CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

Residential model ordinance guidance and sample adoption language

CALGreen’s residential appendices are voluntary at the state level but may be made mandatory by a city or county adopting them by reference; the local ordinance must include factual findings showing the chosen measures are appropriate and achievable before making them mandatory (see **§ A4.701.1**).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires

The California Green Building Standards Code provides voluntary measures for residential construction that a local government may adopt by reference and make mandatory through a local ordinance. The controlling provision is § A4.701.1, which directs jurisdictions to include factual findings that the measures are appropriate and achievable before making them mandatory and notes a sample adoption/resolution is provided for insertion into local ordinance text.

To make CALGreen’s residential voluntary measures mandatory a jurisdiction must adopt them by ordinance and include factual findings that they are appropriate and achievable. § A4.701.1.

Requirements in detail

Key legal rule (plain language)

  • A local city, county, or city-and-county that wants to require CALGreen’s voluntary residential measures must: (1) adopt the voluntary measures by reference via a local ordinance; and (2) include factual information in the adopting ordinance showing the measures are appropriate and achievable as mandatory requirements. § A4.701.1.

Decision-relevant dimensions

Decision dimension Typical options / values a jurisdiction must decide Code Reference
Adoption method Adopt voluntary measures by reference into local code (no need to reprint full text) § A4.701.1.
Measures to adopt Entire Appendix A4; selected appendices; or specific Tier 1 / Tier 2 measures § A4.701.1 (sample showing Tier 1 / Tier 2 adoption).
Required findings / factual information Evidence addressing feasibility, achievability, and suitability for mandatory status (e.g., technical feasibility, local capacity, cost considerations) § A4.701.1 (jurisdictions “should ensure that certain factual information is included in the adopting ordinance”).
Local tailoring Authority to modify provisions to address innovative concepts or local environmental conditions Sample adoption language contemplates additional items for local conditions.
Effective date & enforcement Jurisdiction sets effective date and enforcement mechanism (building department, inspection, verification checklist) — insert into ordinance text § A4.701.1 notes sample adoption addresses insertion into code text.

Drafting the adopting ordinance — recommended elements

  • A clear statement that the jurisdiction “adopts by reference” the identified CALGreen appendices or Tier (e.g., Tier 1, Tier 2) and specifies the exact appendix/sections adopted. § A4.701.1 requires adoption by reference; the appendices list (Appendix A4) includes the residential voluntary measures.
  • Factual findings showing why the measures are being made mandatory (technical feasibility, availability of local trades/materials, local environmental benefit, and cost/benefit considerations). The code instructs jurisdictions to “ensure that certain factual information is included in the adopting ordinance” so measures are “appropriate and achievable.” § A4.701.1.
  • Identification of which Tier or specific measures are adopted (example language in the model resolution shows adoption of Tier 1 or Tier 2 provisions).
  • An attachment or exhibit with the exact CALGreen text (or a clear cross-reference) to be enforceable and to make it easy for permit applicants and plan reviewers to find the mandatory requirements. § A4.701.1 explains the sample adoption addresses “information required for insertion into the code text.”
  • Statement preserving local authority to make necessary changes or clarifications (the code itself affirms local governments may make necessary changes). § A4.701.1.

Exceptions & special cases

  • The appendices are voluntary at the state level and become mandatory in a jurisdiction only when the jurisdiction adopts them by ordinance; they are not automatically mandatory statewide. See § A4.701.1 explaining adoption by reference pursuant to § 101.7.
  • Jurisdictions may tailor the adopted provisions to reflect local environmental conditions or innovative concepts as contemplated by the sample resolution language — include those adaptations explicitly in the ordinance text or as local amendments.
  • If a jurisdiction wants only selected measures or only certain building types covered (for example, single-family vs. multifamily), specify that scope clearly in the ordinance and state the factual basis for limiting scope per the “appropriate and achievable” requirement. § A4.701.1 requires factual information to support suitability.

Common mistakes

  • Not including clear factual findings in the ordinance (omitting the “why” makes the adoption vulnerable to challenge). § A4.701.1 requires inclusion of factual information demonstrating appropriateness and achievability.
  • Adopting appendices without specifying exactly which Tier/appendix text is adopted or failing to attach or cross‑reference the adopted text for enforceability. § A4.701.1 points jurisdictions to a sample adoption that includes insertion guidance.
  • Assuming state-level voluntary measures are automatically mandatory — they are mandatory only after local adoption by ordinance (see § A4.701.1 and cross-reference to adoption authority § 101.7).
  • Copying the CALGreen appendix verbatim into local ordinance without checking local feasibility or industry capacity; the code expects jurisdictions to confirm achievability. § A4.701.1.

