CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
Designated parking and EV charging readiness for nonresidential projects
If your nonresidential project adds 10+ parking spaces, CALGreen Tier rules require you to reserve a percentage of spaces for clean‑air vehicles (35% Tier1 / 50% Tier2), provide EV readiness via either EV‑capable spaces or a power‑allocation kVA table (Tier2 values listed in Table A5.106.5.3.4), and—where applicable—install raceways, reserved panel/transformer capacity and conduit pathways so medium/heavy vehicle charging can be added later without demolition.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — in plain English
If a project adds 10 or more parking spaces, provide designated parking for clean-air vehicles (Tier 1 = 35%, Tier 2 = 50% of total spaces) and follow the EV charging readiness power-allocation rules if you use the power-allocation option. These requirements are in § A5.106.5.1, § A5.106.5.3.4, and the medium-/heavy-duty readiness rules in § 5.106.5.5.1.
If your project adds 10+ parking spaces, you must set aside a fixed share of spaces for clean‑air vehicles and include electrical raceways, panel capacity and/or kVA allocation now so future EV chargers can be installed without demolition.
Requirements in detail
Which projects trigger these rules
- Trigger: new projects or additions/alterations that add 10 or more vehicular parking spaces — see § A5.106.5.1.
Designated parking (clean-air vehicles) — summary
- Tier 1: 35% of total parking spaces must be designated for any combination of zero‑emitting, high‑efficiency, and carpool/vanpool vehicles. Round up to the nearest whole space. § A5.106.5.1.1.
- Tier 2: 50% of total parking spaces. Round up. § A5.106.5.1.2.
- Future EV charging spaces count as designated parking. § A5.106.5.1.3.
- Stall marking requirement: paint the words (example: CLEAN AIR/ VANPOOL/EV) in stall striping so text is visible beneath a parked vehicle. § A5.106.5.1.4.
EV charging — power allocation option (Tier 2 power-allocation method)
- You may use the power allocation method as an alternative to building a specific count of EV‑capable spaces; this method sets a minimum total kVA required based on the total number of actual parking spaces. § A5.106.5.3.4.
- The power allocation method:
- Allows any kVA combination of EV capable spaces, low‑power Level 2, Level 2, or DCFC.
- Requires at least one Level 2 EVSE be provided. § A5.106.5.3.4 (items 1–2).
Use the table below to pick the required total kVA under the Tier 2 power-allocation method (excerpted values from Table A5.106.5.3.4):
| Decision dimension | Typical value / threshold | What it means | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trigger for power-allocation | Any nonresidential project choosing Tier 2 EVCS power allocation | Total kVA required is tied to the number of actual parking spaces | § A5.106.5.3.4 |
| 1–9 parking spaces | 19.8 kVA minimum total | Small lots: set minimum kVA to support EV readiness | Table A5.106.5.3.4 / § A5.106.5.3.4 |
| 10–25 parking spaces | 52.8 kVA minimum total | Mid-size lots must provide higher total kVA | Table A5.106.5.3.4 / § A5.106.5.3.4 |
| 26–50 parking spaces | 112.2 kVA minimum total | Larger lots require still more capacity | Table A5.106.5.3.4 / § A5.106.5.3.4 |
| 51–75 parking spaces | 184.8 kVA minimum total | — | Table A5.106.5.3.4 / § A5.106.5.3.4 |
| 76–100 parking spaces | 264.0 kVA minimum total | — | Table A5.106.5.3.4 / § A5.106.5.3.4 |
| 101–150 parking spaces | 376.2 kVA minimum total | Use this row for 101–150 spaces | Table A5.106.5.3.4 / § A5.106.5.3.4 |
| 151–200 parking spaces | 521.4 kVA minimum total | — | Table A5.106.5.3.4 / § A5.106.5.3.4 |
| 201 and over | 45% × actual parking × 6.6 kVA (formula) | Scales with very large lots — see table footnote | Table A5.106.5.3.4 / § A5.106.5.3.4 |
Notes on interpretation:
- The table above is the Tier 2 (A5) power-allocation table; Tier 1 has a similar table with different kVA values (see Table A5.106.5.3.2). § A5.106.5.3.4 describes using the Tier 2 table and that at least one Level 2 EVSE must be provided.
