CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

When does CALGreen specify special inspection or specific documentation as the method of compliance?

CALGreen says that when extra verification is needed, the specific code section or the project application checklist will say whether you must submit particular documents or hire a special inspector; if the enforcing agency requires special inspection the owner must retain qualified, independent inspectors and submit their reports.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

CALGreen requires that when a particular measure needs extra verification, the code will identify the method of compliance — either specific documentation or special inspection — in the appropriate section or the project application checklist. The rule appears in § 703.1 which lists acceptable documentation and states that where specific documentation or special inspection is necessary, that method “will be specified in the appropriate section or identified in the application checklist.”

Separately, CALGreen authorizes an enforcing agency to require special inspection and sets the expectation that the owner must retain qualified, independent special inspectors when the enforcing agency so requires — see § 702.2.

If CALGreen calls for extra verification, the code section or the application checklist will say whether you must submit specific documents or hire a special inspector.

Requirements in detail

What triggers the requirement

  • When a CALGreen provision or an appendix requires verification beyond normal plan review and field inspection. § 703.1 directs that the required verification method (documentation or special inspection) will be stated in the specific section or in the application checklist.
  • When the enforcing agency decides that special inspection is necessary, the owner (or the owner’s agent) must employ one or more special inspectors. That authority and procedure are in § 702.2.

Who specifies the method

  • The controlling code section for the particular measure (for example a requirement in Chapter 5 or an appendix) or the project’s application checklist specifies the method (documentation vs. special inspection). § 703.1.
  • The enforcing agency has discretion to require special inspection under § 702.2.

What counts as acceptable documentation or inspection

  • Documentation examples enumerated in § 703.1 include construction documents, plans, specifications, builder or installer certification, inspection reports, or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency.
  • Special inspectors must demonstrate competence to the enforcing agency; the code lists sample certifications/education the agency may consider. § 702.2 also requires that special inspectors be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or project.

Decision-relevant dimensions (quick reference)

Trigger (when extra verification needed) Method required Who specifies / requires Typical evidence to submit Code reference
A CALGreen measure that explicitly requires verification Specific documentation (e.g., worksheets, reports) or Special inspection as stated in that measure The specific CALGreen section or the application checklist Construction documents, plans, specs, worksheets (e.g., WS-7), inspection reports, certifications § 703.1
Enforcing agency determines verification is necessary Special inspection (owner hires inspector) Enforcing agency per their authority Special inspector reports; evidence of inspector qualifications § 702.2
Example: Whole-building life-cycle assessment (WBLCA) Documentation (WS-7) and enforcing agency may require inspections during and at completion The WBLCA section and the enforcing agency WS-7 signed by design professional; possible inspection reports per 702.2/703.1 § 5.409.2 / A5.409.2.3 (references §§ 702.2 & 703.1)

Exceptions & special cases

  • The code does not mandate a universal list of items that always require special inspection — instead, the requirement is specified in the individual code section or left to the enforcing agency’s discretion. See § 703.1 and § 702.2.
  • Qualifications: local agencies may adopt additional qualification requirements for special inspectors (BSC-CG variant language in § 702.2 indicates agencies may require certification from a recognized association).
  • Appendix/example provisions (for instance the Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment) explicitly indicate that the enforcing agency “may require inspection and inspection reports in accordance with Sections 702.2 and 703.1 during and at completion of construction,” illustrating a case where documentation and special inspection interplay.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming special inspection is automatic for all CALGreen measures — it is not automatic; either the specific section or the enforcing agency will require it. § 703.1; § 702.2.
  • Treating any field inspector or contractor as a valid “special inspector.” CALGreen requires special inspectors to be competent and independent with no financial interest; qualifications are reviewed by the enforcing agency. § 702.2.
  • Failing to check the project’s application checklist and the specific CALGreen section language — the checklist is a required place to identify when a special verification method is mandated. § 703.1.
  • Submitting informal or generic documentation when the code or checklist calls for a specific worksheet, signed report, or certified documentation. § 703.1.

Worked example — applying the rule with numbers (illustrative)

Scenario: A developer is constructing a 50,000 ft² nonresidential building that uses the whole-building life cycle assessment (WBLCA) Tier 2 path requiring a 20% GWP reduction per CALGreen Appendix A5.409.2.2. The WBLCA section requires a summary and Worksheet WS‑7 in the construction documents, and the appendix states the enforcing agency may require inspections during and at completion in accordance with §§ 702.2 and 703.1.

