CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Which WaterSense product specifications or plumbing fixture standards does CALGreen reference?

Q: Which CALGreen section explicitly points to WaterSense product specs?

CALGreen identifies WaterSense Product Specifications in the referenced‑standards list at § 4.303.1 .

CALGreen points to EPA WaterSense product specifications in § 4.303.1. For compliance, showerheads (1.8 gpm), toilets (1.28 gpf), urinals (0.5 gpf), and lavatory faucets must meet the WaterSense specs or the numeric limits shown in Table L402.1 and the plumbing sections cited.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

CALGreen expressly references the U.S. EPA WaterSense Product Specifications in § 4.303.1 (CALGreen) as the product-specification source used for certain plumbing fixtures. The practical effect (as implemented through the California Plumbing Code/Title 24) is that specified fixtures — showerheads, tank‑type toilets, flushometer‑valve water closets, flushing urinals, and high‑efficiency lavatory faucets — must meet the corresponding WaterSense specifications or the flow/flush thresholds shown in the code. See § 4.303.1 for the WaterSense reference and the plumbing sections listed below for which fixtures are required to be WaterSense‑listed.

The single most important rule: CALGreen points you to EPA WaterSense product specifications in § 4.303.1; where the code limits flows or flush volumes it frequently requires the product be listed to the applicable WaterSense specification.

Requirements in detail

The CALGreen reference (§ 4.303.1) identifies WaterSense Product Specifications as a referenced standard. The actual mandatory fixture limits and the requirement to be listed to specific WaterSense specifications are enforced in the plumbing provisions (Table L402.1 and related sections). The table below summarizes the decision‑relevant fixture types, the key numeric thresholds, and the code reference that requires WaterSense listing or sets the limit.

Fixture / product	Key dimension / threshold (decision‑relevant)	WaterSense requirement or standard	Code Reference
Showerheads (residential)	Maximum 1.8 gpm @ 80 psi	Must be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads	§ 408.3.1 (Plumbing Code / CALGreen cross‑reference)
Tank‑type toilets (all)	Maximum effective flush volume 1.28 gpf	Tank‑type toilets shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank‑Type Toilets	§ L402.2 / Table L402.1, Note 2
Flushometer‑valve water closets	Maximum 1.28 gpf	Shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for Flushometer‑Valve Water Closets	§ L402.2.2 / Table L402.1 Note 2
Flushing urinals	Maximum 0.5 gpf (wall‑mounted can be lower per CALGreen)	Shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification	§ L402.3 / Table L402.1 Note 3
Lavatory faucets (residential)	Maximum 1.5 gpm @ 60 psi (residential lavatory faucet listed in Table L402.1)	Note in Table L402.1 directs listing to EPA WaterSense High‑Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification	Table L402.1 / Notes (see Note 5)
Other WaterSense product types referenced by CALGreen	e.g., irrigation controllers, spray sprinkler bodies	CALGreen’s referenced‑standards list includes multiple WaterSense specifications (showerheads, toilets, urinals, lavatory faucets, irrigation controllers, etc.)	§ 4.303.1 (Referenced Standards table)

Notes:

The CALGreen referenced‑standards table shows WaterSense Product Specifications are specifically cited at § 4.303.1; the plumbing (Title 24 / California Plumbing Code) provisions then apply the WaterSense listing / performance requirements to the individual fixtures (see the plumbing sections cited above).
Some fixture thresholds appear in the plumbing code Table L402.1; the table’s notes explicitly point to the WaterSense specifications for the listed fixtures.

Where to look in the code

The CALGreen referenced standards list identifies WaterSense Product Specifications at § 4.303.1.
The fixture flow/flush limits and the WaterSense listing instructions appear in the plumbing provisions (Table L402.1 and related sections such as § 408.3.1, § L402.2, § L402.3).

Exceptions & special cases

If a CALGreen provision points to a WaterSense specification but the specific product class is governed elsewhere by a different (lower) state requirement (for example, appliance/efficiency rules in Title 20), the lower maximum (more‑stringent) value prevails. The Plumbing Code notes that where Title 20 specifies a lower maximum flow, the Title 20 requirement applies.
Non‑water urinals are addressed separately: nonwater urinals are required to comply with product standards such as ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4 (see § L402.3.1) and have additional installation/maintenance requirements; WaterSense flushing‑urinal requirements apply only to flushing urinals.
The CALGreen referenced‑standards entry identifies several WaterSense specifications (including irrigation controllers) — but the mandatory application depends on the CALGreen division (residential §4.3 vs. nonresidential §5.3) and on which adopting agency/occupancy the project falls under. The adoption tables and cross‑references in CALGreen show where Division 4.3 vs. 5.3 apply.

