and Tier 2 (documentation guidance)

If you want, I can:

Draft model ordinance language your jurisdiction can use (based on the sample resolution and A4.701.1 text) and highlight the exact insertion points required by § 101.7 and the appendices.
Produce a simple local checklist (plan-check submittal form) that mirrors Appendix A5.602 Tier 1 items for permitting staff to use.

Code references

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

CALGreen § 304.1 High 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

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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 § 301.5 High relevance — show source text
301.5 Health Facilities. [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] Health facilities under the jurisdiction of the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) are required to comply with the mandatory measures prescribed in Section 5.304, Outdoor Water Use. Compliance with Section 5.304, as adopted by the Building Standards Commission, is enforced by the local agency having jurisdiction. Evidence of local approval shall be submitted to OSHPD prior to issuance of plan approval or a building permit.

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GREEN BUILDING

SECTION 302—MIXED OCCUPANCY BUILDINGS

302.1 Mixed occupancy buildings. In mixed occupancy buildings, each portion of a building shall comply with the specific green building measures applicable to each specific occupancy.

Exceptions:
1. [HCD] Accessory structures and accessory occupancies serving residential buildings shall comply with Chapter 4 and Appendix A4, as applicable.
2. [HCD] For the purposes of CALGreen, live/work units, complying with Section 508.5 of the California Building Code, shall not be considered mixed occupancies. Live/work units shall comply with Chapter 4 and Appendix A4, as applicable.
SECTION 303—PHASED PROJECTS

303.1 Phased projects. For shell buildings and others constructed for future tenant improvements, only those code measures relevant to the building components and systems considered to be new construction (or newly constructed) shall apply.

303.1.1 Initial tenant improvements. The provisions of this code shall apply only to the initial tenant improvements to a project. Subsequent tenant improvements shall comply with the scoping provisions in Section 301.3 nonresidential additions and alterations.

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.
CALGreen § 405.4 High relevance — show source text
1. 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.
1. 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:
1. 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.

APPENDIX A5-42 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
1. From Division A5.2 comply with TWO of the following:
2. Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.
3. Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.
4. Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.
5. Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.
6. Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.
7. From Division A5.3,
CGBSC § 2025 Medium relevance — show source text
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.

SAMPLE RESOLUTION FOR ADOPTION OF THE TIER 1 OR TIER 2 PROVISIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE WITH OR WITHOUT ADDITIONAL ITEMS NECESSARY TO ADDRESS INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS OR LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS.

ATTACHMENT___.

SAMPLE RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDICES AS A MANDATORY REFERENCE STANDARD

CITY OF ________________________

RESOLUTION # __________________

RESOLUTION ADOPTING ENHANCED GREEN BUILDING MEASURES FOR NEW AND EXISTING RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION.

WHEREAS, the City/County of ______’s (City or County) General Plan sets forth goals for preserving and improving the natural and built environment of the City/County, protecting the health of its residents and visitors, and fostering its economy; and

WHEREAS, green building is a holistic approach to design, construction and demolition that minimizes the building’s impact on the environment, the occupants and the community; and

WHEREAS, green buildings benefit building industry professionals, residents and communities by improving construction quality; increasing building durability; reducing utility, maintenance, water and energy costs; creating healthier homes; and enhancing comfort and livability; and

WHEREAS, the California Green Building Standards Code appendices have included voluntary tiers to provide a city, county, or city and county, building professionals, and the general public with a range of voluntary green building measures for builders to choose from when constructing homes in California; and

WHEREAS, the California Green Building Standards Code appendices benefited from extensive input from a city, county, or city and county, building professionals, State agencies, and recognized green building professionals and the practices contained in these guidelines were selected for their viability in today’s market and their ability to promote sustainable buildings and communities; and

WHEREAS, adoption of the California Green Building Standards Code appendices promotes statewide consistency and predictability for building professionals; and

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City/County hereby finds that green building design, construction and operation furthers the goals set forth in the City/County General Plan, including land use, conservation, open space and (include others, if applicable).

