CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
Commissioning compliance documentation, enforcement, and sample forms
CALGreen requires a project‑specific Commissioning Plan before permit issuance, documented Functional Performance Tests during construction, and a final Commissioning Report with attachments; inspectors may accept the documents themselves or a signed owner attestation.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — plain English
Commissioning (quality‑assurance) deliverables must be planned, documented, tested and reported so the building meets the Owner’s Project Requirements and Basis of Design. The code requires a project‑specific Commissioning Plan prior to permit issuance, documented Functional Performance Tests (FPTs) during construction, and a final Commissioning Report showing results and attachments — with inspectors able to verify compliance by receipt of the documents or a signed attestation. See § 5.410.2, § 5.410.2.3, § 5.410.2.4, and § 5.410.2.6 for the controlling requirements.
The single most important enforcement point: the enforcing official may accept either the actual commissioning deliverable (plan, signed FPTs, report) or a signed attestation from the owner/owner’s representative that the required deliverable has been completed.
Requirements in detail
Key defined terms (first mention)
- Commissioning (Cx) — the quality‑assurance process beginning in design and continuing to occupancy. § 5.410.2.
- Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan) — project‑specific plan that documents how the project will be commissioned and must be completed prior to permit issuance. § 5.410.2.3.
- Functional Performance Test (FPT) — test procedures executed to demonstrate equipment/systems operate per OPR/BOD; results must be documented. § 5.410.2.4.
- Commissioning Report (Cx Report) — final report documenting commissioning process, test results, deficiencies and corrective actions, and attachments (e.g., OPR, BOD, executed FPT forms). § 5.410.2.6.
What to prepare, when, who (decision table)
| Deliverable | Typical deadline / timing | Who prepares (typical) | Evidence inspector may accept | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commissioning measures in construction documents (specs, scope) | Included in plans & specs at plan submittal | Design team / owner / specifier | Copy of commissioning specifications or form signed by owner/owner’s rep attesting specs are included | § 5.410.2 |
| Commissioning Plan (Cx Plan) | Completed prior to permit issuance; started during design | Commissioning provider / Cx coordinator | Copy of Cx Plan or owner/rep signed attestation that Cx Plan completed | § 5.410.2.3 |
| Functional Performance Tests (FPTs) and executed FPT forms | During construction/commissioning per Cx Plan; some tests may be seasonal or post‑occupancy | Commissioning team, installing contractor, commissioning coordinator | Completed and signed FPT forms (with corrected deficiencies), or owner/rep/commissioning coordinator signed attestation | § 5.410.2.4 |
| Commissioning Report (Cx Report) with attachments (OPR, BOD, installation checklists, executed FPTs) | Final report at completion of commissioning effort (often before final occupancy) | Commissioning provider / coordinator | Copy of Cx Report or owner/owner’s rep signed attestation that report completed | § 5.410.2.6 |
| Sample forms / templates | As requested by enforcing agency; Part 2 provides templates | Project team may use CALGreen samples or agency forms | Sample forms may be printed on permit set or submitted separately | CALGreen Part 2 (sample forms) |
Notes:
- The code repeatedly gives the inspector discretion to verify compliance by either receiving the document itself or an attestation signed by the owner/owner’s rep or designer of record. This applies at Plan Intake (for specs and plan) and at on‑site enforcement (for tests and report).
What the Commissioning Plan must include (high‑level checklist)
- General project information (project name, owner, building area, schedule, contact for commissioning services). § 5.410.2.3.
- Commissioning goals and systems to be commissioned (with measurable acceptance criteria). § 5.410.2.3.
- List of equipment/systems and extent of tests, functions to be tested, test conditions, and measurable criteria. (Designers should tie these to the OPR/BOD.) § 5.410.2.3 and § 5.410.2.4.
- Cx team contacts, roles and responsibilities, schedule of commissioning activities, submittal/review procedures, and documentation/ reporting requirements. § 5.410.2.3.