Worked example — City adoption scenario (illustrative)

City of Greendale wants to require CALGreen Tier 1 residential measures for all new single-family homes.

Steps Greendale follows (consistent with § A4.701.1):

  1. Council resolution declares intent to adopt Tier 1 provisions of Appendix A4 by reference and identifies the exact appendix sections being adopted. The model resolution in CALGreen shows this approach for Tier 1 / Tier 2 adoption.
  2. Staff prepares factual findings showing: local builders can meet the measures (survey of local contractors), material availability (local suppliers stock required products), and economic analysis showing average incremental construction cost and expected utility savings. These findings are included in the ordinance to demonstrate measures are appropriate and achievable as required by § A4.701.1.
  3. The ordinance attaches the Tier 1 checklist or references the specific Appendix pages to be enforced; it sets an effective date six months after adoption to give industry time to comply (the code’s sample adoption contemplates insertion of required information into ordinance text).
  4. The building department incorporates the selected CALGreen checklist into plan review and inspection procedures and uses the documented findings to explain the ordinance at public hearings and in permit materials. This process follows the procedural concept in § A4.701.1 that voluntary measures are intended to be adopted by reference and made mandatory by local ordinance.

Note: the numerical cost/lead-time examples above are illustrative planning choices, not specified by CALGreen; the only required code content is the inclusion of factual findings and the adoption-by-reference mechanism set out in § A4.701.1.

Related provisions

  • § A4.701.1 — Residential Model Ordinance (controlling text; sample adoption/resolution).
  • § 101.7 — (state-level adoption by local ordinance reference is the mechanism cited by A4.701.1) — referenced in the A4.701.1 text.
  • § A4.6 — Tier 1 and Tier 2 (Appendix A4 voluntary tier structure referenced in the residential appendices).
  • Appendix A4 (A4.1–A4.6) — the body of voluntary residential measures (planning, energy, water, materials, environmental quality, and tiers) that a jurisdiction may adopt by reference.

Code references

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

  • CALGreen § 101.7. High relevance — show source text

    Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|

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    DIVISION A4.7 – RESIDENTIAL MODEL ORDINANCE

    A4.701.1 General. The voluntary measures of this code are designed and promulgated to be adopted by reference and made mandatory by local ordinance pursuant to Section 101.7. Jurisdictions wishing to adopt the voluntary provisions of this code as an enforceable regulation governing structures and premises should ensure that certain factual information is included in the adopting ordinance and that the measures are appropriate and achievable and are considered to be suitable as mandatory by the city, county, or city and county. The following sample adoption ordinance addresses several key elements of a code adoption ordinance, including the information required for insertion into the code text.

    This code does not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county government to make necessary changes to the provisions contained in this code.

    SAMPLE RESOLUTION FOR ADOPTION OF THE TIER 1 OR TIER 2 PROVISIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE WITH OR WITHOUT ADDITIONAL ITEMS NECESSARY TO ADDRESS INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS OR LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS.

    ATTACHMENT___.

    SAMPLE RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDICES AS A MANDATORY REFERENCE STANDARD

    CITY OF ________________________

    RESOLUTION # __________________

    RESOLUTION ADOPTING ENHANCED GREEN BUILDING MEASURES FOR NEW AND EXISTING RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION.

    WHEREAS, the City/County of ______’s (City or County) General Plan sets forth goals for preserving and improving the natural and built environment of the City/County, protecting the health of its residents and visitors, and fostering its economy; and

    WHEREAS, green building is a holistic approach to design, construction and demolition that minimizes the building’s impact on the environment, the occupants and the community; and

    WHEREAS, green buildings benefit building industry professionals, residents and communities by improving construction quality; increasing building durability; reducing utility, maintenance, water and energy costs; creating healthier homes; and enhancing comfort and livability; and

    WHEREAS, the California Green Building Standards Code appendices have included voluntary tiers to provide a city, county, or city and county, building professionals, and the general public with a range of voluntary green building measures for builders to choose from when constructing homes in California; and