What the owner must do (example actions tied to code):

  1. Include the WBLCA summary and WS‑7 signed by the design professional in the construction documents (required documentation per A5.409.2.3) — documentation path per § 703.1.
  2. If the enforcing agency elects to require special inspection, the owner must hire a qualified, independent special inspector (per § 702.2) to perform inspections during construction and at completion. Example: 2 inspections (mid-construction and final).
  3. The special inspector submits inspection reports demonstrating compliance; these reports become part of the project records in accordance with § 703.1.

(Notes: the number of inspections above is illustrative — CALGreen requires that the method be specified by the code section or enforcing agency, not a fixed count. See A5.409.2.3 for the specific WBLCA documentation and the enforcing agency’s ability to require inspections.)

Related provisions (select)

  • § 703.1 — Documentation; when specific documentation or special inspection will be specified in the appropriate section or application checklist.
  • § 702.2 — Special inspection: owner must employ special inspector(s) when required by the enforcing agency; inspector qualifications and independence.
  • § 5.409.2 and Appendix A5.409.2 — Whole-building life cycle assessment requirements; Appendix notes enforcing agency may require inspections under §§ 702.2 and 703.1.
  • Chapter 8 (Worksheets) — Source for required worksheets (e.g., WS‑7 referenced by WBLCA).
  • Section 5.410.2 (Commissioning reference) — Commissioning processes often include verification methods and may reference the same verification/inspection expectations (see Chapter 8 commissioning reference material).

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 § 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 § 702.2 Medium 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 § 5.105.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: Combined addition(s) to existing building(s) of two times the area or more of the existing building(s) is not eligible to meet compliance with Section 5.105.2 or Section A5.105.2.

    A5.409.2 Whole building life cycle assessment. Projects shall meet the minimum requirements of Section A5.409.2 for Tier 1 or Tier 2 compliance.

    A5.409.2.1 Tier 1. Projects shall conduct a cradle-to-grave whole building life cycle assessment meeting the requirements of Section 5.409.2 and performed in accordance with ISO 14040 and 14044, excluding operating energy, demonstrating a minimum 15-percent reduction in global warming potential (GWP) as compared to a reference baseline building of similar size, function, complexity, type of construction, material specification, and location that meets the requirements of all parts of the California Building Standards Code currently in effect. Software used to conduct the whole building life cycle assessment, including reference baseline building, shall have a data set compliant with ISO 14044, and ISO 21930 or EN 15804, and the software shall conform to ISO 21931 and/or EN 15978. The software tools and data sets shall be the same for evaluation of both the baseline building and the proposed building.

    Exception: For projects that include building reuse, the reference baseline building shall exclude the reused elements. The percent reduction in GWP shall be achieved through the design and construction of new project elements.

    A5.409.2.2 Tier 2. Projects shall conduct a cradle-to-grave whole building life cycle assessment meeting the requirements of Section 5.409.2 and performed in accordance with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044, excluding operating energy, demonstrating a minimum 20-percent reduction in GWP as compared to a reference baseline building of similar size, function, complexity, type of construction, material specification, and location that meets the requirements of all parts of the California Building Standards Code currently in effect. Software used to conduct the whole building life cycle assessment, including reference baseline building, shall have a data set compliant with ISO 14044, and ISO 21930 or EN 15804, and the software shall conform to ISO 21931 and/or EN 15978. The software tools and data sets shall be the same for evaluation of both the baseline building and the proposed building.

    Exception: For projects that include building reuse, the reference baseline building shall not be of new construction and shall retain existing materials. The percent reduction in GWP shall be achieved through the design and construction of new project elements.

    A5.409.2.3 Verification of compliance. A summary of the GWP analysis produced by the software and Worksheet WS-7 signed by the design professional of record shall be provided in the construction documents as documentation of compliance. A copy of the whole building life cycle assessment which includes the GWP analysis produced by the software, in addition to maintenance and training information, shall be included in the operation and maintenance manual and shall be provided to the owner at the close of construction. The enforcing agency may require inspection and inspection reports in accordance with Sections 702.2 and 703.1 during and at completion of construction to demonstrate substantial conformance. Inspection shall be performed by the design professional of record or third party acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    A5.409.3 Product GWP compliance—prescriptive path. Each product that is permanently installed and listed in Table A5.409.3 shall have a Type III environmental product declaration (EPD), either product-specific or factory-specific.

  • CALGreen § 105.1.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Authority cited— Education Code Sections 17310 and 81142.

    Reference— Education Code Sections 17280 through 17317, and 81130 through 81147.

