CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Efficient framing (wood & steel) and advanced framing techniques

CALGreen encourages efficient wood and steel framing (see §§ A5.404.1 and A5.213.1) — use 2‑ft modules, wider (up to 24") stud spacing, 2‑stud corners, in‑line framing and single plates where safe, and for steel use exterior rigid insulation, web openings, wider stud spacing and careful intersection detailing; always verify structural and fire requirements with the California Building Code and the enforcing agency.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Employ advanced wood framing or other OVE techniques and avoid unnecessary lumber and waste in framing layouts; the practice must not conflict with structural or fire‑resistance requirements. See § A5.404.1 and its structural integrity provision § A5.404.1.1 for wood framing guidance.

Design steel framing to reduce thermal bridging using envelope details such as exterior rigid insulation, enlarged web openings, wider stud spacing (subject to structural limits), and careful intersection details. See § A5.213.1.

Plain English: design framing to use fewer, well‑placed members and thermal‑bridge‑reducing details without weakening required structural or fire assemblies.

Requirements in detail

Key defined terms and first‑use notes

  • Advanced framing — a set of wood framing practices (2‑ft modules, wider stud spacing, in‑line framing, reduced studs at corners/headers) intended to reduce lumber use and increase cavity for insulation. § A5.404.1.2.
  • OVE — other value engineering or alternative framing approaches recommended by the U.S. DOE that are permitted by the enforcing agency. § A5.404.1.
  • Thermal bridging reduction (steel) — measures to interrupt or minimize continuous conductive paths through steel framing (see § A5.213.1).

Decision‑relevant dimensions and options (quick table)

Decision factor Value / Typical dimension Where it applies Code Reference
Module / layout increment 2‑foot modules Building plan dimensions to reduce waste § A5.404.1.2(1)
Wall stud spacing (wood) Up to 24 in. on center Exterior and partition walls where structural loads permit § A5.404.1.2(2)
Floor & roof member spacing (wood) Up to 24 in. on center Floor joists and roof rafters/trusses where permitted § A5.404.1.2(3)
Corner framing (wood) 2‑stud corner framing (use drywall clips / backing) Interior/exterior corners to reduce redundant studs § A5.404.1.2(4)
Headers in non‑load walls Eliminate solid headers Non‑load‑bearing partition doors/windows § A5.404.1.2(5)
Load path alignment In‑line framing (align floor, wall, roof members vertically) All framing levels to transfer loads directly § A5.404.1.2(6)
Top plates / headers Single lumber headers/top plates where appropriate Where allowable by structural code § A5.404.1.2(7)
Steel framing — thermal bridging Exterior rigid insulation; punch large web holes; maximise stud spacing; detail intersections Steel stud walls and intersections to reduce conductive paths § A5.213.1

How these provisions interact with structural & fire rules

  • The chosen OVE or advanced framing method must not conflict with structural framing methods or required fire‑rated assemblies in the California Building Code — see § A5.404.1.1. In practice, that means engineered calculations or CBC‑compliant details must be used before substituting lighter or fewer members.
  • For steel framing, CALGreen lists energy‑efficiency techniques but does not replace structural design responsibilities; spacing or web punchouts must maintain structural integrity per applicable structural codes. § A5.213.1.

Exceptions & special cases

  • CALGreen identifies these measures as voluntary/nonresidential measures in Appendix A5; enforcing agencies may permit or require modifications — confirm local adoption and enforcement. § A5.404.1 and § A5.213.1 are in Appendix A5.
  • Where a framing choice would reduce required fire resistance or conflict with CBC required assemblies, the code explicitly disallows that substitution. Refer to § A5.404.1.1.
  • CALGreen refers designers to the U.S. Department of Energy resources (OVE / DOE EERE) for advanced framing guidance; the code itself does not supply full construction details or proprietary system specs. § A5.404.1 note.

Common mistakes

  • Applying 24‑inch stud spacing without verifying lateral, wind, seismic, or shear wall requirements (structural capacity often governs spacing). The code permits up to 24 in. OC, but structural compliance is still required under CBC; see § A5.404.1.2(2) and § A5.404.1.1.
  • Removing headers or using single top plates in locations that are actually load‑bearing. CALGreen permits eliminating solid headers only in non‑load‑bearing walls — confirm load path. § A5.404.1.2(5).
  • For steel framing, treating CALGreen guidance as structural rules — § A5.213.1 suggests thermal‑bridge measures (exterior rigid insulation, web openings, stud spacing), but the code does not replace structural design checks.
  • Assuming these Appendix measures remove the need to follow CBC/CBC‑required fire ratings or engineering: CALGreen explicitly preserves those requirements via § A5.404.1.1.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: 40‑ft long exterior bearing wall on a single level commercial tenant space (nonresidential, Appendix A5 voluntary guidance applied).