Common mistakes

Assuming "WaterSense referenced" means every fixture must carry the WaterSense label. In practice, only the fixtures expressly limited or called out in the plumbing/CALGreen provisions must be listed to the specific WaterSense specification (see Table L402.1 notes and § 408.3.1). Always verify the specific section.
Mixing up the numeric thresholds by jurisdiction: CALGreen/Plumbing Code tables state specific gpm/gpf values (e.g., 1.8 gpm showerhead, 1.28 gpf toilets). Don’t rely solely on product marketing — check the product listing to confirm it meets the WaterSense specification or the exact numeric limit required by the code.
Forgetting Title 20 or other State appliance regulations: if Title 20 prescribes a lower flow for a product sold in California, the lower number controls (see Plumbing Code notes).

Worked example — residential bathroom specification check

Scenario: You are specifying fixtures for a new single‑family home bathroom (one shower, one lavatory, one tank toilet). Verify code compliance.

Showerhead — you plan to specify a 1.8 gpm fixture.
- Check: CALGreen / Plumbing Code limit for residential showerheads is 1.8 gpm @ 80 psi and the showerhead must be certified to the WaterSense Showerhead specification per § 408.3.1. If your model is WaterSense‑listed for showerheads, it complies.
Lavatory faucet — you specify a single‑handle lavatory faucet rated at 1.5 gpm @ 60 psi.
- Check: Table L402.1 lists 1.5 gpm @ 60 psi for residential lavatory faucets and the table notes require listing to the EPA WaterSense High‑Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification where applicable. Confirm the product is WaterSense‑listed for lavatory faucets.
Tank toilet — you specify a toilet with a manufacturer‑stated flush volume of 1.28 gpf and WaterSense certification.
- Check: Tank‑type water closets are limited to 1.28 gpf and must be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank‑Type Toilets per § L402.2 / Table L402.1. A WaterSense‑certified 1.28 gpf tank toilet satisfies the requirement.

Conclusion: in this scenario, you must confirm each product carries the appropriate WaterSense listing or otherwise meets the exact numeric threshold required by the code sections cited above.

Related provisions

§ 4.303.1 — CALGreen referenced standards list includes WaterSense Product Specifications.
§ 4.3 (Division 4.3) — CALGreen Division addressing Water Efficiency and Conservation (residential).
§ 5.3 (Division 5.3) — CALGreen Division for nonresidential water efficiency measures (where nonresidential WaterSense requirements appear).
§ L402.1 / Table L402.1 — Plumbing Code maximum fixture flow/flush table and notes directing WaterSense listing for many fixtures.
§ 408.3.1 — Plumbing Code clause requiring showerheads to meet WaterSense performance criteria (cross‑references CALGreen Chapter/Division).

If you want, I can:

Pull the exact text of § 4.303.1 from the CALGreen file and put it in one place for your permit packet; or
Create a short checklist you can give to a product submittal reviewer to confirm WaterSense listings and the correct code section citations.

Code references

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

CALGreen § 402.6.1. High relevance — show source text
402.6.1. 2 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilet or Specification for Flushometer-Valve Water Closets. 3 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification. Nonwater urinals shall comply with specifications listed in Section L 402.3.1. 4 See Section L 402.4. 5 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense High-Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification.

L 402.2 Water Closets. No water closet shall have an effective flush volume exceeding 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) (4.8 Lpf). L 402.2.1 Gravity, Pressure Assisted, and Elec- tro-Hydraulic Tank Type Water Closets. Gravity, pressure assisted, and electro-hydraulic tank-type water closets shall have a maximum effective flush volume of

TABLE L 402.1

MAXIMUM FIXTURE AND FIXTURE FITTINGS FLOW RATES

For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L

Notes: 1 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads. For multiple showerheads serving one shower compartment see Section L

402.6.1. 2 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilet or Specification for Flushometer-Valve Water Closets. 3 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification. Nonwater urinals shall comply with specifications listed in Section L 402.3.1. 4 See Section L 402.4. 5 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense High-Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification.

not more than 1.28 gallons (4.8 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or

ASME A112.19.14 and shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilets. The effective flush volume for dual flush toilets is defined as the composite, average flush volume of two reduced flushes and one full flush.

L 402.2.2 Flushometer-Valve Activated Water

Closets. Flushometer-valve activated water closets

shall have a maximum flush volume of not more than 1.28 gallons (4.8 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 and shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for FlushometerValve Water Closets.

L 402.3 Urinals. Urinals shall have a maximum flush volume of not more than 0.5 gallon (1.9 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Flushing urinals shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification.

