CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
Energy Efficiency & Commissioning (Division 5.2 & commissioning requirements)
CALGreen requires integrated commissioning (OPR, BOD, Cx plan, FPT, documentation/training, report) to ensure energy systems meet design intent and efficiency goals.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
Overview
This area of CALGreen brings together the code's energy-efficiency requirements (Division 5.2 / A6.2 in the voluntary health‑facility appendix) and the commissioning provisions that verify those measures are installed and operate as intended. The commissioning requirements cover the full quality‑assurance sequence: Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD), a project-specific commissioning plan, functional performance testing, post‑construction documentation and training, and a final commissioning report. See the CALGreen commissioning reference (Section 5.410.2 and its subsections) for the required elements and process guidance.
Commissioning is targeted at energy‑related systems critical to performance and efficiency — for example HVAC/R and controls, lighting and daylighting controls, domestic hot water, renewable energy systems and the building envelope — and it must be integrated into design, construction documents and permit review. The voluntary Appendix A guidance (A6.203–A6.204 and A6.204.4) expands on prescriptive and performance approaches and provides checklists and compliance forms to meet the code requirements.
In this section
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CALGreen § 204.4.1 High relevance — show source text
The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The design team shall develop the Basis of Design (BOD). The CxA shall review these documents for clarity and completeness. The owner and design team shall be responsible for updates to their respective documents, develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents and develop and implement a commissioning plan. The CxA shall verify the installation and performance of the systems to be commissioned, verify that training and operation and maintenance documentation have been provided to the owner’s operations staff and complete a commissioning report.
Commissioning process activities shall be completed for the following energy-related systems, at a minimum:
- Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls.
- Lighting and daylighting controls.
- Domestic hot water systems.
- Renewable energy systems (wind, solar, etc.).
- Building envelope systems.
A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented by the owner and the designer before the design phase of the project begins. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, this documentation shall include the following:
- Environmental and sustainability goals.
- Energy efficiency goals.
- Indoor environmental quality requirements.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-3
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APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]
- Equipment and systems expectations.
- Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.
A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the building systems meets the Owner’s Project Requirements shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and updated as necessary during the design and construction phases. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, the Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:
- Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls.
- Indoor lighting system and controls.
- Water heating system.
- Renewable energy systems.
A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan. A commissioning plan shall be completed to document the approach to how the project will be commissioned and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. The Commissioning Plan shall include the following at a minimum:
- General project information.
- Commissioning goals.
- Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include at a minimum: a. A detailed explanation of the original design intent; b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests; c. Functions to be tested;
d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed; and e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities – plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Sections A6.204.4.4 through A6.204.4.6 shall be included.
CALGreen § 203.2 High relevance — show source text
SECTION A6.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH
A6.203.2 Energy performance. It is the intent of this code to encourage green buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.
A6.203.2.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen [Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By](http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf) Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf.
A6.203.2.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.
SECTION A6.204—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH
A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances. All equipment and appliances provided by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment or appliance.
A6.204.4 Commissioning. [OSHPD 1 & 4] Building commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the building project to verify that the building’s energy related systems are installed, calibrated and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design and construction documents.
The owner and designer shall designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review and oversee the completion of the commissioning process activities. The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The design team shall develop the Basis of Design (BOD). The CxA shall review these documents for clarity and completeness. The owner and design team shall be responsible for updates to their respective documents, develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents and develop and implement a commissioning plan. The CxA shall verify the installation and performance of the systems to be commissioned, verify that training and operation and maintenance documentation have been provided to the owner’s operations staff and complete a commissioning report.
Commissioning process activities shall be completed for the following energy-related systems, at a minimum:
- Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls.
- Lighting and daylighting controls.
- Domestic hot water systems.
- Renewable energy systems (wind, solar, etc.).
- Building envelope systems.
A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented by the owner and the designer before the design phase of the project begins. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, this documentation shall include the following:
- Environmental and sustainability goals.
