CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

What HVAC installer training and certification is required?

CALGreen requires HVAC installers (including ductwork) to be trained and certified by a nationally or regionally recognized program; uncertified workers may only work under direct supervision of a certified installer or licensed HVAC contractor (see § 702.1).

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

HVAC work must be done by trained and certified personnel: HVAC system installers must be trained and certified in the proper installation of HVAC equipment and ducts by a nationally or regionally recognized training or certification program. Uncertified people may perform work only when under the direct supervision and responsibility of a person who is trained and certified or a contractor licensed to install HVAC systems. See § 702.1.

The single most important rule: HVAC installers must hold training/certification from a recognized program — or work only under the direct supervision of someone who does. § 702.1.

Requirements in detail

Who must be trained and certified

  • HVAC system installers (including those who install ducts and equipment) must be trained and certified by a nationally or regionally recognized training or certification program. § 702.1.

What counts as acceptable training or certification

The code lists examples (non-exclusive) of acceptable programs. Local enforcing agencies may accept other programs as well:

  • State certified apprenticeship programs. § 702.1.
  • Public utility training programs. § 702.1.
  • Training programs sponsored by trade, labor or statewide energy consulting or verification organizations. § 702.1.
  • Programs sponsored by manufacturing organizations. § 702.1.
  • Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency (local discretion). § 702.1.

Supervision rule (when uncertified persons may work)

  • Uncertified persons may perform HVAC installations only when they are under the direct supervision and responsibility of either:
    • A person trained and certified to install HVAC systems, or
    • A contractor licensed to install HVAC systems. § 702.1.

Documentation & verification (overview)

  • The code requires documentation to demonstrate compliance (construction documents, plans, builder or installer certification, inspection reports, or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency). See § 703.1 for documentation examples used to show compliance.
  • Commissioning and training elements (for larger nonresidential projects) point to documented operation & systems training requirements in the commissioning sections of CALGreen (see Related provisions).

Decision-relevant table

Decision factor Requirement / Value Code reference
Who must be trained HVAC system installers (ducts & equipment) § 702.1
Acceptable program types State apprenticeship; public utility; trade/labor/energy orgs; manufacturer programs; others approved by enforcing agency § 702.1
Can uncertified persons work? Yes, only under direct supervision of a certified installer or licensed HVAC contractor § 702.1
Who decides other acceptable programs The enforcing agency (local authority) § 702.1
How to prove compliance Installer certification, plans, inspection reports, other methods acceptable to enforcing agency (see verifications) § 703.1

Exceptions & special cases

  • The code does not list specific federally-branded certifications that are required; instead it accepts programs that are nationally or regionally recognized and explicitly allows local agencies to accept other programs. This gives the enforcing agency discretion. § 702.1.
  • For projects requiring commissioning, systems operation training and documentation are required per the commissioning provisions (see § 5.410.2 series). These address training for maintenance staff and are separate but related to installer certification.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any training equals compliance — the program must be nationally or regionally recognized or otherwise accepted by the enforcing agency. § 702.1.
  • Letting uncertified workers install without direct supervision by a certified installer or licensed contractor. The permissive allowance for uncertified workers is conditional; failing to supervise violates § 702.1.
  • Failing to provide documentation (installer certificates, training records, or other acceptable proof) at inspection — see § 703.1 for acceptable verification methods.

Worked example

Scenario: Small commercial tenant improvement — installing a new rooftop packaged HVAC unit and associated ductwork.

  • The general contractor hires an HVAC crew of three installers. One installer holds certification from a state-certified apprenticeship program; the other two have no formal certification.
  • Under § 702.1, the uncertified installers may perform installation tasks only if they are under the direct supervision and responsibility of the certified installer or a contractor licensed to install HVAC systems. The certified installer must supervise on site and take responsibility for the work. § 702.1.
  • At final inspection, the contractor submits:
    • Copy of the certified installer's apprenticeship certificate (showing completion), and
    • A statement signed by the licensed HVAC contractor attesting they supervised the uncertified workers. These documents align with the types of documentation the enforcing agency may accept under § 703.1.

Outcome: Compliance is demonstrable because the installation team met a listed acceptable training program (state apprenticeship), uncertified workers were supervised as required, and documentation was provided.

