CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
HCFC/HFC limits and supermarket refrigerant leak reduction measures
If you’re building or replacing commercial refrigeration in a supermarket (≥ 8,000 ft²), CALGreen requires you to avoid HCFCs, limit HFCs (GWP>150) or use a low‑GWP secondary fluid, and — for any system using refrigerants with GWP ≥ 150 — install accessible piping, brass/steel valves and caps, receiver level indicators for large receivers, and perform a 300 psig pressure test with a 24‑hour hold and evacuation before charging, per the cited CALGreen sections.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires
Installations must not use HCFCs and must either avoid HFCs with GWP > 150 or limit HFC use by employing a secondary heat‑transfer fluid with GWP ≤ 1 (see § A5.508.1.3 and § A5.508.1.4).
Separately, new commercial refrigeration systems in retail food stores of 8,000 square feet or more conditioned area that use remote compressors or condensing units and high‑GWP refrigerants (GWP ≥ 150) must meet prescribed refrigerant‑piping, valve, receiver, pressure‑testing and evacuation measures to reduce leaks and make repairs practicable (see § 5.508.2 and subsections).
The single most important rule: for supermarkets ≥ 8,000 ft², any new system using refrigerants with GWP ≥ 150 must be designed and installed with specific piping, valve and testing measures to minimize leaks and simplify repair.
Requirements in detail
Scope and applicability
- Applicability threshold: retail food stores 8,000 square feet or more conditioned area using refrigerated display cases or walk‑in coolers/freezers connected to remote compressor or condensing units — leak‑reduction measures apply when the refrigeration system uses high‑GWP refrigerants (GWP ≥ 150). Low‑GWP refrigerants (GWP < 150) such as ammonia or CO2 are exempt from this section. See § 5.508.2.
HCFC / HFC limits (policy-level)
- HCFCs banned for HVAC and refrigeration equipment: § A5.508.1.3.
- HFCs restricted: either (a) install equipment that does not contain HFCs with GWP > 150, or (b) install systems that limit HFC use by using a secondary heat‑transfer fluid with GWP ≤ 1 (two compliance paths). See § A5.508.1.4.
Installation and leak‑reduction construction requirements (supermarkets)
Key construction and commissioning requirements for systems subject to § 5.508.2 are summarized below and elaborated in the table that follows: piping must be accessible and avoid small‑OD copper/treaded runs except for small‑charge situations; threaded connections allowed at compressor rack only; 1/4‑inch OD copper allowed only when charge ≤ 5 pounds; pressure test with regulated dry nitrogen and tracer to at least 300 psig, hold 24 hours with no more than ±1 pound change; evacuate after pressure test and prior to charging; receivers > 200 pounds need level indication; for high‑GWP vessels install a rupture disc between vessel outlet and relief valve with pressure detection between them; valve caps for systems with charge ≥ 5 pounds must be brass or steel (no plastic). See § 5.508.2 and subsections.