Step 1 — choose stud spacing per CALGreen: move from 16 in. OC to 24 in. OC where structural loads and shear/wind/seismic allow (per § A5.404.1.2(2)).

  • 40 ft = 480 in.
  • At 16 in. OC: number of stud spaces ≈ 480 / 16 = 30 → studs required ≈ 31 (including ends).
  • At 24 in. OC: number of stud spaces ≈ 480 / 24 = 20 → studs required ≈ 21.

Material effect (illustrative): 31 studs → 21 studs = 10 fewer studs (≈ 32% fewer studs), increasing cavity width for insulation and reducing lumber and framing time. This is a direct application of the “up to 24 in. OC” allowance in § A5.404.1.2(2).

Step 2 — combine with in‑line framing and 2‑ft module planning: locate windows and doors at 24‑in. or 48‑in. centers to minimize jack studs and odd cuts (§ A5.404.1.2(1) & (6)).

Step 3 — steel alternative: if the wall is cold‑formed steel, apply exterior rigid insulation or punch large stud web openings where structural capacity permits, and space studs as far as structurally allowed to reduce thermal bridging (§ A5.213.1). Design must show that web openings and spacing maintain required strength.

Note: CALGreen does not provide prescriptive R‑value targets or exact permitted web hole sizes; those are determined by the structural designer and material manufacturer. The code points to DOE guidance for technique details. § A5.404.1 note.

Related provisions (select CALGreen sections)

  • § A5.404.1 — Wood framing advanced techniques; see text and framing specifications.
  • § A5.404.1.1 — Structural or fire‑resistance integrity limitation on OVE/advanced framing.
  • § A5.404.1.2 — Specific advanced framing measures (2‑ft modules, 24 in. OC, 2‑stud corners, etc.).
  • § A5.213.1 — Energy efficient steel framing (exterior rigid insulation, stud web openings, stud spacing, intersection detailing).
  • § A4.404.2 — Residential guidance on dimensions/layouts to minimize waste (2‑ft increments, windows/doors on 16″/24″ positions) — useful for residential projects.

If you need, I can produce downloadable checklists (wood and steel) for plan submittals showing the items an enforcing agency will expect (framing layout, structural verification, and references to the CALGreen §§ cited above).

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CALGreen § 404.1 High relevance — show source text

    PRECONSUMER (or POSTINDUSTRIAL) CONTENT.

    RECYCLED CONTENT.

    RECYCLED CONTENT VALUE (RCV).

    REFERENCE STUDY PERIOD.

    TYPE III ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATION (EPD).

    FACTORY-SPECIFIC EPD.

    INDUSTRY-WIDE EPD (IW-EPD).

    PRODUCT-SPECIFIC EPD.

    SECTION A5.403—FOUNDATION SYSTEMS (RESERVED)

    SECTION A5.404—EFFICIENT FRAMING TECHNIQUES

    A5.404.1 Wood framing. Employ advanced wood framing techniques or OVE, as recommended by the US Department of Energy’s Office of Building Technology, State and Community Programs and as permitted by the enforcing agency.

    A5.404.1.1 Structural or fire-resistance integrity. The OVE selected shall not conflict with structural framing methods or firerated assemblies required by the California Building Code.

    A5.404.1.2 Framing specifications. Advanced framing techniques include the following:

    1. Building design using 2-foot modules;
    2. Spacing wall studs up to 24 inches on center;
    3. Spacing floor and roof framing members up to 24 inches on center;
    4. Using 2-stud corner framing and drywall clips or scrap lumber for drywall backing;
    5. Eliminating solid headers in non-load-bearing walls;
    6. Using in-line framing, aligning floor, wall and roof framing members vertically for direct transfer of loads; and
    7. Using single lumber headers and top plates where appropriate.

    Note: Additional information can be obtained from the US DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) website.

    SECTION A5.405—MATERIAL SOURCES

    A5.405.1 Regional materials. Compared to other products in a given product category, select building materials or products for permanent installation on the project that have been harvested or manufactured in California or within 500 miles of the project site.

