CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
Topsoil protection, permeable paving, cool roofs and EV charging requirements
For homeowners: CALGreen’s Appendix A Tier requirements say keep and protect topsoil during construction, make at least 20% (Tier 1) or 30% (Tier 2) of parking/walk/patio areas permeable, install roofing that meets 3‑year aged reflectance/emittance or SRI targets (unless excepted), and build homes EV‑ready by providing a 208/240‑V, 40‑A branch‑circuit capacity or an appropriately sized raceway and marked panel space so a charger can be added later.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2–4 sentences
CALGreen requires protection and reuse of topsoil for voluntary Tier projects (§ A4.106.2.3), minimum permeable paving percentages for parking/walk/patio surfaces (§ A4.106.4), cool roof performance limits (aged solar reflectance, thermal emittance or SRI) for Tier 1 and Tier 2 (§ A4.106.5), and EV charging readiness measures for new construction including dedicated branch-circuit and raceway sizing for single-family and thresholds for multifamily/hotels (§ A4.106.8). These provisions are shown in the Appendix A4 voluntary (Tier) measures; see the specific controlling sections for Tier 1 vs Tier 2 differences.
Protect existing fertile topsoil, provide permeable surfaces at the mandated percentage, use roofing materials that meet the aged reflectance/emittance or SRI thresholds, and make new buildings EV‑ready with the specified raceway/branch‑circuit capacity.
Requirements in detail
1) Topsoil protection — what to do on site
- Defined: Topsoil = the upper soil layer to be saved and reused rather than discarded.
- Tier 1 requirement (voluntary): Displaced topsoil shall be stockpiled for reuse in a designated area and covered or otherwise protected from erosion (examples: tarps, straw, mulch, chipped wood, vegetative cover). § A4.106.2.3.
- Tier 2 requirement: Delineate construction area with fencing/flagging to limit disturbance; restrict heavy equipment and storage to areas planned to be paved. § A4.106.2.3.
Decision table — Topsoil protection
| Decision factor | Tier 1 action required | Tier 2 action required | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Displaced topsoil on site | Stockpile for reuse and cover/protect from erosion | Same, plus limit disturbance with fencing/flagging and restrict heavy equipment to paved areas | § A4.106.2.3 |
Practical notes: store topsoil on a pad or in bermed area away from flows, label stockpiles, protect from sediment loss during storms.
2) Permeable paving — where and how much
- Defined: Permeable paving = paving that allows percolation of precipitation to underlying soil (open‑grid, pervious concrete, permeable pavers, etc.).
- Tier 1: At least 20% of the total parking, walking, or patio surfaces must be permeable. § A4.106.4.
- Tier 2: At least 30% of those surfaces must be permeable. § A4.106.4.
- Exceptions: Do not include the primary driveway, primary entry walkway, and entry porch/landing when calculating the required permeable area; also exclude required accessible routes under Title 24 Chapter 11A/11B. § A4.106.4 exceptions.
Decision table — Permeable paving percentages
| Surface group considered | Tier 1 minimum permeable % | Tier 2 minimum permeable % | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total parking + walking + patios (excluding primary driveway/entry and accessible routes) | 20% | 30% | § A4.106.4 |
Design tips: calculate total area excluding the listed exceptions first, then size permeable modules to meet the percent. Use infiltration testing if required by local ordinance.
3) Cool roofs — performance metrics and verification
- Defined: Cool roof compliance is measured by 3‑year aged solar reflectance, thermal emittance, or Solar Reflectance Index (SRI) values. § A4.106.5.
- Tier 1 and Tier 2 both require roofing materials to meet minimum aged solar reflectance and thermal emittance (or SRI) values per tables specific to building type, roof slope and climate zone. § A4.106.5.1 and related tables.
- Exceptions: roofs with thermal mass ≥ 25 lb/ft² (e.g., heavy substrate, some vegetated roofs) and roof areas covered by building‑integrated photovoltaic or solar thermal panels are excepted. § A4.106.5.
- Verification: inspection is required to confirm roofing materials meet the aged reflectance/emittance or SRI values. § A4.106.5.4.
Decision table — Representative cool roof thresholds (select examples)
| Building type & roof slope | Example climate zone(s) | Representative minimum 3‑yr aged solar reflectance | Thermal emittance | SRI | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low‑rise residential, roof ≤ 2:12 | CZ 2,4,6–15 | 0.65 | 0.85 | 78 | § A4.106.5; Table A4.106.5.1(2) |
| Low‑rise residential, roof > 2:12 | CZ 2,4,6–15 | 0.23 | 0.85 | 20 | § A4.106.5; Table A4.106.5.1(2) |
| High‑rise residential/hotels, roof ≤ 2:12 | CZ 9–15 | 0.55 | 0.75 | 64 | § A4.106.5; Table A4.106.5.1(3) |
Notes: use CRRC aged ratings when available; when CRRC aged values are not available, the code permits calculation from initial certified values using the CRRC equation specified in the section. § A4.106.5.1.