EV charging readiness for medium‑ and heavy‑duty (warehouses, grocery, office, manufacturing)
- For workplaces with planned off‑street loading spaces, § 5.106.5.5.1 requires installing spare raceways or busways and providing adequate capacity for transformer(s), service panel(s) or subpanel(s) at the time of construction to avoid later demolition. Construction documents must show locations and a reserved pathway from raceway termination to the future charging cabinet/dispensers. Key items required:
- Transformer/main service/subpanels sized to meet the minimum power requirement in Table 5.106.5.5.1.
- One or more convenient location(s) reserved for medium/heavy charging cabinets and a pathway reserved for conduit between raceway/busway terminations and the cabinets/dispensers.
- Raceway(s)/busway(s) shall originate at a main service panel or subpanel(s) serving the area and terminate near the future charging equipment.
- Raceway(s)/busway(s) shall be sized to carry the minimum additional system load shown in Table 5.106.5.5.1. § 5.106.5.5.1 (items 1–4).
Code note: the text in § 5.106.5.5.1 refers you to Table 5.106.5.5.1 for the numeric minimum power and conduit sizing; the table’s numeric values are inside the referenced table (not reproduced here).
Exceptions & special cases
- Feasibility exceptions: both § 5.106.5.3 (EV charging) and § 5.106.5.5 (medium/heavy duty readiness) include exceptions where the local enforcing agency may find compliance infeasible due to: no local utility power supply, local utility unable to supply adequate power, or evidence that required additional utility infrastructure would adversely impact project cost. See § 5.106.5.3 and § 5.106.5.5 exceptions.
- Areas with parking lifts or automated mechanical parking systems may be excluded where the facility is incapable of supporting EV charging. § 5.106.5.3 exceptions.
- Future EV charging spaces count toward local parking minimums (they are allowed to be used as standard parking for zoning compliance). § A5.106.5.1 Note.
Common mistakes
- Assuming the A5 (Appendix A5) measures are mandatory for all projects — A5 is the voluntary Tier appendix; however, the specific non‑Appendix sections (e.g., 5.106.5.3 series, 5.106.5.5.1) are mandatory where they apply. Always confirm whether your project is complying under the Appendix A (Tier) program or the mandatory Chapter 5 requirements. See the cross references in A5 and main code.
- Forgetting the 10‑space trigger — the designated‑parking rule applies only when adding 10 or more vehicular parking spaces. § A5.106.5.1.
- Omitting raceways, reserving panel space, or marking: EV capable spaces require raceways (no less than 1‑inch dia.), dedicated panel space and directory labeling (“EV CAPABLE”), and visible stall marking — missing any of these can fail plan checks. See § 5.106.5.3.1 and § A5.106.5.1.4.
- Using the power‑allocation table but not providing at least one Level 2 EVSE — the code requires at least one Level 2 EVSE under the power allocation method. § A5.106.5.3.4.
- Designing conduit and raceways but failing to reserve a practical, routed pathway to the charging cabinet, or failing to show locations on construction documents — § 5.106.5.5.1 specifically requires the construction documents to indicate locations and a reserved pathway for conduit.
Worked example — concrete scenario
Project: New office building addition that produces 120 new parking spaces. The owner chooses to comply under Appendix A (Tier 2) voluntary measures and uses the Tier 2 power allocation method.
Step 1 — Designated parking (clean-air):
- Tier 2 designated parking = 50% of 120 = 60 spaces. Round up — already whole. These 60 may be any mix of zero‑emission, high‑efficiency or carpool spaces and may include future EV charging spaces. § A5.106.5.1.2 / A5.106.5.1.3.
Step 2 — EV power allocation (Tier 2 table):
- For 101–150 spaces, Table A5.106.5.3.4 requires 376.2 kVA total minimum under the Tier 2 power allocation method. The building must provide raceways, panel/transformer capacity and circuit allocation to deliver this total kVA in any combination of EV capable spaces, Level 2, low‑power Level 2 or DCFC, and must provide at least one Level 2 EVSE. § A5.106.5.3.4.
Step 3 — Medium/heavy‑duty readiness (if the project also has planned off‑street loading for trucks):
- If the site has planned loading spaces (warehouse, grocery, retail, or manufacturing), follow § 5.106.5.5.1: show spare raceways or busways, indicate reserved charging cabinet locations, provide a reserved conduit pathway, and size transformer/service/subpanel per Table 5.106.5.5.1. (Table numeric values must be taken from Table 5.106.5.5.1 in the code.)