- Energy efficiency goals.
- Indoor environmental quality requirements.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-3
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APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]
- Equipment and systems expectations.
- Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.
CALGreen § 2.3 High relevance — show source text
Landscape Irrigation Systems a. Provide narrative description of system—type, performance, water usage b. Describe reason for system selection—why chosen system is better than alternatives, issues such as performance, efficiency, reliability, flexibility, expandability, cost, owner preference, simplicity c. Sequence of Operation—operating schedules, setpoints d. Describe how system meets the OPR
- Water Reuse Systems a. Provide narrative description of system—type, performance, capacity, reuse purpose b. Describe reason for system selection—why chosen system is better than alternatives, issues such as performance, efficiency, reliability, flexibility, expandability, cost, owner preference, simplicity c. Sequence of Operation—operating schedules, setpoints d. Describe how system meets the OPR
2.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the building official confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the BOD document, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the architect, engineer or designer of record, attesting that the BOD has been completed and meets the requirements of the OPR.
Reference: 3 Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents
CALGreen Section 5.410.2, Commissioning.
This section provides details for element 3: Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents.
3.1 Intent:
Include commissioning measures or requirements in the construction documents (plans and specifications). Commissioning measures or requirements should be clear, detailed and complete to clarify the commissioning process.
3.2 Compliance Method:
Compliance is achieved by including commissioning requirements in the project specifications. The commissioning specifications should include the following:
Primary (and optionally all) commissioning requirements are included in the general specification division (typically Division 1) and clear cross references of all commissioning requirements to and from the general division are included to ensure all subcontractors are held to them.
A list of the systems and assemblies covered by the commissioning requirements.
Roles and responsibilities of all parties, including: i. General contractor and subcontractors, vendors, construction manager ii. Commissioning provider lead
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iii. Owner, facility staff iv. Architect and design engineers v. Include the noncontractor parties in the construction specifications (information used only to provide the contractor with context for their work).
vi. Include who writes checklists and tests, who reviews and approves test forms, who directs tests, who executes tests, who documents test results, and who approves completed tests. These roles may vary by system or assembly.
Meeting requirements
Commissioning schedule management procedures
Issue and noncompliance management procedures
Requirements for execution and documentation of installation, checkout and start up, including controls point-to-point checks and calibrations
Specific testing requirements by system, including: i. Monitoring and trending ii. Opposite season or deferred testing requirements, functions and modes to be tested
iii. Conditions of test
CALGreen § 4.3 High relevance — show source text
For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii. List the required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning effort.
iv. Include the confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance staff training.
4.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning plan, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the Cx Plan has been completed.
Reference: 5 Functional performance testing
CALGreen Section 5.410.2.4, Functional performance testing.
5.1 Intent:
Develop and implement the functional performance tests to document, as set forth in the commissioning plan, that all components, equipment, systems and system-to-system interfaces were installed as specified, and operate according to the Owner’s Project Requirements, Basis of Design, and plans and specifications.
The following systems to be functionally tested are listed in the Basis of Design (Section 5.410.2.2 of the code):
Renewable energy systems
Landscape irrigation systems
Water reuse systems
5.2 Compliance Method:
Compliance is demonstrated by developing and implementing test procedures for each piece of commissioned equipment and interfaces between equipment and systems according to the building-specific commissioning plan. Tests should include verification of proper operation of all equipment features, each part of the sequence of operation, overrides, lockouts, safeties, alarms, occupied and unoccupied modes, loss of normal power, exercising a shutdown, startup, low load through full load (as much as is possible) and back, staging and standby functions, scheduling, energy efficiency strategies and loop tuning.
Elements of acceptable test procedures include:
Date and party—Identification of the date of the test and the party conducting the test.
Signature block—Signature of the designated commissioning lead and the equipment installing contractor attesting that the recorded test results are accurate.