Elements of acceptable FPT procedures (what each FPT form should capture)
- Date and testing party; signature block for commissioning lead and installing contractor. § 5.410.2.4.
- Prerequisites, precautions, instrumentation, step‑by‑step test instructions, measurable acceptance criteria, results recording, return‑to‑normal steps, and deficiency log. § 5.410.2.4.
Commissioning Report contents (minimum)
- Executive summary and results, history of deficiencies and corrective actions, system performance test results, training summary, attachments: Cx Plan, OPR, BOD, executed installation checklists, executed FPT forms, and end‑of‑warranty recommendations. § 5.410.2.6.
Exceptions & special cases
- Commissioning exclusions: the commissioning definition allows exceptions for dry storage warehouses of any size and conditioned spaces under 10,000 sq ft accessory to them, and for tenant improvements under 10,000 sq ft within a larger space. Check your project against these exceptions before preparing work products. § 5.410.2.
- Seasonal and deferred testing: the code anticipates opposite‑season or deferred testing; the Cx Plan must document those tests and schedules (and the Commissioning Report must note planned seasonal tests). § 5.410.2.3 and § 5.410.2.6.
- Submitting forms vs full documents: local enforcing agencies may accept either the full document (e.g., full Cx Plan) or a signed compliance form/attestation. Always confirm the enforcing agency’s preference — CALGreen provides sample templates but agencies can require their own. § 5.410.2.3 and Part 2 sample forms.
Common mistakes
- Relying on generic test language — FPTs must include measurable acceptance criteria and conditions under which the test is performed; vague wording leads to rejection. § 5.410.2.4.
- Waiting until after permit issuance to start the Cx Plan — the Cx Plan must be completed prior to permit issuance (and started during design). § 5.410.2.3.
- Submitting only partial documentation without the required attachments (OPR, BOD, executed FPT forms) in the Commissioning Report. § 5.410.2.6.
- Not identifying roles and responsibilities in specs (who writes/tests/forms/signs). The specs should identify who writes checklists, who executes and who approves tests. § 5.410.2.
- Assuming enforcement is uniform — CALGreen repeatedly notes the inspector’s discretion; confirm local enforcing agency practice early. § 5.410.2.3/5.410.2.6.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Project: 25,000 sq ft office building with rooftop PV and irrigation system.
Owner develops the OPR in pre‑design (documenting PV performance targets and irrigation reuse goals). The design team uses the OPR to write the Basis of Design (BOD). (OPR/BOD are referenced by the Cx Plan and final report.) § 5.410.2.
The owner hires a commissioning coordinator. The project team prepares a Commissioning Plan that:
- Lists PV inverter and array tests, irrigation controllers and sequence of operation;
- Specifies measurable acceptance criteria for PV output and irrigation pressure/coverage; and
- Schedules seasonal irrigation tests and inverter startup tests. The Cx Plan is completed prior to permit issuance and submitted at plan intake (or the owner may submit a signed attestation if allowed). § 5.410.2.3.
During construction, technicians run FPTs for the PV inverters (startup, islanding, shutdown, performance under varying irradiance) and irrigation (controller sequences, evapotranspiration scheduling). Each FPT form records date, tester, instrumentation, step results, pass/fail criteria and signatures of the commissioning lead and installing contractor. Any deficiencies are logged and re‑tested. Completed FPTs are retained for the final report. § 5.410.2.4.
The commissioning provider compiles the Commissioning Report with an executive summary, deficiency history and attachments: Cx Plan, OPR, BOD, executed installation checklists and executed FPTs. The owner delivers this to the inspector; if the enforcing agency accepts attestations, the owner could instead submit a signed attestation that the Cx Report has been completed. § 5.410.2.6.
If the inspector requests plan‑intake proof, submit the Cx Plan or the owner’s signed attestation; for on‑site enforcement, present executed FPTs (or attestation). Always confirm local agency practice. § 5.410.2.3 / § 5.410.2.4 / § 5.410.2.6.