  • CALGreen § 8-40 High relevance — show source text

    . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40

    APPENDIX A4 RESIDENTIAL

    VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3

    A4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3 A4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-9 A4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A4-13 A4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-15 A4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-19 A4.6 Tier 1 and Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-21

    Division A4.6—Residential Occupancies Application Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-23 A4.7 Residential Model Ordinance . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-31

    APPENDIX A5 NONRESIDENTIAL

    VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3

    A5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3 A5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-13 A5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A5-19 A5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-25 A5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-35 A5.6 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41 A5.601 CALGren Tier 1 and Tier 2. . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41

    A5.602 CALGreen Verification Guidelines Mandatory Measures Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-44

    A5.602.1 CALGreen Verification Guidelines

    Tier 1 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-48

    A5.602.2 CALGreen Verification Guidelines

    Tier 2 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-55

    APPENDIX A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH

  • CALGreen § 7-4 High relevance — show source text

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 8 – COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    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    		 X
    Chapter/Section
    WS-3 X
    WS-4 X
    WS-5 X
    WS-9 X
    IES TM-15-11 Table A-1 X
    Table 130.2-A X
    Table 1302.2-B X

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    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

  • CALGreen § 703.1 High relevance — show source text

    ||||||| |Verifications||||||| |703.1Verification of compliance with this code may include
    construction documents, plans, specifications builder or installer
    certification, inspection reports or other methods acceptable to the
    enforcing agency which show substantial conformance.||||||| |1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|1. Green building measures listed in this table may be mandatory if adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7.
    2. Required prerequisite for this Tier.
    3. These measures are currently required elsewhere in statute or in regulation.|

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    DIVISION A4.7 – RESIDENTIAL MODEL ORDINANCE

    A4.701.1 General. The voluntary measures of this code are designed and promulgated to be adopted by reference and made mandatory by local ordinance pursuant to Section 101.7. Jurisdictions wishing to adopt the voluntary provisions of this code as an enforceable regulation governing structures and premises should ensure that certain factual information is included in the adopting ordinance and that the measures are appropriate and achievable and are considered to be suitable as mandatory by the city, county, or city and county. The following sample adoption ordinance addresses several key elements of a code adoption ordinance, including the information required for insertion into the code text.

    This code does not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county government to make necessary changes to the provisions contained in this code.

  • CALGreen § 102.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    The chapter includes mitigation strategies to reduce the hazards of fire originating within a structure spreading to wildland and fire originating in wildland spreading to structures.

    Chapter 7 Referenced Standards.

    Chapter 7 lists all of the product and installation standards and codes that are referenced throughout Chapters 1 through 6 and includes identification of the promulgators and the section numbers in which the standards and codes are referenced. As stated in Section 102.4, these standards and codes become an enforceable part of the code (to the prescribed extent of the reference) as if printed in the body of the code.

    Appendix A General Requirements.

    Appendix A, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide fire-protection measures supplemental to those found in Chapter 6 to reduce the threat of wildfire in a wildland-urban interface area and improve the capability for controlling such fires. This appendix includes detailed requirements for vegetation control; the code official’s authority to close wildland-interface areas in times of high fire danger; control of fires, fireworks usage and other sources of ignition; storage of hazardous materials and combustibles; bans on the dumping of waste materials and ashes and coals in wildlandurban interface areas; protection of pumps and water supplies; and limits on temporary uses within the wildland-urban interface area.

    Appendix B Vegetation Management Plan.

    Appendix B, while not part of the code, can become part of the code when specifically included in the adopting ordinance. Its purpose is to provide criteria for submitting vegetation management plans, specifying their content and establishing a criterion for considering vegetation management as being a fuel modification.

    Appendix C Community Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework.

    Appendix C contains a preliminary Community WUI Fire Hazard Evaluation Framework as a suggested methodology to begin to support communities at risk in the identification of their unique hazards and to provide common metrics for comparisons between communities. This preliminary framework includes information on community size, population and fuels; on notification and evacuation; and on the community infrastructure and firefighting response potential. Aspects of this framework may already be included in various community- level documents, such as Community Wildfire Protection Plans or evacuation plans. Development of a standard framework will (1) consolidate relevant WUI fire hazard and planning information in one place, and (2) allow for cross-community comparisons.