Prerequisites—Any conditions or related equipment checkout or testing that needs to be completed before conducting this test.
Precautions—Identification of the risks involved to the test team members and the equipment and how to mitigate them.
Instrumentation—Listing of the instrumentation and tools necessary to complete the test.
Reference—In each procedure item, identify the source for what is being confirmed (e.g., sequence of operation ID, operating feature, specification requirement, etc.).
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Test instructions—Step-by-step instructions of how to complete the test, including functions to test and the conditions under which the tests should performed.
Acceptance criteria—Measurable pass / fail criteria for each step of the test, as applicable.
Results—Expected system response and space to document the actual response, readings, results and adjustments.
Return to normal—Instructions that all systems and equipment are to be returned to their as-found state at the conclusion of the tests.
Deficiencies—A list of deficiencies and how they were mitigated.
5.3 Enforcement:
CALGreen § 8-17 High relevance — show source text
- Refer to the OPR and BOD documents
b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests i. Provide a list of equipment and systems to be tested
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ii. Describe the range and extent of tests to be performed for each system component, and interface between systems c. Functions to be tested - Provide example functional test procedures to identify the level of testing detail required
See (Section 5.410.2.4) FPT guidance for more informationd. Conditions under which the test shall be performed - Identify the conditions under which the major operational system functions are to be tested, including: i. Normal operations and part-load operations. ii. Seasonal testing requirements. iii. Restart of equipment and systems after power loss. iv. System alarm confirmations. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance - Include measurable criteria for acceptable performance of each system to be tested 4. Commissioning team information - Provide a contact list for all commissioning team members, including but not limited to: i. Owner, owner’s representative. ii. Architect, engineers. iii. Designated commissioning representative. iv. General contractor, subcontractors and construction manager. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities i. Establish prescribed commissioning process steps and activities to be accomplished by the Cx team throughout the design to occupancy. ii. For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii. List the required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning effort.
iv. Include the confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance staff training.
4.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning plan, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the Cx Plan has been completed.
Reference: 5 Functional performance testing
CALGreen Section 5.410.2.4, Functional performance testing.
5.1 Intent:
Develop and implement the functional performance tests to document, as set forth in the commissioning plan, that all components, equipment, systems and system-to-system interfaces were installed as specified, and operate according to the Owner’s Project Requirements, Basis of Design, and plans and specifications.
The following systems to be functionally tested are listed in the Basis of Design (Section 5.410.2.2 of the code):
Renewable energy systems
Landscape irrigation systems
Water reuse systems
5.2 Compliance Method:
Compliance is demonstrated by developing and implementing test procedures for each piece of commissioned equipment and interfaces between equipment and systems according to the building-specific commissioning plan. Tests should include verification of proper operation of all equipment features, each part of the sequence of operation, overrides, lockouts, safeties, alarms, occupied and unoccupied modes, loss of normal power, exercising a shutdown, startup, low load through full load (as much as is possible) and back, staging and standby functions, scheduling, energy efficiency strategies and loop tuning.
CALGreen § 8-31 High relevance — show source text
owner, location|| |2|Building type, building area|| |3|Overall project commissioning schedule|| |4|Contact information for individual/company providing commissioning services|| ||COMMISSIONING GOALS|| |5|Meet_California Green Building Standards Code_ requirements for commissioning|| |6|Meeting OPR and BOD requirements|| |7|Carrying out requirements for commissioning activities as specified in plans and specifications|| ||SYSTEMS TO BE COMMISSIONED|| |8|Explanation of the original design intent (refer to OPR and BOD documents)|| |9|Equipment and systems to be tested, functions to be tested, conditions under which the test shall be
performed and measurable criteria for acceptable performance|| ||COMMISSIONING TEAM INFORMATION|| |10|List of all team members and contact information (i.e. owner, owner’s representative, architect,
engineers, designated commissioning representative and (if available): general contractor,
subcontractors and construction manager)|| ||COMMISSIONING PROCESS ACTIVITIES, SCHEDULES and RESPONSIBILITIES|| |11|Prescribed commissioning process steps and activities to be accomplished by the Cx team throughout
the design to occupancy|| |12|Roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team for each phase of the work|| |13|Required Cx deliverables, reports, forms and verifications expected at each stage of the commissioning
effort|| |14|Confirmation process for the O&M manual, systems manual and the facility operator and maintenance
staff training||- The following systems shall be tested: renewable energy systems, landscape irrigation systems and water reuse systems.