L 402.3.1 Nonwater Urinals. Nonwater urinals shall comply with ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4, ASME A112.19.19, or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Nonwater urinals shall be cleaned and maintained in accordance with
CALGreen § 408.3.1 High relevance — show source text
408.3.1 Single Showerhead. [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] Showerheads shall have a maximum flow rate of not more than 1.8 gallons (6.81 L) per minute at 80 psi. Showerheads shall be certified to the performance crite- ria of the U.S. EPA WaterSense Specification for Show- erheads in compliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3. of the California Green Building Standards Code (CAL- Green).

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 61

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

«

«

«

408.6 Finished Curb or Threshold. Where a shower receptor has a finished dam, curb, or threshold, it shall be not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) lower than the sides and back of such receptor. In no case, shall a dam or threshold be less than 2 inches (51 mm) or exceeding 9 inches (229 mm) in depth where measured from the top of the dam or threshold to the top of the drain. Each such receptor shall be provided with a nailing flange either integral or field installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. The flange shall be watertight and extend vertically not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) above the top of the sides of the receptor. The finished floor of the receptor shall slope uniformly from the sides towards the drain not less than [1] ⁄ 8 inch per foot (10.4 mm/m), nor more than [1] ⁄ 2 inch per foot (41.6 mm/m).

Thresholds shall be of sufficient width to accommodate a minimum 22 inch (559 mm) door. Shower doors shall open so as to maintain not less than a 22 inch (559 mm) unobstructed opening for egress. Where there is a shower without a threshold, the floor space within the same room shall be considered a wet location and shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Code, California Residential Code, and California Electrical Code .

Exceptions:

(1) Showers in accordance with Section 403.2.

(2) A cast-iron shower receptor flange shall be not less than 0.3 of an inch (7.62 mm) in height.

(3) For flanges not used as a means of securing, the sealing flange shall be not less than 0.3 of an inch (7.62 mm) in height. 408.7 Shower Compartments. Shower compartments shall have a finished interior in accordance with the following: (1) Not less than 1024 square inches (0.6606 m [2] ).

(2) Be capable of encompassing a 30 inch (762 mm) circle.

The minimum required area and dimensions shall be measured at a height equal to the top of the threshold and a point tangent to its centerline. The area and dimensions shall be maintained to a point of not less than 70 inches (1778 mm) above the shower drain outlet with no protrusions other than the fixture valve or valves, showerheads, soap dishes, shelves, and safety grab bars, or rails. Fold-down seats in accessible shower stalls shall be permitted to protrude into the 30 inch (762 mm) circle.

Exceptions:

CALGreen § 402.1 High relevance — show source text

TABLE L 402.1

MAXIMUM FIXTURE AND FIXTURE FITTINGS FLOW RATES

FIXTURE TYPE	FLOW RATE
Showerheads	2.0 gpm at 80 psi1
Kitchen faucets residential4	1.8 gpm at 60 psi
Lavatory faucets residential5	1.5 gpm at 60 psi
Lavatory faucets other than residential	0.5 gpm at 60 psi
Metering faucets	0.25 gallons/cycle
Metering faucets for wash fountains	One 0.25 gallons/cycle fixture fit- ting for each 20 inches rim space
Wash fountains	One 2.2 gpm at 60 psi fixture fit- ting for each 20 inches rim space
Water Closets	1.28 gallons/flush2
Urinals	0.5 gallons/flush3
Commercial Pre-Rinse Spray Valves	See Section L 402.9

For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L

Notes: 1 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads. For multiple showerheads serving one shower compartment see Section L

402.6.1. 2 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilet or Specification for Flushometer-Valve Water Closets. 3 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification. Nonwater urinals shall comply with specifications listed in Section L 402.3.1. 4 See Section L 402.4. 5 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense High-Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification.

L 402.2 Water Closets. No water closet shall have an effective flush volume exceeding 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) (4.8 Lpf). L 402.2.1 Gravity, Pressure Assisted, and Elec- tro-Hydraulic Tank Type Water Closets. Gravity, pressure assisted, and electro-hydraulic tank-type water closets shall have a maximum effective flush volume of

TABLE L 402.1

MAXIMUM FIXTURE AND FIXTURE FITTINGS FLOW RATES

For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L

Notes: 1 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads. For multiple showerheads serving one shower compartment see Section L

CALGreen § 407.3 High relevance — show source text
407.3 Limitation of Hot Water Temperature for Public Lavatories. Hot water delivered from public-use lavatories shall be limited to a maximum temperature of 120°F (49°C). The maximum temperature shall be regulated by one of the following means:

(1) A limiting device conforming to either ASSE 1070/ASME A112.1070/CSA B125.70, or

(2) A water heater conforming to ASSE 1084.

