CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Are special inspectors required to be independent and free of financial interest?

If your local agency requires special inspection under CALGreen **§ 702.2**, the owner must hire qualified **special inspectors** who are independent and have **no financial interest** in the project or materials. The enforcing agency evaluates competence and may accept specific certifications, but the independence/no‑financial‑interest rule is the baseline.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Green Building Standards Code requires that when an enforcing agency requires a special inspector, the owner (or the owner’s agent) must employ one or more special inspectors who “shall demonstrate competence” and meet qualifications to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency. The code adds a clear Note that special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they inspect (§ 702.2) . This independence requirement is mandatory where special inspection is required by the enforcing agency under § 702.2 .

The single most important rule: special inspectors must be independent and not have a financial stake in the materials or the project they inspect (see § 702.2) .

Requirements in detail

Who must hire the special inspector?

  • The owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent must employ the special inspector when the enforcing agency requires one (§ 702.2) .
  • The requirement to hire a special inspector only applies “when required by the enforcing agency” — the enforcing agency decides whether a project or a particular compliance item needs special inspection (§ 702.2) .

Independence and financial-interest rule

  • The Code Note to § 702.2 states: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting. That is a categorical statement: independence + no financial interest are required where special inspection is required (§ 702.2) .
  • “Independent entities” means the inspector organization cannot be financially tied to the supplier of materials, contractor, or other party that would create a financial incentive to alter inspection outcomes. CALGreen provides this as a plain Note rather than an exception-laden allowance, so enforcing agencies take it as the baseline requirement (§ 702.2) .

Competence and acceptable qualifications

  • Special inspectors must “demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency” for the type of inspection or task to be performed; the section lists examples of acceptable certifications and education the enforcing agency may consider (national/regional green building certifications, statewide energy/verification organizations, successful completion of third‑party apprentice programs, or other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency) (§ 702.2) .

How enforcing agencies may evaluate independence and competence

  • The Code gives the enforcing agency discretion to accept particular certifications or programs as evidence of competence, and to determine whether an inspector is sufficiently independent and free of financial interest (§ 702.2) .

Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference table)

Decision dimension What the code requires / acceptable values Code Reference
Who hires the inspector Owner or owner’s authorized agent (when enforcing agency requires special inspection) § 702.2
Independence Inspector must be an independent entity (no financial ties to materials or project) § 702.2 (Note)
Financial interest No financial interest in the materials or project being inspected § 702.2 (Note)
Competence Must “demonstrate competence” to the enforcing agency; acceptable certifications/education listed as examples § 702.2
Proof/documentation Determined by enforcing agency (e.g., certifications, experience, training) § 702.2
When required Only when the enforcing agency requires special inspection for compliance verification § 702.2

Exceptions & special cases

  • CALGreen’s text for § 702.2 does not list exceptions to the independence/no-financial-interest Note; the Note is stated plainly and without enumerated exceptions (§ 702.2) .
  • However, the section repeatedly places evaluation and acceptance authority with the enforcing agency (e.g., for competence and acceptable certifications), so the enforcing agency has practical discretion over whether a proposed inspector’s background or relationship is acceptable in specific circumstances (§ 702.2) .
  • If you need guidance about independence wording used elsewhere for inspection/approved-agency independence (useful for local interpretation), the CBC contains specific independence language for approved agencies (e.g., an approved agency “shall be objective, competent and independent” and must disclose conflicts of interest) — this can inform local agency practice but is not a substitute for CALGreen’s directive where that applies (see Building Code provisions for context) .

If you need enforcement-interpretation — ask the local enforcing agency. The code explicitly ties many of these decisions to their discretion (§ 702.2) .

Common mistakes

  • Hiring an inspector who is an employee, subsidiary, or affiliate of the contractor, installer, or material supplier — this creates a prohibited financial interest under the Note to § 702.2 .
  • Assuming a credential alone overcomes independence concerns — competence and independence are separate requirements: the inspector must both be competent and independent to satisfy § 702.2 .
  • Not getting the enforcing agency’s written acceptance of the special inspector — the owner must provide acceptable evidence of competence and independence to the enforcing agency per § 702.2 .
  • Confusing “no financial interest” with “no payment for services.” The code prohibits financial interest in materials or the project; it does not prohibit payment for bona fide inspection services paid by the owner (payment by the owner for inspection services is standard and not a prohibited “financial interest”) — the prohibited ties are ownership/financial stake in the project or materials themselves (§ 702.2) .

