CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

What qualifications or certifications are acceptable for special inspectors?

If your project requires a CALGreen special inspector, the local building department must be satisfied the inspector is competent. Acceptable evidence commonly includes certification from national/regional green programs, credentials from statewide energy organizations or home energy auditors, completion of third‑party apprenticeships, or other programs the local agency accepts — but the inspector must be independent and have no financial interest in the project (see **§ 702.2**) .

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

The California Green Building Standards Code requires that a special inspector demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular inspection or task. The code lists specific categories of certifications and education that the enforcing agency may consider acceptable, but it leaves final approval to the local enforcing agency (§ 702.2) . The code also requires that special inspectors be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or project they inspect (Note to § 702.2) .

The single most important rule: the enforcing agency must be satisfied the special inspector is competent — the listed certifications are examples the agency may accept (§ 702.2) .

Requirements in detail

Core rule (plain language)

  • The owner (or owner’s agent) must hire one or more special inspectors when required by the enforcing agency. The inspector must show they are competent for the specific inspection or task; the enforcing agency decides what qualifications meet that test (§ 702.2) .

Certifications / education the enforcing agency may consider

The code explicitly lists four categories that may be considered when the enforcing agency evaluates a special inspector’s qualifications (§ 702.2) :

  • Certification by a national or regional green building program or standard publisher (for example, programs run by recognized green-rating systems or standard publishers).
  • Certification by a statewide energy consulting or verification organization, including building performance contractors and home energy auditors.
  • Successful completion of a third‑party apprentice training program in the appropriate trade.
  • Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency (local discretion).

(An alternate adoption note for some jurisdictions — BSC‑CG — requires a certification from a recognized state, national or international association closely related to the inspector’s primary job function; the local agency determines acceptability) .

Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference table)

Decision dimension Possible values / examples What it means for acceptance Code reference
Who decides acceptability Enforcing agency (local building department) Final approval rests with the enforcing agency § 702.2
Recognized program National/regional green building programs or standard publishers (e.g., rating systems) Program certification may be considered evidence of competence § 702.2 (1)
Energy/verification certs Statewide energy consulting/verification organizations, building performance contractors, home energy auditors Relevant to energy-related inspections; may be accepted § 702.2 (2)
Training route Third‑party apprentice training (successful completion) Trade-specific apprenticeship completion may qualify § 702.2 (3)
Independence No financial interest in materials/project Inspector must be independent of the work being inspected Note under § 702.2
Other acceptable programs Any program acceptable to the enforcing agency Local discretion for alternative certifications § 702.2 (4)
Jurisdictional variant BSC‑CG adoption: certification by recognized association related to job function Local agency may require association certification tied to job duty BSC‑CG note to § 702.2

Exceptions & special cases

  • Local enforcing agencies have broad discretion: even though § 702.2 lists sample certifications, the enforcing agency may accept other qualifications or impose additional requirements (for example, an association credential under BSC‑CG) .
  • The CALGreen note explicitly requires that a special inspector be an independent entity with no financial interest in the materials or project being inspected — an important limitation that cannot be waived by choosing a particular certification (§ 702.2 note) .
  • For work that also triggers structural special inspections, the California Building Code’s special inspection provisions (e.g., qualifications in § 1704 of the CBC) apply in parallel; competence documentation for structural SIs is typically handled through the CBC process (see related provisions) .

Common mistakes

  • Assuming any commercially available certificate is automatically acceptable. The code lists categories the enforcing agency may consider, but final acceptability is the enforcing agency’s decision (§ 702.2) .
  • Hiring a person or firm that has a financial interest in the work being inspected (supplier, installer, contractor). CALGreen’s note requires independence — that disqualifies many otherwise‑certified parties (§ 702.2 note) .
  • Confusing CALGreen’s non‑structural special‑inspector guidance with the CBC’s structural special inspection qualification procedure. Structural special inspections have additional, separate qualification and statement requirements under the CBC (see § 1704 in the CBC) .
  • Presenting a training completion without evidence of relevance to the specific inspection task. The inspector must demonstrate competence for the particular type of inspection or task (§ 702.2) .

Worked example — a concrete scenario

Scenario: A developer is required by the local enforcing agency to provide special inspection for a new multifamily project’s duct sealing and whole‑house ventilation commissioning.

Step 1 — Candidate qualifications:

  • Inspector A: holds a national green‑rater credential from a recognized regional green building program (e.g., a green‑rating program credential).
  • Inspector B: holds a statewide home energy auditor certification issued by a statewide energy verification organization.
  • Inspector C: completed a third‑party HVAC apprenticeship two years ago, holds no additional certifications, and currently works for the HVAC contractor installing the ducts.