407.4 Transient Public Lavatories. Self-closing or metering faucets shall be installed on lavatories intended to serve the transient public, such as those in, but not limited to service stations, train stations, airports, restaurants, and convention halls.

407.5 Waste Outlet. Lavatories shall have a waste outlet and fixture tailpiece not less than 1 [1] ⁄ 4 inches (32 mm) in diameter. Continuous wastes and fixture tailpieces shall be constructed from the materials specified in Section 701.4. Waste outlets shall be provided with an approved stopper or strainer.

407.6 Overflow. Where overflows are provided, they shall be installed in accordance with Section 404.2.

408.0 Showers.

408.1 Application. Manufactured shower receptors and shower bases shall comply with ASME A112.19.1/CSA B45.2, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.3/CSAB45.4, CSA B45.12/IAPMO Z402, or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Prefabricated shower enclosures shall comply with IAPMO IGC 154.

408.2 Tileable Shower Receptors. Tileable shower receptors and shower kits shall comply with IAPMO PS 106. 408.3 Water Consumption. Showerheads shall have a « maximum flow rate of not more than 1.8 gpm at 80 psi ( 6.81 L/m at 552 kPa). Body sprays shall have a flow rate of not more than 1.8 gpm at 80 psi ( 6.81 L/m at 552 kPa). [HCD 1] Residential showerheads shall comply with Division 4.3 of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen). Residential body sprays shall comply with the showerhead requirements in Division 4.3 of CALGreen. [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] Nonresidential body sprays shall comply with the showerhead requirements in Division 5.3 of CALGreen.

408.3.1 Single Showerhead. [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] Showerheads shall have a maximum flow rate of not more than 1.8 gallons (6.81 L) per minute at 80 psi. Showerheads shall be certified to the performance crite- ria of the U.S. EPA WaterSense Specification for Show- erheads in compliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3. of the California Green Building Standards Code (CAL- Green).

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 61

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

«

«

«

**408.6 Finished Curb or Threshold.
CALGreen § 408.8.1 High relevance — show source text
The subdrain shall have weep holes into the waste line. The weep holes located in the subdrain clamping ring shall be protected from clogging. 408.8.1 PVC Sheets. Plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sheets shall conform to ASTM D4551. Sheets shall be joined by solvent cementing in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

408.8.2 Chlorinated Polyethylene (CPE) Sheets. Nonplasticized chlorinated polyethylene sheets shall conform to ASTM D4068. The liner shall be joined in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

408.8.3 Sheet Lead. Sheet lead shall weigh not less than 4 lb/ft [2] (19.5 kg/m [2] ) and shall be coated with an asphalt paint or other approved coating. The lead sheet

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 63

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

411.2.1 Dual Flush Water Closets. Dual flush water closets shall comply with ASME A112.19.14. The effective flush volume for dual flush water closets shall be defined as the composite, average flush volume of two reduced flushes and one full flush.

411.2.2 Flushometer Valve Activated Water Clos-

ets. Flushometer valve activated water closets shall have a maximum flush volume of 1.28 gallons ( 4.8 Lpf) of water per flush.

411.2.2.1 Flushometer Valve Activated Water Closets. [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] Flushometer valve activated water closets shall have a maximum flush volume of 1.28 gallons (4.8 L) per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1.

411.2.3 Performance. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Water clos- ets installed in residential occupancies shall meet or exceed the minimum performance criteria developed for certification of high-efficiency toilets under the WaterSense program sponsored by the U.S. Environ- mental Protection Agency (EPA).

411.2.4 Water Closets. [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] The effective flush volume of all water closets shall not exceed 1.28 gallons (4.8 L) per flush. Tank-type water closets shall be certified to the performance criteria of the U.S. EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilets in compliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3. of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen).

411.3 Water Closet Seats. Water closet seats shall be properly sized for the water closet bowl type, and shall be of smooth, non-absorbent material. Seats, for public use, shall be of the elongated type and either of the open front type or have an automatic seat cover dispenser. Water closet seats shall be provided with or without covers. Plastic seats shall comply with IAPMO/ANSI Z124.5.

411.4 Personal Hygiene Devices. Water closets with integral personal hygiene devices shall comply with ASME A112.4.2/CSA B45.16.

412.0 Urinals.

CALGreen § 1.8 High relevance — show source text

[HCD 1]**_ The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.8 gallons (6.81 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa). Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons (8.32 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa), and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gallons (6.81 L) per minute at 60 psi (414 kPa) in com- pliance with Chapter 4, Division 4.3 or Chapter 5, Divi- sion 5.3 of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), as applicable. Note: Where faucets meeting the maximum flow rate of 1.8 gpm (6.81 L) are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction. 420.3 Pre-Rinse Spray Valve. Commercial food service pre-rinse spray valves shall have a maximum flow rate in accordance with Table 420.3 and shall be equipped with an integral automatic shutoff.

