CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
Mandatory commissioning: OPR, BOD, plan, functional testing and reporting
If you build or renovate a nonresidential building in California, CALGreen requires that the owner document project goals (OPR), the design team document how design meets those goals (BOD), a Commissioning Plan be prepared before permits, functional testing be performed, staff trained and a final commissioning report delivered — all to verify the building operates as the owner intended.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
Commissioning for nonresidential projects must be a documented, managed quality‑assurance process that starts before design and continues through construction and turnover. Key required deliverables are the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD), a Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan) (completed prior to permit issuance), Functional Performance Testing (FPT), documentation/training, and a final Commissioning Report as set out in § 5.410.2.1 through § 5.410.2.6 of CALGreen.
The single most important rule: Commissioning must prove the building and its commissioned systems meet the owner’s documented requirements (OPR → BOD → Cx Plan → FPT → report) and the Cx Plan must be completed before permit issuance. § 5.410.2.3.
Requirements in detail
1) Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR)
- What it is: a documented statement of the owner’s goals and performance expectations for the project. This is a defined term: Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).
- When: before the design phase begins. § 5.410.2.1 requires the OPR be documented prior to design.
- Minimum content (examples listed in the code): environmental and sustainability goals, building sustainability/energy goals, indoor environmental quality requirements, project program and hours of operation, equipment and system expectations, and O&M staff expectations. § 5.410.2.1.
2) Basis of Design (BOD)
- What it is: a written explanation of how the design meets the OPR. This is a defined term: Basis of Design (BOD).
- When: completed at the design phase and updated as needed. § 5.410.2.2.
- Systems explicitly called out for coverage include renewable energy, landscape irrigation and water reuse systems; guidance expands this to HVAC, lighting, water heating where applicable. § 5.410.2.2.
3) Commissioning plan (Cx Plan)
- What it is: the project-specific strategy and schedule for how commissioning will be executed. The defined term used in guidance is Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan).
- When: prior to permit issuance; the plan should be started during design. § 5.410.2.3.
- Required elements (at minimum): general project info; commissioning goals; systems to be commissioned; for each system—design intent, equipment to be tested, functions to be tested, test conditions, measurable criteria for acceptable performance; commissioning team information; commissioning activities, schedule and responsibilities. § 5.410.2.3.
4) Functional performance testing (FPT)
- What it is: tests that demonstrate correct installation and operation of each component, system and system‑to‑system interface, per approved plans/specs. Defined term: Functional Performance Testing (FPT).
- Requirements: FPT procedures and reports must address each component tested, the methods used, and include readings and adjustments made. Tests should verify features, sequences, overrides, safeties, alarms, occupied/unoccupied modes, loss of power/startup/shutdown, part‑load through full‑load as feasible, scheduling and energy strategies. § 5.410.2.4.
5) Documentation and training (systems manual + training)
- Deliverables: a systems manual and documented systems operations training for maintenance staff. § 5.410.2.5 and § 5.410.2.5.1/5.410.2.5.2.
- Systems manual minimum contents: site description/contact, basic O&M procedures, major systems, equipment inventory, and copies of any verifications required by the enforcing agency or CALGreen. § 5.410.2.5.1.
- Training minimum topics: system overview and interfaces, preventive maintenance, review of the systems manual and record drawings. § 5.410.2.5.2.
6) Commissioning report
- What it is: the final record of commissioning activities, findings, resolutions, and outstanding items. § 5.410.2.6.
- Typical contents: executive summary; history of deficiencies and their resolution (including outstanding items and seasonal testing plans); system performance test results; summary of training; attachments (Cx Plan, OPR, BOD, executed checklists and FPT forms); recommendations for end‑of‑warranty review. § 5.410.2.6.
7) Commissioning personnel and team
- Code requirement: commissioning must be performed by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity; there must be a designated single person to lead/coordinate (the Commissioning Coordinator or CxA). The code and guidance explain qualifications and the option for an independent third‑party commissioning professional. § 5.410.2 (general) and guidance A6.
Quick reference table (decision‑relevant)
| Decision dimension | Required/threshold | Who prepares / when | Code reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| OPR — scope & goals | Documented before design phase | Owner or owner’s rep — prior to design | § 5.410.2.1 |
| BOD — design justification | Completed at design phase; update as needed | Design team — during design | § 5.410.2.2 |
| Commissioning Plan | Prior to permit issuance; started in design | Commissioning coordinator / team | § 5.410.2.3 |
| Functional Performance Testing | Demonstrate operation/installation per plans | Commissioning team during construction/startup | § 5.410.2.4 |
| Systems manual & training | Systems manual delivered; training documented | Commissioning team / contractors before turnover | § 5.410.2.5 |
| Commissioning Report | Final report with attachments; provided to owner | Commissioning coordinator at turnover | § 5.410.2.6 |
Exceptions & special cases
- Exceptions in CALGreen (commissioning not required) include: unconditioned warehouses of any size, areas < 10,000 sq ft used as conditioned accessory spaces within unconditioned warehouses, tenant improvements < 10,000 sq ft (per Sect. 303.1.1), and open parking garages. § 5.410.2 exceptions.