    1. For those materials locally manufactured, select materials manufactured using low embodied energy or those that will result in net energy savings over their useful life.

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    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    1. Regional materials shall make up at least 10 percent, based on cost, of total materials value.
    2. If regional materials make up only part of a product, their values are calculated as percentages based on weight.
    3. Provide documentation of the origin, net projected energy savings and value of regional materials.

    A5.405.2 Bio-based materials. Select bio-based building materials and products made from solid wood, engineered wood, bamboo, wool, cotton, cork, straw, natural fibers, products made from crops (soy-based, corn-based) and other bio-based materials with at least 50-percent bio-based content.

    A5.405.2.1 Certified wood components—sustainability standards. Provide wood products, for at least 50 percent of the project’s permanently installed products, that have been certified by independent third parties and labeled as having been produced in compliance with the accepted principles of sustainable forest management. The use of recycled and/or recovered wood products does not need to be certified. Comply with one or more of the following certifications of wood sustainability:

    1. Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI).
    2. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
  • CALGreen § 401.1 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-23

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    APPENDIX A5-24 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.4 – MATERIAL CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A5.401—GENERAL

    A5.401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter specify the requirements of achieving enhanced compliance with material conservation, resource efficiency, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction through reuse of existing building stock and materials; use of recycled, regional, rapidly renewable and certified wood materials; and employment of techniques to reduce pollution through recycling of materials.

    SECTION A5.402—DEFINITIONS

    A5.402.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    BUILDING COMMISSIONING.

    BUY CLEAN CALIFORNIA ACT (BCCA).

    CRADLE-TO-GRAVE.

    EMBODIED ENERGY.

    EUTROPHICATION.

    LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT (LCA).

    LIFE CYCLE INVENTORY (LCI).

    OVE.

    POSTCONSUMER CONTENT.

    PRECONSUMER (or POSTINDUSTRIAL) CONTENT.

    RECYCLED CONTENT.

    RECYCLED CONTENT VALUE (RCV).

    REFERENCE STUDY PERIOD.

    TYPE III ENVIRONMENTAL PRODUCT DECLARATION (EPD).

    FACTORY-SPECIFIC EPD.

    INDUSTRY-WIDE EPD (IW-EPD).

    PRODUCT-SPECIFIC EPD.

    SECTION A5.403—FOUNDATION SYSTEMS (RESERVED)

    SECTION A5.404—EFFICIENT FRAMING TECHNIQUES

    A5.404.1 Wood framing. Employ advanced wood framing techniques or OVE, as recommended by the US Department of Energy’s Office of Building Technology, State and Community Programs and as permitted by the enforcing agency.

    A5.404.1.1 Structural or fire-resistance integrity. The OVE selected shall not conflict with structural framing methods or firerated assemblies required by the California Building Code.

    A5.404.1.2 Framing specifications. Advanced framing techniques include the following:

    1. Building design using 2-foot modules;
    2. Spacing wall studs up to 24 inches on center;
    3. Spacing floor and roof framing members up to 24 inches on center;
    4. Using 2-stud corner framing and drywall clips or scrap lumber for drywall backing;
    5. Eliminating solid headers in non-load-bearing walls;
    6. Using in-line framing, aligning floor, wall and roof framing members vertically for direct transfer of loads; and
    7. Using single lumber headers and top plates where appropriate.

    Note: Additional information can be obtained from the US DOE Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) website.

    SECTION A5.405—MATERIAL SOURCES

  • CALGreen § 403.3 High relevance — show source text

    ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances Appendix A6.1(OSHPD), A4.403.3, A5.204.1 General 4.201, 5.201, A5.201 Performance approach A4.203, A5.203 Outdoor lighting A5.203.1.1.1 Prescriptive approach Appendix A6.1(OSHPD), 203.3.1.2 Alterations to existing buildings A4.204.1, A4.204.1.2, A5.204.1,

    A5.204.1.1 Energy Efficient Steel Framing A5.213 Environmental Comfort 4.507, 5.507,

    A5.507

    Acoustical control A4.507, A5.507.5 Daylight A5.507.2 Lighting and thermal comfort controls A5.507.1

    Views A5.507.3

    Fireplaces 4.503, 5.503 Foundation Systems A4.403 Frost protected foundation systems A4.403.1