TABLE 420.3

COMMERCIAL PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVE MAXIMUM FLOW RATE

PRODUCT CLASS BY SPRAY FORCE	MAXIMUM FLOW RATE, GPM
Product Class 1 (≤ 5.0 ounces-force)	1.00
Product Class 2 (> 5.0 ounces-force and ≤ 8.0 ounces-force)	1.20
Product Class 3 (> 8.0 ounces-force)	1.28

For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/min, 1 ounce-force = 0.278 N

420.4 Waste Outlet. Kitchen and laundry sinks shall have a waste outlet and fixture tailpiece not less than 1 [1] ⁄ 2 inches (40 mm) in diameter. Service sinks shall have a waste outlet and fixture tailpiece not less than 2 inches (50 mm) in diameter. Fixture tailpieces shall be constructed from the materials specified in Section 701.2 for drainage piping. Waste outlets shall be provided with an approved strainer.

421.0 Floor Sinks.

421.1 Application. Floor sinks shall comply with ASME A112.6.7.

421.2 Strainers. The waste outlet of a floor sink shall be provided with an approved strainer or grate that is removable and accessible.

422.0 Minimum Number of Required Fixtures. 422.1 Fixture Count. Plumbing fixtures shall be provided for the type of building occupancy and in the minimum number shown in Table 422.1. The total occupant load and occu

TABLE 420.3

COMMERCIAL PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVE MAXIMUM FLOW RATE

For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/min, 1 ounce-force = 0.278 N

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 67

PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

Exceptions [Not adopted for OSHPD 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5] : (1) Residential installations.

CALGreen § 15-11 High relevance — show source text

are listed below||||||||X||||||||||||||| |Chapter/Section||||||||||||||||||||||| |WS-3||||||||X||||||||||||||| |WS-4||||||||X||||||||||||||| |WS-5||||||||X||||||||||||||| |WS-9||||||||X||||||||||||||| |IES TM-15-11 Table A-1||||||||X||||||||||||||| |Table 130.2-A||||||||X||||||||||||||| |Table 1302.2-B||||||||X|||||||||||||||

2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-1

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

8-2 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

8 COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

[BSC] Sample forms found in “A Guide to the California Green Building Standards Code (Nonresidential)” located at https://www.dgs.ca.gov/BSC/Resources/Page-Content/Building-Standards-Commission-Resources-List-Folder/CALGreen may be used to assist in documenting compliance with the waste management plan and other provisions of this code.

[HCD 1] Sample forms located at www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/calgreen/cal-green-forms.shtml may be used to assist in documenting compliance with CALGreen . WORKSHEET (WS-1) BASELINE WATER USE

BASELINE WATER USE CALCULATION TABLE	Col2	Col3	Col4	Col5	Col6	Col7	Col8	Col9	Col10
FIXTURE TYPE	FLOW RATE		DURATION		DAILY USES		OCCUPANTS1		GALLONS PER DAY
Showerheads	1.8 gpm @ 80 psi	×	5 min.	×	1	×	Note 1a	=
Lavatory faucets nonresidential	0.5 gpm @ 60 psi	×	.25 min.	×	3	×		=
Kitchen faucets	1.8 gpm @ 60 psi	×	4 min.	×	1	×	Note 1b	=
Replacement aerators	2.2 gpm	×		×		×		=
Wash fountains	1.8 gpm/20 [rim space(in.)@ 60 psi]	×		×		×		=
Metering faucets	0.20 gal/cycle	×		×	3	×		=
Metering faucets for wash fountains	0.20 gal/cycle/20 [rim space(in.

CALGreen § 3-2020 High relevance — show source text

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 355

REFERENCED STANDARDS

TABLE 1701.2 (continued) STANDARDS, PUBLICATIONS, PRACTICES, AND GUIDES

DOCUMENT NUMBER	DOCUMENT TITLE	APPLICATION
ANSI Z83.11-2016 (R2021)/CSA 1.8-2016 (R2021)	Gas Food Service Equipment	Fuel Gas, Appliances
CSA Z317.1-2021	Special Requirements for Plumbing Installations in Health Care Facilities	Miscellaneous
ENERGY STAR	ENERGY STAR	ENERGY STAR
Energy Star-2007	Program Requirements for Commercial Ice Machines	Miscellaneous
Energy Star-2012 (version 2.0)	Program Requirements Product Specification for Commercial Dishwashers	Appliances
Energy Star-2016 (version 6.0)	Program Requirements for Residential Dishwashers	Appliances
Energy Star-2018 (version 8.0)	Program Requirements Product specification for Clothes Washers (effective February 5, 2018)	Appliances
EPA	EPA	EPA
EPA/600/R-12/618-2012	Guidelines for Water Reuse	Miscellaneous
EPA WaterSense-2007	High-Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification	Fixtures
EPA WaterSense-2009	Specification for Flushing Urinals	Fixtures
EPA