4) EV charging readiness — single‑family and multifamily thresholds
- Terminology: EV ready / EV capable — the code requires elements that make future EVSE installation feasible (raceway, reserved panel space, branch‑circuit capacity). § A4.106.8.
- New one- and two‑family dwellings and townhouses with attached private garages (Tier 1 and Tier 2): install a dedicated 208/240‑volt branch circuit in a raceway sized to accommodate it (minimum 40 amperes rating for branch circuit and overcurrent device). If a raceway is installed it must be at least trade size 1 (nominal 1‑inch ID) from the main service/subpanel to a near‑charger enclosure; the service/subpanel must have reserved space and capacity. Identify panel directory and raceway termination as “EV READY” or “EV CAPABLE” as required. § A4.106.8.1 and related subsections.
- New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels — Tier 1 (example requirements): for hotels/motels 60% of total parking spaces must be equipped with low‑power Level 2 EV receptacles; raceway serving such receptacles must be sized to accommodate a 208/240‑volt 40‑ampere branch circuit (or conductors sized if no raceway). § A4.106.8.2.1 Tier 1.
Decision table — EV readiness key values
| Project type | Minimum/percent requirement | Raceway/branch details | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single‑family/townhouse (each dwelling) | Install dedicated 208/240‑V branch circuit (EV ready) | Branch circuit and OCPD 40 A min; raceway ≥ trade size 1 or install actual 40 A branch circuit during construction | § A4.106.8.1 |
| Multifamily / Hotels (Tier 1 example) | 60% of total parking spaces equipped with low‑power Level 2 receptacles (hotels/motels) | Raceway sized to allow installation of a dedicated 208/240‑V 40‑A branch circuit | § A4.106.8.2.1 |
Exceptions: the code allows local enforcing agencies to grant exceptions where EV infrastructure is infeasible (no utility power, utility cannot supply adequate power, or demonstrated unacceptable cost impact). ADUs/JADUs without added parking are also excepted in some cases.
Exceptions & special cases
- Permeable paving calculation excludes the primary driveway, primary entry walkway and entry porch/landing, and required accessible routes — explicitly required by § A4.106.4.
- Cool roof exceptions: heavy thermal‑mass roofs (≥ 25 lb/ft²) and roof areas under building‑integrated PV or solar thermal are excluded from cool‑roof performance requirements. § A4.106.5.
- EV readiness exceptions: local enforcing agencies may exempt projects when there is no local utility power or the utility cannot supply adequate power, or if infrastructure costs would be adversely impacted; ADUs/JADUs without parking may be excluded. § A4.106.8 exceptions.
If a local jurisdiction adopts Tier requirements as mandatory under Section 101.7, these voluntary Tier measures become enforceable locally — always confirm local adoption.
Common mistakes
- Treating the primary driveway or main entry walk as eligible area when calculating permeable percentages — those are excluded per § A4.106.4.
- Stockpiling topsoil without erosion protection — Tier 1 requires covering/protection (tarps, mulch, etc.) — § A4.106.2.3.
- Installing a raceway too small or failing to reserve panel capacity for a 40 A 208/240‑V circuit for single‑family dwellings — the raceway must be continuous and identified, or the actual 40‑A circuit must be installed per § A4.106.8.1.
- Assuming cool‑roof compliance uses initial (new) reflectance rather than 3‑year aged values or SRI thresholds — the code requires 3‑year aged values or the calculation method where CRRC aged data are not available (§ A4.106.5.1).
Worked example — single‑family subdivision (numbers)
Project: 10 new townhouses, each with an attached private garage. Site includes 3,000 sf parking/walking/patio combined (excluding primary driveway/entry). Roofs are low‑slope (≤ 2:12) in CZ 6.
Apply the rules:
- Topsoil (Tier 1): stockpile any displaced topsoil, cover with tarps or mulch and designate reuse area on grading plan to meet § A4.106.2.3.
- Permeable paving (Tier 1): 20% of 3,000 sf = 600 sf must be permeable paving. (Do not count primary driveway/entry because already excluded.) § A4.106.4.
- Cool roof (Tier 1): low‑slope, CZ 6 requires minimum 3‑yr aged solar reflectance 0.65, thermal emittance 0.85, SRI 78 (Table example for low‑rise Tier thresholds). Specify product with CRRC aged rating or use the CRRC equation described in § A4.106.5.1.
- EV readiness (each dwelling): install a raceway (≥ trade size 1, nominal 1‑inch ID) from main service/subpanel to a nearby enclosure and reserve space and capacity in the panel for a 208/240‑V 40‑A branch circuit; identify circuit space and raceway as “EV READY”. Alternatively, install the actual 40‑A branch circuit during construction. § A4.106.8.1.