Worked example — applying the rule with numbers

Scenario: A city requires special inspection for envelope commissioning on a 12‑unit multifamily retrofit. The project contract value is $1,200,000 and the general contractor offers to provide inspection services through its in‑house QA group for a $6,000 fee.

Applying § 702.2:

  • Because the enforcing agency requires special inspection, the owner (or owner’s agent) must employ a special inspector (§ 702.2) .
  • The contractor’s in-house QA group has a direct financial relationship with the project (they are the contractor), so hiring them would create a financial interest in the project and would conflict with the Note: “no financial interest in the materials or the project”. That means the contractor’s in‑house group would not meet the independence requirement in § 702.2 and should be rejected unless the enforcing agency explicitly accepts them after disclosure (unlikely) .
  • The owner should instead procure an independent third‑party inspector (for example, a certified independent inspector charging, say, $7,500). Choosing an independent inspector satisfies both independence and fee‑for‑service norms: the inspector is paid for inspection services but has no ownership or financial stake in the project materials or contract — aligning with § 702.2 .
  • Documentation the owner would provide to the enforcing agency: inspector’s company information, proof of certifications/experience, and a statement that the inspector has no financial interest in the project or materials, per the direction and examples in § 702.2 .

Related provisions

  • § 702.1 — Installer training requirements; shows CALGreen’s parallel focus on installer qualifications that helps explain why inspection independence is important (§ 702.1) .
  • § 703.1 — Documentation used to show compliance, including when special inspection or documentation is necessary to verify compliance (§ 703.1) .
  • § 5.410.2.1 — Commissioning responsibilities and the need for trained personnel; CALGreen discusses independent third‑party commissioning professionals in related guidance (useful when commissioning activities require independent verification) .
  • For additional context on approved‑agency independence and conflict disclosure procedures used elsewhere in California code, see Building Code provisions that require approved agencies to be objective and independent and to disclose conflicts of interest (e.g., provisions comparable to CBC 1703.1.1) .

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.

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  • 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 § 7-115 High relevance — show source text

    1704 A .1 General. Special inspections and tests, statements of special inspections, responsibilities of contractors, submittals to the building official and structural observations shall meet the applicable requirements of this section.

    1704 A .2 Special inspections and tests. Where application is made to the building official for construction as specified in Section 105 the owner shall employ one or more approved agencies to provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work specified in Section 1705 A and identify the approved agencies to the building official. These special inspections and tests are in addition to the inspections by the building official that are identified in Section 110.

    [OSHPD 1 & 4] The inspectors shall act under the direction of the architect or structural engineer or both, and be responsible to the Owner. Where the California Administrative Code (CAC) Section 7-115 (a) 2 permits construction documents to be prepared under the

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    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    responsible charge of a mechanical, electrical or civil engineer, inspectors shall be permitted to work under the direction of engineer in appropriate branch as permitted therein.

    Exceptions:

    1. Special inspections and tests are not required for construction of a minor nature or as warranted by conditions in the jurisdiction as approved by the building official.
    2. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Reference to Section 105 and Section 110 shall be to the California Administrative Code instead.

    1704 A .2.1 Special inspector qualifications. Prior to the start of the construction, the approved agencies shall provide written documentation to the building official demonstrating the competence and relevant experience or training of the special inspectors who will perform the special inspections and tests during construction. Experience or training shall be considered to be relevant where the documented experience or training is related in complexity to the same type of special inspection or testing activities for projects of similar complexity and material qualities. These qualifications are in addition to qualifications specified in other sections of this code.

    The registered design professional in responsible charge and engineers of record involved in the design of the project are permitted to act as an approved agency and their personnel are permitted to act as special inspectors for the work designed by them, provided they qualify as special inspectors.

    1704 A .2.2 Access for special inspection. The construction or work for which special inspection or testing is required shall remain accessible and exposed for special inspection or testing purposes until completion of the required special inspections or tests.

    1704 A .2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections prepared by the regis- tered design professional in general responsible charge in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for construction documents review . This statement shall be in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.