Decision‑relevant table (quick reference)
| Topic | Requirement / Value | Code reference |
|---|---|---|
| HCFCs | Do not install HVAC or refrigeration equipment that contains HCFCs | § A5.508.1.3 |
| HFCs (policy) | Either avoid HFCs with GWP > 150 or use a secondary heat‑transfer fluid with GWP ≤ 1 | § A5.508.1.4 |
| Applicability (supermarket) | Retail food stores ≥ 8,000 ft² conditioned area with remote compressor/condensing units | § 5.508.2 |
| GWP threshold | 150 — refrigerants with GWP ≥ 150 subject to leak‑reduction measures | § 5.508.2 |
| Small‑OD copper tubing | Copper tubing OD < 1/4 inch permitted only in systems with refrigerant charge ≤ 5 lb | § 5.508.2.1.2 |
| Threaded pipe | Threaded connections permitted only at compressor rack | § 5.508.2.1.1 |
| Flared tubing | Double‑flared tubing permitted for pressure controls, pilot lines and oil; single‑flare allowed only with multiring seal + sealant per manufacturer | § 5.508.2.1.3 |
| Elbows | Short‑radius elbows permitted only where space prohibits long radius elbows | § 5.508.2.1.4 |
| Valve access | Only Schrader access valves with brass or steel body permitted | § 5.508.2.2.2 |
| Valve caps | For systems with charge ≥ 5 lb, valve caps must be brass or steel (no plastic) | § 5.508.2.2.2.1 |
| Seal caps | Cap shall have a neoprene O‑ring where designed for it | § 5.508.2.2.2.2 |
| Chain tethers | Chain tethers required for valves designed to have seal caps (unless cap is not removed during stem operation) | § 5.508.2.2.2.2.1 |
| Pressure relief (high‑GWP) | Rupture disc required between vessel outlet and pressure relief valve inlet | § 5.508.2.2.1 |
| Pressure detection | Install gauge/transducer between rupture disc and relief valve to indicate disc rupture/discharge | § 5.508.2.2.1.1 |
| Receiver level | Refrigerant receivers > 200 lb must have a refrigerant level indicator | § 5.508.2.4 |
| Pressure testing (install) | Charge with regulated dry nitrogen + tracer to 300 psig minimum for pressure test | § 5.508.2.5.1 |
| Pressure hold | System must hold for 24 hours with no more than ±1 pound pressure change from 300 psig | § 5.508.2.5.3 |
| Evacuation | System shall be evacuated after pressure testing and prior to charging | § 5.508.2.6 |
| Coil material (salt/vinegar) | Cases holding products with vinegar and salt require corrosion‑resistant evaporator coils or coating | § 5.508.2.3 |
Notes on defined terms (bolded on first use)
- GWP = global warming potential (numeric threshold used in these provisions is 150 for high vs low‑GWP).
- Low‑GWP refrigerant: refrigerants with GWP < 150 (examples cited: ammonia, CO2).
Exceptions & special cases
- Systems using low‑GWP refrigerants (GWP < 150) are not subject to the supermarket leak‑reduction section (exception in § 5.508.2).
- Threaded connections are allowed at the compressor rack only — elsewhere threaded pipe is prohibited. Quarter‑inch OD copper is allowed only for systems with ≤ 5 lb charge. These are narrow, enumerated exceptions in § 5.508.2.1 and § 5.508.2.1.2.
- Short‑radius elbows are permitted only where space prohibits using long‑radius elbows — don’t assume they’re universally acceptable. § 5.508.2.1.4.
Common mistakes
- Treating the GWP threshold as advisory — the GWP = 150 cutoff is a mandatory trigger for the supermarket measures; don’t assume any refrigerant with GWP ≥ 150 is excluded. See § 5.508.2.
- Using plastic valve caps on systems with ≥ 5 lb charge — the code requires brass or steel caps for these systems (no plastic). § 5.508.2.2.2.1.
- Omitting the 300 psig pressure test or failing to hold the system for 24 hours with ±1 lb allowable change — these are explicit commissioning steps in § 5.508.2.5.
- Assuming the HCFC/HFC prohibitions are voluntary — § A5.508.1.3 and § A5.508.1.4 set non‑use/limit requirements (appendix voluntary measures may be adopted by jurisdictions, but these provisions are written as required language in Appendix A). Confirm local adoption for applicability; the text is in Appendix A.
Worked example — practical application
Scenario: A grocery chain plans a new store with 10,000 ft² conditioned area and remote compressor racks using an HFC refrigerant with GWP = 2,500.
- Applicability: store ≥ 8,000 ft² and refrigerant GWP (2,500) ≥ 150 → § 5.508.2 leak‑reduction applies.
- Piping selection: designers must avoid copper tubing OD < 1/4 in for the refrigerant piping unless an individual circuit’s refrigerant charge is ≤ 5 lb; threaded pipe is only acceptable at the compressor rack. Use accessible piping routing per § 5.508.2.1.
- Valves & caps: specify Schrader access valves with brass or steel bodies and brass/steel valve caps (no plastic) because the store’s refrigeration circuits will each have charges likely well above 5 lb. See § 5.508.2.2.2 and § 5.508.2.2.2.1.