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FUNCTIONAL PERFORMANCE TESTING
COMPLIANCE FORM
CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2.4, Functional Performance Testing
5.410.2.4 Functional performance testing. [N] Functional performance tests shall demonstrate the correct installation and operation of each component, system and system-to-system interface in accordance with the approved plans and specifications. Functional performance testing reports shall contain information addressing each of the building components tested, the testing methods utilized, and include any readings and adjustments made.
Test forms have been developed for each piece of commissioned equipment and system and include the checked elements listed below. These tests have been executed with deficiencies corrected.
Col1 FUNCTIONAL TEST ELEMENTS INCLUDED 1. Date and parties participating 2. Signature block attesting test is complete and accurate 3. Prerequisites 4. Precautions 5. Instrumentation required 6. Reference to the source of what is being confirmed (sequences, packaged features, etc.) 7. Detailed step-by-step test instructions 8. Acceptance criteria 9. Results 10. Confirmation of returning to normal 11. Deficiency list
Cx Coordinator Signature Date
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CALGreen § 203.1.1 High relevance — show source text
[OSHPD 1]**
**A6.203.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1]**Buildings must comply with the latest edition of
“Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures.”
A.5.203.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] Buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings
By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by 15 percent.||||| |SECTION A6.204 Prescriptive Measures||||| |**A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances.**All equipment and appliances provided
by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment
or appliance.||||| |A6.204.4 Commissioning. Building commissioning for all building systems covered by T24,
Part 6, process systems and renewable energy systems shall be included in the design and
construction processes of the building project. Commissioning requirements shall include as
a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.
**A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).**Documented before the design phase of
the project begins the OPR shall include items listed in Section A6.204.4.
**A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD).**A written explanation of how the design of the building
systems meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and
updated periodically to cover the systems listed in Section A6.204.4.2.
**A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan.**A commissioning plan describing how the project will be
commissioned shall be started during the design phase of the building project and shall
include as a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.3.
A6.204.4.4 Functional performance testingshall demonstrate the correct installation and
operation of each component, system and system-to-system interface in accordance with
the approved plans and specifications.
**A6.204.4.5 Post construction documentation and training.**A systems manual and
systems operations training are required.
**A6.204.4.5.1 Systems manual.**The systems manual shall be delivered to the building
owner and facilities operator and shall include the items listed in Section A6.204.4.5.1.
A6.204.4.5.2 Systems operations training. The training of the appropriate maintenance
staff for each equipment type and/or system shall include as a minimum items listed in
Section A6.204.4.5.2.
**A6.204.4.6 Commissioning report.**A complete report of commissioning process activities
undertaken through the design, construction and postconstruction phases of the building
project shall be completed and provided to the owner.||
|
|| |**A6.204.6 Building orientation and shading.CALGreen § 8-15 High relevance — show source text
Building Occupant and O&M Personnel Expectations—Describe the following: a. How building will be operated and by whom b. Level of training and orientation required to understand, operate and use the building systems for building operation and maintenance staff, as well as occupants c. Building operation and maintenance staff location and capabilities
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1.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the OPR document, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner representative attesting that the OPR has been completed and approved by the owner.
Reference: 2 Basis of Design (BOD)
CALGreen Section 5.410.2.2, Basis of Design (BOD).