Related provisions (CALGreen)
- § 5.410.2 — Commissioning measures in the construction documents (general requirements and scope).
- § 5.410.2.3 — Commissioning Plan (elements and plan submittal timing).
- § 5.410.2.4 — Functional Performance Testing (FPT) (test procedure elements and enforcement).
- § 5.410.2.6 — Commissioning Report (contents and enforcement).
- § 5.410.2.1 — Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) (develop OPR before design).
- § 5.410.2.2 — Basis of Design (BOD) (design explanation tying BOD to OPR).
- Part 2, Chapter 8 — Sample forms and templates for commissioning (CALGreen provides templates that jurisdictions or project teams may use or adapt).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CALGreen § 8-10 High relevance — show source text
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Title 23, Waters, California Code of Regulations
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Commissioning Referenced Standards for Non-Energy Systems
The following CALGreen Referenced Standards are included herein as a convenience for the users of the California Green Building Standards Code, but they are not considered to be part of the code unless they are officially adopted by a local jurisdiction.
Contents Page Part 1: Standards for Compliance with Building Commissioning 8-14 Part 2: Commissioning Sample Forms and Templates 8-23
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PART 1 STANDARDS FOR COMPLIANCE WITH BUILDING COMMISSIONING
Reference: Section 5.410.2, Commissioning.
Introduction:
The purpose of this code is to improve public health, safety and general welfare by enhancing the design and construction of buildings through the use of concepts that reduce negative and increase positive environmental impacts. Commissioning is a vital element in this effort.
Definitions used in the CALGreen Cx Reference standard:
Acronyms
BOD Basis of Design
Cx Commissioning
FPT Functional Performance Test
HVAC Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning
O&M Operations and Maintenance
OPR Owner’s Project Requirements
Glossary:
Acceptance Criteria— The conditions that must be met for systems or equipment to meet defined and expected outcomes.
Commissioning (Cx)— Building commissioning as required in this code involves a quality assurance process that begins during design and continues to occupancy. Commissioning verifies that the new building operates as the owner intended and that building staff are prepared to operate and maintain its systems and equipment. Exceptions are allowed for dry storage warehouses of any size and conditioned spaces under 10,000 square feet accessory to them; and for tenant improvements under 10,000 square feet within a larger space.
Owner— The individual or entity holding title to the property on which the building is constructed.
Commissioning Coordinator— The person who coordinates the commissioning process. This can be either a third-party commissioning provider or an experienced member of the design team or owner in-house staff member.
Commissioning Team— The key members of each party involved with the project designated to provide insight and carry out tasks necessary for a successful commissioning project. Team members may include the commissioning coordinator, owner or owner’s representative, building staff, design professionals, contractors or manufacturer’s representatives and testing specialists.
CALGreen § 7.3 High relevance — show source text
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)
The following form may be required to be printed on the permit set of construction drawings or submitted separately. Italicized text indicates direct or partial quotes from the CALGreen Code.
CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2.1, Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR)
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: 1. Environmental and sustainability goals. 2. Building sustainable goals. 3. Indoor environmental quality requirements. 4. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after hours operation. 5. Equipment and systems expectations. 6. Building occupant and operation and maintenance (O&M) personnel expectations.
Col1 OPR ELEMENTS INCLUDED 1. Environmental and sustainability goals. 2. Building sustainable goals. 3. Indoor environmental quality requirements. 4. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation,
and need for after-hours operation. 5. Equipment and systems expectations. 6. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.