Related provisions (CALGreen)
- § A4.106.2.3 — Topsoil protection (Tier 1 & Tier 2).
- § A4.106.4 — Water permeable surfaces (permeable paving percentages & exceptions).
- § A4.106.5 — Cool roof aged solar reflectance/thermal emittance/SRI requirements, exceptions and verification.
- § A4.106.8 — EV charging readiness for new construction (single‑family and multifamily/hotels).
- Appendix A4 Tier checklists and applicability (Tier 1/Tier 2 prerequisites and elective structure) — see § A4.601.4.2 and § A4.601.5.2.
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
As specified in Section 101.7, additional prerequisite measures may be included by the enforcing agency to address specific local environmental conditions and may be listed in the Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions portions of the checklist.
A4.601.3 Elective measures. In addition to the required measures, Tier 1 and Tier 2 buildings must incorporate at least the number of elective measures specified in Sections A4.601.4.2 and A4.601.5.2.
A4.601.4 Tier 1. To achieve Tier 1 status a project must comply with the following:
A4.601.4.1 Mandatory measures for Tier 1. The project shall meet or exceed all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 4, Divisions 4.1 through 4.5 and Chapter 7 as applicable.
A4.601.4.2 Prerequisite and elective measures for Tier 1. In addition to the mandatory measures, compliance with the following prerequisite and elective measures from Appendix A4 is also required to achieve Tier 1 status:
From Division A4.1, Planning and Design. 1.1. Comply with the topsoil protection requirements in Section A4.106.2.3. 1.2. Comply with the 20 percent permeable paving requirements in Section A4.106.4. 1.3. Comply with the cool roof requirements in Section A4.106.5. 1.4. Comply with the Tier 1 electric vehicle (EV) charging requirements in Section A4.106.8. 1.5. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.1.
From Division A4.2, Energy Efficiency. 2.1. For newly constructed low-rise residential buildings, comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Sections A4.203.1, A4.203.1.1, Table A4.203.1.1, A4.203.1.2 and A4.203.1.3.
From Division A4.3, Water Efficiency and Conservation. 3.1. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.3.
From Division A4.4, Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency. 4.1. Comply with the 20 percent cement reduction requirements in Section A4.403.2. 4.2. Comply with the 10 percent recycled content requirements in Section A4.405.3.1. 4.3. Comply with the 65 percent reduction in construction waste in Section A4.408.1. 4.4. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.4.
From Division A4.5, Environmental Quality. 5.1. Comply with the 90 percent resilient flooring systems requirements in Section A4.504.2. 5.2. Comply with the thermal insulation requirements for Tier 1 in Section A4.504.3. 5.3. Comply with at least one elective measure selected from Division A4.5.
Note: The Residential Occupancies Application Checklist contained in Section A4.602 may be used to show which elective measures are selected.
A4.601.5 Tier 2. To achieve Tier 2 status a project must comply with the following.
Note: The measures necessary to achieve Tier 2 status are very stringent. Cities, counties, and cities and counties considering adoption of Tier 2 as mandatory should carefully consider the stringency of each measure and ensure that the measures are achievable in their location.
CALGreen § 601.5.2 High relevance — show source text
A4.601.5.2 Prerequisite and elective measures for Tier 2. In addition to the mandatory measures, compliance with the following prerequisite and elective measures from Appendix A4 is also required to achieve Tier 2 status.
- From Division A4.1, Planning and Design.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-21
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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
1.1. Comply with the topsoil protection requirements for Tier 1 and Tier 2 in Section A4.106.2.3. 1.2. Comply with the 30 percent permeable paving requirements in Section A4.106.4. 1.3. Comply with the cool roof requirements in Section A4.106.5. 1.4. Comply with the Tier 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging requirements in Section A4.106.8. 1.5. Comply with at least four elective measures selected from Division A4.1. 2. From Division A4.2, Energy Efficiency. 2.1. For newly constructed low-rise residential buildings, comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Sections A4.203.1, A4.203.1.1, Table A4.203.1.1, A4.203.1.2 and A4.203.1.3.
- From Division A4.3, Water Efficiency and Conservation. 3.1. Comply with at least three elective measures selected from Division A4.3.
- From Division A4.4, Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency. 4.1. Comply with the 25 percent cement reduction requirements in Section A4.403.2. 4.2. Comply with the 15 percent recycled content requirements in Section A4.405.3.1. 4.3. Comply with the 75 percent reduction in construction waste in Section A4.408.1. 4.4. Comply with at least four elective measures selected from Division A4.4.
- From Division A4.5, Environmental Quality. 5.1. Comply with the 100 percent resilient flooring systems requirements in Section A4.504.2. 5.2. Comply with the thermal insulation requirements for Tier 1 and Tier 2 in Section A4.504.3. 5.3. Comply with at least one elective measure selected from Division A4.5.