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that newly constructed residential buildings, alterations or additions to residential buildings shall meet the _______ (Tier 1 or Tier 2) measures contained in the California Green Building Standards Code appendices and the green building design, construction and operation innovative concepts or additions or amendment thereto contained in Attachment _____ to address local environmental conditions; and

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council or County Board of Supervisors of the City/County of ___________ adopts the California Green Building Standards Code appendices, as they may be amended from time to time, as a City/County mandatory reference document and directs City/County staff to enforce these green building measures as mandatory standards within the City/County.

ADOPTED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:

AYES:

NOES:

ABSENT:

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CALGreen § 504.4.8 Medium relevance — show source text
A5.504.4.8

Product GWP Limits Table 5.409.3

Referenced Organizations and Standards Chapter 6 Renewable Energy A5.211

Site Development 4.106, 5.106, A4,106, A5.106 Bicycle parking and changing rooms 5.106.4, A5.106.4.3, Table A5.106.4.3 Bird friendly building design A5.107 Building orientation Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), A5.106.9 Designated parking for clean air vehicles A5.106.5.1 Exterior wall shading A5.106.7 Grading and paving 4.106.3, 5.106.10 Heat island effect – cool roof Tables A4.106.5(1) – (4), A5.106.11.2, Table

A5.106.11.2 Heat island effect – hardscape alternatives A5.106.11, A5.106.11.1 Landscape design A4.106.3 Light pollution reduction 5.106.8 Low impact development A5.106.3 Reduce parking capacity A5.106.6 Shade trees 5.106.12, A5.106.11.3 Soil analysis and protection A4.106.2 Storm water management A5.106.2 Water permeable surfaces A4.106.4 Site Preservation A4.104, A5.104 Reduce development footprint and optimize open space A5.104.1 Site Selection A4.103, A5.103 Brownfield, greyfield or infill site development A5.103.2 Community connectivity A4.103.2, A5.103.1

Voluntary Measures 301.1, 306 Voluntary Tiers 304, 305, 306, A4.601, A5.601

Water Resistance and Moisture Management 5.407, 5.505, A4.407, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD) A5.407 Moisture control 4.505, 5.407.2, 5.505, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD) A5.407.9, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD) A5.505.2 Weather protection 5.407.1, A5.407.3

Water Reuse Systems A4.305 Graywater A4.305.1, A5.304.8 Recycled water for landscape irrigation A4.305.3 Recycled water piping A4.305.2 Water Use, Indoor 4.303, 5.303, A4.303, A5.203

Appliances A4.303.3, A5.303.3, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD) A5.210 Dual plumbing A5.303.5 Fixture flow rates 4.303.1, Table A5.303.2.3.1, 5.303.2.3.1, A4.303 Kitchen faucets and dishwashers

A4.303.1

Meters 4.303.2, 5.303.1 Multiple showerheads serving one shower 4.303.1.3.2, 5.303.3.3.2 Nonwater urinals and waterless toilets
CALGreen § 101.7. Medium relevance — show source text
Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|

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APPENDIX A4-30 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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DIVISION A4.7 – RESIDENTIAL MODEL ORDINANCE

A4.701.1 General. The voluntary measures of this code are designed and promulgated to be adopted by reference and made mandatory by local ordinance pursuant to Section 101.7. Jurisdictions wishing to adopt the voluntary provisions of this code as an enforceable regulation governing structures and premises should ensure that certain factual information is included in the adopting ordinance and that the measures are appropriate and achievable and are considered to be suitable as mandatory by the city, county, or city and county. The following sample adoption ordinance addresses several key elements of a code adoption ordinance, including the information required for insertion into the code text.

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.

SAMPLE RESOLUTION FOR ADOPTION OF THE TIER 1 OR TIER 2 PROVISIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE WITH OR WITHOUT ADDITIONAL ITEMS NECESSARY TO ADDRESS INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS OR LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS.