Related provisions
- § A5.106.5.3.1 — EV capable spaces: raceway size, dedicated branch circuits, panel capacity and marking (EV CAPABLE).
- § A5.106.5.3.2 — EVCS equipment, receptacle configurations and connector standards (Level 2, DCFC rules).
- § 5.106.5.3 — Mandatory EV charging infrastructure and exceptions (feasibility).
- § 5.106.5.5 — EV charging: medium‑duty and heavy‑duty scope and exceptions.
- § 5.106.5.6 and Table 5.106.5.6.1 — EV capable spaces and required EVCS counts for public schools/community colleges (useful for planning counts).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CALGreen § 5.106.5.5 High relevance — show source text
Install EVCS at all existing EV capable spaces, utilizing the existing allocated power and infrastructure for the total number of actual parking spaces being added or altered, prior to adding any new EV capable spaces. If the area being added or altered exceeds the existing EV capable capacity, allocated power and infrastructure, provide additional EV charging as needed to comply with this section.
5.106.5.5 Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-duty. [N] [BSG-CG] Construction shall comply with Section 5.106.5.5.1 to facilitate future installation of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Construction for warehouses, grocery stores and retail stores, office buildings, and manufacturing facilities with planned off-street loading spaces shall also comply with Section 5.106.5.5.1 for future installation of medium- and heavy-duty EVSE.
Exceptions:
- On a case-by-case basis where the local enforcing agency has determined compliance with this section is not feasible based upon one of the following conditions: a. Where there is no local utility power supply. b. Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power. c. Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcing agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the implementation of Section 5.106.5.3, may adversely impact the construction cost of the project.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-7
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
When EVSE(s) is/are installed, it shall be in accordance with the California Building Code, the California Electrical Code and as follows:
5.106.5.5.1 Electric vehicle charging readiness requirements for warehouses, grocery stores, office buildings, and manufacturing facilities and retail stores with planned off-street loading spaces. [N] In order to avoid future demolition when adding EV supply and distribution equipment, spare raceway(s) or busway(s) and adequate capacity for transformer(s), service panel(s) or subpanel(s) shall be installed at the time of construction in accordance with the California Electrical Code . Construction plans and specifications shall include, but are not limited to, the following:
The transformer, main service equipment and subpanels shall meet the minimum power requirement in Table 5.106.5.5.1 to accommodate the dedicated branch circuits for the future installation of EVSE.
The construction documents shall indicate one or more location(s) convenient to the planned off-street loading space(s) reserved for medium- and heavy-duty ZEV charging cabinets and charging dispensers, and a pathway reserved for routing of conduit from the termination of the raceway(s) or busway(s) to the charging cabinet(s) and dispenser(s), as shown in Table 5.106.5.5.1.
Raceway(s) or busway(s) originating at a main service panel or a subpanel(s) serving the area where potential future medium- and heavy-duty EVSE will be located and shall terminate in close proximity to the potential future location of the charging equipment for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.
The raceway(s) or busway(s) shall be of sufficient size to carry the minimum additional system load to the future location of the charging for medium- and heavy-duty ZEVs as shown in Table 5.106.5.5.1.
CALGreen § 601.3.4 High relevance — show source text
A5.601.3.4 Voluntary measures for Tier 2. In addition to the provisions of Sections A5.601.3.1 and A5.601.3.3 above, compliance with the following voluntary measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 2:
- From Division A5.1, a. Comply with the designated parking requirements for fuel efficient vehicles for a minimum of 50 percent of parking capacity per Section A5.106.5.1. b. Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] and Table A5.106.5.3.2 with footnotes. c. Comply with thermal emittance, solar reflectance or SRI values for cool roofs in Section A5.106.11.2 and Table A5.106.11.2.3. [1]
d. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.
APPENDIX A5-42 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
From Division A5.2 comply with TWO of the following:
Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.
Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.
Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.
Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.
Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.
From Division A5.3,
a. Comply with the 20-percent reduction for indoor potable water use in Section A5.303.2.3.2. b. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.
- From Division A5.4,
a. Comply with recycled content of 15 percent of materials based on estimated total cost, or use two products from Table A5.405.4 for at least 75 percent by cost in Section A5.405.4.1. b. Comply with the 80-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.