CALGreen § 1701.2 High relevance — show source text

32)|Fuel Gas, Appliances|

2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE 355

REFERENCED STANDARDS

TABLE 1701.2 (continued) STANDARDS, PUBLICATIONS, PRACTICES, AND GUIDES

DOCUMENT NUMBER	DOCUMENT TITLE	APPLICATION
ANSI Z83.11-2016 (R2021)/CSA 1.8-2016 (R2021)	Gas Food Service Equipment	Fuel Gas, Appliances
CSA Z317.1-2021	Special Requirements for Plumbing Installations in Health Care Facilities	Miscellaneous
ENERGY STAR	ENERGY STAR	ENERGY STAR
Energy Star-2007	Program Requirements for Commercial Ice Machines	Miscellaneous
Energy Star-2012 (version 2.0)	Program Requirements Product Specification for Commercial Dishwashers	Appliances
Energy Star-2016 (version 6.0)	Program Requirements for Residential Dishwashers	Appliances
Energy Star-2018 (version 8.0)	Program Requirements Product specification for Clothes Washers (effective February 5, 2018)	Appliances
EPA	EPA	EPA
EPA/600/R-12/618-2012	Guidelines for Water Reuse	Miscellaneous
EPA WaterSense-2007	High-Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification	Fixtures
EPA WaterSense-2009	Specification for Flushing Urinals	Fixtures
EPA WaterSense-2014	Specification for Tank-Type Toilets	Fixtures
EPA WaterSense-2015	Specification for Flushometer-Valve Water Closets	Fixtures
EPA WaterSense-2017	Specification for Spray Sprinkler Bodies	Miscellaneous
EPA WaterSense-2018	Specification for Showerheads	Fixtures
EPA WaterSense-2021	Specification for Soil Moisture-Based Irrigation Controllers	Irrigation
EPA WaterSense-2021	Specification for Weather-Based Irrigation Controllers	Irrigation
IAPMO	IAPMO	IAPMO
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 5110- 2015	Backflow Prevention Assembly Testers	Professional Qualifications
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 5120- 2015	Cross-Connection Control Surveyors	Professional Qualifications
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 5130- 2015	Backflow Prevention Assembly Repairers	Professional Qualifications
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 5140- 2015	Fire Protection System Cross-Connection Control Tester	Professional Qualifications
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 5150- 2015	Backflow Prevention Program Administrators	Professional Qualifications
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 6015- 2021	Bulk Medical Gas/Cryogenic Fluid Central Supply Systems Installers	Professional Qualifications
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 6040- 2021	Medical Gas Systems Maintenance Personnel	Professional Qualifications
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 7010- 2020	Installers of Residential Potable Water Fire Sprinkler Systems for One- and Two- Family

CALGreen § 411.2.3 High relevance — show source text
411.2.3 Performance. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Water clos- ets installed in residential occupancies shall meet or exceed the minimum performance criteria developed for certification of high-efficiency toilets under the WaterSense program sponsored by the U.S. Environ- mental Protection Agency (EPA).

411.2.4 Water Closets. [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] The effective flush volume of all water closets shall not exceed 1.28 gallons (4.8 L) per flush. Tank-type water closets shall be certified to the performance criteria of the U.S. EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilets in compliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3. of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen).

411.3 Water Closet Seats. Water closet seats shall be properly sized for the water closet bowl type, and shall be of smooth, non-absorbent material. Seats, for public use, shall be of the elongated type and either of the open front type or have an automatic seat cover dispenser. Water closet seats shall be provided with or without covers. Plastic seats shall comply with IAPMO/ANSI Z124.5.

411.4 Personal Hygiene Devices. Water closets with integral personal hygiene devices shall comply with ASME A112.4.2/CSA B45.16.

412.0 Urinals.

412.1 Application. Urinals shall comply with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.19, or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Wall-mounted urinals shall have an average water consumption not to exceed 0.125 gallons (0.47 L) per flush. Other urinals shall have an average water con- sumption not to exceed 0.5 gallons (1.89 L) per flush.

412.1.1 Wall-Mounted Urinals. [BSC-CG & DSA- SS] The effective flush volume of wall-mounted urinals shall not exceed 0.125 gallons (0.47 L) per flush in com- pliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3, of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen).