- Energy‑related systems (HVAC, indoor lighting, water heating controls) are subject to the California Energy Code commissioning requirements; CALGreen points to that code for those systems (see informational notes and cross‑references).
- § 5.410.3 is reserved in CALGreen (no substantive text). § 5.410.3.
Common mistakes
- Submitting an incomplete Cx Plan at permit intake — the plan must include measurable acceptance criteria and systems to be tested; inspectors may require the plan or a signed attestation. § 5.410.2.3.
- Waiting until construction to write the OPR or BOD — OPR is required before design and BOD at design phase. § 5.410.2.1–5.410.2.2.
- Treating FPT as checkbox startup rather than documented functional testing with measurable criteria, conditions, instrumentation and signatures — the code requires detailed FPT procedures and results. § 5.410.2.4.
- Omitting systems manuals or not documenting training attendance — both systems manual contents and training documentation are required and may be verified by inspectors. § 5.410.2.5.
- Using unqualified personnel — CALGreen requires commissioning by trained personnel with relevant experience; a single commissioning coordinator must be designated. § 5.410.2 (general).
Worked example — 50,000 ft² office building with PV, irrigation and central HVAC
Scenario: New 50,000 ft² conditioned office building with a rooftop photovoltaic system, central HVAC with controls, and landscape irrigation.
Step‑by‑step application:
- Owner documents the OPR (energy targets, after‑hours needs, indoor air quality, expected schedules, PV performance goals) before design. § 5.410.2.1.
- Design team prepares the BOD during schematic/design development showing how HVAC, PV, irrigation and water reuse meet the OPR (sequences, control strategies). § 5.410.2.2.
- Commissioning coordinator drafts the Commissioning Plan during design and finalizes it prior to permit issuance. The plan lists the systems (HVAC, lighting controls, PV, irrigation), measurable acceptance criteria (e.g., HVAC zone delta‑T, PV inverter operating range), test conditions (occupied/part‑load), and who performs/reviews each test. § 5.410.2.3.
- During construction/startup, the team performs FPTs for each system: HVAC sequences (mode changes, safeties, alarms), lighting control schedules, PV commissioning (inverter/settings, islanding tests), irrigation controller sequencing — each test with instrumented readings, pass/fail criteria, signatures and logged adjustments. § 5.410.2.4.
- Deliver to owner before turnover: systems manual (site info, major systems, maintenance schedules, record drawings) and documented training sessions (attendance forms). § 5.410.2.5.
- Provide a final Commissioning Report tying FPT results back to the OPR and BOD, listing any unresolved items and planned seasonal tests (e.g., winter boiler sequencing). § 5.410.2.6.
Timing checklist (example): OPR — predesign; BOD — 50% design; Cx Plan — before permit; FPT — during startup; Systems manual & training — before occupancy turnover; Commissioning Report — at turnover (attach executed FPT forms). § 5.410.2.1–.6.
Related provisions (CALGreen)
- § 5.410.2.1 — Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR).
- § 5.410.2.2 — Basis of Design (BOD).
- § 5.410.2.3 — Commissioning plan.
- § 5.410.2.4 — Functional performance testing.
- § 5.410.2.5 — Documentation and training (systems manual & training).
- § 5.410.2.6 — Commissioning report.
- § 5.410.3 — Reserved.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CALGreen § 5-26 High relevance — show source text
5-26 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
dance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity. For I-occupancies that are not regulated by OSHPD or for I-occupancies and L-occupancies that are not regulated by the California Energy Code Section 100.0 Scope, all requirements in Sections 5.410.2 through 5.410.2.6 shall apply.
Note: For energy-related systems under the scope (Section 100) of the California Energy Code, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls, indoor lighting systems and controls, as well as water heating systems and controls, refer to California Energy Code Section 120.8 for commissioning requirements.
Commissioning requirements shall include:
- Owner’s or owner representative’s project requirements.
- Basis of design.
- Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents.
- Commissioning plan.
- Functional performance testing.
- Documentation and training.
- Commissioning report.