Note: The Residential Occupancies Application Checklist contained in Section A4.602 may be used to show which elective measures are selected.
APPENDIX A4-22 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
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DIVISION A4.6 – TIER 1 AND TIER 2
SECTION A4.602 — RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST
CALGreen § 509.1 High relevance — show source text
SECTION A4.509 —INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
A4.509.1 Innovative concepts and local environmental conditions. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the use of any alternate material, appliance, installation, device, arrangement, method, design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code. 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 pursuant to Section 101.7.1.
APPENDIX A4-20 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
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A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
DIVISION A4.6 – TIER I AND TIER 2
SECTION A4.601—GENERAL
A4.601.1 Scope. The measures contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7. The provisions of this section outline means of achieving enhanced construction or reach levels by incorporating additional green building measures. In order to meet one of the tier levels designers, builders or property owners are required to incorporate additional green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level.
A4.601.2 Prerequisite measures. Tier 1 and Tier 2 thresholds require compliance with the mandatory provisions of this code and incorporation of the required prerequisite measures listed in Section A4.601.4.2 for Tier 1 and A4.601.5.2 for Tier 2. Prerequisite measures are also identified in the Residential Occupancies Application Checklist in Section A4.602.
As specified in Section 101.7, additional prerequisite measures may be included by the enforcing agency to address specific local environmental conditions and may be listed in the Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions portions of the checklist.
A4.601.3 Elective measures. In addition to the required measures, Tier 1 and Tier 2 buildings must incorporate at least the number of elective measures specified in Sections A4.601.4.2 and A4.601.5.2.
A4.601.4 Tier 1. To achieve Tier 1 status a project must comply with the following:
A4.601.4.1 Mandatory measures for Tier 1. The project shall meet or exceed all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 4, Divisions 4.1 through 4.5 and Chapter 7 as applicable.
A4.601.4.2 Prerequisite and elective measures for Tier 1. In addition to the mandatory measures, compliance with the following prerequisite and elective measures from Appendix A4 is also required to achieve Tier 1 status:
- From Division A4.1, Planning and Design. 1.1. Comply with the topsoil protection requirements in Section A4.106.2.3. 1.2. Comply with the 20 percent permeable paving requirements in Section A4.106.4. 1.3. Comply with the cool roof requirements in Section A4.106.5. 1.4. Comply with the Tier 1 electric vehicle (EV) charging requirements in Section A4.106.8. 1.5. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.1.
- From Division A4.2, Energy Efficiency. 2.1.
CALGreen § 3.1. High relevance — show source text
- From Division A4.3, Water Efficiency and Conservation. 3.1. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.3.
- From Division A4.4, Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency. 4.1. Comply with the 20 percent cement reduction requirements in Section A4.403.2. 4.2. Comply with the 10 percent recycled content requirements in Section A4.405.3.1. 4.3. Comply with the 65 percent reduction in construction waste in Section A4.408.1. 4.4. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.4.
- From Division A4.5, Environmental Quality. 5.1. Comply with the 90 percent resilient flooring systems requirements in Section A4.504.2. 5.2. Comply with the thermal insulation requirements for Tier 1 in Section A4.504.3. 5.3. Comply with at least one elective measure selected from Division A4.5.
Note: The Residential Occupancies Application Checklist contained in Section A4.602 may be used to show which elective measures are selected.
A4.601.5 Tier 2. To achieve Tier 2 status a project must comply with the following.
Note: The measures necessary to achieve Tier 2 status are very stringent. Cities, counties, and cities and counties considering adoption of Tier 2 as mandatory should carefully consider the stringency of each measure and ensure that the measures are achievable in their location.
A4.601.5.1 Mandatory measures for Tier 2. The project shall meet or exceed all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 4, Divisions 4.1 through 4.5 and Chapter 7 as applicable.
A4.601.5.2 Prerequisite and elective measures for Tier 2. In addition to the mandatory measures, compliance with the following prerequisite and elective measures from Appendix A4 is also required to achieve Tier 2 status.
- From Division A4.1, Planning and Design.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-21
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
1.1. Comply with the topsoil protection requirements for Tier 1 and Tier 2 in Section A4.106.2.3. 1.2. Comply with the 30 percent permeable paving requirements in Section A4.106.4. 1.3. Comply with the cool roof requirements in Section A4.106.5. 1.4. Comply with the Tier 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging requirements in Section A4.106.8. 1.5. Comply with at least four elective measures selected from Division A4.1. 2. From Division A4.2, Energy Efficiency. 2.1. For newly constructed low-rise residential buildings, comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Sections A4.203.1, A4.203.1.1, Table A4.203.1.1, A4.203.1.2 and A4.203.1.3.