    Reduction in cement use A4.403.2 Framing, Energy Efficient Steel A5.213 Framing Techniques, Efficient A4.404, A5.404 Building systems A4.404.3 Lumber size A4.404.1

    Pre-cut materials and details A4.404.4 Wood framing A5.404.1

    Green Building Chapter 3 Mixed occupancy buildings 302 Phased projects 303 Voluntary tiers 304, 305 Voluntary measures 306

    HVAC Design, Equipment and Installation Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), A5.207

    Indoor Air Quality And Exhaust 4.506, 5.506 Bathroom exhaust fans 4.506.1 Carbon dioxide monitoring 5.506.2 Carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) monitoring in classrooms 5.506.3

    Filters 5.504.5, A4.506.1 Outside air delivery 5.506.1 Indoor Moisture Control 4.505, 5.505.1 Concrete slab foundations 4.505.2

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    INDEX

    Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), Table A5.504.8.5 Covering of duct openings and protection of mechanical equipment during construction 4.504.1, 5.504.3 Environmental tobacco smoke control 5.504.7, Appendix A6.1 (OSHPD), A5.504.9 Finish material pollutant control 4.504.2, 5.504.4 Hazardous particulates and chemical pollutants A5.504.5 Indoor air quality (IAQ) during construction 5.504.1, A5.504.1 IAQ Post-construction A5.504.2 Paints and coatings 4.504.2.2, 5.504.4.3 Resilient flooring systems 4.504.4, 5.504.4.6, A4.504.2, A5.504.4.7 Thermal insulation 5.504.4.7, A4.504.3,

    A5.504.4.8

  • CALGreen § 213.1 Medium relevance — show source text

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    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    SECTION A5.213—ENERGY EFFICIENT FRAMING

    A5.213.1 Steel framing. Design steel framing for maximum energy efficiency. Techniques for avoiding thermal bridging in the envelope include:

    1. Exterior rigid insulation;
    2. Punching large holes in the stud web without affecting the structural integrity of the stud;
    3. Spacing the studs as far as possible while maintaining the structural integrity of the structure; and
    4. Detailed design of intersections of wall openings and building intersections of floors, walls and roofs.

    Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4 and 25402.8, Public Resources Code.

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX A5 – NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.3 – WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION

    (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-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 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 below
    Chapter/Section

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    APPENDIX A5-18 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

  • CALGreen § 402.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION A4.401—GENERAL (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.402—DEFINITIONS

    A4.402.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ASSEMBLY (ASSEMBLY PRODUCT).

    POSTCONSUMER CONTENT.

    PRECONSUMER (OR POSTINDUSTRIAL) CONTENT.

    PROPORTIONAL RECYCLED CONTENT (PRC M ).

    RECYCLED CONTENT (RC).

    RECYCLED CONTENT VALUE (RCV).

    Assembly products (RCV A ). Materials (RCV M ).

    SECTION A4.403—FOUNDATION SYSTEMS

    A4.403.1 Frost protected foundation systems. As allowed by local conditions, utilize a Frost-Protected Shallow Foundation (FPSF) in compliance with the California Residential Code (CRC). When an FPSF foundation system is installed, the manual required by Section 4.410.1 shall include instructions to the owner or occupant regarding the necessity for heating the structure as required in Section R403.3 of the California Residential Code.

    A4.403.2 Reduction in cement use. As allowed by the enforcing agency, cement used in foundation mix design shall be reduced as follows:

    Tier 1. Not less than a 20 percent reduction in cement use.

    Tier 2. Not less than a 25 percent reduction in cement use.

    Note: Products commonly used to replace cement in concrete mix designs include, but are not limited to:

    1. Fly ash.

    2. Slag.

    3. Silica fume.

    4. Rice hull ash.

    SECTION A4.404—EFFICIENT FRAMING TECHNIQUES

    A4.404.1 Lumber size. Beams, headers and trimmers are sized and installed as specified in Chapter 23 of the California Building Code, or Chapter 6 of the California Residential Code, as applicable. Other calculations acceptable to the enforcing agency which use the minimum size member for the tributary load shall be acceptable.