- From Division A5.5,
a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 100 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7.1. Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list and no added formaldehyde in Section A5.504.4.8.1.
c. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division. 6. Comply with three additional elective measures selected from any division.
1 Cool roof is required for compliance with Tiers 1 and 2 and may be used to meet energy standards in Part 6, exceed energy standards and to mitigate heat island effect.
A5.601.4 Compliance verification. Compliance with Section A5.601.2 or A5.601.3 shall be as required in Chapter 7 of this code. Compliance documentation shall be made part of the project record as required in Section 5.410.2 or 5.410.3.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-43
CALGreen § 106.5.1.1 High relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.106.5.1.1 Tier 1. Provide 35 percent designated parking spaces of the total number of parking spaces, for any combination of zero-emitting, high-efficiency and carpool/vanpool vehicles. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
Note: Designated parking for clean air vehicles shall count toward the total parking spaces required by the local enforcing agencies. A5.106.5.1.2 Tier 2. Provide 50 percent designated parking spaces of the total number of parking spaces, for any combination of zero-emitting, high-efficiency and carpool/vanpool vehicles. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
Note: Designated parking for clean air vehicles shall count toward the total parking spaces required by the local enforcing agencies. A5.106.5.1.3 Future charging spaces. Future EV charging spaces qualify as designated parking as described in Section A5.106.5.1 Designated parking for clean air vehicles. Note: Future EV charging spaces shall count toward the total parking spaces required by the local enforcing agencies. A5.106.5.1.4 Parking stall marking. Paint, in the paint used for stall striping, the following characters such that the lower edge of the last word aligns with the end of the stall striping and is visible beneath a parked vehicle:
CLEAN AIR/ VANPOOL/EV Note: Vehicles bearing Clean Air Vehicle stickers from expired HOV lane programs may be considered eligible for designated parking spaces. A5.106.5.1.5 Vehicle designations. Building managers may consult with local community Transit Management Associations (TMAs) for methods of designating qualifying vehicles, such as issuing parking stickers. Notes:
- Information on qualifying vehicles, car labeling regulations and DMV CAV decals may be obtained from the following sources:
a. California DriveClean.
b. California Air Resources Board.
c. US EPA fuel economy regulations and standards. d. DMV Registration Operations. 2. Purchasing policy and refueling sites for zero-emitting vehicles for state employees use can be found at the Department of General Services.
A5.106.5.2 Reserved.
A5.106.5.3 Electric vehicle (EV) charging. [N] Construction shall comply with Section A5.106.5.3.1 Tier 1 or A5.106.5.3.3 Tier 2, and in accordance with regulations in the California Building Code and the California Electrical Code. A5.106.5.3.1 Tier 1. Comply with Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces, Section 5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations and associated Table A5.106.5.3.1, or comply with Section A5.106.5.3.2 Tier 1 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method and associated Table A5.106.5.3.2. Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.2 for the permitted use of Level 2 or Direct Current Fast Charger (DCFC) to create EVCS.
CALGreen § 106.5 High relevance — show source text
Lockers shall be lockable with either padlock or combination lock.
2. Tenant spaces housing more than 10 tenant-occupants within buildings sharing common toilet facilities need not comply; however, such common shower facilities shall
accommodate the total number of tenant-occupants served by the toilets and include a minimum of one unisex shower and two 2-tier lockers.|1. One 2-tier locker serves two people. Lockers shall be lockable with either padlock or combination lock.
2. Tenant spaces housing more than 10 tenant-occupants within buildings sharing common toilet facilities need not comply; however, such common shower facilities shall
accommodate the total number of tenant-occupants served by the toilets and include a minimum of one unisex shower and two 2-tier lockers.|1. One 2-tier locker serves two people. Lockers shall be lockable with either padlock or combination lock.
2. Tenant spaces housing more than 10 tenant-occupants within buildings sharing common toilet facilities need not comply; however, such common shower facilities shall
accommodate the total number of tenant-occupants served by the toilets and include a minimum of one unisex shower and two 2-tier lockers.|A5.106.5 Reserved.