- From Division A4.3, Water Efficiency and Conservation. 3.1. Comply with at least three elective measures selected from Division A4.3.
- From Division A4.4, Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency. 4.1.
CALGreen § 106.2.3 High relevance — show source text
A4.106.2.3 Topsoil protection. Topsoil shall be protected or saved for reuse as specified in this section.
Tier 1. Displaced topsoil shall be stockpiled for reuse in a designated area and covered or protected from erosion.
Note: Protection from erosion includes covering with tarps, straw, mulch, chipped wood, vegetative cover or other means acceptable to the enforcing agency to protect the topsoil for later use.
Tier 2. The construction area shall be identified and delineated by fencing or flagging to limit construction activity to the construction area. Heavy equipment or vehicle traffic and material storage outside the construction area shall be limited to areas that are planned to be paved.
A4.106.3 Landscape design. Postconstruction landscape designs shall accomplish one or more of the following:
- Areas disrupted during construction are restored to be consistent with native vegetation species and patterns.
- Utilize at least 75 percent native California or drought tolerant plant and tree species appropriate for the climate zone region.
A4.106.4 Water permeable surfaces. Permeable paving is utilized for the parking, walking or patio surfaces in compliance with the following.
Tier 1. Not less than 20 percent of the total parking, walking or patio surfaces shall be permeable.
APPENDIX A4-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
Tier 2. Not less than 30 percent of the total parking, walking or patio surfaces shall be permeable.
Exceptions:
- The primary driveway, primary entry walkway and entry porch or landing shall not be included when calculating the area required to be a permeable surface.
- Required accessible routes for persons with disabilities as required by California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 2, Chapter 11A and/or Chapter 11B as applicable.
A4.106.5 Cool roof for reduction of heat island effect. Roofing materials for Tier 1 and Tier 2 buildings shall comply with this section:
Exceptions:
- Roof constructions that have a thermal mass over the roof membrane including areas of vegetated (green) roofs, weighing at least 25 pounds per square foot.
- Roof areas covered by building integrated solar photovoltaic panels and building integrated solar thermal panels.
A4.106.5.1 Solar reflectance. Roofing materials shall have a minimum 3-year aged solar reflectance equal to or greater than the values specified in Tables A4.106.5.1(1) and A4.106.5.1(3) for Tier 1 and Tables A4.106.5.1(2) and A4.105.5.1(4) for Tier 2.
If CRRC testing for aged solar reflectance is not available for any roofing products, the aged value shall be determined using the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) certified initial value using the equation ρ aged = [0.2 + β[ρ initial -0.2], where ρ initial = the initial Solar Reflectance and soiling resistance, β, is listed by product type in Table A4.106.5.1.
Solar reflectance may also be certified by other supervisory entities approved by the Energy Commission pursuant to Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-113.
CALGreen § 106.5.4 High relevance — show source text
APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A4.106.5.4 Verification. Inspection shall be conducted to ensure roofing materials meet cool roof aged solar reflectance and thermal emittance or SRI values.
A4.106.6 Vegetated roof. Install a vegetated roof for at least 50 percent of the roof area. Vegetated roofs shall comply with requirements for roof gardens and landscaped roofs in the California Building Code, Chapter 15 and Chapter 16.
A4.106.7 Reduction of heat island effect for nonroof areas. Reduce nonroof heat islands for 50 percent of sidewalks, patios, driveways or other paved areas by using one or more of the methods listed.
- Trees or other plantings to provide shade and that mature within 15 years of planting. Trees should be native or adaptive to the region and climate zones and noninvasive; hardy and resistant to drought, insects and disease; easy to maintain (no frequent shedding of twigs, branches, unwanted fruit or seed pods); and suitable in mature size and environmental requirements for the site. Tree selection and placement should consider location and size of areas to be shaded, location of utilities, views from the structure, distance to sidewalks and foundations, overhangs onto adjacent properties and streets; other infrastructure and adjacent to landscaping. In addition, shading shall not cast a shadow, as specified, on any neighboring solar collectors pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 25981, et seq. (Solar Shade Control Act).
- Use high albedo materials with an initial solar reflectance value of at least 0.30 as determined in accordance with American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Standards E1918 or C1549.
- Use open grid pavement system or pervious or permeable pavement system.
- Locate 50 percent of parking underground or use multilevel parking.
- Other methods of reducing heat island effects acceptable to the enforcing agency.
Note: Local agencies may have ordinances requiring mitigation of heat island effects through building or parking lot shading, tree plantings, landscaping, use of pervious pavements and other approved methods.
A4.106.8 Electric vehicle (EV) charging for new construction. New construction shall comply with Section A4.106.8.1 or A4.106.8.2, to facilitate the installation and use of EV ready spaces. Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) shall comply with the California Electrical Code .