- Receivers: if a receiver capacity is calculated at 250 lb, the receiver must have a refrigerant level indicator per § 5.508.2.4.
- Commissioning: pressure test each system to 300 psig with regulated dry nitrogen and tracer, hold 24 hours with no more than ±1 lb change, repair any leaks and retest; then evacuate prior to charging. See § 5.508.2.5 and § 5.508.2.6.
Result: The store’s design and contractor specification documents must call out these materials, tests and devices so inspections can confirm compliance at final acceptance.
Related provisions
- § A5.508.1.3 — Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) prohibited.
- § A5.508.1.4 — Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) limits / secondary fluid option.
- § 5.508.2 — Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction (scope and overview).
- § 5.508.2.1 — Refrigerant piping requirements (accessibility, tubing sizes, elbows).
- § 5.508.2.2 — Valves and fittings (rupture disc, access valves, caps, seals).
- § 5.508.2.4 — Refrigerant receiver level indication for receivers > 200 lb.
- § 5.508.2.5 / § 5.508.2.6 — Pressure testing and evacuation requirements.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CALGreen § 5.508.1.2 High relevance — show source text
5.508.1.2 Halons. Install HVAC, refrigeration and fire suppression equipment that do not contain Halons.
5.508.2 Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction. New commercial refrigeration systems shall comply with the provisions of this section when installed in retail food stores 8,000 square feet or more conditioned area, and that utilize either refrigerated display cases, or walk-in coolers or freezers connected to remote compressor units or condensing units. The leak reduction measures apply to refrigeration systems containing high-global-warming potential (high-GWP) refrigerants with a GWP of 150 or greater. New refrigeration systems include both new facilities and the replacement of existing refrigeration systems in existing facilities.
Exception: Refrigeration systems containing low-global warming potential (low-GWP) refrigerant with a GWP value less than 150 are not subject to this section. Low-GWP refrigerants are nonozone-depleting refrigerants that include ammonia, carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), and potentially other refrigerants.
5.508.2.1 Refrigerant piping. Piping compliant with the California Mechanical Code shall be installed to be accessible for leak protection and repairs. Piping runs using threaded pipe, copper tubing with an outside diameter (OD) less than [1] / 4 inch, flared tubing connections and short radius elbows shall not be used in refrigerant systems except as noted below.
5.508.2.1.1 Threaded pipe. Threaded connections are permitted at the compressor rack. 5.508.2.1.2 Copper pipe. Copper tubing with an OD less than [1] / 4 inch may be used in systems with a refrigerant charge of 5 pounds or less.
5.508.2.1.2.1 Anchorage. One-fourth-inch OD tubing shall be securely clamped to a rigid base to keep vibration levels below 8 mils.
5.508.2.1.3 Flared tubing connections. Double-flared tubing connections may be used for pressure controls, valve pilot lines and oil.
Exception: Single-flared tubing connections may be used with a multiring seal coated with industrial sealant suitable for use with refrigerants and tightened in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.
5.508.2.1.4 Elbows. Short radius elbows are only permitted where space limitations prohibit use of long radius elbows.
5.508.2.2 Valves. Valves and fittings shall comply with the California Mechanical Code and as follows.
5.508.2.2.1 Pressure relief valves. For vessels containing high-GWP refrigerant, a rupture disc shall be installed between the outlet of the vessel and the inlet of the pressure relief valve.
5.508.2.2.1.1 Pressure detection. A pressure gauge, pressure transducer or other device shall be installed in the space between the rupture disc and the relief valve inlet to indicate a disc rupture or discharge of the relief valve.
5.508.2.2.2 Access valves. Only Schrader access valves with a brass or steel body are permitted for use.
5.508.2.2.2.1 Valve caps. For systems with a refrigerant charge of 5 pounds or more, valve caps shall be brass or steel and not plastic.