A5.106.5.1 Designated parking for clean air vehicles. In new projects or additions or alterations that add 10 or more vehicular parking spaces, provide designated parking for any combination of zero-emitting, high-efficiency and carpool/vanpool vehicles as listed in code Sections A5.106.5.1.1 or A5.106.5.1.2.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-5
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A5.106.5.1.1 Tier 1. Provide 35 percent designated parking spaces of the total number of parking spaces, for any combination of zero-emitting, high-efficiency and carpool/vanpool vehicles. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
Note: Designated parking for clean air vehicles shall count toward the total parking spaces required by the local enforcing agencies. A5.106.5.1.2 Tier 2. Provide 50 percent designated parking spaces of the total number of parking spaces, for any combination of zero-emitting, high-efficiency and carpool/vanpool vehicles. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
Note: Designated parking for clean air vehicles shall count toward the total parking spaces required by the local enforcing agencies. A5.106.5.1.3 Future charging spaces. Future EV charging spaces qualify as designated parking as described in Section A5.106.5.1 Designated parking for clean air vehicles. Note: Future EV charging spaces shall count toward the total parking spaces required by the local enforcing agencies. A5.106.5.1.4 Parking stall marking. Paint, in the paint used for stall striping, the following characters such that the lower edge of the last word aligns with the end of the stall striping and is visible beneath a parked vehicle:
CALGreen § 5.3.3 High relevance — show source text
5.3.3,_
5.106.5.3.4 and
5.106.5.3.5
OR
A5.106.5.3.2,
Table A5.106.5.3.2
Tier 1, 5.106.5.3.3,
5.106.5.3.4,
5.106.5.3.5, 5.106.5.6,
5.106.5.3.6.1,
5.106.5.3.6.2 and
5.106.5.3.6.3||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)|Mandatory|Additions or Alterations to existing buildings or parking facili-
ties [A] with Exceptions|5.106.5.4||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas without previously
installed EV capable infrastructure [A].|5.106.5.4.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas with previously installed
EV capable infrastructure [A].|5.106.5.4.2||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)|Mandatory|Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-duty [N]|5.106.5.5||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)|Mandatory|Electric vehicle charging readiness requirements for warehouses,
grocery stores and retail stores, office buildings, and manufactur-
ing facilities with planned off-street loading spaces [N]|5.106.5.5.1|||||APPENDIX A5-48 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 Col3 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACH(continued)
DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
Select One Elective(continued)
DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
Select One ElectiveMandatory Table 5.106.5.5.1 5.106.5.5 and
5.106.5.5.1(continued)
DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
Select One Elective(continued)
**DIVISION 5.CALGreen § 5.106.5.3.6 High relevance — show source text
Table 5.106.5.3.6,
5.106.5.3.6.1,
5.106.5.3.6.2 and
5.106.5.3.6.3||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Additions or Alterations to existing buildings or parking facili-
ties [A] with Exceptions|5.106.5.4||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas without previously
installed EV capable infrastructure [A]|5.106.5.4.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas without previously
installed EV capable infrastructure [A]|5.106.5.4.2||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-duty [N]|5.106.5.5||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Electric vehicle charging readiness requirements for warehouses,
grocery stores and retail stores, office buildings, and manufactur-
ing facilities with planned off-street loading spaces [N]|5.106.5.5.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Table 5.106.5.5.1|5.106.5.5 and
5.106.5.5.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Light pollution reduction [N] (with exceptions, notes and table)|5.106.8 through
5.106.8.2||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Grading and paving (exception for additions and alterations
not altering the drainage path)|5.106.10||||| |DIVISION 5.2
Energy
Efficiency|Mandatory|Meet the minimum energy efficiency standard|5.201.1|||||APPENDIX A5-44 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N/A O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACHDIVISION 5.3
Water
Efficiency and
ConservationMandatory Separate meters (new buildings or additions > 50,000 sf
that consume more than 100 gal/day)5.303.1.1 **DIVISION 5. CALGreen § 5.106.5.6.4.1 High relevance — show source text
5.106.5.6.4.1 Alterations of and additions to parking facilities. EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the number indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.1 or minimum power indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.3 when the scope of work includes an increase in power supply to an electric panel serving light fixtures illuminating the parking area or when area containing parking spaces is added to a parking facility. The number of required EVCS shall be based on the total number of existing and new parking spaces in the parking facility.
5.106.5.6.4.2 Alterations consisting of the installation of photovoltaic systems. EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the number indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.1 or maximum power indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.3 when a new photovoltaic system is installed in an existing parking facility.