A4.106.8.1 New one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses with attached private garages.
Tier 1 and Tier 2. For each dwelling unit, a dedicated 208/240-volt branch circuit shall be installed in the raceway required by Section 4.106.4.1. The branch circuit and associated overcurrent protective device shall be rated at 40 amperes minimum. Other electrical components, including a receptacle or blank cover, related to this section shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
A4.106.8.1.1 Identification. The service panel or subpanel circuit directory shall identify the overcurrent protective device designated for future EV charging purposes as “EV READY” in accordance with the California Electrical Code. The receptacle or blank cover shall be identified as “EV READY.”
A4.106.8.2 New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels. New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels shall meet the following requirements.
CALGreen § 106.8 High relevance — show source text
- Use open grid pavement system or pervious or permeable pavement system.
- Locate 50 percent of parking underground or use multilevel parking.
- Other methods of reducing heat island effects acceptable to the enforcing agency.
Note: Local agencies may have ordinances requiring mitigation of heat island effects through building or parking lot shading, tree plantings, landscaping, use of pervious pavements and other approved methods.
A4.106.8 Electric vehicle (EV) charging for new construction. New construction shall comply with Section A4.106.8.1 or A4.106.8.2, to facilitate the installation and use of EV ready spaces. Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) shall comply with the California Electrical Code .
A4.106.8.1 New one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses with attached private garages.
Tier 1 and Tier 2. For each dwelling unit, a dedicated 208/240-volt branch circuit shall be installed in the raceway required by Section 4.106.4.1. The branch circuit and associated overcurrent protective device shall be rated at 40 amperes minimum. Other electrical components, including a receptacle or blank cover, related to this section shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
A4.106.8.1.1 Identification. The service panel or subpanel circuit directory shall identify the overcurrent protective device designated for future EV charging purposes as “EV READY” in accordance with the California Electrical Code. The receptacle or blank cover shall be identified as “EV READY.”
A4.106.8.2 New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels. New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels shall meet the following requirements.
A4.106.8.2.1 Multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels.
Tier 1. New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels.
- EV ready parking spaces with receptacles. a. Hotels and motels. Sixty (60) percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles. b. Raceway capacity requirements. To allow for future upgrades to the electrical conductors serving low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles, the listed raceway serving such receptacles shall be sized to allow
APPENDIX A4-6 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
the installation of a dedicated 208/240-volt 40-ampere branch circuit. Where no raceway is used, the conductors shall be sized to accommodate a 208/240-volt 40-ampere receptacle.
CALGreen § 405.4 Medium relevance — show source text
- From Division A5.4,
a. Comply with recycled content of 10 percent of materials based on estimated total cost, or use two products from Table A5.405.4 for at least 75 percent by cost in Section A5.405.4. b. Comply with the 65-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division.
- From Division A5.5,
a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 90 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list in Section A5.504.4.8. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division. 6. Comply with one additional elective measure selected from any division.
1 Cool roof is required for compliance with Tiers 1 and 2 and may be used to meet energy standards in Part 6, exceed energy standards and to mitigate heat island effect.
A5.601.3 CALGreen Tier 2.
A5.601.3.1 Prerequisites. To achieve CALGreen tier status, a project must meet all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 5 and, in addition, meet the provisions of this section.
A5.601.3.2 Energy performance. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards.
A5.601.3.3 Tier 2. Comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Section A5.203.1.1 and Section A5.203.1.2.2.
A5.601.3.4 Voluntary measures for Tier 2. In addition to the provisions of Sections A5.601.3.1 and A5.601.3.3 above, compliance with the following voluntary measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 2:
- From Division A5.1, a. Comply with the designated parking requirements for fuel efficient vehicles for a minimum of 50 percent of parking capacity per Section A5.106.5.1. b. Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] and Table A5.106.5.3.2 with footnotes. c. Comply with thermal emittance, solar reflectance or SRI values for cool roofs in Section A5.106.11.2 and Table A5.106.11.2.3. [1]
d. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.
APPENDIX A5-42 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
From Division A5.2 comply with TWO of the following:
Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.
Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.
Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.
Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.
Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.
From Division A5.3,
CALGreen § 601.2.4 Medium relevance — show source text
A5.601.2.4 Voluntary measures for Tier 1. In addition to the provisions of Sections A5.601.2.1 and A5.601.2.3 above, compliance with the following voluntary measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 1:
- From Division A5.1, a. Comply with the designated parking requirements for high-efficiency vehicles for a minimum of 35 percent of parking capacity per Section A5.106.5.1. b. Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] and Table A5.106.5.3.1 w/ footnotes. c. Comply with thermal emittance, solar reflectance or SRI values for cool roofs in Section A5.106.11.2 and Table A5.106.11.2.2. [1]
d. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division. 2. From Division A5.2 comply with ONE of the following:
Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.
Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.
Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.
Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.
Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.
From Division A5.3,
a. Comply with the 12-percent reduction for indoor potable water use in Section A5.303.2.3.1. b. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division.
- From Division A5.4,
a. Comply with recycled content of 10 percent of materials based on estimated total cost, or use two products from Table A5.405.4 for at least 75 percent by cost in Section A5.405.4. b. Comply with the 65-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division.
- From Division A5.5,
a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 90 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list in Section A5.504.4.8. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division. 6. Comply with one additional elective measure selected from any division.
1 Cool roof is required for compliance with Tiers 1 and 2 and may be used to meet energy standards in Part 6, exceed energy standards and to mitigate heat island effect.
A5.601.3 CALGreen Tier 2.
A5.601.3.1 Prerequisites. To achieve CALGreen tier status, a project must meet all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 5 and, in addition, meet the provisions of this section.
A5.601.3.2 Energy performance. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards.
A5.601.3.3 Tier 2. Comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Section A5.203.1.1 and Section A5.203.1.2.2.
CALGreen § 409.4 Medium relevance — show source text
Solar access is the ratio of solar insolation including shade to the
solar insolation without shade. Shading from obstructions located on the roof or any other part of the building shall not be included in the determination of annual solar access.
3.
Life cycle assessment compliant with Section A5.409.4 in this code may be substituted for prescriptive measures from Division A5.4.|A5.601.1 Scope. The measures contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless adopted by local government as specified in Section 101.7. The provisions of this section outline means of achieving enhanced construction or reach levels by incorporating addi
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-41
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
tional green building measures for newly constructed nonresidential buildings as well as additions and alterations. In order to meet one of the tier levels designers, builders or property owners are required to incorporate additional green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level. Refer to the provisions in Section 301.3 for nonresidential additions and alterations scope and application.
A5.601.2 CALGreen Tier 1
A5.601.2.1 Prerequisites. To achieve CALGreen tier status, a project must meet all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 5 and, in addition, meet the provisions of this section.
A5.601.2.2 Energy performance. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards.
A5.601.2.3 Tier 1. Comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Section A5.203.1.1 and Section A5.203.1.2.1.
A5.601.2.4 Voluntary measures for Tier 1. In addition to the provisions of Sections A5.601.2.1 and A5.601.2.3 above, compliance with the following voluntary measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 1:
- From Division A5.1, a. Comply with the designated parking requirements for high-efficiency vehicles for a minimum of 35 percent of parking capacity per Section A5.106.5.1. b. Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] and Table A5.106.5.3.1 w/ footnotes. c. Comply with thermal emittance, solar reflectance or SRI values for cool roofs in Section A5.106.11.2 and Table A5.106.11.2.2. [1]
d. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division. 2. From Division A5.2 comply with ONE of the following:
Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.
Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.
Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.
Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.
Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.
From Division A5.3,
a. Comply with the 12-percent reduction for indoor potable water use in Section A5.303.2.3.1. b. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division.
- From Division A5.4,
CALGreen § 5.106.5.3.6 Medium relevance — show source text
Table 5.106.5.3.6,
5.106.5.3.6.1,
5.106.5.3.6.2 and
5.106.5.3.6.3||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Additions or Alterations to existing buildings or parking facili-
ties [A] with Exceptions|5.106.5.4||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas without previously
installed EV capable infrastructure [A]|5.106.5.4.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Existing buildings or parking areas without previously
installed EV capable infrastructure [A]|5.106.5.4.2||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-duty [N]|5.106.5.5||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Electric vehicle charging readiness requirements for warehouses,
grocery stores and retail stores, office buildings, and manufactur-
ing facilities with planned off-street loading spaces [N]|5.106.5.5.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Table 5.106.5.5.1|5.106.5.5 and
5.106.5.5.1||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Light pollution reduction [N] (with exceptions, notes and table)|5.106.8 through
5.106.8.2||||| |DIVISION 5.1
Planning and
Design|Mandatory|Grading and paving (exception for additions and alterations
not altering the drainage path)|5.106.10||||| |DIVISION 5.2
Energy
Efficiency|Mandatory|Meet the minimum energy efficiency standard|5.201.1|||||APPENDIX A5-44 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
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APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
CHAPTER 5
DIVISIONSCol2 SECTION TITLE CODE
SECTIONY N/A O PLAN SHEET,
SPEC OR
ATTACHDIVISION 5.3
Water
Efficiency and
ConservationMandatory Separate meters (new buildings or additions > 50,000 sf
that consume more than 100 gal/day)5.303.1.1 **DIVISION 5. CALGreen § 105.1 Medium relevance — show source text
Prior to beginning the construction activities, all parties involved with the development process shall receive a written guideline and instruction specifying the green goals of the project.