Related provisions

  • § 702.2 — Special inspection: qualifications and when special inspectors are required.
  • § 703.1 — Documentation/verifications: what documents may be used to show compliance (plans, installer certification, inspection reports, etc.).
  • § 5.410.2.1 — Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR): commissioning requirements that reference trained personnel selection.
  • § 5.410.2.5 — Documentation and training (systems operations training for maintenance staff).
  • § 5.410.2.6 — Commissioning report: includes summary of training and commissioning results.

Code references

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

  • CALGreen § 7-1 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 7-1

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    7-2 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    7 INSTALLER AND SPECIAL INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS

    SECTION 701—GENERAL (RESERVED)

    SECTION 702—QUALIFICATIONS

    702.1 Installer training. HVAC system installers shall be trained and certified in the proper installation of HVAC systems including ducts and equipment by a nationally or regionally recognized training or certification program. Uncertified persons may perform HVAC installations when under the direct supervision and responsibility of a person trained and certified to install HVAC systems or contractor licensed to install HVAC systems. Examples of acceptable HVAC training and certification programs include but are not limited to the following:

    1. State certified apprenticeship programs.
    2. Public utility training programs.
    3. Training programs sponsored by trade, labor or statewide energy consulting or verification organizations.
    4. Programs sponsored by manufacturing organizations.
    5. Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    702.2 Special inspection.

    [HCD] When required by the enforcing agency, the owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspection or other duties necessary to substantiate compliance with this code. Special inspectors shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular type of inspection or task to be performed. In addition to other certifications or qualifications acceptable to the enforcing agency, the following certifications or education may be considered by the enforcing agency when evaluating the qualifications of a special inspector:

    1. Certification by a national or regional green building program or standard publisher.
    2. Certification by a statewide energy consulting or verification organization, building performance contractors and home energy auditors.
    3. Successful completion of a third party apprentice training program in the appropriate trade.
    4. Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    [BSC-CG] When required by the enforcing agency, the owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspection or other duties necessary to substantiate compliance with this code. Special inspectors shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular type of inspection or task to be performed. In addition, the special inspector shall have a certification from a recognized state, national or international association, as determined by the local agency. The area of certification shall be closely related to the primary job function, as determined by the local agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    SECTION 703—VERIFICATIONS

    703.1 Documentation. Documentation used to show compliance with this code shall include but is not limited to, construction documents, plans, specifications, builder or installer certification, inspection reports or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency which demonstrate substantial conformance. When specific documentation or special inspection is necessary to verify compliance, that method of compliance will be specified in the appropriate section or identified in the application checklist.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 7-3

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  • CALGreen § 702.2 High relevance — show source text

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 7 – INSTALLER AND SPECIAL INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS

    (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-
    CG
    SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM 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
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed below
    X
    Chapter/Section
    702.2 X
    703.1 X

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    7-2 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    7 INSTALLER AND SPECIAL INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS

    SECTION 701—GENERAL (RESERVED)

    SECTION 702—QUALIFICATIONS

    702.1 Installer training. HVAC system installers shall be trained and certified in the proper installation of HVAC systems including ducts and equipment by a nationally or regionally recognized training or certification program. Uncertified persons may perform HVAC installations when under the direct supervision and responsibility of a person trained and certified to install HVAC systems or contractor licensed to install HVAC systems. Examples of acceptable HVAC training and certification programs include but are not limited to the following:

    1. State certified apprenticeship programs.
    2. Public utility training programs.
    3. Training programs sponsored by trade, labor or statewide energy consulting or verification organizations.
    4. Programs sponsored by manufacturing organizations.
    5. Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    702.2 Special inspection.

    [HCD] When required by the enforcing agency, the owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspection or other duties necessary to substantiate compliance with this code. Special inspectors shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular type of inspection or task to be performed. In addition to other certifications or qualifications acceptable to the enforcing agency, the following certifications or education may be considered by the enforcing agency when evaluating the qualifications of a special inspector: 1.