Owner/Owner’s Representative Signature Date
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OWNER’S PROJECT REQUIREMENTS (OPR)
COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST
INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS
Project Address: _________________________________________________________
Permit Number: _____________________________
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 § 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: ______________
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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
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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, CALGreen § 15-11 High relevance — show source text
are listed below||||||||X||||||||||||||| |Chapter/Section||||||||||||||||||||||| |WS-3||||||||X||||||||||||||| |WS-4||||||||X||||||||||||||| |WS-5||||||||X||||||||||||||| |WS-9||||||||X||||||||||||||| |IES TM-15-11 Table A-1||||||||X||||||||||||||| |Table 130.2-A||||||||X||||||||||||||| |Table 1302.2-B||||||||X|||||||||||||||
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[BSC] Sample forms found in “A Guide to the California Green Building Standards Code (Nonresidential)” located at https://www.dgs.ca.gov/BSC/Resources/Page-Content/Building-Standards-Commission-Resources-List-Folder/CALGreen may be used to assist in documenting compliance with the waste management plan and other provisions of this code.
[HCD 1] Sample forms located at www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/calgreen/cal-green-forms.shtml may be used to assist in documenting compliance with CALGreen . WORKSHEET (WS-1) BASELINE WATER USE
BASELINE WATER USE CALCULATION TABLE Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10 FIXTURE TYPE FLOW RATE DURATION DAILY USES OCCUPANTS1 GALLONS PER DAY Showerheads 1.8 gpm @ 80 psi × 5 min. × 1 × Note 1a = Lavatory faucets nonresidential 0.5 gpm @ 60 psi × .25 min. × 3 × = Kitchen faucets 1.8 gpm @ 60 psi × 4 min. × 1 × Note 1b = Replacement aerators 2.2 gpm × × × = Wash fountains 1.8 gpm/20 [rim
space(in.)@ 60 psi]× × × = Metering faucets 0.20 gal/cycle × × 3 × = Metering faucets for wash
fountains0.20 gal/cycle/20 [rim
space(in.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 § 5.410.2.1 High relevance — show source text
Independent Third-Party Commissioning Professional— A commissioning consultant contracted directly by the owner who is not responsible to, or affiliated with, any other member of the design and construction team.
Operation and Maintenance (O&M) Manuals— Documents that provide information necessary for operating and maintaining installed equipment and systems.
Owner Representative— An individual or entity assigned by the owner to act and sign on the owner’s behalf.
Process Equipment— Energy-using equipment and components that are not used for HVAC, electrical, plumbing and irrigation operations. Such devices would include but are not limited to heat transfer, water purifying, air cleaning, air vacuum and air compressing.
Sequence of Operation— A written description of the intended performance and operation of each control element and feature of the equipment and systems.
Selecting Trained Personnel (for Commissioning)
This code requires that “Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity.” The trained personnel manage and facilitate the commissioning process. The trained personnel develop and implement the commissioning tasks and documentation identified in Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6. Trained personnel may include appropriate members of owner staff, contractor and design team as well as independent commissioning professionals.
It is essential that there is a single person designated to lead and manage the commissioning activities. In practice, this individual has been referenced by various identifiers such as commissioning authority, agent, provider, coordinator, lead, etc. In this guide the term “commissioning coordinator” is used.
The designated commissioning coordinator may be an independent, third-party commissioning professional, a project design team member (e.g., engineer or architect), an owner’s engineer or facility staff, contractor or specialty subcontractor. Methods of evaluating the designated commissioning coordinator and trained personnel include review of the following:
- Technical knowledge;
- Relevant experience;
- Potential conflict of interest concerns;
- Professional certifications and training;
- Communication and organizational skills; and
- Reference and sample work products.
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Selection of “trained,” qualified personnel is required by this code. In order to meet this requirement, the commissioning provider should be evaluated via the methods discussed above. In addition, various organizations have training and certification programs that may be a source for identification of qualified commissioning providers.
For information about enforcement and compliance of each commissioning element see Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6.
For compliance forms and templates see Part 2 following this standard.
Reference: 1 Owner’s Project Requirements
CALGreen Section 5.410.2.1, Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR).