    [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] Reference to Section 107.1 shall be to the California Administrative Code instead.

    1704 A .2.4 Report requirement. The inspector(s) of record and approved agencies shall keep records of special inspections and tests.

  • CALGreen § 312.1. High relevance — show source text

    Exceptions:

    1. Special inspections and tests are not required for construction of a minor nature or as warranted by conditions in the jurisdiction as approved by the building official.
    2. Unless otherwise required by the building official, special inspections and tests are not required for Group U occupancies that are accessory to a residential occupancy including, but not limited to, those listed in Section 312.1.
    3. Special inspections and tests are not required for portions of structures designed and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of Section 2206.1.2 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.

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    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    1. The contractor is permitted to employ the approved agencies where the contractor is also the owner. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD. 5. [HCD 1] The provisions of Health and Safety Code Division 13, Part 6 and the California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter 3, commencing with Section 3000, shall apply to the construction and inspection of factory-built housing as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 19971.

    1704.2.1 Special inspector qualifications. Prior to the start of the construction, the approved agencies shall provide written documentation to the building official demonstrating the competence and relevant experience or training of the special inspectors who will perform the special inspections and tests during construction. Experience or training shall be considered to be relevant where the documented experience or training is related in complexity to the same type of special inspection or testing activities for projects of similar complexity and material qualities. These qualifications are in addition to qualifications specified in other sections of this code.

    The registered design professional in responsible charge and engineers of record involved in the design of the project are permitted to act as an approved agency and their personnel are permitted to act as special inspectors for the work designed by them, provided they qualify as special inspectors.

    1704.2.2 Access for special inspection. The construction or work for which special inspection or testing is required shall remain accessible and exposed for special inspection or testing purposes until completion of the required special inspections or tests.

    1704.2.3 Statement of special inspections. The applicant shall submit a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 107.1 as a condition for permit issuance. This statement shall be in accordance with Section 1704.3.

    Exception: A statement of special inspections is not required for portions of structures designed and constructed in accordance with the cold-formed steel light-frame construction provisions of Section 2206.1.2 or the conventional light-frame construction provisions of Section 2308. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Not permitted by OSHPD.

    1704.2.4 Report requirement. Approved agencies shall keep records of special inspections and tests. The approved agency shall submit reports of special inspections and tests to the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge at frequencies required by the approved construction documents or building official. All reports shall describe the nature and extent of inspections and tests, the location where the inspections and tests were performed, and indicate that work inspected or tested was or was not completed in conformance to approved construction documents.

  • CALGreen § 1703.5.3 High relevance — show source text

    1703.5.3 Label information. The label shall contain the manufacturer’s identification, model number, serial number or definitive information describing the performance characteristics of the product, material or assembly and the approved agency’s identification.

    1703.5.4 Method of labeling. Information required to be permanently identified on the product, material or assembly shall be acid etched, sand blasted, ceramic fired, laser etched, embossed or of a type that, once applied, cannot be removed without being destroyed.

    1703.6 Evaluation and follow-up inspection services. Where structural components or other items regulated by this code are not visible for inspection after completion of a prefabricated assembly, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall submit a report of each prefabricated assembly. The report shall indicate the complete details of the assembly, including a description of the assembly and its components, the basis upon which the assembly is being evaluated, test results and similar information and other data as necessary for the building official to determine conformance to this code. Such a report shall be approved by the building official.

    1703.6.1 Follow-up inspection. The owner or the owner’s authorized agent shall provide for special inspections of fabricated items in accordance with Section 1704.2.5.

    1703.6.2 Test and inspection records. Copies of necessary test and special inspection records shall be filed with the building official.

    SECTION 1704—SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS, CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITY AND STRUCTURAL OBSERVATION

    1704.1 General. Special inspections and tests, statements of special inspections, responsibilities of contractors, submittals to the building official and structural observations shall meet the applicable requirements of this section.

    1704.2 Special inspections and tests. Where application is made to the building official for construction as specified in Section 105, or 1.8.4, as applicable, the owner or the owner’s authorized agent, other than the contractor, shall employ one or more approved agencies to provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work specified in Section 1705 and identify the approved agencies to the building official. These special inspections and tests are in addition to the inspections by the building official that are identified in Section 110.