  • CALGreen § 509.1 High relevance — show source text

    ||||||| |Outdoor Air Quality
    Reserved||||||| |Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions|Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions|Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions|Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions|Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions|Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions|Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions| |A4.509.1 Items in this section are necessary to address innovative
    concepts or local environmental conditions.||||||| |Item 1||
    |
    |
    |
    |
    | |Item 2||
    |
    |
    |
    |
    | |Item 3||||||| |Installer and Special Inspector Qualifications||||||| |Qualifications|Qualifications|Qualifications|Qualifications|Qualifications|Qualifications|Qualifications| |702.1 HVAC system installers are trained and certified in the proper
    installation of HVAC systems.||||||| |702.2 Special inspectors employed by the owner or owner's agent
    must be qualified and able to demonstrate competence in the
    discipline they are inspecting to the enforcing agency.||||||| |Verifications||||||| |703.1Verification of compliance with this code may include
    construction documents, plans, specifications builder or installer
    certification, inspection reports or other methods acceptable to the
    enforcing agency which show substantial conformance.||||||| |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.|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.|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.|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.|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.|1.

  • CALGreen § 703.1 High relevance — show source text

    Certification by a national or regional green building program or standard publisher. 2. Certification by a statewide energy consulting or verification organization, building performance contractors and home energy auditors. 3. Successful completion of a third party apprentice training program in the appropriate trade. 4. Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    [BSC-CG] When required by the enforcing agency, the owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspection or other duties necessary to substantiate compliance with this code. Special inspectors shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular type of inspection or task to be performed. In addition, the special inspector shall have a certification from a recognized state, national or international association, as determined by the local agency. The area of certification shall be closely related to the primary job function, as determined by the local agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    SECTION 703—VERIFICATIONS

    703.1 Documentation. Documentation used to show compliance with this code shall include but is not limited to, construction documents, plans, specifications, builder or installer certification, inspection reports or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency which demonstrate substantial conformance. When specific documentation or special inspection is necessary to verify compliance, that method of compliance will be specified in the appropriate section or identified in the application checklist.

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    7-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 8 – COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    (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-
    CG
    SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM 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
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed
  • CALGreen § 608.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    (3) Heating and cooling equipment in accordance with ACCA Manual S or other equivalent methods.

    E 608.0 Low VOC Solvent Cement and Primer.

    E 608.1 General. Primers and solvent cements used to join plastic pipe, and fittings shall be in accordance with Section E 608.1.1 and Section E 608.1.2.

    E 608.1.1 Solvent Cement. Solvent cement, including one-step solvent cement, shall have a volatile organic compound (VOC) content of less than or equal to 65 ounces per gallon (oz/gal) (487 g/L) for CPVC cement, 68 oz/gal (509 g/L) for PVC cement, and 43 oz/gal (322 g/L) for ABS cement, as determined by the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s Laboratory Methods of Analysis for Enforcement Samples, Method 316A. E 608.1.2 Primer. Primer shall have a volatile organic compound (VOC) content of less than or equal to 73 oz/gal (546 g/L), as determined by the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s Laboratory Methods of Analysis for Enforcement Samples, Method 316A.

    E 701.0 Installer Qualifications.

    E 701.1 Scope. The provisions of this section address minimum qualifications of installers of mechanical systems covered within the scope of this appendix.

    E 702.0 Qualifications.

    E 702.1 General. Where permits are required, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to require contractors, installers, or service technicians to demonstrate competency. Where determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, the contractor, installer, or service technician shall be licensed to perform such work.

    Part I

    E 801.0 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems Commissioning. E 801.1 Applicability. The provisions of this section apply to the commissioning of commercial and institutional HVAC systems.

    E 802.0 Commissioning. E 802.1 Commissioning Requirements. HVAC commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the project to verify that the HVAC systems and components meet the owner’s project requirements and in accordance with this appendix. Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this appendix by personnel trained and certified in commissioning by a nationally recognized organization. Commissioning requirements shall include the following:

    (1) Owner’s project requirements

    (2) Basis of design

    (3) Commissioning measures shown in the construction doc uments

    (4) Commissioning plan

    (5) Functional performance

    (6) Testing

    (7) Post construction documentation and training

    (8) Commissioning report

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 479

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    APPENDIX E

    HVAC systems and components covered by this appendix as well as process equipment and controls, and renewable energy systems shall be included in the scope of the commissioning requirements. E 802.2 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The performance goals and requirements of the HVAC system shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include not less than the following:

    (1) Environmental and sustainability goals

    (2) Energy efficiency goals

    (3) Indoor environmental quality requirements

    (4) Equipment and systems performance goals

  • CALGreen § 802.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    E 802.6 Post Construction Documentation and Train- ing. A system manual and systems operations training are required.