5.106.5.6.5 Requirement to install EVSE. Level 2 EVSE shall be provided in all existing EV capable spaces to create EVCS when a project is required by California Administrative Code Section 4-309 to be submitted for plan approval to the Division of the State Architect. When EVSE is installed in existing EV capable spaces, accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with California Building Code Chapter 11B .
Exception: Projects in which improvements in parking areas consist only of accessibility improvements are not required to comply with Section 5.106.5.6.5.
5.106.6 Reserved.
5.106.7 Reserved.
5.106.8 Light pollution reduction. [N] Outdoor lighting systems shall be designed and installed to comply with the following:
- The minimum requirements in the California Energy Code for Lighting Zones 0-4 as defined in Chapter 10, Section 10-114 of the California Administrative Code ; and
- Backlight (B) ratings as defined in IES TM-15-11 (shown in Table A-1 in Chapter 8);
- Uplight and Glare ratings as defined in California Energy Code (shown in Tables 130.2-A and 130.2-B in Chapter 8) and
- Allowable BUG ratings not exceeding those shown in Table 5.106.8 [N], or
Comply with a local ordinance lawfully enacted pursuant to Section 101.7, whichever is more stringent.
Exceptions:
- Luminaires that qualify as exceptions in Sections 130.2(b) and 140.7 of the California Energy Code.
- Emergency lighting.
- Building facade meeting the requirements in Table 140.7-B of the California Energy Code, Part 6.
- Custom lighting features as allowed by the local enforcing agency, as permitted by Section 101.8 Alternate materials, designs and methods of construction.
- Luminaires with less than 6,200 initial luminaire lumens.
5.106.8.1 Facing – Backlight. Luminaires within 2MH of a property line shall be oriented so that the nearest property line is behind the fixture, and shall comply with the backlight rating specified in Table 5.106.8 based on the lighting zone and distance to the nearest point of that property line.
CALGreen § 5.106.5.6 High relevance — show source text
000 to 256,000|1 or 2|200| |Warehouse|20,000 to 256,000|3 or Greater|400| |Warehouse|Greater than 256,000|1 or Greater|400|
5.106.5.6 Electric vehicle (EV) charging at public schools and community colleges. [DSA-SS] Electric vehicle infrastructure and electric vehicle charging stations shall comply with Section 5.106.5.6 and shall be provided in accordance with regulations in the California Building Code and the California Electrical Code.
Exceptions:
- On a case-by-case basis where compliance with this section has been demonstrated to be not feasible based upon one of the following conditions, and with concurrence by the Division of the State Architect (DSA), compliance with Section 5.106.5.6 shall not be required. a. Where there is no local utility power supply. b. Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power. c. The installation of EVCS is impracticable.
- Parking spaces accessible only by automated mechanical car parking systems are not required to comply with Section 5.106.5.6.
5.106.5.6.1 EV capable spaces. EV capable spaces shall be provided in accordance with Table 5.106.5.6.1 and the following requirements:
- Raceways complying with the California Electrical Code and no less than 1-inch (25 mm) diameter shall be provided and shall originate at a service panel or a subpanel(s) serving the area and shall terminate in close proximity to the
5-8 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
proposed location of the EV capable space and into a suitable listed cabinet, box, enclosure or equivalent. A common raceway may be used to serve multiple EV capable spaces. 2. A service panel or subpanel(s) shall be provided with panel space and electrical load capacity for a dedicated 208/240 volt, 40-ampere minimum branch circuit for each EV capable space, with delivery of 30-ampere minimum to an installed EVSE at each EVCS.
- The electrical system and any on-site distribution transformers shall have sufficient capacity to supply full rated amperage at each EV capable space.
- The service panel or subpanel circuit directory shall identify the reserved overcurrent protective device space(s) as “EV CAPABLE.” The raceway termination location shall be permanently and visibly marked as “EV CAPABLE.”