412.1.2 Floor-Mounted Urinals. [BSC-CG & DSA- SS] The effective flush volume of floor-mounted or other urinals shall not exceed 0.5 gallons (1.89 L) per flush in compliance with Chapter 5, Division 5.3, of the California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen).

»

(1) A limiting device conforming to either ASSE 1070/ASME A112.1070/CSA B125.70 or CSA B125.3.

(2) A water heater conforming to ASSE 1084.

409.5 Backflow Protection. The water supply to a bathtub and whirlpool bathtub filler valve shall be protected by an air gap or in accordance with Section 417.0.

409.6 Installation and Access. Bathtubs and whirlpool bathtubs shall be installed in accordance with the manufac turer’s installation instructions. Access openings shall be of a size and opening to permit the removal and replacement of the circulation pump.
CALGreen § 1.11.0. Medium relevance — show source text
This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.

58 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

CHAPTER 4

PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS

Note: In addition to the requirements of this chapter, buildings or facilities where accessibility is required for applications listed in California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2 (California Building Code), Chapter 1, Section 1.9.1 regulated by the Division of the State Architect–Access Compliance shall also comply with Title 24, Part 2, Chapter 11A or 11B, as applicable under authority cited by CA Government Code Section 4450 and in reference cited by CA Government Code Sections 4450 through 4461, 12955.1(c), and CA Health and Safety Code Sections 18949.1, 19952 through 19959.

401.0 General.

401.1 Applicability. This chapter shall govern the materials and installation of plumbing fixtures, including faucets and fixture fittings, and the minimum number of plumbing fixtures required based on occupancy. 401.2 Quality of Fixtures. Plumbing fixtures shall be constructed of dense, durable, non-absorbent materials and shall have smooth, impervious surfaces, free from unnecessary concealed fouling surfaces. 401.3 Water-Conserving Fixtures and Fittings. Note 1: [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] Flow rates for specified plumbing fixtures for mandatory nonresidential construction are contained in Chapter 5, Division 5.3 of the California Green Building Standards Code (Part 11, Title 24, Califor- nia Code of Regulations - CALGreen). Scoping provisions applicable to nonresidential additions and alterations are contained in Section 301.3 of CALGreen. Note 2: [BSC-CG] On and after January 1, 2014, certain commercial real property, as defined in Civil Code Section 1101.3, shall have its noncompliant plumbing fixtures replaced with appropriate water-conserving plumbing fix- tures under specific circumstances. See Civil Code Section 1101.1 et seq. for definitions, types of commercial real prop- erty affected, effective dates, circumstances necessitating replacement of noncompliant plumbing fixtures, and duties and responsibilities for ensuring compliance.

[HCD-1] All noncompliant plumbing fixtures in any residen- tial real property shall be replaced with water-conserving plumbing fixtures. Plumbing fixture replacement is required prior to issuance of a certificate of final completion, certificate of occupancy, or final permit approval by the local building _department.

CALGreen § 5.410.4.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text

8575 Grovemont Cir, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
http://nebb.org/index.php|~~**NEBB National Environmental Balancing Bureau, 8575 Grovemont Cir, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
http://nebb.org/index.php|NEBB **~~National Environmental Balancing Bureau, 8575 Grovemont Cir, Gaithersburg, MD 20877
http://nebb.org/index.php| |Procedural Standards, 1983|Procedural Standards|5.410.4.3.1|

6-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

REFERENCED ORGANIZATIONS AND STANDARDS

STANDARD ACRONYM or NUMBER	STANDARD NAME or TITLE	REFERENCED SECTION
~~NSF~~ International, 789 Dixboro Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48113-0140 http://www.nsf.org/	~~NSF~~ International, 789 Dixboro Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48113-0140 http://www.nsf.org/	~~NSF~~ International, 789 Dixboro Rd. Ann Arbor, MI 48113-0140 http://www.nsf.org/
NSF/ANSI 140-2014	Sustainability Assessment for Carpet	4.504.3
~~TABB~~ Testing, Adjusting and Balancing Bureau, 601 N Fairfax St, Ste 250, Alexandria, VA 22314 http://www.tabbcertified.org/contact.html	~~TABB~~ Testing, Adjusting and Balancing Bureau, 601 N Fairfax St, Ste 250, Alexandria, VA 22314 http://www.tabbcertified.org/contact.html	~~TABB~~ Testing, Adjusting and Balancing Bureau, 601 N Fairfax St, Ste 250, Alexandria, VA 22314 http://www.tabbcertified.org/contact.html
National Standards, 2003	National Standards	5.410.4.3.1
~~US EPA~~ United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Wastewater Management (4204M) 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20460 http://www.epa.gov/watersense/	~~US EPA~~ United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Wastewater Management (4204M) 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20460 http://www.epa.gov/watersense/	~~US EPA~~ United States Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Wastewater Management (4204M) 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20460 http://www.epa.gov/watersense/
WaterSense	WaterSense Product Specifications	4.303.1

2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 6-5

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

6-6 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

CALGreen § 1.28 High relevance — show source text
not more than 1.28 gallons (4.8 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or

ASME A112.19.14 and shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilets. The effective flush volume for dual flush toilets is defined as the composite, average flush volume of two reduced flushes and one full flush.