    [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] In addition, the approved agencies shall provide special inspections and tests during construction on the types of work listed under Chapters 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 and 25, and noted in the Test, Inspection and Observation (TIO) program as required by the Office.

    The special inspectors shall act under the direction of the architect or structural engineer or both, and be responsible to the Owner. Where California Administrative Code Section 7-115 (a) 2 permits construction documents to be prepared under the responsible charge of a mechanical, electrical or civil engineer, special inspectors shall be permitted to work under the direction of an engineer in the appro- priate branch as permitted therein.

  • CALGreen § 1.1 High relevance — show source text

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    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    1703 A .1.1 Independence. An approved agency shall be objective, competent and independent from any other entity providing inspection services and contractor (s) responsible for the work being inspected. The agency shall disclose to the building official and the registered design professional in responsible charge possible conflicts of interest so that objectivity can be confirmed.

    1703 A .1.2 Equipment. An approved agency shall have adequate equipment to perform required tests. The equipment shall be periodically calibrated.

    1703 A .1.3 Personnel. An approved agency shall employ experienced personnel educated in conducting, supervising and evaluating tests and special inspections.

    1703 A .2 Written approval. Any material, appliance, equipment, system or method of construction meeting the requirements of this code shall be approved in writing after satisfactory completion of the required tests and submission of required test reports.

    1703 A .3 Record of approval. For any material, appliance, equipment, system or method of construction that has been approved, a record of such approval, including the conditions and limitations of the approval, shall be kept on file in the building official’s office and shall be available for public review at appropriate times.

    1703 A .4 Performance. Specific information consisting of test reports conducted by an approved agency in accordance with the appropriate referenced standards, or other such information as necessary, shall be provided for the building official to determine that the product, material or assembly meets the applicable code requirements.

    [OSHPD 1 & 4] Tests performed by an independent approved testing agency/laboratory or under the responsible charge of a compe- tent approved independent Registered Design Professional shall be deemed to comply with requirements of this section. Test reports for structural tests shall be reviewed and accepted by an independent California licensed structural engineer.

    1703 A .4.1 Research and investigation. Sufficient technical data shall be submitted to the building official to substantiate the proposed use of any product, material or assembly. If it is determined that the evidence submitted is satisfactory proof of performance for the use intended, the building official shall approve the use of the product, material or assembly subject to the requirements of this code. The costs, reports and investigations required under these provisions shall be paid by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.

    1703 A .4.2 Research reports. Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the approval of products, materials or assemblies not specifically provided for in this code, shall consist of valid research reports from approved sources.

    1703 A .5 Labeling. Products, materials or assemblies required to be labeled shall be labeled in accordance with the procedures set forth in Sections 1703 A .5.1 through 1703 A .5.4.

    1703 A .5.1 Testing. An approved agency shall test a representative sample of the product, material or assembly being labeled to the relevant standard or standards. The approved agency shall maintain a record of the tests performed. The record shall provide sufficient detail to verify compliance with the test standard.

  • CALGreen § 1703.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    1703.1.1 Independence. An approved agency shall be objective, competent and independent from the contractor responsible for the work being inspected. The agency shall disclose to the building official and the registered design professional in responsible charge possible conflicts of interest so that objectivity can be confirmed.

    1703.1.2 Equipment. An approved agency shall have adequate equipment to perform required tests. The equipment shall be periodically calibrated.

    1703.1.3 Personnel. An approved agency shall employ experienced personnel educated in conducting, supervising and evaluating tests and special inspections.

    1703.2 Written approval. Any material, appliance, equipment, system or method of construction meeting the requirements of this code shall be approved in writing after satisfactory completion of the required tests and submission of required test reports.

    1703.3 Record of approval. For any material, appliance, equipment, system or method of construction that has been approved, a record of such approval, including the conditions and limitations of the approval, shall be kept on file in the building official’s office and shall be available for public review at appropriate times.

    1703.4 Performance. Specific information consisting of test reports conducted by an approved agency in accordance with the appropriate referenced standards, or other such information as necessary, shall be provided for the building official to determine that the product, material or assembly meets the applicable code requirements.