5.508.2.2.2.2 Seal caps. If designed for it, the cap shall have a neoprene O-ring in place.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-37
CALGreen § 5.507.4.2 High relevance — show source text
5.507.4.2 Performance method. For buildings located as defined in Section 5.507.4.1 or 5.507.4.1.1, wall and roof-ceiling assemblies exposed to the noise source making up the building or addition envelope or altered envelope shall be constructed to provide an interior noise environment attributable to exterior sources that does not exceed an hourly equivalent noise level ( L eq - 1Hr) of 50 dBA in occupied areas during any hour of operation.
5.507.4.2.1 Site features. Exterior features such as sound walls or earth berms may be utilized as appropriate to the building, addition or alteration project to mitigate sound migration to the interior.
5.507.4.2.2 Documentation of compliance. An acoustical analysis documenting complying interior sound levels shall be prepared by personnel approved by the architect or engineer of record.
5.507.4.3 Interior sound transmission. Wall and floor- ceiling assemblies separating tenant spaces and tenant spaces and public places shall have an STC of at least 40.
Note: Examples of assemblies and their various STC ratings may be found at the [California Office of Noise Control:](http://www.toolbase.org/PDF/CaseStudies/ stc_icc_ratings.pdf) http://www.toolbase.org/PDF/CaseStudies/ stc_icc_ratings.pdf.
SECTION 5.508
OUTDOOR AIR QUALITY
5.508.1 Ozone depletion and greenhouse gas reductions. Installations of HVAC, refrigeration and fire suppression equipment shall comply with Sections 5.508.1.1 and 5.508.1.2.
5.508.1.1 Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Install HVAC, refrigeration and fire suppression equipment that do not contain CFCs.
5.508.1.2 Halons. Install HVAC, refrigeration and fire suppression equipment that do not contain Halons.
5.508.2 Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction. New commercial refrigeration systems shall comply with the provisions of this section when installed in retail food stores 8,000 square feet or more conditioned area, and that utilize either refrigerated display cases, or walk-in coolers or freezers connected to remote compressor units or condensing units. The leak reduction measures apply to refrigeration systems containing high-global-warming potential (high-GWP) refrigerants with a GWP of 150 or greater. New refrigeration systems include both new facilities and the replacement of existing refrigeration systems in existing facilities.
Exception: Refrigeration systems containing low-global warming potential (low-GWP) refrigerant with a GWP value less than 150 are not subject to this section. Low-GWP refrigerants are nonozone-depleting refrigerants that include ammonia, carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), and potentially other refrigerants.
5.508.2.1 Refrigerant piping. Piping compliant with the California Mechanical Code shall be installed to be accessible for leak protection and repairs. Piping runs using threaded pipe, copper tubing with an outside diameter (OD) less than [1] / 4 inch, flared tubing connections and short radius elbows shall not be used in refrigerant systems except as noted below.
5.508.2.1.1 Threaded pipe. Threaded connections are permitted at the compressor rack. 5.508.2.1.2 Copper pipe. Copper tubing with an OD less than [1] / 4 inch may be used in systems with a refrigerant charge of 5 pounds or less.
CALGreen § 508.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
SECTION A5.508—OUTDOOR AIR QUALITY
A5.508.1.3 Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). Install HVAC and refrigeration equipment that do not contain HCFCs.
A5.508.1.4 Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). Install HVAC complying with either of the following:
- Install HVAC, refrigeration and fire suppression equipment that do not contain HFCs or that do not contain HFCs with a global warming potential greater than 150.