    105.1.2 Applicable administrative standards.

    1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations : Sections 4-301 through 4-355, Group 1, Chapter 4, for public elementary and secondary schools, and community colleges.
    2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations : 2.1. Sections 1.1 and 1.9.2 of Chapter 1, Division I. 2.2. Sections 102.1, 102.2, 102.3, 102.4, 102.5, 104.9, 104.10 and 104.11 of Chapter 1, Division II.

    105.1.3 Applicable building standards. California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11 and 12, California Code of Regulations, for school buildings and community colleges.

    SECTION 106—OFFICE OF STATEWIDE HEALTH PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

    106.1 OSHPD 1. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.

    Application— General acute care hospitals and acute psychiatric hospitals, excluding distinct part units or distinct part freestanding buildings providing skilled nursing or intermediate care services. For structural regulations: Skilled nursing facilities and/or intermediate care facilities except those skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities of single-story, Type V, wood or light steel-frame construction.

    Enforcing agency— Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD). The office shall enforce the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance regulations and the regulations of the Office of the State Fire Marshal for the above-stated facility types.

    106.1.1 Applicable administrative standards.

    1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations: Chapters 6 and 7.
    2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: Sections 1.1 and 1.10 of Chapter 1, Division I and Chapter 1, Division II.

    106.1.2 Applicable building standards. California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 11 and 12.

    106.1.3 Identification of amendments. For applications listed in Section 106.1, amendments appear in this code preceded with the acronym [OSHPD 1].

    Authority— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127015, 1275 and 129850.

    Reference— Health and Safety Code Sections 19958, 127010, 127015, 129680, 1275 and 129675 through 130070.

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    ADMINISTRATION

    106.2 OSHPD 2. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.

  • CALGreen § 5.1 Medium relevance — show source text

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

    CHAPTER 6 REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS

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

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

    CHAPTER 7 INSTALLER AND SPECIAL

    INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 701 General (Reserved) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3 702 Qualifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3

    703 Verifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3

    CHAPTER 8 COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND

    REFERENCE MATERIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-3

    Worksheet (WS-1) Baseline Water Use: Baseline Water Use Calculation Table . . . . . . . . . . .8-3

    Worksheet (WS-2) Water Use Reduction: 12-, 20- or 25-Percent Reduction Water Use Calculation Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4

    Worksheet (WS-3) 5.105.2 Building Reuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-4 Worksheet (WS-4) 5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-5 Worksheet (WS-5) 5.409.3 Product GWP Compliance—Prescriptive Path: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-5

    Worksheet (WS-6) A5.105.2 Building Reuse Tier 1 and Tier 2:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-5

    Worksheet (WS-7) A5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

  • CALGreen § 106.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Application— Skilled nursing facilities and intermediate care facilities, including distinct part skilled nursing and intermediate care services on a general acute care or acute psychiatric hospital license, provided either are in a separate unit or a freestanding building. For structural regulations: Single-story, Type V skilled nursing facility and/or intermediate care facilities utilizing wood or light steel-frame construction.

    Enforcing agency— Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD). The office shall also enforce the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance regulations and the regulations of the Office of the State Fire Marshal for the above-stated facility type.

    106.2.1 Applicable administrative standards.

    1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations: Chapter 7.
    2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: Sections 1.1 and 1.10 of Chapter 1, Division I and Chapter 1, Division II.

    106.2.2 Applicable building standards. California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 11 and 12.

    106.2.3 Identification of amendments. For applications listed in Section 106.2, amendments appear in this code preceded with the acronym [OSHPD 2].

    Authority— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127015, 1275 and 129850.

    Reference— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127015, 1275 and 129680.

    106.3 OSHPD 4. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, enforcement agency and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.

    Application— Correctional treatment centers.

    Enforcing agency— Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD). The office shall also enforce the Division of the State Architect—Access Compliance regulations and the regulations of the Office of the State Fire Marshal for the above-stated facility types.

    106.3.1 Applicable administrative standards.

    1. Title 24, Part 1, California Code of Regulations : Chapter 7.
    2. Title 24, Part 2, California Code of Regulations: Sections 1.1 and 1.10 of Chapter 1, Division I and Chapter 1, Division II.

    106.3.2 Applicable building standards. California Building Standards Code, Title 24, Parts 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 11 and 12.

    106.3.3 Identification of amendments. For applications listed in Section 106.3, amendments appear in this code preceded with the acronym [OSHPD 4], unless the entire chapter is applicable.

    Authority— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127010, 127015 and 129790.

    References— Health and Safety Code Sections 127010, 127015, 1275, and 129675 through 130070.