Exceptions:
Unconditioned warehouses of any size.
Areas less than 10,000 square feet used for offices or other conditioned accessory spaces within unconditioned warehouses.
Tenant improvements less than 10,000 square feet as described in Section 303.1.1.
Open parking garages of any size, or open parking garage areas, of any size, within a structure.
Note: For the purposes of this section, unconditioned shall mean a building, area or room which does not provide heating and/or air conditioning.
Informational Note:
- Functional performance testing for heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and lighting controls must be performed in compliance with the California Energy Code.
5.410.2.1 Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). [N] The expectations and requirements of the building appropriate to its phase shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following:
- Environmental and sustainability goals.
- Building sustainable goals.
- Indoor environmental quality requirements.
- Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after hours operation.
- Equipment and systems expectations.
- Building occupant and operation and maintenance (O&M) personnel expectations.
5.410.2.2 Basis of Design (BOD). [N] 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. The Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:
Renewable energy systems.
Landscape irrigation systems.
Water reuse systems.
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:
- General project information.
- Commissioning goals.
- Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include: a. An 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. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.
CALGreen § 5.410.2.1 High relevance — show source text
Informational Note:
- Functional performance testing for heating, ventilation, air conditioning systems and lighting controls must be performed in compliance with the California Energy Code.
5.410.2.1 Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). [N] The expectations and requirements of the building appropriate to its phase shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following:
- Environmental and sustainability goals.
- Building sustainable goals.
- Indoor environmental quality requirements.
- Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after hours operation.
- Equipment and systems expectations.
- Building occupant and operation and maintenance (O&M) personnel expectations.
5.410.2.2 Basis of Design (BOD). [N] 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. The Basis of Design document shall cover the following systems:
Renewable energy systems.
Landscape irrigation systems.
Water reuse systems.
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:
- General project information.
- Commissioning goals.
- Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include: a. An 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. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.
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.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-27
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NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
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.
5.410.2.5 Documentation and training. [N] A systems manual and systems operations training are required, including Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements in California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 8, Section 5142, and other related regulations.
5.410.2.5.1 Systems manual. [N] Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner or representative. The systems manual shall include the following:
Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements.
Site contact information.
Basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, site events log.
Major systems.
Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.
A copy of verifications required by the enforcing agency or this code.
Other resources and documentation, if applicable.
CALGreen § 801.0 High relevance — show source text
Part I
E 801.0 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems Commissioning. E 801.1 Applicability. The provisions of this section apply to the commissioning of commercial and institutional HVAC systems.
E 802.0 Commissioning. E 802.1 Commissioning Requirements. HVAC commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the project to verify that the HVAC systems and components meet the owner’s project requirements and in accordance with this appendix. Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this appendix by personnel trained and certified in commissioning by a nationally recognized organization. Commissioning requirements shall include the following:
(1) Owner’s project requirements
(2) Basis of design
(3) Commissioning measures shown in the construction doc uments
(4) Commissioning plan
(5) Functional performance
(6) Testing
(7) Post construction documentation and training
(8) Commissioning report
2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 479
), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.
APPENDIX E
HVAC systems and components covered by this appendix as well as process equipment and controls, and renewable energy systems shall be included in the scope of the commissioning requirements. E 802.2 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The performance goals and requirements of the HVAC system shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include not less than the following:
(1) Environmental and sustainability goals
(2) Energy efficiency goals
(3) Indoor environmental quality requirements
(4) Equipment and systems performance goals
(5) Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations E 802.3 Basis of Design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the HVAC system 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. The basis of design document shall cover not less than the following systems:
(1) Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls
(2) Water heating systems
(3) Renewable energy systems E 802.4 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. The commissioning plan shall include not less than the following:
(1) General project information
(2) Commissioning goals
(3) Systems to be commissioned. Plans to test systems and components shall include not less than the following:
(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.
(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 Section E 802.5 through Section E 802.7 shall be included.
E 802.5 Functional Performance Testing. 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 readings and adjustments made.
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 § 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
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-17
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COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL
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 § 5.410.2 High relevance — show source text
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.
Independent Third-Party Commissioning Professional— A commissioning consultant contracted directly by the owner who is not responsible to, or affiliated with, any other member of the design and construction team.
Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals— Documents that provide information necessary for operating and maintaining installed equipment and systems.
Owner Representative— An individual or entity assigned by the owner to act and sign on the owner’s behalf.
Process Equipment— Energy-using equipment and components that are not used for HVAC, electrical, plumbing and irrigation operations. Such devices would include but are not limited to heat transfer, water purifying, air cleaning, air vacuum and air compressing.