- Install HVAC and refrigeration equipment that limit the use of HFC refrigerant through the use of a secondary heat transfer fluid with a global warming potential no greater than 1.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-37
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5-38 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX A5 – NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
DIVISION A5.6 – VOLUNTARY TIERS
(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 belowChapter/Section 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-39
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5-40 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
DIVISION A5.6 – VOLUNTARY TIERS
CALGreen § 5.5 Medium relevance — show source text
5**
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Mandatory|Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction for retail food stores
8,000 square feet or more Sections 5.508.2 through 5.508.2.6.3|5.508.2 through
5.508.2.6.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Indoor air quality (IAQ) during construction|A5.504.1,
A5.504.1.1,
A5.504.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|IAQ postconstruction|A5.504.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|IAQ testing|A5.504.2.1,
A5.504.2.1.1,
A5.504.2.1.2,
A5.504.2.1.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|No added formaldehyde Tier 1 (with notes)|A5.504.4.5.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Hazardous particulates and chemical pollutants|A5.504.5||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Entryway systems|A5.504.5.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Isolation of pollutant sources|A5.504.5.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Lighting and thermal comfort controls|A5.507.1,
A5.507.1.1
through
A5.507.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Daylight|_A5.507.CALGreen § 5.504.5 Medium relevance — show source text
5**
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Filters (with exceptions)|5.504.5||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Filters: labeling|5.504.5.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) control|5.504.7||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Indoor moisture control|5.505.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Outside air delivery|5.506.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Carbon dioxide (CO2) monitoring|5.506.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Carbon dioxide (CO2) monitoring in classrooms|5.506.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Acoustical control (with exception)|5.507.4||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Exterior noise transmission, prescriptive method
(with exceptions)|5.507.4.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Noise exposure where noise contours are not readily
available|5.507.4.1.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Performance method|5.507.4.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Site features|5.507.4.2.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Documentation of compliance|5.507.4.2.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Interior sound transmission (with note)|5.507.4.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Ozone depletion and greenhouse gas reductions|5.508.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)|5.508.1.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Halons|5.508.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction for retail food
stores 8,000 square feet or more|5.508.CALGreen § 507.3 Medium relevance — show source text
A5.507.3 Views. Achieve direct line of sight to the outdoor environment via vision glazing between 2 feet 6 inches and 7 feet 6 inches above finish floor for building occupants in 90 percent of all regularly occupied areas as demonstrated by plan view and section cut diagrams.
A5.507.3.1 Interior office spaces. Entire areas of interior office spaces may be included in the calculation if at least 75 percent of each area has direct line of sight to perimeter vision glazing.
A5.507.3.2 Multi-occupant spaces. Include in the calculation the square footage with direct line of sight to perimeter vision glazing.
Exceptions to Sections A5.507.2 and A5.507.3. Copy/ printing rooms, storage areas, mechanical spaces, rest- rooms, auditoria and other intermittently or infrequently occupied spaces or spaces where daylight would interfere with use of the space.
A5.507.5 Acoustical control [DSA-SS]. Public Schools and Community Colleges: Unoccupied, furnished classrooms must have a maximum background noise level of no more than 45 dBA LAeq and a maximum (unoccupied, furnished) reverberation of 0.6-second time for classrooms with less than 10,000 cubic feet and a maximum (unoccupied, furnished) reverberation of 0.7-second time for classroom volumes with between 10,000 cubic feet and 20,000 cubic feet.
SECTION A5.508—OUTDOOR AIR QUALITY
A5.508.1.3 Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs). Install HVAC and refrigeration equipment that do not contain HCFCs.
A5.508.1.4 Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). Install HVAC complying with either of the following:
- Install HVAC, refrigeration and fire suppression equipment that do not contain HFCs or that do not contain HFCs with a global warming potential greater than 150.