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 2 – DEFINITIONS

  • CALGreen § 3-4 Medium relevance — show source text

    302 Mixed Occupancy Buildings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 303 Phased Projects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 304 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4 305 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    306 Voluntary Measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-4

    CHAPTER 4 RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . . . . . 4-3

    4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-3 4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-7 4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4-9 4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . 4-11 4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-13

    CHAPTER 5 NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES . . 5-3

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

    CHAPTER 6 REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS

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

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

    CHAPTER 7 INSTALLER AND SPECIAL

    INSPECTOR QUALIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-3 701 General (Reserved) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3 702 Qualifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-3

  • CALGreen § 8-10 Medium relevance — show source text

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Title 23, Waters, California Code of Regulations

    MWELO and supporting documents, including a water budget calculator, are available at: https://www.water.ca.gov/.

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Commissioning Referenced Standards for Non-Energy Systems

    The following CALGreen Referenced Standards are included herein as a convenience for the users of the California Green Building Standards Code, but they are not considered to be part of the code unless they are officially adopted by a local jurisdiction.

    Contents Page Part 1: Standards for Compliance with Building Commissioning 8-14 Part 2: Commissioning Sample Forms and Templates 8-23

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    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    PART 1 STANDARDS FOR COMPLIANCE WITH BUILDING COMMISSIONING

    Reference: Section 5.410.2, Commissioning.

    Introduction:

    The purpose of this code is to improve public health, safety and general welfare by enhancing the design and construction of buildings through the use of concepts that reduce negative and increase positive environmental impacts. Commissioning is a vital element in this effort.

    Definitions used in the CALGreen Cx Reference standard:

    Acronyms

    BOD Basis of Design

    Cx Commissioning

    FPT Functional Performance Test

    HVAC Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning

    O&M Operations and Maintenance

    OPR Owner’s Project Requirements

    Glossary:

    Acceptance Criteria— The conditions that must be met for systems or equipment to meet defined and expected outcomes.

    Commissioning (Cx)— Building commissioning as required in this code involves a quality assurance process that begins during design and continues to occupancy. Commissioning verifies that the new building operates as the owner intended and that building staff are prepared to operate and maintain its systems and equipment. Exceptions are allowed for dry storage warehouses of any size and conditioned spaces under 10,000 square feet accessory to them; and for tenant improvements under 10,000 square feet within a larger space.

    Owner— The individual or entity holding title to the property on which the building is constructed.

    Commissioning Coordinator— The person who coordinates the commissioning process. This can be either a third-party commissioning provider or an experienced member of the design team or owner in-house staff member.

    Commissioning Team— The key members of each party involved with the project designated to provide insight and carry out tasks necessary for a successful commissioning project. Team members may include the commissioning coordinator, owner or owner’s representative, building staff, design professionals, contractors or manufacturer’s representatives and testing specialists.

  • CALGreen § 5.57 Medium relevance — show source text

    35|5.57|5.72|5.95|6.11|6.23| |42|75|33|5.27|5.49|5.64|5.85|6.00|6.11| |41|75|34|5.19|5.41|5.56|5.75|5.89|5.99| |46|80|34|5.19|5.41|5.56|5.75|5.89|5.99| |40|75|35|5.11|5.33|5.48|5.67|5.79|5.88| |45|80|35|5.11|5.33|5.48|5.67|5.79|5.88| |44|80|36|5.03|5.26|5.40|5.58|5.70|5.79| |43|80|37|4.94|5.18|5.32|5.50|5.62|5.70| |42|80|38|4.84|5.10|5.25|5.43|5.53|5.61| |41|80|39|4.73|5.01|5.17|5.35|5.46|5.53| |46|85|39|4.73|5.01|5.17|5.35|5.46|5.53| |40|80|40|4.62|4.92|5.09|5.27|5.38|5.45| |45|85|40|4.62|4.92|5.09|5.27|5.38|5.45| |44|85|41|4.49|4.82|5.00|5.20|5.30|5.38| |43|85|42|4.35|4.71|4.91|5.12|5.23|5.30| |42|85|43|4.19|4.59|4.81|5.03|5.15|5.22| |41|85|44|4.02|4.46|4.70|4.94|5.06|5.14| |40|85|45|3.84|4.32|4.58|4.84|4.98|5.06| |Condenser DT2|Condenser DT2|Condenser DT2|14.04|11.23|9.36|7.02|5.62|4.68| |1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
    Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
    where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
    COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2.