2.1 Intent:
The Basis of Design (BOD) describes the building systems to be commissioned and outlines design assumptions not indicated in the design documents. The design team develops the BOD to describe how the building systems’ design meets the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), and why the systems were selected. The BOD is most effective when developed early in the project design and updated as necessary throughout the design process.
2.2 Compliance Method:
Compliance requires the completion of the BOD document and should include the following where applicable:
Renewable Energy Systems a. Provide narrative description of system—type, performance, control type, energy savings, payback period b. Describe reason for system selection—why chosen system is better than alternatives, issues such as performance, efficiency, reliability, flexibility, simplicity, expandability, cost, payback period, utility company incentives, owner preference c. Sequence of Operation—operating schedules, setpoints, storage capacity d. Describe how system meets the OPR
Landscape Irrigation Systems a. Provide narrative description of system—type, performance, water usage b. Describe reason for system selection—why chosen system is better than alternatives, issues such as performance, efficiency, reliability, flexibility, expandability, cost, owner preference, simplicity c. Sequence of Operation—operating schedules, setpoints d. Describe how system meets the OPR
Water Reuse Systems a. Provide narrative description of system—type, performance, capacity, reuse purpose b. Describe reason for system selection—why chosen system is better than alternatives, issues such as performance, efficiency, reliability, flexibility, expandability, cost, owner preference, simplicity c. Sequence of Operation—operating schedules, setpoints d. Describe how system meets the OPR
2.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the building official confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the BOD document, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the architect, engineer or designer of record, attesting that the BOD has been completed and meets the requirements of the OPR.
Reference: 3 Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents
CALGreen Section 5.410.2, Commissioning.
This section provides details for element 3: Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents.
3.1 Intent:
Include commissioning measures or requirements in the construction documents (plans and specifications). Commissioning measures or requirements should be clear, detailed and complete to clarify the commissioning process.
CALGreen § 106.9 High relevance — show source text
FEATURE OR MEASURE COMPLIANCE LEVELS Col3 Col4 NOTES FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
CALGreenVOLUNTARY
CALGreenVOLUNTARY
CALGreenVOLUNTARY
CALGreenFEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
CALGreenTier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2 DIVISION A6.1 – PLANNING AND DESIGN SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development **A6.106.9 Building orientation.**Locate and orient the building as follows:
1. When site and location permit, orient the building with the long sides facing north and
south.
2. Protect the building from thermal loss, drafts and degradation of the building envelope
caused by wind and wind-driven materials such as dust. DIVISION A6.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures A6.203.1 Energy performance. [OSHPD 1]
**A6.203.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1]**Buildings must comply with the latest edition of
“Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures.”
A.5.203.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] Buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings
By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by 15 percent. SECTION A6.204 Prescriptive Measures **A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances.**All equipment and appliances provided
by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment
or appliance. A6.204.4 Commissioning. Building commissioning for all building systems covered by T24,
Part 6, process systems and renewable energy systems shall be included in the design and
construction processes of the building project. Commissioning requirements shall include as
a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.
**A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).**Documented before the design phase of
the project begins the OPR shall include items listed in Section A6.204.4.
**A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD).**A written explanation of how the design of the building
systems meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and
updated periodically to cover the systems listed in Section A6.204.4.2.
**A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan.CALGreen § 3.3 High relevance — show source text
- Definitions section.
3.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning specifications, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative or designer of record attesting that the owner-approved commissioning specifications are included in the construction documents.
Reference: 4 Commissioning plan
CALGreen Section 5.410.2.3, Commissioning plan.
4.1 Intent:
The Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan) establishes the commissioning process guideline for the project and commissioning team’s level of effort by identifying the required Cx activities to ensure that the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) and the Basis of Design (BOD) are met. The Cx Plan also includes a commissioning schedule from design to occupancy.