ATTACHMENT___.

SAMPLE RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDICES AS A MANDATORY REFERENCE STANDARD

CITY OF ________________________

RESOLUTION # __________________

RESOLUTION ADOPTING ENHANCED GREEN BUILDING MEASURES FOR NEW AND EXISTING RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION.

WHEREAS, the City/County of ______’s (City or County) General Plan sets forth goals for preserving and improving the natural and built environment of the City/County, protecting the health of its residents and visitors, and fostering its economy; and

WHEREAS, green building is a holistic approach to design, construction and demolition that minimizes the building’s impact on the environment, the occupants and the community; and

WHEREAS, green buildings benefit building industry professionals, residents and communities by improving construction quality; increasing building durability; reducing utility, maintenance, water and energy costs; creating healthier homes; and enhancing comfort and livability; and

WHEREAS, the California Green Building Standards Code appendices have included voluntary tiers to provide a city, county, or city and county, building professionals, and the general public with a range of voluntary green building measures for builders to choose from when constructing homes in California; and
CALGreen § 3-4 Medium relevance — show source text
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

5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-3 5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-15 5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-19 5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . 5-23 5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-31

CHAPTER 6 REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS

AND STANDARDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-3

601 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3

CHAPTER 7 INSTALLER AND SPECIAL

INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 701 General (Reserved) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3 702 Qualifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3
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 § 8-40 Medium 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 § 1.2 Medium relevance — show source text
For questions on California state agency amendments, please refer to the contact list on page v.

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LEGEND FOR AGENCY ADOPTIONS

Unless otherwise noted, state agency adoptions are indicated by the following banners in the section leaders: Department of Housing and Community Development: [HCD]

California Building Standards Commission, CALGreen: [BSC-CG]

Division of the State Architect, Structural Safety: [DSA-SS]

Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development: [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

See Chapter 1, Sections 103–106 for applications regulated by the respective state agencies.

EFFECTIVE USE OF THIS CODE

The format of this code is common to other parts of the California Building Standards Code and contains building standards applicable to occupancies which fall under the authority of different state agencies. Occupancies and applications under the authority of a specific state agency are identified in Chapter 1, Sections 103 through 106. Sections of this code which are applicable and adopted by each state agency are identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables located at the beginning of each chapter. The following outline is provided as a guide to establish which provisions 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
4. Once the appropriate agency has been identified, find the chapter which covers the established occupancy.
5. The Matrix Adoption Tables at the beginning of Chapters 4 and 5 identify the required green building measures necessary to meet the minimum requirements of this code for the established occupancy.
6. 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.
7. 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.
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CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24

California State Agency Contact List

The following state agencies may propose building standards for buildings, structures and applications under their authority for publication in Title 24. Notice of such proposals may be requested from each agency. See Sections 1.2 through 1.14 of the California Building Code (Part 2, T24) for detailed information on the regulatory authority of most state agencies summarized below. Note [agency acronyms] shown in banners/Matrix Adoption Tables in T24.

Board of State and Community Corrections [BSCC] bscc.ca.gov BSCC-Mail@bscc.ca.gov

(916) 445-5073 Local Detention Facilities

Building Standards Commission [BSC, BSC-CG]

dgs.ca.gov/BSC cbsc@dgs.ca.gov

(916) 263-0916 State Buildings including UC & CSU Nonresidential Green Buildings Standards

Department of Consumer Affairs Boards/Bureaus:

Acupuncture Board [CA]
CALGreen § 1.2 Medium relevance — show source text
1. 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.
2. 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.
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CALIFORNIA CODE OF REGULATIONS, TITLE 24

California State Agency Contact List

The following state agencies may propose building standards for buildings, structures and applications under their authority for publication in Title 24. Notice of such proposals may be requested from each agency. See Sections 1.2 through 1.14 of the California Building Code (Part 2, T24) for detailed information on the regulatory authority of most state agencies summarized below. Note [agency acronyms] shown in banners/Matrix Adoption Tables in T24.