Note: Lack of adequate supervision and dissemination of the project goals can result in negative effects on green building projects. If the theme of green building is not carried throughout the project, the overall benefit can be substantially reduced by the lack of knowledge and information provided to the various entities involved with the construction of the project.
SECTION A4.105—DECONSTRUCTION AND REUSE OF EXISTING MATERIALS
A4.105.1 General. Existing buildings on the site are deconstructed and the salvaged materials are reused. Reused materials or products must comply with current building standards requirements or be an accepted alternate method or material.
A4.105.2 Reuse of materials. Materials which can be easily reused include but are not limited to the following:
Light fixtures.
Plumbing fixtures.
Doors and trim.
Masonry.
Electrical devices.
Appliances.
Foundations or portions of foundations.
Note: Reused material must be in compliance with the appropriate Title 24 requirements.
SECTION A4.106 —SITE DEVELOPMENT
A4.106.1 Reserved.
A4.106.2 Soil analysis and protection. The soils at the building site are analyzed and protected as specified in this section.
A4.106.2.1 Soil analysis. Soil analysis is performed by a licensed design professional and the findings utilized in the structural design of the building.
A4.106.2.2 Soil protection. The effect of development on building sites is evaluated and the soil is protected by one or more of the following:
- Natural drainage patterns are evaluated and erosion controls are implemented to minimize erosion during construction and after occupancy.
- Site access is accomplished by minimizing the amount of cut and fill needed to install access roads and driveways.
- As allowed by other parts of the California Building Standards Code underground construction activities are coordinated to utilize the same trench, minimize the amount of time the disturbed soil is exposed and the soil is replaced using accepted compaction methods.
A4.106.2.3 Topsoil protection. Topsoil shall be protected or saved for reuse as specified in this section.
Tier 1. Displaced topsoil shall be stockpiled for reuse in a designated area and covered or protected from erosion.
Note: Protection from erosion includes covering with tarps, straw, mulch, chipped wood, vegetative cover or other means acceptable to the enforcing agency to protect the topsoil for later use.
Tier 2. The construction area shall be identified and delineated by fencing or flagging to limit construction activity to the construction area. Heavy equipment or vehicle traffic and material storage outside the construction area shall be limited to areas that are planned to be paved.
A4.106.3 Landscape design. Postconstruction landscape designs shall accomplish one or more of the following:
- Areas disrupted during construction are restored to be consistent with native vegetation species and patterns.
- Utilize at least 75 percent native California or drought tolerant plant and tree species appropriate for the climate zone region.
A4.106.4 Water permeable surfaces. Permeable paving is utilized for the parking, walking or patio surfaces in compliance with the following.
Tier 1. Not less than 20 percent of the total parking, walking or patio surfaces shall be permeable.
APPENDIX A4-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
Frequently asked questions
Do these requirements apply everywhere in California?
Only where the local enforcing agency has adopted the Appendix A Tier measures as mandatory. Confirm local adoption under Section 101.7; otherwise these are voluntary Tier provisions.
Can I substitute a vegetated (green) roof for a cool roof?
Vegetated roofs are recognized separately (vegetated roof provisions apply when installed for at least 50% roof area) and are an exception to cool‑roof requirements when they meet the mass/vegetation criteria; see § A4.106.6 and the exception in § A4.106.5.
How do I document an EV‑ready raceway at plan check?
Show the continuous raceway path (trade size 1 or conductor size), panel reserved space labeled “EV READY” or “EV CAPABLE”, and identify the reserved overcurrent location; reference § A4.106.8.1 in the electrical notes.
Is permeable pavement required for accessible routes?
No. Required accessible routes under Title 24, Part 2 Chapter 11A/11B are excluded from the permeable surface calculation per § A4.106.4.
What if CRRC aged values are not available for my roofing product?
The code allows calculation of an aged value from the CRRC certified initial value using the equation provided in § A4.106.5.1, or acceptance of other supervising entity certifications approved by the Energy Commission.
More in California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)
- Administration (Chapter 1)
- Nonresidential Voluntary Measures (Appendix A5 — divisions A5.1–A5.6, electives & verification)
- Residential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 4)
- Definitions (Chapter 2)
- Voluntary Standards for Health Facilities (Appendix A6 / OSHPD guidance)
- Green Building – scope, mixed occupancies, phased projects (Chapter 3)
- Residential Voluntary Measures (Appendix A4 — divisions A4.1–A4.6, tiers & model ordinance)
- Nonresidential Mandatory Measures — Planning & Design; Energy; Water; Materials; Environmental Quality (Chapter 5)
- Compliance verification, construction documents & checklists (Section 102, Chapter 7, Appendix checklists)
- Referenced Organizations and Standards (Chapter 6)
- Voluntary Tiers and CALGreen Tier 1 / Tier 2 (performance tiers, thresholds)
- Installer and Special Inspector Qualifications (Chapter 7)
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