Step 2 — Apply the code

  • Inspectors A and B fit the explicitly listed acceptable categories in § 702.2 (items 1 and 2) and therefore are likely acceptable to the enforcing agency if they can demonstrate competence for the task (§ 702.2 (1)–(2)) .
  • Inspector C completed an appropriate apprenticeship (fits item 3) but currently has a financial interest (employed by the contractor). The CALGreen note disqualifies Inspector C from acting as an independent special inspector even if the training is otherwise acceptable (§ 702.2 (3) and note) .

Numeric example for documentation:

  • The enforcing agency asks for proof: Inspector A submits credential ID + program verification; Inspector B submits certification number + recent field audit reports; Inspector C provides apprentice completion certificate but also wage records showing employment by the installing contractor — Inspector C would be rejected on independence grounds (§ 702.2 note) .

Result: The owner should retain Inspector A or B (both acceptable categories) and provide the enforcing agency the requested competence documentation to obtain approval under § 702.2 .

Related provisions

  • § 702.1 — Installer training (HVAC installer training examples and acceptable programs) .
  • § 703.1 — Documentation and verifications the enforcing agency may request to show compliance (plans, certifications, inspection reports) .
  • California Building Code § 1704 — Special inspector qualifications and statement of special inspections for structural/safety items (applies where CBC special inspections are required) .
  • BSC‑CG note to § 702.2 — Local variant that may require certification from a recognized association closely related to the inspector’s job function .

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

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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 § 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 § 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 § 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 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 § 2.1 High relevance — show source text

    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. The inspector of record and 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 as required by the California Administrative Code . 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 . Discrepancies shall be brought to the immediate attention of the contractor for correction. If they are not corrected, the discrepancies shall be brought to the attention of the building official and to the registered design professional in responsible charge prior to the completion of that phase of the work. A final report documenting required special inspections and tests, and correction of any discrepancies noted in the inspections or tests, shall be submitted at a point in time agreed upon prior to the start of work by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official.

    1704 A .2.5 Special inspection of fabricated items. Where fabrication of structural, load-bearing or lateral load-resisting members or assemblies is being conducted on the premises of a fabricator’s shop, special inspections of the fabricated items shall be performed during fabrication.

    1704 A .2.5.1 Fabricator approval. Not permitted by DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC or OSHPD.

    1704 A .3 Statement of special inspections. Where special inspections or tests are required by Section 1705 A, the registered design professional in responsible charge shall prepare a statement of special inspections in accordance with Section 1704 A .3.1 for submittal by the applicant in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.3.

  • 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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    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 § 26.13 High relevance — show source text

    Where applicable, see Section 1705_A_.13.
    b. Specific requirements for special inspection shall be included in the research report for the anchor issued by an approved source in accordance with 26.13 in ACI 318, or other
    qualification procedures. Where specific requirements are not provided, special inspection requirements shall be specified by the registered design professional and shall be
    approved by the building official prior to the commencement of the work.
    c. Installation of all adhesive anchors in horizontal and upwardly inclined positions shall be performed by an ACI/CRSI Certified Adhesive Anchor Installer, except where the factored
    design tension on the anchors is less than 100 pounds and those anchors are clearly noted on the approved construction documents or where the anchors are shear dowels across
    cold joints in slabs on grade where the slab is not part of the lateral force-resisting system.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
    a. Where applicable, see Section 1705_A_.13.
    b. Specific requirements for special inspection shall be included in the research report for the anchor issued by an approved source in accordance with 26.13 in ACI 318, or other
    qualification procedures. Where specific requirements are not provided, special inspection requirements shall be specified by the registered design professional and shall be
    approved by the building official prior to the commencement of the work.
    c. Installation of all adhesive anchors in horizontal and upwardly inclined positions shall be performed by an ACI/CRSI Certified Adhesive Anchor Installer, except where the factored
    design tension on the anchors is less than 100 pounds and those anchors are clearly noted on the approved construction documents or where the anchors are shear dowels across
    cold joints in slabs on grade where the slab is not part of the lateral force-resisting system.|For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm.
    a. Where applicable, see Section 1705_A_.13.
    b. Specific requirements for special inspection shall be included in the research report for the anchor issued by an approved source in accordance with 26.13 in ACI 318, or other
    qualification procedures. Where specific requirements are not provided, special inspection requirements shall be specified by the registered design professional and shall be
    approved by the building official prior to the commencement of the work.
    c. Installation of all adhesive anchors in horizontal and upwardly inclined positions shall be performed by an ACI/CRSI Certified Adhesive Anchor Installer, except where the factored
    design tension on the anchors is less than 100 pounds and those anchors are clearly noted on the approved construction documents or where the anchors are shear dowels across
    cold joints in slabs on grade where the slab is not part of the lateral force-resisting system.|

    1705 A .3.1 Welding of reinforcing bars. Special inspections of welding and qualifications of special inspectors for reinforcing bars shall be in accordance with Section 1705A.2.7, the requirements of AWS D1.4 for special inspection and of AWS D1.4 for special inspector qualification.