    E 802.6.1 Systems Manual. Documentation of the operational aspects of the HVAC system shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner and facilities operator. The systems manual shall include not less than the following:

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

    (2) Site contact information.

    (3) Basic O&M, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, and site events log.

    (4) Major systems.

    (5) Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.

    (6) Equipment/system warranty documentation and information.

    (7) “As-Built” design drawings.

    (8) Other resources and documentation.

    E 802.6.2 Systems Operations Training. The training of the appropriate maintenance staff for each equipment type or system shall include not less than the following:

    (1) System/Equipment overview (what it is, what it does, and what other systems or equipment it interfaces with).

    (2) Review of the information in the systems manual.

    (3) Review of the record drawings on the system/equip ment.

    E 802.7 Commissioning Report. A complete report of commissioning process activities undertaken through the design, construction, and post-construction phases of the building project shall be completed and provided to the

    owner.

    Part II

    E 803.0 Commissioning Acceptance.

    E 803.1 General. Part II of this appendix provides a means of verifying the commissioning requirements of Section E 802.1. The activities specified in Part II of this appendix includes three aspects, as described as follows:

    (1) Visual inspection of the equipment and installation.

    (2) Review of the certification requirements.

    (3) Functional tests of the systems and controls.

    E 803.2 Construction Documents. Details of commissioning acceptance requirements shall be incorporated into the construction documents, including information that describes the details of the functional tests to be performed. This information shall be permitted to be integrated into the specifications for testing and air balancing, energy management and control system, equipment startup procedures or commissioning. It is possible that the work will be performed by a combination of the test and balance (TAB) contractor,

    480 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

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    APPENDIX E

    mechanical/electrical contractor, and the energy management control system (EMCS) contractor, so applicable roles and responsibilities shall be clearly called out.

    E 803.2.1 Roles and Responsibilities. The roles and responsibilities of the persons involved in commissioning acceptance are included in Section E 803.2.1.1 through Section E 803.2.1.3.

    E 803.2.1.1 Field Technician. The field technician shall be responsible for performing and documenting the results of the acceptance procedures on the certificate of acceptance forms. The field technician shall sign the certificate of acceptance to certify that the information he provides on the certificate of acceptance is true and correct.

    E 803.2.1.2 Responsible Person. The responsible person shall be the contractor or registered design professional of record. A certificate of acceptance shall be signed by a responsible person to take responsibility for the scope of work specified by the certificate of acceptance document.

  • CALGreen § 8-14 Medium relevance — show source text

    8-14 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Selection of “trained,” qualified personnel is required by this code. In order to meet this requirement, the commissioning provider should be evaluated via the methods discussed above. In addition, various organizations have training and certification programs that may be a source for identification of qualified commissioning providers.

    For information about enforcement and compliance of each commissioning element see Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6.

    For compliance forms and templates see Part 2 following this standard.

    Reference: 1 Owner’s Project Requirements

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.1, Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR).

    1.1 Intent:

    The Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) documents the functional requirements of a project and expectations of the building use and operation as it relates to systems being commissioned. The document describes the physical and functional building characteristics desired by the owner and establishes performance and acceptance criteria. The OPR is most effective when developed during predesign and used to develop the Basis of Design (BOD) during the design process. The level of detail and complexity of the OPR will vary according to building use, type and systems.

    1.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is demonstrated by the owner or owner’s representative developing and/or approving the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) document and can be defined as follows:

    1. Environmental and Sustainability Goals—Establish environmental project goals and objectives exceeding the code for the project’s sustainability, which may include: a. CALGreen voluntary measures or Tiers sought, or other specific green building rating system or program credits and/or level of certification sought b. Specific environmental or sustainability goals such as water efficiency, water reuse, CO 2 monitoring, xeriscaping, etc.
    2. Building Sustainable Goals—Establish goals and targets affecting energy efficiency, which may include: a. Measures affecting building sustainability desired by owner i. Building orientation and siting ii. Daylighting iii. Facade, envelope and fenestration

    iv. Roof

    v. Natural ventilation

    vi. Onsite renewable power generation and net-zero energy use vii. Landscaping and shading 3. Indoor Environmental Quality Requirements—For each program space describe indoor environmental requirements including intended use and anticipated schedule, and the following: a. Temperature and humidity

    b. Acoustics

    c. Air quality, ventilation and filtration d. Desired adjustability of system controls