    The evaluation required to implement this framework will support prefire hazard assessment and during-fire response operations. An increased understanding of fire evacuation, fire structural response and fire defensive action relationships is needed to assess the over- all community WUI fire hazard. The quantification of these relationships will enable communities to optimize the community-level response to WUI fire hazards in a more integrated approach and result in increased life safety and reduced losses.

    Appendix D Model Ordinance for Fire Hazard Severity Zone Adoption.

    Appendix D is an informational appendix that is a sample ordinance designed as guidance for a city, county, city and county, or fire district to establish and designate fire hazard severity zones within their jurisdiction.

    Appendix E Reserved.

    Appendix F Characteristics of Fire-Smart Vegetation.

    Appendix F is an informational appendix provided for the convenience of the code user. It is simply a compilation of the eight characteristics of fire-smart vegetation that can be used effectively within wildland-urban interface areas to reduce the likelihood of fire spread through vegetation.

    **App

  • CALGreen § 2.7 Medium relevance — show source text

    MERV Filter minimum efficiency reporting value.

    METERING FAUCET. A self-closing faucet that dispenses a specific volume of water for each actuation cycle. The volume or cycle duration can be fixed or adjustable.

    MODEL WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE (MWELO) [BSC-CG & DSA-SS] A California regulation commencing with Section 490 of Chapter 2.7, Division 2, Title 23, California Code of Regulations . The MWELO regulation establishes a structure for planning, designing, installing, maintaining and managing water efficient landscapes in new construction and rehabilitated projects.

    MODEL WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE (MWELO). [HCD] The California model ordinance (California Code of Regulations, Title 23, Division 2, Chapter 2.7), regulating landscape design, installation and maintenance practices. Local agencies are required to adopt the updated MWELO, or adopt a local ordinance at least as effective as the MWELO.

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    DEFINITIONS

    MOISTURE CONTENT. The weight of the water in wood expressed in percentage of the weight of the oven-dry wood.

    MOUNTING HEIGHT (MH). The height of the photometric center of a luminaire above grade level.

    MULTI-OCCUPANT SPACES. Indoor spaces used for presentations and training, including classrooms and conference rooms.

    NEIGHBORHOOD ELECTRIC VEHICLE (NEV). [BSC-CG, DSA-SS] A motor vehicle that meets the definition of “low-speed vehicle” either in Section 385.5 of the Vehicle Code or in 49 CFR571.500 (as it existed on July 1, 2000), and is certified to zero-emission vehicle standards.

    NEWLY CONSTRUCTED (or NEW CONSTRUCTION). A newly constructed building (or new construction) does not include additions, alterations or repairs.

    NO ADDED FORMALDEHYDE (NAF) BASED RESINS. Resin formulated with no added formaldehyde as part of the resin cross linking structure for making hardwood plywood, particle board or medium density fiberboard. “No added formaldehyde resins” include, but are not limited to, resins made from soy, polyvinyl acetate or methylene diisocyanate. [BSC] See CCR, Title 17, Section 93120.1(a).

    NON-STORMWATER DISCHARGES. Discharges that do not originate from precipitation events. Including, but not limited to, dewatering activities, washout area discharge, vehicle and equipment cleaning, street cleaning and irrigation runoff.

    NONWATER URINAL WITH DRAIN CLEANSING ACTION. A nonwater urinal that conveys waste into the drainage system without the use of water for flushing and automatically performs a drain-cleansing action after a predetermined amount of time.

    OFF-STREET LOADING SPACES. [BSC-CG, DSA-SS] An area, other than a public street, public way or other property (and exclusive of off-street parking spaces), permanently reserved or set aside for the loading or unloading of motor vehicles, including ways of ingress and egress and maneuvering areas. Whenever the term “loading space” is used, it shall, unless the context clearly requires otherwise, be construed as meaning off-street loading space. This excludes designated passenger loading/unloading.

  • CALGreen § 8-6 Medium relevance — show source text

    . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6 Worksheet (WS-9) 5.409.2 and A5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Plan . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Worksheet. . . . . . 8-9 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Acknowledgment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 Title 23, Waters, California Code of Regulations . . . . . . . . . 8-11 Commissioning Referenced Standards for Non-energy Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13 IES TM-15-11 Table A-1, Table 130.2-A and Table 130.2-B Uplight and Glare Ratings Tables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40

    APPENDIX A4 RESIDENTIAL

    VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3

    A4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3 A4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-9 A4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A4-13 A4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-15 A4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-19 A4.6 Tier 1 and Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-21

    Division A4.6—Residential Occupancies Application Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-23 A4.7 Residential Model Ordinance . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-31

    APPENDIX A5 NONRESIDENTIAL

    VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3

  • CWUIC § D101 Medium relevance — show source text

    D MODEL ORDINANCE FOR FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE ADOPTION

    This appendix is for informational purposes and is not intended for adoption.