TABLE 5.106.5.6.1 Col2 Col3 TOTAL NUMBER OF PARKING SPACES NUMBER OF REQUIRED EV CAPABLE SPACES NUMBER OF REQUIRED EVCS2 0–9 0 0 10–25 4 1 26–50 8 2 51–75 13 3 76–100 17 4 101–150 25 6 151–200 35 9 201 and over 20 percent of total1 25 percent of EV capable spaces1 1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.1. CALGreen § 106.5.3.2.1 High relevance — show source text
_
5.106.5.3.2.1,
5.106.5.3.2.2,
5.106.5.3.2.3,
5.106.5.3.2.4,
5.106.5.3.3, 5.106.5.3.4
and 5.106.5.3.5
OR
A5.106.5.3.4,
Table A5.106.5.3.4 Tier
2, 5.106.5.3.3,
5.106.5.3.4, 5.106.5.3.5,
5.106.5.3.6,
5.106.5.3.6.1,
5.106.5.3.2 and
5.106.5.3.6.3||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)|Mandatory|Additions or Alterations to existing buildings or parking
facilities [A] with Exceptions|5.106.5.4||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas without previously
installed EV capable infrastructure [A].|5.106.5.4.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design
(continued)|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas with previously
installed EV capable infrastructure [A].|5.106.5.4.2|||||2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-55
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 Col3 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACH(continued)
DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design
Select Three Electives(continued)
DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design
Select Three ElectivesMandatory Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-
duty [N]5.106.5.5 (continued)
DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design
Select Three Electives(continued)
DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design
Select Three ElectivesMandatory Electric vehicle charging readiness requirements for ware-
houses, grocery stores and retail stores, office buildings, and
manufacturing facilities with planned off-street loading
spaces [N]5.106.5.5.1 (continued)
DIVISION 5.1
Planning and Design
Select Three Electives(continued)
**DIVISION 5.CALGreen § 106.5.3.4 High relevance — show source text
Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
2. Each EVCS shall reduce the number of required EV capable spaces by the same number.
3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.|A5.106.5.3.4 Tier 2 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS)—power allocation method. The power allocation method may be used as an alternative to the requirements in Section 5.106.5.3.1, Section 5.106.5.3.2 and associated Table A5.106.5.3.3. Use Table A5.106.5.3.4 to determine the total power in kVA required based on the total number of actual parking spaces.
Power allocation method shall include the following:
- Use any kVA combination of EV capable spaces, low power Level 2, Level 2 or DCFC EVSEs.
- At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-7
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
TABLE A5.106.5.3.4—TIER 2 EVCS—POWER ALLOCATION METHOD Col2 Col3 Col4 TOTAL NUMBER OF
ACTUAL PARKING
SPACESMINIMUM TOTAL kVA
@ 6.6 kVAOTHER THAN OFFICE AND RETAIL
TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE3,
4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFCOFFICE AND RETAIL
TOTAL kVA REQUIRED
IN ANY COMBINATION OF EV CAPABLE3,
4, LOW POWER LEVEL 2
LEVEL 21, 2, OR DCFC1–9 19.8 19.8 19.8 10–25 52.8 52.8 52.8 26–50 112.2 112.2 112.2 51–75 184.8 184.8 184.8 76–100 264.0 264 264 101–150 376.2 376.2 376.2 151–200 521.4 521.4 521.4 201 and over 45 percent of
actual parking spaces× 6.CALGreen § 5.106.5.4.1 High relevance — show source text
Remote parking facilities that do not have access to the building service panel. 3. Parking area lighting upgrades where no trenching is part of the scope of work. 4. Emergency repairs, including but not limited to water line break in parking facilities, natural disaster repairs, etc.
5.106.5.4.1 Existing buildings or parking areas without previously installed EV capable infrastructure [A]. When EV capable infrastructure does not exist at an existing parking facility or building, and the parking facility or building undergoes an addition or alteration listed in Section 5.106.5.4, construction shall include electric vehicle charging in compliance with either Section 5.106.5.3 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1, or Section 5.106.5.3.6 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.6 for the total number of actual parking spaces being added or altered.
5.106.5.4.2 Existing buildings or parking areas with previously installed EV capable infrastructure [A]. When EV capable infrastructure is available at an existing parking facility or building, and the parking facility or building is undergoing an addition or alteration listed in Section 5.106.5.4, construction shall include electric vehicle charging in compliance with either Section 5.106.5.3 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1, or Section 5.106.5.3.6 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.6. Install EVCS at all existing EV capable spaces, utilizing the existing allocated power and infrastructure for the total number of actual parking spaces being added or altered, prior to adding any new EV capable spaces. If the area being added or altered exceeds the existing EV capable capacity, allocated power and infrastructure, provide additional EV charging as needed to comply with this section.