L 402.2.2 Flushometer-Valve Activated Water

Closets. Flushometer-valve activated water closets

shall have a maximum flush volume of not more than 1.28 gallons (4.8 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 and shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for FlushometerValve Water Closets.

L 402.3 Urinals. Urinals shall have a maximum flush volume of not more than 0.5 gallon (1.9 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Flushing urinals shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification.

L 402.3.1 Nonwater Urinals. Nonwater urinals shall comply with ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4, ASME A112.19.19, or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Nonwater urinals shall be cleaned and maintained in accordance with

the manufacturer’s instructions after installation. Where nonwater urinals are installed, they shall have a water distribution line roughed-in to the urinal location at a height not less than 56 inches (1422 mm) to allow for the installation of an approved backflow prevention device in the event of a retrofit. Such water distribution lines

shall be installed with shutoff valves located as close as possible to the distributing main to prevent the creation of dead ends. Where nonwater urinals are installed, not less than one water supplied fixture rated at not less than 1 drainage fixture unit (DFU) shall be installed upstream on the same drain line to facilitate drain line flow and rinsing. L 402.3.2 Nonwater Urinals with Drain Cleansing Action. Nonwater urinals with drain cleansing action shall comply with ASME A112.19.19 and shall be cleaned, maintained, and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

L 402.4 Residential Kitchen Faucets. The maximum

flow rate of residential kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.8 gallons per minute (gpm) (6.8 L/m) at 60 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (414 kPa). Kitchen faucets are permitted to temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gpm (8.3 L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa), and shall revert to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gpm (6.8 L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa) upon valve closure.

L 402.5 Lavatory Faucets. The maximum water flow rate of faucets shall comply with Section L 402.5.1 and Section L 402.5.2.

CALGreen § 12000-2021 High relevance — show source text

356 2025 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE

REFERENCED STANDARDS

TABLE 1701.2 (continued) STANDARDS, PUBLICATIONS, PRACTICES, AND GUIDES

DOCUMENT NUMBER	DOCUMENT TITLE	APPLICATION
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 12062-2021	Water Quality Program Professional Qualifications Standard for Pipefitters and HVAC Technicians	Professional Qualifications
ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI 12063-2021	Water Quality Program Professional Qualifications Standard for Sprinkler

Frequently asked questions

Which CALGreen section explicitly points to WaterSense product specs?

CALGreen identifies WaterSense Product Specifications in the referenced‑standards list at § 4.303.1.

Do all fixtures need an EPA WaterSense label?

No. Only fixtures specifically required by the code or the plumbing tables to be listed to a WaterSense specification must be WaterSense‑listed. See Table L402.1 and the notes (showerheads, tank‑type toilets, flushometer toilets, flushing urinals, lavatory faucets).

If a product meets a different third‑party standard, is that acceptable?

It depends. The plumbing code requires compliance with the standards explicitly listed (ASME/CSA product standards) and, where called out, the WaterSense product specification listing. Always confirm the specific CALGreen / plumbing section that governs that fixture.

Where do I verify a product is WaterSense‑listed?

Verify on the EPA WaterSense product lists (manufacturer certification/listing) and cross‑check the product’s WaterSense listing against the WaterSense specification named in the code (e.g., Showerheads, Tank‑Type Toilets). CALGreen points you to those WaterSense Product Specifications in § 4.303.1.

What if Title 20 appliance rules are stricter?

If Title 20 (California appliance efficiency regulations) prescribes a lower maximum flow, that lower value applies — the plumbing code notes this condition.

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

Related in the CALGreen

Where does CALGreen reference graywater and recycled‑water standards or guidance?

How to look up specific plumbing/product standards (NSF, CSA, ASME) in Chapter 6

Plumbing, fixtures, WaterSense and water‑reuse referenced standards

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Which WaterSense product specifications or plumbing fixture standards does CALGreen reference?

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Requirements in detail

Where to look in the code

Exceptions & special cases

Common mistakes

Worked example — residential bathroom specification check

Related provisions

Code references

8 COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

Frequently asked questions

More in California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Ask about the CALGreen

Related in the CALGreen