4.2 Compliance Method:
Compliance is demonstrated by preparation of a project-specific Cx Plan that includes the elements listed in the code section above. The following gives guidance for developing the components of the commissioning plan:
General project information - Provide project-identifying information including but not limited to the following: i. Project name, owner, location. ii. Building type, building area. iii. Project schedule. iv. Contact information of individual/company providing the commissioning services.
Commissioning goals – Document the commissioning goals, including but not limited to: i. Meeting CALGreen code requirements for commissioning. ii. Meeting OPR and BOD requirements. iii. Carrying out requirements for commissioning activities as specified in plans and specifications.
Systems to be commissioned – See BOD a. An explanation of the original design intent - Document the performance objectives and design intent for each system listed to be commissioned in a written narrative
- Refer to the OPR and BOD documents
b. Equipment and systems to be tested, including the extent of tests i. Provide a list of equipment and systems to be tested
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ii. Describe the range and extent of tests to be performed for each system component, and interface between systems c. Functions to be tested - Provide example functional test procedures to identify the level of testing detail required
See (Section 5.410.2.4) FPT guidance for more informationd. Conditions under which the test shall be performed - Identify the conditions under which the major operational system functions are to be tested, including: i. Normal operations and part-load operations. ii. Seasonal testing requirements. iii. Restart of equipment and systems after power loss. iv. System alarm confirmations. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance - Include measurable criteria for acceptable performance of each system to be tested 4. Commissioning team information - Provide a contact list for all commissioning team members, including but not limited to: i. Owner, owner’s representative. ii. Architect, engineers. iii. Designated commissioning representative. iv. General contractor, subcontractors and construction manager. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities i. Establish prescribed commissioning process steps and activities to be accomplished by the Cx team throughout the design to occupancy. ii. For each phase of the work, define the roles and responsibilities for each member of the Cx team. iii.
CALGreen § 8-27 High relevance — show source text
Architect/Engineer/Designer Acknowledgement
I hereby acknowledge the Basis of Design (BOD) document has been completed and meets the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Name License Number Signature Date Architect of Record Landscape Architect Renewable Energy System Designer Other (specify): Commissioning Agent Acknowledgment
I have reviewed the Basis of Design (BOD) and verified that it meets the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR):
Name: _____________________________________________
Company Name (if applicable): ____________________________________________
Agent’s Signature: __________________________________ Date: ___________
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Cx MEASURES IN CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
COMPLIANCE FORM
The following form may be required to be printed on the permit set of construction drawings or submitted separately.
CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2, Commissioning Measures in the Construction Documents
5.410.2. Commissioning measures shall be shown in the construction documents.
The commissioning measures shown in the construction documents include the checked elements listed below and have been approved by the owner, owner’s representative or designer of record.
Col1 COMMISSIONING MEASURE ELEMENTS1 INCLUDED 1. Measures shown in the specifications and cross referenced 2. List of commissioned equipment and systems 3. Cx roles and responsibilities of all parties 4. Meeting requirements 5. Commissioning schedule management procedures 6. Procedures for addressing outstanding issues or noncompliance 7. Requirements for execution and documentation of installation and equipment start-up 8. Specific testing requirements for each system type1 9. Submittal review and approval requirements 10. Contents and approval process of the commissioning plan 11. Cx documentation and reporting requirements 12. Facility staff training requirements and verification procedures 13. O&M manual review and approval procedures 14. Systems manual development and approval procedures 15. Definitions - These are not the detailed step-by-step test procedures but are lists of features, elements, modes and conditions of tests for specific equipment.