    A4.404.2 Dimensions and layouts. Building dimensions and layouts are designed to minimize waste by one or more of the following measures in at least 80 percent of the structure:

    1. Building design dimensions in 2-foot increments are used.
    2. Windows and doors are located at regular 16 ″ or 24 ″ stud positions.
    3. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    A4.404.3 Building systems. Use premanufactured building systems to eliminate solid sawn lumber whenever possible. One or more of the following premanufactured building systems is used:

    1. Composite floor joist or premanufactured floor framing system.
    2. Composite roof rafters or premanufactured roof framing system.
    3. Panelized (SIPS, ICF or similar) framing systems.
    4. Other methods approved by the enforcing agency.

    A4.404.4 Pre-cut materials and details. Material lists are included in the plans which specify the material quantity and provide direction for on-site cuts to be made from the material provided. Material lists and direction shall be provided for the following systems:

    1. Floor framing.
    2. Wall framing.
    3. Ceiling and roof framing.
    4. Structural panels and roof sheathing.

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  • CALGreen § 403.1 Medium relevance — show source text

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    APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued

    FEATURE OR MEASURE LEVELS
    APPLICANT TO SELECT ELECTIVE MEASURES    		 Col3 Col4 VERIFICATIONS
    ENFORCING AGENCY TO SPECIFY
    VERIFICATION METHOD    		 Col6 Col7
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Prerequisites and electives1 Prerequisites and electives1 Enforcing
    Agency

    All    		 Installer or
    Designer

    All    		 Third
    party

    All
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2
    MATERIAL CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE EFFICIENCY
    Foundation Systems
    A4.403.1A Frost-protected Shallow Foundation (FPSF) is designed
    and constructed.
    A4.403.2Cement use in foundation mix design is reduced.
    Tier 1. Not less than a 20 percent reduction in cement use.
    **Tier 2.**Not less than a 25 percent reduction in cement use.    		 2 2
    Efficient Framing Techniques
    A4.404.1 Beams and headers and trimmers are the minimum size to
    adequately support the load.
    A4.404.2Building dimensions and layouts are designed to minimize
    waste.
    A4.404.3Use premanufactured building systems to eliminate solid
    sawn lumber whenever possible.
    A4.404.4 Material lists are included in the plans which specify
    material quantity and provide direction for on-site cuts.
    Material Sources
    A4.405.1 One or more of the following building materials, that do not
    require additional resources for finishing are used:
    1. Exterior trim not requiring paint or stain
    2. Windows not requiring paint or stain
    3.
  • CALGreen § 404.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    ** Not less than a 20 percent reduction in cement use.
    **Tier 2.**Not less than a 25 percent reduction in cement use.||2|2|||| |Efficient Framing Techniques||||||| |A4.404.1 Beams and headers and trimmers are the minimum size to
    adequately support the load.||||||| |A4.404.2Building dimensions and layouts are designed to minimize
    waste.||||||| |A4.404.3Use premanufactured building systems to eliminate solid
    sawn lumber whenever possible.||||||| |A4.404.4 Material lists are included in the plans which specify
    material quantity and provide direction for on-site cuts.||||||| |Material Sources||||||| |A4.405.1 One or more of the following building materials, that do not
    require additional resources for finishing are used:
    1. Exterior trim not requiring paint or stain
    2. Windows not requiring paint or stain
    3. Siding or exterior wall coverings which do not require paint or
    stain||||||| |A4.405.2 Floors that do not require additional coverings are used
    including but not limited to stained, natural or stamped concrete
    floors.||||||| |A4.405.3Postconsumer or preconsumer recycled content value (RCV)
    materials are used on the project.
    **Tier 1.**Not less than a 10 percent recycled content value.
    **Tier 2.**Not less than a 15 percent recycled content value.||2
    |2
    |
    |
    |
    | |A4.405.4Renewable source building products are used.||||||| |Enhanced Durability and Reduced Maintenance||||||| |4.406.1 Annular spaces around pipes, electric cables, conduits or
    other openings in plates at exterior walls shall be protected against
    the passage of rodents by closing such openings with cement mortar,
    concrete masonry or similar method acceptable to the enforcing
    agency.||||||| |Water Resistance and Moisture Management||||||| |A4.407.1Install foundation and landscape drains.||||||| |A4.407.2Install gutter and downspout systems to route water at least
    5 feet away from the foundation or connect to landscape drains which
    discharge to a dry well, sump, bioswale, rainwater capture system or
    other approved on-site location.

  • CALGreen § 204.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception 4 to A5.204.1.1: Heating systems which are used exclusively for permanent spa applications in existing buildings with gas availability.