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    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Tests performed by an independent approved testing agency/laboratory or under the responsible charge of a compe- tent approved independent Registered Design Professional shall be deemed to comply with requirements of this section. Test reports for structural tests shall be reviewed and accepted by an independent California licensed structural engineer.

    1703.4.1 Research and investigation. Sufficient technical data shall be submitted to the building official to substantiate the proposed use of any product, material or assembly. If it is determined that the evidence submitted is satisfactory proof of performance for the use intended, the building official shall approve the use of the product, material or assembly subject to the requirements of this code. The costs, reports and investigations required under these provisions shall be paid by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent.

    1703.4.2 Research reports. Supporting data, where necessary to assist in the approval of products, materials or assemblies not specifically provided for in this code, shall consist of valid research reports from approved sources.

    1703.5 Labeling. Products, materials or assemblies required to be labeled shall be labeled in accordance with the procedures set forth in Sections 1703.5.1 through 1703.5.4.

    1703.5.1 Testing. An approved agency shall test a representative sample of the product, material or assembly being labeled to the relevant standard or standards. The approved agency shall maintain a record of the tests performed. The record shall provide sufficient detail to verify compliance with the test standard.

    1703.5.2 Inspection and identification. The approved agency shall periodically perform an inspection, which shall be in-plant if necessary, of the product or material that is to be labeled. The inspection shall verify that the labeled product, material or assembly is representative of the product, material or assembly tested.

  • CALGreen § 0.53 High relevance — show source text

    5-inch
    orifice)|14 psi
    (0.53-inch
    orifice)|Not Applicable| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(5)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN
    METAL CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH OR WITHOUT CARTONS ON CONVENTIONAL WOOD PALLETSa|IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND|Racks more than 9
    feet to 12 feet deep|Racks more than 9
    feet to 12 feet deep|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8 feet 3
    inches horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    One line sprinklers
    above each level of
    storage
    3. Locate in
    transverse flue
    spaces, staggered
    vertical and within
    20 inches of aisle
    4.
    Shields required
    where multiple-
    level|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8 feet 3
    inches horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    See 2 above
    3.
    See 3 above
    4.
    See 4 above|Not Applicable| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(5)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN
    METAL CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH OR WITHOUT CARTONS ON CONVENTIONAL WOOD PALLETSa|IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND|Racks up
    to 9 feet deep|Racks up
    to 9 feet deep|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8
    feet 3 inches
    horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    One line
    sprinklers
    above each
    level of storage
    3.
    Locate in
    longitudinal
    flue space,
    staggered
    vertical
    4.
    Shields
    required where
    multiple-level|1.
    Ordinary
    temperature,
    quick-response
    sprinklers,
    maximum 8
    feet 3 inches
    horizontal
    spacing
    2.
    See 2 above
    3.
    See 3 above
    4.
    See 4 above|Not Applicable
    None for maximum
    6-foot-deep racks| |TABLE 5704.3.6.3(5)—AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS FOR RACK STORAGE OF LIQUIDS IN
    METAL CONTAINERS OF 5-GALLON CAPACITY OR LESS WITH OR WITHOUT CARTONS ON CONVENTIONAL WOOD PALLETSa|IN-RACK SPRINKLER ARRANGEMENT AND DEMAND|Maximum
    spacing|Maximum
    spacing|80 ft2/head|100 ft2/head|100 ft2/head| |**TABLE 5704.3.6.

  • CALGreen § 3.2.2 High relevance — show source text

    1810 A .3.2.2 Prestressing steel. Prestressing steel shall conform to ASTM A416.

    1810 A .3.2.3 Steel. Structural steel H-piles and structural steel sheet piling shall conform to the material requirements in ASTM A6. Steel pipe piles shall conform to the material requirements in ASTM A252. Fully welded steel piles shall be fabricated from plates that conform to the material requirements in ASTM A36, ASTM A283, ASTM A572, ASTM A588 or ASTM A690.

    1810 A .3.2.4 Timber. Not permitted by DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC or OSHPD.

    1810 A .3.2.5 Protection of materials. Where boring records or site conditions indicate possible deleterious action on the materials used in deep foundation elements because of soil constituents, changing water levels or other factors, the elements shall be adequately protected by materials, methods or processes approved by the building official. Protective materials shall be applied to the elements so as not to be rendered ineffective by installation. The effectiveness of such protective measures for the particular purpose shall have been thoroughly established by satisfactory service records or other evidence.