  • CALGreen § 7.11 Medium relevance — show source text

    80|7.11|7.35|7.71|7.97|8.16| |45|75|30|6.71|6.99|7.21|7.55|7.78|7.96| |44|75|31|6.61|6.89|7.09|7.40|7.61|7.77| |43|75|32|6.52|6.79|6.98|7.26|7.45|7.60| |42|75|33|6.43|6.69|6.87|7.13|7.31|7.44| |41|75|34|6.33|6.60|6.77|7.02|7.18|7.30| |46|80|34|6.33|6.60|6.77|7.02|7.18|7.30| |40|75|35|6.23|6.50|6.68|6.91|7.06|7.17| |45|80|35|6.23|6.50|6.68|6.91|7.06|7.17| |44|80|36|6.13|6.41|6.58|6.81|6.95|7.05| |43|80|37|6.02|6.31|6.49|6.71|6.85|6.94| |42|80|38|5.90|6.21|6.40|6.61|6.75|6.84| |41|80|39|5.77|6.11|6.30|6.52|6.65|6.74| |46|85|39|5.77|6.11|6.30|6.52|6.65|6.74| |40|80|40|5.63|6.00|6.20|6.43|6.56|6.65| |45|85|40|5.63|6.00|6.20|6.43|6.56|6.65| |44|85|41|5.47|5.87|6.10|6.33|6.47|6.55| |43|85|42|5.30|5.74|5.98|6.24|6.37|6.46| |42|85|43|5.11|5.60|5.86|6.13|6.28|6.37| |41|85|44|4.90|5.44|5.72|6.02|6.17|6.27| |40|85|45|4.68|5.26|5.58|5.90|6.07|6.17| |Condenser DT2|Condenser DT2|Condenser DT2|14.04|11.23|9.36|7.02|5.62|4.68| |1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2.

  • CALGreen § 7.47 Medium relevance — show source text

    15|7.47|7.72|8.10|8.37|8.58| |45|75|30|7.05|7.35|7.58|7.93|8.18|8.36| |44|75|31|6.95|7.23|7.45|7.77|8.00|8.16| |43|75|32|6.85|7.13|7.33|7.63|7.83|7.98| |42|75|33|6.75|7.03|7.22|7.49|7.68|7.82| |41|75|34|6.65|6.93|7.12|7.37|7.55|7.67| |46|80|34|6.65|6.93|7.12|7.37|7.55|7.67| |40|75|35|6.55|6.83|7.01|7.26|7.42|7.54| |45|80|35|6.55|6.83|7.01|7.26|7.42|7.54| |44|80|36|6.44|6.73|6.92|7.15|7.30|7.41| |43|80|37|6.32|6.63|6.82|7.05|7.19|7.30| |42|80|38|6.20|6.53|6.72|6.95|7.09|7.19| |41|80|39|6.06|6.42|6.62|6.85|6.99|7.08| |46|85|39|6.06|6.42|6.62|6.85|6.99|7.08| |40|80|40|5.91|6.30|6.52|6.76|6.89|6.98| |45|85|40|5.91|6.30|6.52|6.76|6.89|6.98| |44|85|41|5.75|6.17|6.403|6.66|6.79|6.89| |43|85|42|5.57|6.03|6.28|6.55|6.70|6.79| |42|85|43|5.37|5.88|6.16|6.44|6.59|6.69| |41|85|44|5.15|5.71|6.01|6.33|6.49|6.59| |40|85|45|4.91|5.53|5.86|6.20|6.37|6.48| |Condenser DT2|Condenser DT2|Condenser DT2|14.04|11.23|9.36|7.02|5.62|4.68| |1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2.

Frequently asked questions

When does the code itself name special inspection as required?

When a particular CALGreen section or its application checklist explicitly states that special inspection is the method of compliance. Otherwise, the enforcing agency may require special inspection under § 702.2.

What documentation does § 703.1 accept as proof of compliance?

§ 703.1 lists construction documents, plans, specifications, builder or installer certification, inspection reports, or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency.

Who decides whether a special inspector is sufficiently qualified?

The enforcing agency determines whether a special inspector demonstrates the required competence; the code lists sample certifications/education the agency may consider. § 702.2.

Does CALGreen require inspectors to be independent?

Yes. § 702.2 includes a Note that special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or project they inspect.

If a section requires a worksheet (e.g., WS‑7), is that always enough?

If the section or enforcing agency specifies the worksheet as the required documentation, submit it as part of the construction documents per § 703.1. The enforcing agency may still require inspections in addition to the worksheet (see A5.409.2.3).

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