5.106.5.5 Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-duty. [N] [BSG-CG] Construction shall comply with Section 5.106.5.5.1 to facilitate future installation of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Construction for warehouses, grocery stores and retail stores, office buildings, and manufacturing facilities with planned off-street loading spaces shall also comply with Section 5.106.5.5.1 for future installation of medium- and heavy-duty EVSE.
Exceptions:
- On a case-by-case basis where the local enforcing agency has determined compliance with this section is not feasible based upon one of the following conditions: a. Where there is no local utility power supply. b. Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power. c. Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcing agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the implementation of Section 5.106.5.3, may adversely impact the construction cost of the project.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 5-7
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES
When EVSE(s) is/are installed, it shall be in accordance with the California Building Code, the California Electrical Code and as follows:
CALGreen § 5.106.5.3.1 High relevance — show source text
If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|1. Level 2 EVSE @ 6.6 kVA minimum.
2. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
3. Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 75 percent.
4. If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
5. For office and retail buildings the maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 25 percent.|A5.106.6 Parking capacity. Design parking capacity to meet but not exceed minimum local zoning requirements.
A5.106.6.1 Reduce parking capacity. With the approval of the enforcement authority, employ strategies to reduce on-site parking area by
- Use of on street parking or compact spaces, illustrated on the site plan or
- Implementation and documentation of programs that encourage occupants to carpool, ride share or use alternate transportation.
Note: Strategies for programs may be obtained from local TMAs.
A5.106.7 Exterior wall shading. Meet requirements in the current edition of the California Energy Code and comply with either Section A5.106.7.1 or A5.106.7.2 for wall surfaces. If using vegetative shade, plant species documented to reach desired coverage within 5 years of building occupancy.
A5.106.7.1 Fenestration. Provide vegetative or man-made shading devices for all fenestration on east-, south- and west-facing walls.
A5.106.7.1.1 East and west walls. Shading devices shall have 30-percent coverage to a height of 20 feet or to the top of the exterior wall, whichever is less. Calculate shade coverage on the summer solstice at 10 AM for east-facing walls and at 3 PM for west-facing walls.
A5.106.7.1.2 South walls. Shading devices shall have 60-percent coverage to a height of 20 feet or to the top of the exterior wall, whichever is less.
A5.106.7.2 Opaque wall areas. Use wall surfacing with minimum SRI 25 (aged), for 75 percent of opaque wall areas.
Exception: Use of vegetated shade in Wildland-Urban Interface Areas as defined in Chapter 7A (Materials and Construction Methods for Exterior Wildfire Exposure) of the California Building Code shall meet the requirements of that chapter.
Note: If not available from the manufacturer, aged SRI value calculations may be found at the California Energy Commis-sion’s web site at www.energy.ca.gov.
A5.106.8 Reserved.
A5.106.9 Reserved.
A5.106.10 Reserved.
A5.106.11 Reduction of heat island effect. Reduce heat islands by requiring Section A5.106.11.1 Hardscape alternatives, Section A5.106.11.2 Cool roofs, or Section A5.106.11.3 Shade trees.
Frequently asked questions
Who must follow **§ A5.106.5.1**?
Projects that are new or make additions/alterations that add 10 or more vehicular parking spaces and that elect to comply under Appendix A (the voluntary Tier program) follow § A5.106.5.1.
Can future EV charging spaces count as designated parking?
Yes — future EV charging spaces qualify as designated parking and may be counted toward the required designated‑parking total. § A5.106.5.1.3.
If I use the Tier 2 power-allocation method, do I still need any installed chargers?
Yes — the power‑allocation method requires at least one Level 2 EVSE be installed in addition to meeting the total kVA requirement. § A5.106.5.3.4.
Where do I show the EV readiness on plans?
Construction documents must show panel/transformer capacity, reserved raceway/busway terminations, conduit pathway and location(s) reserved for charging cabinets/dispensers when medium/heavy charging readiness is required. See § 5.106.5.5.1.
What if the utility cannot supply the required power?
The local enforcing agency may accept a feasibility exception when the local utility cannot provide adequate power or there is no local supply — this must be determined case‑by‑case. See exceptions in § 5.106.5.3 and § 5.106.5.5.
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 Trial