Sequence of Operation— A written description of the intended performance and operation of each control element and feature of the equipment and systems.
Selecting Trained Personnel (for Commissioning)
This code requires that “Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity.” The trained personnel manage and facilitate the commissioning process. The trained personnel develop and implement the commissioning tasks and documentation identified in Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6. Trained personnel may include appropriate members of owner staff, contractor and design team as well as independent commissioning professionals.
It is essential that there is a single person designated to lead and manage the commissioning activities. In practice, this individual has been referenced by various identifiers such as commissioning authority, agent, provider, coordinator, lead, etc. In this guide the term “commissioning coordinator” is used.
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
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-17
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COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL
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 § 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 § 10-103 High relevance — show source text
- Basis of design;
- Design phase design review;
- Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents;
- Commissioning plan;
- Functional performance testing;
- Documentation and training; and
- Commissioning report.
(b) Owner’s or Owner Representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). The energy-related expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following:
- Energy efficiency goals;
- Ventilation requirements;
- Project documentation requirements, including facility functions, hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation;
- Equipment and systems expectations; and
- Building envelope performance expectations.
(c) Basis of design (BOD). A written explanation of how the design of the building systems and components meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project, and updated as necessary during the design and construction phases. The basis of design document shall cover the following systems and components:
- Heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls;
- Indoor lighting system and controls;
- Water heating systems and controls;
- Any other building equipment or system listed in the OPR; and
- Any building envelope component considered in the OPR.
(d) Design phase design review.
- Design reviewer requirements. The design reviewer shall be the signer of the Design Review Kickoff Certificate(s) of Compliance and Construction Document Design Review Checklist Certificate(s) of Compliance as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103(a)1.
- Design review kickoff. During the schematic design phase of the building project, the owner or owner’s representative, design team and design reviewer must meet to discuss the project scope, schedule and how the design reviewer will coordinate with the project team. The building owner or owner’s representative shall include the Design Review Kickoff Certificate of Compliance form in the certificate of compliance documentation (as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103).
- Construction documents design review. The construction documents design review Checklist Certificate of Compliance shall list the items checked by the design reviewer during the construction document review. The completed form shall be returned to the owner and design team for review and sign-off. The building owner or owner’s representative shall include this form in the certificate of compliance documentation (as specified in Part 1 Section 10-103).
(e) Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents. Complete descriptions of all measures or requirements necessary for commissioning shall be included in the construction documents (plans and specifications). Commissioning measures or requirements shall be clear, detailed and complete to clarify the commissioning process.
(f) Commissioning plan. Prior to permit issuance a commissioning plan shall be completed to document how the project will be commissioned and shall be started during the design phase of the building project. The commissioning plan shall include the following:
- General project information;
- Commissioning goals;
- Systems to be commissioned; and
- Plans to test systems and components, which shall include: A. An 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; E. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance; F. Commissioning team information; and G. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning requirements listed in Sections 120.8(g) through 120.8(i) shall be included.
CALGreen § 3.2 High relevance — show source text
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
iv. Acceptance criteria, and any allowed sampling v. Include details of the format and rigor of the test forms required to document test execution vi. Include example forms is recommended 9. Submittal review requirements and approval process. 10. Content, authority and approval process of the commissioning plan. 11. Commissioning documentation and reporting requirements. 12. Facility staff training requirements and verification procedures. 13. O&M manual review and approval procedures. 14. System’s manual development and approval requirements and procedures.
- 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.
CALGreen § 6.2.3 High relevance — show source text
Review record drawings on the systems/equipment a. Explain location or delivery contact of the record drawings b. Review record drawings, revisions and changes to original design drawings. c. Review equipment schedules and compare with actual installed systems
6.2.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance during on-site enforcement by:
- In the event appropriate maintenance staff is made available to receive training for each equipment type and/or system installed in the building. a. Receipt of a copy of the written training program and completed attendance forms, or b. Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the training program and delivery of training has been completed.
- In the event appropriate maintenance staff are unavailable to receive training for each equipment type and/or system installed in the building. a. Receipt of a copy of the training program provided to the owner or owner’s representative, or b. Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the written training program has been provided.
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Reference: 7 Commissioning report
CALGreen Section 5.410.2.6, Commissioning report.
7.1 Intent:
The commissioning report documents the commissioning process and test results. The report includes confirmation from the commissioning agent verifying that commissioned systems meet the conditions of the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), Basis of Design (BOD) and contract documents.
7.2 Compliance Method:
The components of the commissioning report include the following and are defined as follows:
- Executive summary of process and results of commissioning program, including observations, conclusions and any outstanding items.