    e. Accommodations for after-hours use

    f. Other owner requirements including natural ventilation, operable windows, daylight, views, etc. 4. Project Program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation—Describe primary purpose, program and use of proposed project include the following: a. Building size, number of stories, construction type, occupancy type and number b. Building program areas including intended use and anticipated occupancy schedules c. Future expandability and flexibility of spaces d. Quality and/or durability of materials and building lifespan desired e. Budget or operational constraints f. Applicable codes 5. Equipment and Systems Expectations—Describe the following for each system commissioned: a. Level of quality, reliability, equipment type, automation, flexibility, maintenance and complexity desired b. Specific efficiency targets, desired technologies or preferred manufacturers for building systems, acoustics and vibration c. Degree of system integration, automation and functionality for controls 6.

  • 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 § 5.10.1.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    5.10.1.2(2)|Table E 503.5.10(2)| |E 503.5.10.1.2|E 503.5.10| |E 503.5.10.2 – E 503.5.10.2.2|E 503.5.10.1 – E 503.5.10.1.2| |E 503.5.12.1|E 503.5.12| |E 503.5.12.2|E 503.5.12.1| |E 503.6.5.4|E 503.6.5.4.1|

    xxii 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

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    The Uniform Plumbing Code is the most widely adopted plumbing code in the world. The 2024 edition contains complete “turnkey” requirements for the installation and maintenance of plumbing systems, all in one easy to use book.

    Uniform Plumbing Code Illustrated Training Manual:

    The UPC Illustrated Training Manual is an excellent reference for anyone involved in the plumbing industry. It contains an extensive definitions section and several hundred comprehensive technical diagrams and illustrations. It serves as a textbook, and it also is useful as a valuable tool for explaining the intent and use of the Code.

    Uniform Plumbing Code Study Guide:

    This book is the perfect complement to the UPC Illustrated Training Manual. Alone, it constitutes a complete self-study course for learning the UPC. It has hundreds of questions, general practice exams, and plumbing math, pipe sizing exercises and fitting identification. A big help in getting you ready for a certification exam!

    Guide to Important Code Questions to the Uniform Plumbing Code:

    An excellent reference for learning and understanding plumbing code changes and identifies code changes between editions. It is a useful tool for preparing code change proposals.

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE xxiii

  • CALGreen § 8-19 Medium relevance — show source text

    Project change orders and information d. Current requirements i. Building operating schedules

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-19

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    ii. Space temperature, humidity and pressure, CO 2 setpoints

    iii. Summer and winter setback schedules

    iv. Chilled and hot water temperatures v. As-built control setpoints and parameters

    1. Site contact information

    a. Owner information

    b. Emergency contacts c. Design team: architect, mechanical engineer, electrical engineer, etc.

    d. Prime contractor contact information

    e. Subcontractor information

    f. Equipment supplier contact information 3. Basic operation and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic trouble shooting, recommended maintenance requirements site events log

    a. Basic operation i. Written narratives of basic equipment operation ii. Interfaces, interlocks and interaction with other equipment and systems iii. Initial maintenance provided by contactor b. General site operating procedures i. Instructions for changes in major system operating schedules ii. Instructions for changes in major system holiday and weekend schedules c. Basic troubleshooting i. Cite any recommended troubleshooting procedures specific to the major systems and equipment installed in the building. ii. Manual operation procedures iii. Standby/backup operation procedures iv. Bypass operation procedures v. Major system power fail resets and restarts vi. Trend log listing d. Recommended maintenance events log e. Operation & Maintenance manuals - location or delivery information

    1. Major systems a. Renewable energy systems i. Photovoltaic panels and inverters ii. Wind-powered electrical generators and inverters b. Landscape irrigation systems i. Water distribution diagrams ii. Control system

    c. Water reuse systems i. Reclaimed water system for indoor use ii. Reclaimed water for irrigation use 5. Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes

    a. Spare parts inventory b. Frequently required parts and supplies c. Special equipment required to operate or maintain systems d. Special tools required to operate or maintain systems 6. A copy of all special inspection verifications required by the enforcing agency of this code

    1. Other resources and documentation

    6.1.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance during on-site enforcement by: a. Receipt of a copy of the Systems Manual, or b. Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the systems manual has been completed.

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    Reference: 6.2 Documentation and training

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.5, Documentation and training.