    SECTION A5.211—RESERVED

    SECTION A5.212—ELEVATORS, ESCALATORS AND OTHER EQUIPMENT

    A5.212.1 Elevators and escalators. In buildings with more than one elevator or two escalators, provide systems and controls to reduce the energy demand of elevators and escalators as follows. Document systems operation and controls in the project specifications and commissioning plan.

    A5.212.1.1 Elevators. Traction elevators shall have a regenerative drive system that feeds electrical power back into the building grid when the elevator is in motion.

    A5.212.1.1.1 Car lights and fan. A parked elevator shall turn off its car lights and fan automatically until the elevator is called for use.

    A5.212.1.2 Escalators. An escalator shall have a Variable Voltage Variable Frequency (VVVF) motor drive system that is fully regenerative when the escalator is in motion.

    A5.212.1.4 Controls. Controls that reduce energy demand shall meet requirements of CCR, Title 8, Chapter 4, Subchapter 6 and shall not interrupt emergency operations for elevators required in CCR, Title 24, Part 2, California Building Code.

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    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    SECTION A5.213—ENERGY EFFICIENT FRAMING

    A5.213.1 Steel framing. Design steel framing for maximum energy efficiency. Techniques for avoiding thermal bridging in the envelope include:

    1. Exterior rigid insulation;
    2. Punching large holes in the stud web without affecting the structural integrity of the stud;
    3. Spacing the studs as far as possible while maintaining the structural integrity of the structure; and
    4. Detailed design of intersections of wall openings and building intersections of floors, walls and roofs.

    Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4 and 25402.8, Public Resources Code.

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX A5 – NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.3 – WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION

    (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 § 25.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    joints broken in alternate courses;
    cement-sand grout; 13 SWG iron wire rein-
    forcement in alternate horizontal joints.|90 tons|2 hrs|||7|2–4|2| |C-10-SB-3|10″|10″ × 12″ block encased columns;
    8″ × 6″ × 35 lbs “H” beam; protection: 2″
    foamed slag concrete blocks; 13 SWG wire at
    each horizontal joint; mortar at each joint.|90 tons|2 hrs|||7|5|2| |C-10-SB-4|101/2″|101/2″ × 12″ block encased steel columns;
    8″ × 6″ × 35 lbs “H” beam; protection: gravel
    aggregate concrete fill (unconsolidated) 2″
    thick hollow clay tiles with mortar at edges.|86 tons|56 min|||7|1|3/4| |C-10-SB-5|101/2″|101/2″ × 12″ block encased steel columns;
    8″ × 6″ × 35 lbs “H” beam; protection: 2″
    hollow clay tiles with mortar at edges.|86 tons|22 min|||7|1|1/4|

    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound = 0.004448 kN, 1 ton = 8.896 kN.

    Notes:

    1. Failure mode—collapse.

    2. Passed 2-hour fire test (Grade “C,” British).

    3. Passed hose stream test.

    4. Passed reload test.

    5. Passed 2-hour fire exposure but collapsed immediately following hose stream test.

    TABLE 2.5.2.2
    STEEL COLUMNS—BRICK AND BLOCK ENCASEMENTS
    MINIMUM DIMENSION 12″ TO LESS THAN 14″    		 Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6 Col7 Col8 Col9 Col10
    ITEM
    CODE    		 MINIMUM
    DIMENSION    		 CONSTRUCTION DETAILS PERFORMANCE PERFORMANCE REFERENCE NUMBER REFERENCE NUMBER REFERENCE NUMBER NOTES REC.
    HOURS
    ITEM
    CODE    		 MINIMUM
    DIMENSION    		 CONSTRUCTION DETAILS LOAD TIME PRE-BMS-92 BMS-92 POST-BMS-92 POST-BMS-92 POST-BMS-92
    C-12-SB-1 12″ 12″ × 15″ brick encased steel columns;
    8″ × 6″ × 35 lbs “H” beam; protection:
    25/8″ thick brick; joints broken in alternate
    courses; cement-sand grout; fill of broken
    brick and mortar.    		 90 tons 1 hr
    49 min    		 7 1 13/4

    For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound = 0.004448 kN, 1 ton = 8.896 kN.

    Notes:

    1. Failure mode—collapse.

    2025 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE RESOURCE A-87

  • CALGreen § 2.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    Notes:

    1. The Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) is located in the California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Chapter 2.7, Division 2.