    User notes:

    About this appendix: Appendix D is an informational appendix that is a sample ordinance designed as guidance for a city, county, city and county, or fire district to establish and designate fire hazard severity zones within their jurisdiction.

    SECTION D101—MODEL ORDINANCE FOR DESIGNATION OF FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES IN LOCAL RESPONSIBILITY AREAS (LRA)

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    E RESERVED

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    CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX F – CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRE-SMART VEGETATION

    (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 Col5 HCD Col7 Col8 DSA Col10 OSHPD Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 Col16 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting Agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 T-24 T-19* 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt Entire Chapter
    Adopt Entire Chapter as
    amended (amended sections
    listed below)    		 X
    Adopt only those sections that
    are listed below
    [California Code of Regulations,
    Title 19, Division 1]
    Chapter / Section
    F101.1 X
  • CALGreen § 1.11. Medium relevance — show source text
    • The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by 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.

    The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 14, Division 1.5 provisions that are found in the California Wildland-Urban Interface Code are not listed in the Matrix Adoption Tables as they are not within the State Fire Marshal’s authority to adopt. These provisions are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 14, Division 1.5 text for the code user’s convenience only and are identified in the body of the code by square brackets containing references to applicable Title 14 sections.

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    D MODEL ORDINANCE FOR FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONE ADOPTION

    This appendix is for informational purposes and is not intended for adoption.

    User notes:

    About this appendix: Appendix D is an informational appendix that is a sample ordinance designed as guidance for a city, county, city and county, or fire district to establish and designate fire hazard severity zones within their jurisdiction.

    SECTION D101—MODEL ORDINANCE FOR DESIGNATION OF FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES IN LOCAL RESPONSIBILITY AREAS (LRA)

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    E RESERVED

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    CALIFORNIA WILDLAND-URBAN INTERFACE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    APPENDIX F – CHARACTERISTICS OF FIRE-SMART VEGETATION

    (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 § 6.1507 Medium relevance — show source text

    LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
    Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
    where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
    COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
    Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
    where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
    COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
    Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
    where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
    COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
    Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
    where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
    COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
    Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
    where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
    COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|1. LIFT = Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Leaving Chilled Water Temperature (°F)
    2. Condenser DT = Leaving Condenser Water Temperature (°F) – Entering Condenser Water Temperature (°F)
    Kadj = 6.1507 – 0.30244(×) + 0.0062692(×)2 – 0.000045595(×)3
    where× = Condenser DT + LIFT
    COPadj = Kadj * COPstd|

    A6.207.1.2 Controls for heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters. Heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters shall have controls:

    A6.207.1.2.1 That prevent supplementary heater operation when the heating load can be met by the heat pump alone; and

  • CALGreen § 18-22 Medium relevance — show source text

    18-22 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE

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

    SOILS AND FOUNDATIONS

    1810.3.2.6 Allowable stresses. The allowable stresses for materials used in deep foundation elements shall not exceed those specified in Table 1810.3.2.6.