    Section 5.410.2.5.2, Systems operations training.

    6.2.1 Intent:

    The systems operation training verifies that a training program is developed to provide training to the appropriate maintenance staff for each equipment type and/or system and that this training program is documented in the commissioning report. The systems operations training program is specified in the project specifications for the major systems listed. The systems manual, Operation and Maintenance (O&M) documentation and record drawings are prepared and available to the maintenance staff prior to implementation of any training or the development of a written training program. The training program is to be administered when the appropriate maintenance staff is made available to receive training.

  • CALGreen § 204.4.3. Medium relevance — show source text

    **A commissioning plan describing how the project will be
    commissioned shall be started during the design phase of the building project and shall
    include as a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.3.
    A6.204.4.4 Functional performance testingshall demonstrate the correct installation and
    operation of each component, system and system-to-system interface in accordance with
    the approved plans and specifications.
    **A6.204.4.5 Post construction documentation and training.**A systems manual and
    systems operations training are required.
    **A6.204.4.5.1 Systems manual.**The systems manual shall be delivered to the building
    owner and facilities operator and shall include the items listed in Section A6.204.4.5.1.
    A6.204.4.5.2 Systems operations training. The training of the appropriate maintenance
    staff for each equipment type and/or system shall include as a minimum items listed in
    Section A6.204.4.5.2.
    **A6.204.4.6 Commissioning report.**A complete report of commissioning process activities
    undertaken through the design, construction and postconstruction phases of the building
    project shall be completed and provided to the owner.||







    |







    || |**A6.204.6 Building orientation and shading.**Locate orient and shade the building as
    required in Section A6.106.11.||||| |SECTION A6.205 Building Envelope||||| |A6.205.1 Fenestration products and exterior doors.
    A6.205.1.1 Certification of fenestration products and exterior door other than field-
    fabricated.||||| |A6.205.1.2 Installation of field-fabricated fenestration and exterior doors.||||| |A6.205.2 Joints and other openings.||||| |A6.205.3 Installation and roofing products.|||||

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-37

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

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

  • CALGreen § 5.410.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

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

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

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

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

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

    Selecting Trained Personnel (for Commissioning)

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

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

    The designated commissioning coordinator may be an independent, third-party commissioning professional, a project design team member (e.g., engineer or architect), an owner’s engineer or facility staff, contractor or specialty subcontractor. Methods of evaluating the designated commissioning coordinator and trained personnel include review of the following:

    1. Technical knowledge;
    2. Relevant experience;
    3. Potential conflict of interest concerns;
    4. Professional certifications and training;
    5. Communication and organizational skills; and
    6. Reference and sample work products.

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Selection of “trained,” qualified personnel is required by this code. In order to meet this requirement, the commissioning provider should be evaluated via the methods discussed above. In addition, various organizations have training and certification programs that may be a source for identification of qualified commissioning providers.

    For information about enforcement and compliance of each commissioning element see Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6.

    For compliance forms and templates see Part 2 following this standard.

    Reference: 1 Owner’s Project Requirements

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.1, Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR).

    1.1 Intent:

    The Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) documents the functional requirements of a project and expectations of the building use and operation as it relates to systems being commissioned. The document describes the physical and functional building characteristics desired by the owner and establishes performance and acceptance criteria. The OPR is most effective when developed during predesign and used to develop the Basis of Design (BOD) during the design process. The level of detail and complexity of the OPR will vary according to building use, type and systems.

    1.2 Compliance Method:

Frequently asked questions

Who qualifies as a “nationally or regionally recognized” program?

The code gives examples (state apprenticeship, utility programs, trade/labor programs, manufacturer programs) and also allows the local enforcing agency to accept other programs; the agency decides whether a program is recognized. § 702.1.

Can a manufacturer’s factory training alone meet the requirement?

Yes — the code explicitly lists programs sponsored by manufacturing organizations as acceptable examples, subject to the enforcing agency. § 702.1.

May uncertified apprentices perform work alone?

No — uncertified persons may work only under the direct supervision and responsibility of a certified installer or licensed contractor. § 702.1.

What should I expect inspectors to ask for at final inspection?

Inspectors may request installer certification, training records, or other documentation (plans, inspection reports). The types of acceptable verifications are described in § 703.1.

Who decides if a training program is acceptable?

The local enforcing agency has authority to accept programs beyond the listed examples. § 702.1.

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