Owner / Owner’s Representative Date or Designer of Record Signature
8-28 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL
Cx MEASURES IN CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS
Project Address: ________________________________________________________
Permit Number: _____________________________
ITEM # COMMISSIONING MEASURES ITEMS 1 Measures shown in the specifications and cross CALGreen § 8-29 High relevance — show source text
shown in the specifications and cross referenced| |2|List of commissioned equipment and systems| |3|Cx roles and responsibilities of all parties| |4|Meeting requirements| |5|Commissioning schedule management procedures| |6|Procedures for addressing outstanding issues or noncompliance| |7|Requirements for execution and documentation of installation and equipment start-up| |8|Specific testing requirements for each system type| |9|Submittal review and approval requirements| |10|Contents and approval process of the commissioning plan| |11|Cx documentation and reporting requirements| |12|Facility staff training requirements and verification procedures| |13|O&M manual review and approval procedures| |14|Systems manual development and approval procedures| |15|Definitions|
Commissioning Agent Acknowledgment
I have reviewed the construction documents listed above and verified their compliance with the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD) and commissioning plan.
Name: _______________________________________
Company Name (if applicable): _____________________________________________
Agent’s Signature: __________________________________ Date: ______________
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-29
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL
COMMISSIONING PLAN
COMPLIANCE FORM
The following form may be required to be printed on the permit set of construction drawings or submitted separately.
CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2.3, Commissioning Plan
5.410.2.3 Commissioning plan. [N] Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned. The commissioning plan shall include the following:
(See Cx plan elements checklist below.)
The commissioning plan should be started during the design phase of the building project. Include the checked elements listed below and approved by the owner or owner’s representative.
Col1 COMMISSIONING PLAN ELEMENTS1 INCLUDED 1. General project information 2. Commissioning goals 3. Systems to be commissioned—see BOD 3a. An explanation of original design intent 3b. Equipment and systems to be commissioned and tested, including extent of tests 3c. Functions to be tested and conditions of tests1 3d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed 3e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance 4. Cx team information 5. Cx process activities, schedules and responsibilities - These are not the detailed step-by-step test procedures but are lists of features, elements, modes and conditions of tests for specific equipment.
Owner / Owner’s Representative Signature Date
8-30 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL
COMMISSIONING PLAN
COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST
INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS
Project Address: ________________________________________________________
Permit Number: _____________________________
ITEM # COMMISSIONING PLAN ITEMS1 PAGE NUMBER IN
COMMISSIONING
PLAN DOCUMENTGENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION 1 Project name, owner,
Frequently asked questions
Which systems are normally required to be commissioned under CALGreen?
CALGreen explicitly lists HVAC/R (mechanical and passive) and associated controls, lighting and daylighting controls, domestic hot water systems, renewable energy systems, and the building envelope as minimum energy‑related systems to be commissioned.
What are the core commissioning deliverables the owner should expect?
Core deliverables include the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) document, the Basis of Design (BOD), a project commissioning plan begun in design, documented functional performance testing reports, systems manuals and operations training, and a final commissioning report.
When must the commissioning plan be prepared and how is it enforced?
The commissioning plan should be started during the design phase and completed prior to permit issuance; building officials may confirm compliance at plan intake by review of the plan or by an approved attestation.
More in California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
- Administration (Chapter 1)
- Nonresidential Voluntary Measures (Appendix A5 — divisions A5.1–A5.6, electives & verification)
- Residential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 4)
- Definitions (Chapter 2)
- Voluntary Standards for Health Facilities (Appendix A6 / OSHPD guidance)
- Green Building – scope, mixed occupancies, phased projects (Chapter 3)
- Residential Voluntary Measures (Appendix A4 — divisions A4.1–A4.6, tiers & model ordinance)
- Nonresidential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 5)
- Compliance verification, construction documents & checklists (Section 102, Chapter 7, Appendix checklists)
- Referenced Organizations and Standards (Chapter 6)
- Voluntary Tiers and CALGreen Tier 1 / Tier 2 (performance tiers, thresholds)
- Installer and Special Inspector Qualifications (Chapter 7)
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Planning & Design (Division 5.1)
Water Efficiency & Conservation (Division 5.3)
Materials Conservation & Environmental Quality (Divisions 5.4 & 5.5)
Nonresidential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 5)
California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)