1.1 Intent:
The Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) documents the functional requirements of a project and expectations of the building use and operation as it relates to systems being commissioned. The document describes the physical and functional building characteristics desired by the owner and establishes performance and acceptance criteria. The OPR is most effective when developed during predesign and used to develop the Basis of Design (BOD) during the design process. The level of detail and complexity of the OPR will vary according to building use, type and systems.
1.2 Compliance Method:
CALGreen § 7-4 High relevance — show source text
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CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 8 – COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC Adopting agency BSC BSC-
CGSFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 Adopt entire CA chapter X Adopt entire chapter as
amended (amended
sections listed below)Adopt only those sections
that are listed belowX Chapter/Section WS-3 X WS-4 X WS-5 X WS-9 X IES TM-15-11 Table A-1 X Table 130.2-A X Table 1302.2-B X 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-1
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[BSC] Sample forms found in “A Guide to the California Green Building Standards Code (Nonresidential)” located at https://www.dgs.ca.gov/BSC/Resources/Page-Content/Building-Standards-Commission-Resources-List-Folder/CALGreen may be used to assist in documenting compliance with the waste management plan and other provisions of this code.
[HCD 1] Sample forms located at www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/calgreen/cal-green-forms.shtml may be used to assist in documenting compliance with CALGreen . WORKSHEET (WS-1) BASELINE WATER USE
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 § 8-28 High relevance — show source text
|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
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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 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: ______________
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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.)
CALGreen § 8-18 High relevance — show source text
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:
At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance during onsite enforcement by: a) Receipt of a copy of completed and signed functional performance tests and corrected deficiencies, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner, owner’s representative or commissioning coordinator attesting that the functional performance tests have been completed and any deficiencies corrected.
Reference: 6.1 Documentation and training
CALGreen Section 5.410.2.5, Documentation and training.
Section 5.410.2.5.1, Systems manual.
6.1.1 Intent:
The Systems Manual documents information focusing on the operation of the building systems. This document provides information needed to understand, operate and maintain the equipment and systems and informs those not involved in the design and construction of the building systems. This document is in addition to the record construction drawings, documents and the Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals supplied by the contractor. The Systems Manual is assembled during the construction phase and available during the contractors’ training of the facility staff.
6.1.2 Compliance Method:
Compliance is demonstrated by providing the Systems Manual. The information in the Systems Manual includes the following:
- Site information, including facility description, history and current requirements
a. Site information
i. Location of property - address
ii. Site acreage iii. Local utility information
Water service provider Natural/LPG gas service provider Electrical service provider Telecommunications service provider Other service providersb. Facility description i. Use/function
ii. Square footage
iii. Occupancy type
iv. Construction type v. Basis of Design vi. Location of major systems and equipment c. Project history
i. Project requirements
Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) Basis of Design (BOD)ii. Project undocumented events iii. Record drawings and documents iv. Final control drawings and schematics v. Final control sequences vi. Construction documents - location or delivery information
Mechanical and electrical drawings Specifications - SubmittalsCALGreen § 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)
Frequently asked questions
What if my enforcing agency wants different forms than CALGreen samples?
You may use the local agency’s required forms; CALGreen’s Part 2 provides sample templates but agencies can mandate different submittals. Always check agency form requirements.
Can the owner sign an attestation instead of submitting the full commissioning report?
Yes — CALGreen allows inspectors to confirm compliance by receiving either the actual document or a signed attestation from the owner/owner’s representative, at the enforcing official’s discretion. § 5.410.2.3 / § 5.410.2.6.
Which deliverable must be completed before permit issuance?
The Commissioning Plan must be completed prior to permit issuance (and is typically started during design). § 5.410.2.3.
Do I need to do seasonal testing?
If system performance depends on seasonal conditions, the Cx Plan should document opposite‑season or deferred testing and the Commissioning Report should list planned seasonal tests. § 5.410.2.3 / § 5.410.2.6.
Are there simple checklist forms available?
Yes — CALGreen Part 2 includes simplified checklist templates and more detailed forms; projects should submit either the simplified or detailed form set as allowed by the enforcing agency.
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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