- Install HVAC and refrigeration equipment that limit the use of HFC refrigerant through the use of a secondary heat transfer fluid with a global warming potential no greater than 1.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-37
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5-38 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
APPENDIX A5 – NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
DIVISION A5.6 – VOLUNTARY TIERS
(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
CALGreen § 508.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
508.1.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Halons|5.508.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction for retail food
stores 8,000 square feet or more Sections 5.508.2 through
5.508.2.6.3|5.508.2 through
5.508.2.6.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|Indoor air quality (IAQ) during construction|A5.504.1,
A5.504.1.1,
A5.504.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|IAQ postconstruction|A5.504.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|IAQ testing|A5.504.2.1,
A5.504.2.1.1,
A5.504.2.1.2,
A5.504.2.1.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|No added formaldehyde Tier 1 (with notes)|A5.504.4.5.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|Hazardous particulates and chemical pollutants|A5.504.5||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|Entryway systems|A5.504.5.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|Isolation of pollutant sources|A5.504.5.2||||| |(continued)
**DIVISION 5.CALGreen § 5.507.4.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text
5**
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Site features|5.507.4.2.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Documentation of compliance|5.507.4.2.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Interior sound transmission (with note)|5.507.4.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Ozone depletion and greenhouse gas reductions|5.508.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)|5.508.1.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Halons|5.508.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Mandatory|Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction for retail food
stores 8,000 square feet or more Sections 5.508.2 through
5.508.2.6.3|5.508.2 through
5.508.2.6.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|Indoor air quality (IAQ) during construction|A5.504.1,
A5.504.1.1,
A5.504.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select One Elective|Select One Elective|Elective|IAQ postconstruction|A5.504.2||||| |(continued)
**DIVISION 5.CALGreen § 507.4.2.2 Medium relevance — show source text
507.4.2.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Mandatory|Interior sound transmission (with note)|5.507.4.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Mandatory|Ozone depletion and greenhouse gas reductions|5.508.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Mandatory|Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)|5.508.1.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Mandatory|Halons|5.508.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Mandatory|Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction for retail food stores
8,000 square feet or more Sections 5.508.2 through 5.508.2.6.3|5.508.2 through
5.508.2.6.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Indoor air quality (IAQ) during construction|A5.504.1,
A5.504.1.1,
A5.504.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|IAQ postconstruction|A5.504.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|IAQ testing|A5.504.2.1,
A5.504.2.1.1,
A5.504.2.1.2,
A5.504.2.1.3||||| |(continued)
**DIVISION 5.CALGreen § 507.4.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
507.4.1.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Performance method|5.507.4.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Site features|5.507.4.2.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Documentation of compliance|5.507.4.2.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Interior sound transmission (with note)|5.507.4.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Ozone depletion and greenhouse gas reductions|5.508.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs)|5.508.1.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Halons|5.508.1.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality|Mandatory|Supermarket refrigerant leak reduction for retail food
stores 8,000 square feet or more|5.508.2
through
5.508.2.6.3||||| |||END OF MANDATORY PROVISIONS||||||Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
□ Mandatory: I attest that this mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.Col2 Signature: Signature: Company: Date: Address: License: City/State/Zip: Phone: 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-47
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.602.1
CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES
TIER 1 CHECKLIST
Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 1 voluntary measures.
Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 1 voluntary measures.
Instructions:
Comply with all Tier 1 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.
Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 1 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.
Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.
CALGreen § 507.2 Medium relevance — show source text
507.2_||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Views|A5.507.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Interior office spaces|A5.507.3.1||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Multi-occupant spaces (with exceptions)|A5.507.3.2||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs)|A5.508.1.3||||| |(continued)
DIVISION 5.5
Environmental
Quality
Select Three Electives|Select Three Electives|Elective|Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs)|A5.508.1.4||||| |Additional
Measures|Additional
Measures||Select three additional measures from any division|Additional
measures:
1.
2.
3.||||| |Total number of Measures required for Tier 2|Total number of Measures required for Tier 2|Total number of Measures required for Tier 2|Total number of Measures required for Tier 2|25||||| |Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected|Total number of Measures selected||||||APPENDIX A5-60 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
Check the appropriate box(es) for the list below.
□ Mandatory: I attest that the mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.
□ Tier 2 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected meet or exceed the total number required
to achieve Tier 2 compliance.
□ Partial Tier 2 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected do not meet the total number
required to achieve Tier 2 compliance; however, partial Tier 2 compliance has been achieved.Col2 Signature:Company:Date:Address:License:City/State/Zip:Phone:2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-61
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5-62 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
CALGreen § 5.508.2.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text
5.508.2.1.3 Flared tubing connections. Double-flared tubing connections may be used for pressure controls, valve pilot lines and oil.
Exception: Single-flared tubing connections may be used with a multiring seal coated with industrial sealant suitable for use with refrigerants and tightened in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations.