    1810 A .3.2.6 Allowable stresses. The allowable stresses for materials used in deep foundation elements shall not exceed those specified in Table 1810 A .3.2.6.

    TABLE 1810A.3.2.6—ALLOWABLE STRESSES FOR MATERIALS USED IN DEEP FOUNDATION ELEMENTS Col2
    MATERIAL TYPE AND CONDITION MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE STRESSa
    1. Concrete or grout in compressionb
    Cast-in-place with a permanent casing in accordance with Section 1810_A_.3.2.7
    or Section 1810_A_.3.5.3.4
    Cast-in-place in other permanent casing or rock
    Cast-in-place without a permanent casing
    Precast nonprestressed
    Precast prestressed    		 0.4_f ′c_
    0.33_f ′c_
    0.3_f ′c_
    0.33_f ′c_
    0.33_f ′c_ - 0.27_fpc_
    2. Nonprestressed reinforcement in compression 0.4_fy_ ≤ 30,000 psi
    3. Steel in compression
    Cores within concrete-filled pipes or tubes
    Pipes, tubes or H-piles, where justified in accordance with Section 1810.3.2.8
    Pipes or tubes for micropiles
    Other pipes, tubes or H-piles
    Helical piles    		 0.5_Fy_ ≤ 32,000 psi
    0.5_Fy ≤ 32,000 psi
    0.4_Fy     ≤ 32,000 psi
    0.35_Fy_ ≤ 24,000 psi
    0.6_Fy_ ≤ 0.5_Fu_
    4. Nonprestressed reinforcement in tension
    Within micropiles
    Other conditions
    For load combinations that do not include wind or seismic loads
    For load combinations that include wind or seismic loads    		 0.6_fy_
    0.5_fy_ ≤ 30,000 psi
    0.5_fy_ ≤ 40,000 psi
    5.
  • CALGreen § 4291.6 High relevance — show source text
    1. of Title 24 of the California Code of_ Regulations. (2) “Qualified entities” means the following entities that have completed the program developed and received a certifica- tion, pursuant to Section 4291.6: (A) Counties, state conservancies, special districts, and other political subdivisions of the state. (B) Members of the California Conservation Corps, the Board of Commissioners under California Volunteers described in Section 8411 of the Government Code, local conservation corps, resource conservation districts, fire safe coun- cils, and Firewise USA organizations. (C) University of California fire advisors. (D) Registered Professional Foresters. (E) Other entities or individuals deemed appropriate by the director. (3) “Wildfire safety improvements” mean wildfire resilience and fire safety improvements, including measures for home hardening, the creation of defensible space, and other appropriate fuel reduction activities, to residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, or other real property identified by the State Fire Marshal, in consultation with the director. (b) The director shall establish a statewide program to allow qualified entities to support and augment the department in its defensible space and home hardening assessment and education efforts. Qualified entities participating in the program shall be authorized by the director to conduct defensible space assessments to assess compliance with Section 4291 within the state responsibility area, educate property owners about wildfire safety improvements that may be undertaken to harden a struc- ture and make it more resistant to fire, and assess whether wildfire safety improvements have been completed in or on a

    structure.

    (c) (1) The director shall establish a common reporting platform that allows defensible space and home hardening assessment data, collected by the qualified entities, to be reported to the department and shall establish any necessary quality control measure to ensure that the assessment data is accurate and reliable.

    (2) The department shall compile the data submitted pursuant to paragraph (1). (d) The director may use the defensible space and home hardening assessment data to do any of the following: (1) Direct inspection and enforcement resources away from landowners who meet or exceed the department’s standards and regulations for maintaining defensible space.

    2025 CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE APPENDIX H-9

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX H—REFERENCED CALIFORNIA DOCUMENTS

    (2) Direct inspection and enforcement resources toward landowners who do not meet the department’s standards and regulations for maintaining defensible space. (3) Direct educational resources toward landowners who own or maintain structures that can be hardened to make them more resistant to fire.

    (4) Assist in estimating defensible space compliance in the state responsibility area. (e) The department may expand or amend existing programs for the implementation of this section. (f) This section does not grant any right of entry onto private land or regulatory or enforcement authority to participating quali- fied entities.