    MWELO and supporting documents, including a water budget calculator, are available at: https://www.water.ca.gov/

    SECTION 4.305—WATER REUSE SYSTEMS (RESERVED)

    4-10 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    4 RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    DIVISION 4.4 – MATERIAL CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE EFFICIENCY

    SECTION 4.401—GENERAL

    4.401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall outline means of achieving material conservation and resource efficiency through protection of buildings from exterior moisture; construction waste diversion; employment of techniques to reduce pollution through recycling of materials; and building commissioning or testing, adjusting and balancing.

    SECTION 4.402—DEFINITIONS

    4.402.1 Definitions. Reserved.

    SECTION 4.403 —FOUNDATION SYSTEMS (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.404—EFFICIENT FRAMING TECHNIQUES (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.405—MATERIAL SOURCES (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.406—ENHANCED DURABILITY AND REDUCED MAINTENANCE

    4.406.1 Rodent proofing. Annular spaces around pipes, electric cables, conduits or other openings in sole/bottom plates at exterior walls shall be protected against the passage of rodents by closing such openings with cement mortar, concrete masonry or a similar method acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    SECTION 4.407—WATER RESISTANCE AND MOISTURE MANAGEMENT (RESERVED)

    SECTION 4.408—CONSTRUCTION WASTE REDUCTION, DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING

    4.408.1 Construction waste management. Recycle and/or salvage for reuse a minimum of 65 percent of the nonhazardous construction and demolition waste in accordance with either Section 4.408.2, 4.408.3 or 4.408.4, or meet a more stringent local construction and demolition waste management ordinance.

    Exceptions:

    1. Excavated soil and land-clearing debris.
    2. Alternate waste reduction methods developed by working with local agencies if diversion or recycle facilities capable of compliance with this item do not exist or are not located reasonably close to the jobsite.
    3. The enforcing agency may make exceptions to the requirements of this section when isolated jobsites are located in areas beyond the haul boundaries of the diversion facility.

    4.408.2 Construction waste management plan. Submit a construction waste management plan in conformance with Items 1 through 5. The construction waste management plan shall be updated as necessary and shall be available during construction for examination by the enforcing agency.

    1. Identify the construction and demolition waste materials to be diverted from disposal by recycling, reuse on the project or salvage for future use or sale.
    2. Specify if construction and demolition waste materials will be sorted on-site (source-separated) or bulk mixed (single stream).
  • CALGreen § 4.00 Medium relevance — show source text

    10
    screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|12|4.00|2.25|1.35|0.70|DR|3.70|1.05|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
    33-mil
    steel
    furring or
    minimum
    1× wood
    furringc|33-mil
    steel stud|No. 10
    screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|16|3.85|1.45|DR|DR|DR|3.40|DR|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
    33-mil
    steel
    furring or
    minimum
    1× wood
    furringc|33-mil
    steel stud|No. 10
    screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|24|3.40|DR|DR|DR|DR|2.70|DR|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
    33-mil
    steel
    furring or
    minimum
    1× wood
    furringc|43-mil or
    thicker
    steel stud|No. 8
    Screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|12|3.00|1.80|0.95|DR|DR|3.00|0.65|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
    33-mil
    steel
    furring or
    minimum
    1× wood
    furringc|43-mil or
    thicker
    steel stud|No. 8
    Screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|16|3.00|1.00|DR|DR|DR|2.85|DR|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
    33-mil
    steel
    furring or
    minimum
    1× wood
    furringc|43-mil or
    thicker
    steel stud|No. 8
    Screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|24|2.85|DR|DR|DR|DR|2.20|DR|DR|DR|DR| |Minimum
    33-mil
    steel
    furring or
    minimum
    1× wood
    furringc|43-mil or
    thicker
    steel stud|No. 10
    screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|12|4.00|3.85|3.25|2.80|1.80|4.00|3.05|2.15|1.50|DR| |Minimum
    33-mil
    steel
    furring or
    minimum
    1× wood
    furringc|43-mil or
    thicker
    steel stud|No. 10
    screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|16|4.00|3.30|2.55|1.95|0.60|4.00|2.25|1.05|DR|DR| |Minimum
    33-mil
    steel
    furring or
    minimum
    1× wood
    furringc|43-mil or
    thicker
    steel stud|No. 10
    screw|Steel thickness
    + 3 threads|24|4.00|2.25|1.05|DR|DR|4.00|0.65|DR|DR|DR|

    2025 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE 7-31

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    WALL COVERING

  • CALGreen § 110.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    [A] 110.2 Preliminary inspection. Before issuing a permit, the building official is authorized to examine or cause to be examined buildings, structures and sites for which an application has been filed.