  • CALGreen § 504.4.9 High relevance — show source text

    **Verification of compliance with this section shall be
    provided as requested by the enforcing agency. Documentation shall include at least one
    of the following.
    1. Product certifications and specifications
    2. Chain of custody certifications
    3. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency||





    |





    || |**A6.504.4.9 Acoustical ceilings and wall panels.**Comply with Chapter 8 in Title 24, Part 2
    and with the VOC-emission limits defined in the CHPS Low-emitting Materials List.||||| |**A6.504.5 Hazardous particulates and chemical pollutants.**Minimize and control pollutant
    entry into buildings and cross-contamination of regularly occupied areas.
    **A6.504.5.1 Entryway systems.**Install permanent entryway systems measuring at least six
    feet in the primary direction of travel to capture dirt and particulates at entryways directly
    connected to the outdoors as listed in Items 1 through 3 in Section A6.504.5.1.||
    |
    || |**A6.504.9 Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) control.**Prohibit smoking within 25 feet of
    building entries, outdoor air intakes and operable windows and in buildings; or as enforced
    by ordinances, regulations or policies of any city, county, city and county, California
    Community College, campus of the California State University or campus of the University of
    California, whichever are more stringent.||||| |SECTION A6.505 Indoor Moisture Control||||| |**A6.505.2 Indoor moisture control.**Buildings shall meet or exceed the provisions of
    California Building Code, CCR, Title 24, Part 2, Section 1203 and Chapter 14.||||| |SECTION A6.507 Environmental Comfort
    Reserved|||||

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    Moisture content of building materials 4.505.3

    Indoor Water Use – see Water Use, Indoor Innovative Concepts And Local Environmental Conditions A4.107, A4.108, A4.306, A4.411, A4.509 Installer and Special Inspector Qualifications Chapter 7

    Life Cycle Assessment 5.409, A5.409 Materials and system assemblies A5.409.3

    Product GWP compliance—prescriptive path 5.409.3, (WS-5), (WS-8), A5.409.3, Table 5.409.3, Table

    A5.409.3 Whole building life cycle assessment 5.409.2, (WS-4), (WS7), (WS-9), A5.409.2 of additional impacts A5.409.4 Lighting Appendix A6.1(OSHPD) A5.209.1

  • CALGreen § 3.1 High relevance — show source text

    [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The exception is not permitted by DSA.

    1704 A .3.1 Content of statement of special inspections. The statement of special inspections shall identify the following:

    1. The materials, systems, components and work required to have special inspections or tests by the building official or by the registered design professional responsible for each portion of the work.

    2. The type and extent of each special inspection.

    3. The type and extent of each test.

    4. Additional requirements for special inspections or tests for seismic or wind resistance as specified in Sections 1705 A .12, 1705 A .13 and 1705 A .14.

    5. For each type of special inspection, identification as to whether it will be continuous special inspection, periodic special inspection or performed in accordance with the notation used in the referenced standard where the inspections are defined.

    6. Deferred submittal items that require a supplemental statement of special inspections.

    1704 A .3.2 Seismic requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .13 or 1705 A .14 specifies special inspections or tests for seismic resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the equipment/components that require special seismic certification and seismic force-resisting systems that are subject to the special inspections or tests.

    1704 A .3.3 Wind requirements in the statement of special inspections. Where Section 1705 A .12 specifies special inspection for wind resistance, the statement of special inspections shall identify the main windforce-resisting systems and wind-resisting components that are subject to special inspections.

    2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17A-5

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

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    SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS

    1704 A .4 Contractor responsibility. Each contractor responsible for the construction of a main wind- or seismic force-resisting system, installation of equipment/components requiring special seismic certification or a wind- or seismic force-resisting component listed in the statement of special inspections shall submit a written statement of responsibility to the building official and the owner or the owner’s authorized agent prior to the commencement of work on the system or component. The contractor’s statement of responsibility shall contain acknowledgement of awareness of the special requirements contained in the statement of special inspections. [DSA-SS, DSA-SS/CC] The contractor’s statement is required only when specified on the approved construction documents.

    1704 A .5 Submittals to the building official. In addition to the submittal of reports of special inspections and tests in accordance with Section 1704 A .2.4, reports and certificates shall be submitted by the owner or the owner’s authorized agent to the building official for each of the following:

    1. Reserved.

    2. Reserved.

    3. Certificates of compliance for equipment/components requiring special seismic certification in accordance with Section 1705 A .14.3.