- History of any system deficiencies and how resolved a. Include outstanding deficiencies and plans for resolution b. Include plans for seasonal testing scheduled for a later date
- System performance test results and evaluations
- Summary of training process completed and scheduled
- Attach commissioning process documents a. Commissioning plan b. Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) c. Basis of Design (BOD)
d. Executed installation checklists
e. Executed Functional Performance Test (FPT) forms
f. Recommendations for end-of-warranty review activities
7.3 Enforcement:
At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance during on-site enforcement by: a) Receipt of a copy of the commissioning report, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner’s representative attesting that the Cx Report has been completed.
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PART 2 SAMPLE FORMS AND TEMPLATES FOR COMMISSIONING
Note: Following are examples of templates and/or forms that may be used or adopted for verification compliance with commissioning. Code users may provide their own documents as permitted by the enforcing agency. For each subsection of commissioning, samples are provided; in a few cases with narrative templates, and in most cases with compliance forms. Simplified forms or more detailed forms, but not both, may be selected to submit for each project.
CALGreen COMPLIANCE FORM
OWNER’S PROJECT REQUIREMENTS (OPR)
CALGreen § 5.410.2.4 High relevance — show source text
c. Functions to be tested.
d. Conditions under which the test shall be performed. e. Measurable criteria for acceptable performance. 4. Commissioning team information. 5. Commissioning process activities, schedules and responsibilities. Plans for the completion of commissioning shall be included.
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.
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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.
5.410.2.5 Documentation and training. [N] A systems manual and systems operations training are required, including Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requirements in California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 8, Section 5142, and other related regulations.
5.410.2.5.1 Systems manual. [N] Documentation of the operational aspects of the building shall be completed within the systems manual and delivered to the building owner or representative. The systems manual shall include the following:
Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements.
Site contact information.
Basic operations and maintenance, including general site operating procedures, basic troubleshooting, recommended maintenance requirements, site events log.
Major systems.
Site equipment inventory and maintenance notes.
A copy of verifications required by the enforcing agency or this code.
Other resources and documentation, if applicable.
5.410.2.5.2 Systems operations training. [N] A program for training of the appropriate maintenance staff for each equipment type and/or system shall be developed and documented in the commissioning report and shall include the following:
- System/equipment overview (what it is, what it does and with what other systems and/or equipment it interfaces).
- Review and demonstration of servicing/preventive maintenance.
- Review of the information in the systems manual.
- Review of the record drawings on the system/ equipment.
5.410.2.6 Commissioning report. [N] A report of commissioning process activities undertaken through the design and construction phases of the building project shall be completed and provided to the owner or representative.
5.410.3 Reserved.
5.410.4 Testing and adjusting. New buildings less than 10,000 square feet. Testing and adjusting of systems shall be required for new buildings less than 10,000 square feet or new systems to serve an addition or alteration subject to Section 303.1.
5.410.4.1 Reserved.
Note: For energy-related systems under the scope (Section 100) of the California Energy Code, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls, indoor lighting system and controls, as well as water heating systems and controls, refer to California Energy Code Section 120.8 for commissioning requirements and Sections 120.5, 120.6, 130.4 and 140.9(b)3 for additional testing requirements of specific systems.
5.410.4.2 Systems. Develop a written plan of procedures for testing and adjusting systems. Systems to be included for testing and adjusting shall include, as applicable to the project:
Renewable energy systems.
Landscape irrigation systems.
Water reuse systems.
Frequently asked questions
What must be in the OPR?
At minimum, the OPR must document environmental/sustainability goals, energy goals, indoor environmental quality, project program (hours/use), equipment expectations and O&M staff expectations — and must be completed before design. § 5.410.2.1.
When must the Commissioning Plan be completed?
The Commissioning Plan must be completed prior to permit issuance (though started during design) and must include systems to be commissioned, measurable acceptance criteria, and the commissioning schedule. § 5.410.2.3.
Are small tenant improvements exempt?
Tenant improvements under 10,000 square feet (as described in Section 303.1.1) are listed as an exception to the mandatory commissioning requirements. § 5.410.2 exceptions.
Does CALGreen require an independent third‑party CxA?
CALGreen requires trained personnel and a designated commissioning coordinator; the code allows a range of options including an independent third‑party commissioning professional contracted by the owner — the key requirement is appropriate training and lack of conflicting responsibilities. § 5.410.2 guidance.
What must be in the Functional Performance Test report?
FPT reports must document each component tested, the testing methods, instrument readings, any adjustments made, and signatures of the responsible parties. § 5.410.2.4.
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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