    TABLE 1810.3.2.6—ALLOWABLE STRESSES FOR MATERIALS USED IN DEEP FOUNDATION ELEMENTS Col2
    MATERIAL TYPE AND CONDITION MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE STRESSa
    1. Concrete or grout in compressionb
    Cast-in-place with a permanent casing in accordance with Section 1810.3.2.7
    or Section 1810.3.5.3.4
    Cast-in-place in other permanent casing or rock
    Cast-in-place without a permanent casing
    Precast nonprestressed
    Precast prestressed    		 0.4_f ′c_
    0.33_f ′c_
    0.3_f ′c_
    0.33_f ′c_
    0.33_f ′c_ - 0.27_fpc_
    2. Nonprestressed reinforcement in compression 0.4_fy_ ≤ 30,000 psi
    3. Steel in compression
    Cores within concrete-filled pipes or tubes
    Pipes, tubes or H-piles, where justified in accordance with Section 1810.3.2.8
    Pipes or tubes for micropiles
    Other pipes, tubes or H-piles
    Helical piles    		 0.5_Fy_ ≤ 32,000 psi
    0.5_Fy ≤ 32,000 psi
    0.4_Fy     ≤ 32,000 psi
    0.35_Fy_ ≤ 24,000 psi
    0.6_Fy_ ≤ 0.5_Fu_
    4. Nonprestressed reinforcement in tension
    Within micropiles
    Other conditions
    For load combinations that do not include wind or seismic loads
    For load combinations that include wind or seismic loads    		 0.6_fy_
    0.5_fy_ ≤ 30,000 psi
    0.5_fy_ ≤ 40,000 psi
    5. Steel in tension
    Pipes, tubes or H-piles, where justified in accordance with Section 1810.3.2.8
    Other pipes, tubes or H-piles
    Helical piles    		 0.5_Fy_ ≤ 32,000 psi
    0.35_Fy_ ≤ 24,000 psi
    0.6_Fy_ ≤ 0.5_Fu_
    6. Timber In accordance with the ANSI/AWC NDS
    a.f ′c is the specified compressive strength of the concrete or grout;fpc is the compressive stress on the gross concrete section due to effective prestress forces only;fy is the spec-
    ified yield strength of reinforcement;Fy is the specified minimum yield stress of steel;Fu is the specified minimum tensile stress of structural steel.
    b. The stresses specified apply to the gross cross-sectional area of the concrete for precast prestressed piles and to the net cross-sectional area for all other piles.
  • CALGreen § 1220.4.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    8|1220.4.2 – 1220.4.6| |1221.7|1221.6| |1308.2 – 1308.4.1|1308.3 – 1308.5.1| |Table 1308.3.1|Table 1308.4.1| |1308.4.2|1308.5.2| |1308.4.2.2 – 1308.6.4|1308.5.2.1 – 1308.7.3| |Table 1308.4.6.2|Table 1308.5.6.2| |1308.6.5 – 1308.13.1|1308.7.7 – 1308.14.1| |1312.1.2 – 1312.1.3|1312.1.1 – 1312.1.2| |Chapter 17|Appendix F| |Chapter 18|Chapter 17| |D 103.2|D 103.1| |E 503.5.6.7|E 503.5.6.6| |E 503.5.7.2 – E 503.5.7.6|E 503.5.7.1 – E 503.5.7.5| |Table E 503.5.7.2|Table E 503.5.7.1| |Table E 503.5.7.6|Table E 503.5.7.5| |Table E 503.5.10.1.2(1)|Table E 503.5.10(1)| |Table E 503.5.10.1.2(2)|Table E 503.5.10(2)| |E 503.5.10.1.2|E 503.5.10| |E 503.5.10.2 – E 503.5.10.2.2|E 503.5.10.1 – E 503.5.10.1.2| |E 503.5.12.1|E 503.5.12| |E 503.5.12.2|E 503.5.12.1| |E 503.6.5.4|E 503.6.5.4.1|

    xxii 2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

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

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Frequently asked questions

Can a city adopt only part of Appendix A4 or only certain Tiers?

Yes. § A4.701.1 contemplates adoption by reference of voluntary provisions — jurisdictions choose which appendices or tiers to adopt and should document that choice and supporting findings in the ordinance.

What must the adopting ordinance include to make the measures enforceable?

The ordinance should adopt the CALGreen provisions by reference, identify the specific appendix/sections or Tier, attach or cross-reference the exact text/checklists, and include factual findings showing the measures are appropriate and achievable as required by § A4.701.1.

Does the code prevent local modifications or stricter requirements?

No. § A4.701.1 states the code does not limit the authority of local governments to make necessary changes; the sample resolution explicitly contemplates additional items for local conditions or innovative concepts.

Is there sample language I can use for a resolution or ordinance?

Yes. CALGreen includes a sample resolution and model adoption language for Tier 1 / Tier 2 adoption and attachments; jurisdictions may use that text as a template and must insert their factual findings as described in § A4.701.1.

If we adopt by reference, do we need to reprint the full CALGreen appendix in our municipal code?

Not necessarily — adopting by reference is the intended mechanism (the sample adoption shows how to reference the appendices and include attachments). However, the ordinance must clearly identify the text being adopted (attachment or precise cross-reference) so it can be enforced. § A4.701.1 addresses the insertion of required information into the ordinance text.

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