Board of State and Community Corrections [BSCC] bscc.ca.gov BSCC-Mail@bscc.ca.gov

(916) 445-5073 Local Detention Facilities

Building Standards Commission [BSC, BSC-CG]

dgs.ca.gov/BSC cbsc@dgs.ca.gov

(916) 263-0916 State Buildings including UC & CSU Nonresidential Green Buildings Standards

Department of Consumer Affairs Boards/Bureaus:

Acupuncture Board [CA]

acupuncture.ca.gov AcuPolicy@dca.ca.gov (916) 515-5200 Acupuncture Offices

Board of Pharmacy [CA] pharmacy.ca.gov (916) 518-3100 Pharmacies

Board of Barbering and Cosmetology [CA] barbercosmo.ca.gov barbercosmo@dca.ca.gov (916) 574-7570 Barber, Cosmetology & Electrolysis Establishments

Bureau of Household Goods and Services [CA]

bhgs.dca.ca.gov (916) 999-2041 Insulation Testing

Structural Pest Control Board [CA]

pestboard.ca.gov pestboard@dca.ca.gov (800) 737-8188 Structural Pest Control Locations

Veterinary Medical Board [CA] vmb.ca.gov vmb@dca.ca.gov (916) 515-5220 Veterinary Facilities

Department of Food and Agriculture [AGR]

cdfa.ca.gov (916) 900-5004 Rendering & Collection Centers (916) 900-5064 Meat & Poultry Packing Plants (916) 900-5008 Milk & Dairy Food Safety

Department of Health Care Access and Information

Office of Statewide Hospital Planning and Development

[OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6] hcai.ca.gov regsunit@hcai.ca.gov (916) 440-8300 Hospital Standards, Skilled Nursing Facility Standards & Clinic Standards

Department of Public Health [DPH] cdph.ca.gov (Recreational Health)

(916) 449-5661 Food Establishments, Organized Camps, Public Swimming Pools
CALGreen § 602.1 Medium 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

Frequently asked questions

What exactly becomes mandatory when a city adopts a voluntary tier?

When a city formally adopts an appendix tier by ordinance (adopt-by-reference), the measures listed in that tier (prerequisites and the elected electives required to meet the Tier threshold) become locally mandatory and are enforced by the local enforcing agency § 304.1.1 .

Can a jurisdiction adopt only part of an appendix or only some Tier measures?

Yes. The appendices and matrix guidance show options for adopting entire chapters or listed sections; jurisdictions commonly adopt whole appendices or selectively adopt sections, but any local amendment should follow the local amendment procedures referenced in § 101.7 and be clearly documented in the ordinance or resolution (sample language provided in the appendices) .

Who may grant exceptions if a project cannot meet a Tier threshold?

The local enforcing agency may grant a modification for an individual case after finding that strict compliance is impractical and that the modification aligns with the intent of the measure; the agency must record the details of any modification § 304.1.1 .

Are there verification checklists to help plan check staff and applicants?

Yes — Appendix A5 contains verification checklists (A5.602 series for nonresidential; A4 has similar checklists for residential). These checklists are intended to be used when a jurisdiction adopts tiers to standardize documentation and enforcement .

Do state agencies enforce the local adoption?

No — state enforcement does not automatically follow. When a local government adopts tiers, the local enforcing agency enforces the adopted measures locally. Some state agencies have their own adoption matrices or applicability; check the matrix tables and agency notes in the appendices for occupancy-specific adoption rules .

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Related in the CALGreen

What voluntary measures apply to public schools and community colleges?

Where are the CALGreen verification and Tier checklists found (compliance documentation)?

What defines CALGreen Tier 1 and Tier 2 performance thresholds?

Voluntary tiers and voluntary measures (Sections 304–306 and Appendix A5)

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)