    4. Reports of preconstruction tests for shotcrete in accordance with ACI 318 and Section 1705A.3.9.2.

    5. Certificates of compliance for open web steel joists and joist girders in accordance with Section 2207 A. 5.

  • CALGreen § 12000-2021 High relevance — show source text

    Gas Systems Maintenance Personnel|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 7010-
    2020|Installers of Residential Potable Water Fire Sprinkler Systems for One- and Two-
    Family Dwellings|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 7020-
    2020|Inspectors of Residential Potable Water Fire Sprinkler Systems for One- and Two-
    Family Dwellings|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Series
    12000-2021|Professional Qualifications Standard for Water Management and Infection Control
    Risk Assessment for Building Systems|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    12020-2021|Environment of Care, Infection Control and Construction Risk Assessment Profes-
    sional Qualification Standard for Construction and Maintenance Employers|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    12060-2021|Water Quality Program Professional Qualifications Standard for Employers and Des-
    ignated Representatives|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    12061-2021|Water Quality Program Professional Qualifications Standard for Plumbers|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    12062-2021|Water Quality Program Professional Qualifications Standard for Pipefitters and
    HVAC Technicians|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    12063-2021|Water Quality Program Professional Qualifications Standard for Sprinkler Fitters|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    12080-2021|Professional Qualifications Standard for Legionella Water Safety and Management
    Specialist|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Series
    13000-2015 (R2020)|Service Plumber and Residential Mechanical Service Technician Professional Quali-
    fications Standard|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    13010-2015 (R2020)|Professional Qualifications Standard for the Service Plumber|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Series
    16000-2019|Professional Qualifications Standard for Inspectors and Plans Examiners|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    16010-2019|Plumbing Inspector|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    16040-2019|Plumbing Plan Examiner|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/ARCSA/IAPMO/
    ANSI Series 21000-2017|Rainwater Catchment Systems Personnel|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    21110-2017|Rainwater Catchment Systems Installers|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    21120-2017|Rainwater Catchment Systems Designers|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI
    21130-2017|Inspectors of Rainwater and Stormwater Catchment Systems|Professional
    Qualifications| |ASTM|ASTM|ASTM| |ASTM A48/A48M-2003
    (R2021)|Standard Specification for Gray Iron Castings|Piping, Ferrous|

    2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 353

  • CALGreen § 506.1 High relevance — show source text

    ENERGY STAR fans ducted to terminate outside the building.
    2. Fans must be controlled by a humidity control (separate or built-
    in); OR functioning as a component of a whole-house ventilation
    system.
    3. Humidity controls with manual or automatic means of
    adjustment, capable of adjustment between a relative humidity
    range of≤ 50 percent to a maximum of 80 percent.||||
    |
    |
    | |A4.506.1 Reserved.||||||| |A4.506.2 [HR] Provide filters on return air openings rated MERV 8 or
    higher during construction when it is necessary to use HVAC
    equipment.||||||| |A4.506.3 Direct-vent appliances shall be used when equipment is
    located in conditioned space; or the equipment must be installed in
    an isolated mechanical room.||||||| |Environmental Comfort||||||| |4.507.2 Duct systems are sized, designed and equipment is selected
    using the following methods:
    1. Establish heat loss and heat gain values according to ANSI/ACCA 2
    Manual J-2016 or equivalent.
    2. Size duct systems according to ANSI/ACCA 1 Manual D-2016
    or equivalent.
    3. Select heating and cooling equipment according to ANSI/ACCA 3
    Manual S-2014 or equivalent.||||||| |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.

Frequently asked questions

Who ultimately decides whether a given certificate is acceptable for a special inspector?

The enforcing agency (local building department) decides; CALGreen lists certification categories the agency may consider but does not mandate automatic acceptance (§ 702.2) .

Does CALGreen require special inspectors to be licensed contractors?

No. CALGreen requires demonstrable competence and acceptable certifications/education as determined by the enforcing agency — but not a specific contractor license in § 702.2. Independency (no financial interest) is required (Note to § 702.2) .

Is an in‑house employee of the contractor allowed to act as the special inspector if they have proper training?

No. The code requires special inspectors be independent with no financial interest in the materials or project; an in‑house installer/employer relationship usually creates a disqualifying financial interest (Note to § 702.2) .

If my project needs structural special inspection, which rule applies?

Structural special inspections follow the California Building Code’s special inspection procedures and qualification documentation (see § 1704 of the CBC). CALGreen’s § 702.2 covers green/energy/special‑inspector qualifications for CALGreen measures and defers to the enforcing agency for acceptance .

Can the local agency require additional credentials beyond the list in § 702.2?

Yes. The code explicitly allows the enforcing agency to require or accept other programs/certifications as it deems appropriate; a local adoption (BSC‑CG) may require association certification tied to job function (§ 702.2 and BSC‑CG note) .

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Related in the CALGreen

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

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When must an owner employ special inspectors?

Special inspector qualifications and independence

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)