    [A] 110.3 Required inspections. The building official, upon notification, shall make the inspections set forth in Sections 110.3.1 through 110.3.12.

    [A] 110.3.1 Footing and foundation inspection. Footing and foundation inspections shall be made after excavations for footings are complete and any required reinforcing steel is in place. For concrete foundations, any required forms shall be in place prior to inspection. Materials for the foundation shall be on the job, except where concrete is ready mixed in accordance with ASTM C94, the concrete need not be on the job.

    [A] 110.3.2 Concrete slab and under-floor inspection. Concrete slab and under-floor inspections shall be made after in-slab or under-floor reinforcing steel and building service equipment, conduit, piping accessories and other ancillary equipment items are in place, but before any concrete is placed or floor sheathing installed, including the subfloor.

    [A] 110.3.3 Lowest floor elevation. In flood hazard areas, upon placement of the lowest floor, including the basement, and prior to further vertical construction, the elevation certification required in Section 1612.4 or the California Residential Code, as applicable, shall be submitted to the building official.

    [A] 110.3.4 Frame inspection. Framing inspections shall be made after the roof deck or sheathing, all framing, fire-blocking and bracing are in place and pipes, chimneys and vents to be concealed are complete and the rough electrical, plumbing, heating wires, pipes and ducts are approved.

    110.3.4.1 [HCD 1] Moisture content verification. Moisture content of framing members shall be verified in accordance with the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), Chapter 4, Division 4.5.

    [A] 110.3.5 Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C connection protection inspection. In buildings of Types IV-A, IV-B and IV-C construction, where connection fire-resistance ratings are provided by wood cover calculated to meet the requirements of Section 2304.10.1, inspection of the wood cover shall be made after the cover is installed, but before any other coverings or finishes are installed.

    [A] 110.3.6 Lath and gypsum panel product inspection. Lath and gypsum panel product inspections shall be made after lathing and gypsum panel products, interior and exterior, are in place, but before any plastering is applied or gypsum panel product joints and fasteners are taped and finished.

    Exception: Gypsum panel products that are not part of a fire-resistance-rated assembly or a shear assembly.

    [A] 110.3.7 Weather-exposed balcony and walking surface waterproofing. Where balconies or other elevated walking surfaces have weather-exposed surfaces, and the structural framing is protected by an impervious moisture barrier, all elements of the impervious moisture barrier system shall not be concealed until inspected and approved.

    Exception: Where special inspections are provided in accordance with Section 1705.1.1, Item 3.

    [A] 110.3.8 Fire- and smoke-resistant penetrations. Protection of joints and penetrations in fire-resistance-rated assemblies, smoke barriers and smoke partitions shall not be concealed from view until inspected and approved.

Frequently asked questions

Can I always use 24‑inch on‑center studs to meet CALGreen?

You can use up to 24 in. on center where structural, wind, seismic and shear wall requirements allow — CALGreen permits it but does not override the California Building Code structural requirements; confirm with your engineer and the enforcing agency. § A5.404.1.2(2) and § A5.404.1.1.

Does CALGreen require exterior rigid insulation for steel framing?

No — § A5.213.1 lists exterior rigid insulation as a recommended technique to avoid thermal bridging for steel framing, but CALGreen treats A5 as voluntary guidance for energy‑efficient steel framing. Structural and assembly choices remain subject to the CBC and the enforcing agency.

Are advanced framing methods mandatory?

No — the Appendix A5 measures are voluntary/nonresidential measures and are recommendations to improve material efficiency and reduce thermal bridging. Local adoption/requirements can vary; check with the enforcing agency. § A5.404.1.

Can I eliminate headers entirely?

CALGreen permits eliminating solid headers in non‑load‑bearing walls but not in load‑bearing assemblies — confirm load paths and CBC requirements before eliminating headers. § A5.404.1.2(5) and § A5.404.1.1.

Where can I get detailed construction details for advanced framing?

CALGreen points to the U.S. Department of Energy and DOE/EERE resources for implementation details (OVE guidance). CALGreen lists the techniques but does not provide full construction drawings. § A5.404.1 note.

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