  • CALGreen § 03-25 High relevance — show source text

    062000 Page 4 of 26 Rev. #25: 03-25-22

    UG-1: Enclosures Greenbook Primary Electric Underground Enclosures

    Notes

    1. Existing 3’ x 5’ (#5) enclosure with minimum 36” depth will continue to be allowed when:

    A. Replacing existing 200-Amp splice junction, and equipment.

    B. Converting existing 200-Amp splices to a 200-Amp junction.

    1. When intercepting existing 200-Amp primary cable to install 200-Amp equipment, the installation of a 3’ x 5’ (#5) enclosure will only be allowed if there is no physical space for the installation of a 4’ x 6’ 6” (#6) enclosure and all other design alternatives have been exhausted. However, installation of 167 kVA single phase transformers requires a 4’ x 6’ 6” (#6) enclosure.

    2. The installation of new 200-Amp junction and equipment is not allowed in new 3’ x 5’ (#5) primary enclosure for new PG&E job estimates or Applicant Design (AD) estimates.

    Rev. #25: 03-25-22 062000 Page 5 of 26

    UG-1: Enclosures Greenbook Primary Electric Underground Enclosures

    3’ 0” x 5’ 0” (#5) Complete Enclosure Assemblies (incidental transformer cover shown)

    Figure 1 Isometric View of 3’ x 5’ Enclosure Assembly (not to scale)

    Table 2 Complete Enclosure Assembly (for 200-Amp distribution)

    Application Enclosure Size Type of Traffic Loading Type of Cover 2 Code 1
    Splice Box 3’ x 5’ x 3’ 6” Incidental Quick-Release
    Aluminum    		 025601
    Splice Box 3’ x 5’ x 3’ 6” Full-Traffic Quick-Release
    Steel    		 041668
    Splice Box 3’ x 5’ x 4’ 6” Heavy Full-Traffic Concrete 041612
    Splice Box 3’ x 5’ x 4’ 6” Incidental Quick-Release
    Aluminum    		 040334
    Splice Box 3’ x 5’ x 4’ 6” Full-Traffic Quick-Release
    Steel    		 041669
    Splice Box 3’ x 5’ x 5’ 6” Heavy Full-Traffic Concrete 040327

    1 Code includes body, frame, and cover assembly. The heavy full-traffic assembly also includes a 12” extension. When extra depth is required, order additional extension from Table 3 on Page 7. 2 Transformer covers for 3’ x 5’ (#5) boxes are not available for new construction. Replacement cover material can be found in Document 066205.

    062000 Page 6 of 26 Rev. #25: 03-25-22

    UG-1: Enclosures Greenbook Primary Electric Underground Enclosures

  • CALGreen § 5.410.2.1 High 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.

    8-14 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    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 decides whether a special inspector is required?

The enforcing agency decides whether special inspection is required for a project or specific compliance items; when they require it, the owner must employ the inspector per § 702.2 .

Can the contractor provide the special inspector if they charge the owner a fee?

Not under the independence/no‑financial‑interest Note in § 702.2: hiring the contractor’s own inspection personnel creates a financial tie to the project and conflicts with the requirement unless the enforcing agency explicitly accepts a disclosed arrangement — which is not the norm (§ 702.2) .

What counts as proof of “no financial interest”?

CALGreen does not prescribe a specific form; the owner should provide documentation (company structure, ownership disclosures, contracts) showing the inspector has no ownership or financial stake in the project or materials and any certifications or training that demonstrate competence as requested by the enforcing agency (§ 702.2) .

If an inspector is paid by the contractor but is an independent company, is that allowed?

Payment for inspection services by a party on the project does not automatically equal a prohibited financial interest. What matters is whether the inspector has an ownership or financial stake in the materials or project that would impair objectivity. Disclose the relationship and get the enforcing agency’s acceptance under § 702.2 .

Where can I get the list of acceptable certifications?

§ 702.2 lists examples (national/regional green building program certifications, statewide energy/verification organizations, third‑party apprentice programs) but delegates final acceptance to the enforcing agency, which may accept other programs as appropriate (§ 702.2) .

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When does the local agency require state/national certification vs. its own determination?

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Special inspector qualifications and independence

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)