5.508.2.1.4 Elbows. Short radius elbows are only permitted where space limitations prohibit use of long radius elbows.
5.508.2.2 Valves. Valves and fittings shall comply with the California Mechanical Code and as follows.
5.508.2.2.1 Pressure relief valves. For vessels containing high-GWP refrigerant, a rupture disc shall be installed between the outlet of the vessel and the inlet of the pressure relief valve.
5.508.2.2.1.1 Pressure detection. A pressure gauge, pressure transducer or other device shall be installed in the space between the rupture disc and the relief valve inlet to indicate a disc rupture or discharge of the relief valve.
5.508.2.2.2 Access valves. Only Schrader access valves with a brass or steel body are permitted for use.
5.508.2.2.2.1 Valve caps. For systems with a refrigerant charge of 5 pounds or more, valve caps shall be brass or steel and not plastic.
5.508.2.2.2.2 Seal caps. If designed for it, the cap shall have a neoprene O-ring in place.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-37
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
5.508.2.2.2.2.1 Chain tethers. Chain tethers to fit over the stem are required for valves designed to have seal caps.
Exception: Valves with seal caps that are not removed from the valve during stem operation.
5.508.2.3 Refrigerated service cases. Refrigerated service cases holding food products containing vinegar and salt shall have evaporator coils of corrosion-resistant material, such as stainless steel; or be coated to prevent corrosion from these substances.
5.508.2.3.1 Coil coating. Consideration shall be given to the heat transfer efficiency of coil coating to maximize energy efficiency.
5.508.2.4 Refrigerant receivers. Refrigerant receivers with capacities greater than 200 pounds shall be fitted with a device that indicates the level of refrigerant in the receiver.
5.508.2.5 Pressure testing. The system shall be pressure tested during installation prior to evacuation and charging.
5.508.2.5.1 Minimum pressure. The system shall be charged with regulated dry nitrogen and appropriate tracer gas to bring system pressure up to 300 psig minimum.
5.508.2.5.2 Leaks. Check the system for leaks, repair any leaks and retest for pressure using the same gauge.
5.508.2.5.3 Allowable pressure change. The system shall stand, unaltered, for 24 hours with no more than a +/- one pound pressure change from 300 psig, measured with the same gauge.
5.508.2.6 Evacuation. The system shall be evacuated after pressure testing and prior to charging.
Frequently asked questions
Do these CALGreen provisions apply everywhere in California?
Appendix A provisions (the A‑sections) are voluntary measures unless adopted by the enforcing jurisdiction; however the supermarket leak‑reduction requirements appear in the mandatory Chapter 5 as § 5.508.2, so check local adoption and enforcement. The HCFC/HFC language in § A5.508.1.3 and § A5.508.1.4 is in Appendix A (voluntary) — verify local adoption.
If I switch to a low‑GWP refrigerant (GWP < 150), do I still need to follow § 5.508.2?
No — refrigeration systems using low‑GWP refrigerants (GWP < 150) are not subject to the supermarket leak‑reduction section per the exception in § 5.508.2.
Is the 300 psig pressure test a one‑time requirement?
It’s a required part of installation commissioning: charge with regulated dry nitrogen + tracer to 300 psig minimum, monitor for leaks, repair and retest, hold 24 hours with no more than ±1 lb change before evacuation and charging. See § 5.508.2.5.
Can I use plastic valve caps if they’re stronger than typical caps?
No. For systems with refrigerant charge ≥ 5 lb, the code explicitly requires brass or steel valve caps — plastic is not permitted. § 5.508.2.2.2.1.
What if my design must use an elbow in a tight space?
Short‑radius elbows are permitted only where space limitations prohibit long‑radius elbows. Document the constraint and provide justification on the plans. § 5.508.2.1.4.
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)
Ask about the CALGreen
Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) for your project — any code section, any scenario.
Start Free TrialRelated in the CALGreen
CALGreen Tier 1/Tier 2 requirements and verification checklists
Low‑emitting materials, resilient flooring and no‑added‑formaldehyde requirements
Daylight, views and lighting/thermal comfort controls electives
Environmental Quality, Voluntary Tiers & Verification (Divisions A5.5–A5.6)
California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)