CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

What prescriptive energy measures apply (ENERGY STAR, orientation, etc.)?

If your builder supplies appliances, expect them to be ENERGY STAR‑labeled when ENERGY STAR covers that product. For orientation and shading, CALGreen requires siting and shading per its site development rules (it recommends placing long sides north–south when possible and refers specific shading requirements to the site sections). Documentation of appliance specs and orientation/shading decisions should be included in the project OPR/BOD and commissioning records.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

  • Builders must supply ENERGY STAR‑labeled equipment and appliances when the ENERGY STAR program applies to that product; this is the prescriptive appliance requirement of § A6.204.1.
  • The code also requires building orientation and shading to be located, oriented and shaded per the site‑planning direction called out in the CALGreen site development provisions (see § A6.204.6, which points to the site‑planning rules). § A6.204.6 directs compliance with the site development orientation/shading provisions.

Builders must provide ENERGY STAR labeled appliances where ENERGY STAR applies, and buildings must be sited, oriented and shaded per the CALGreen site development rules. (See § A6.204.1 and § A6.204.6.)

Requirements in detail

ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances — who, what, when

  • Who: the builder (the text is specific to equipment and appliances “provided by the builder”). § A6.204.1.
  • What: any equipment or appliance for which the ENERGY STAR program is applicable. ENERGY STAR is defined in CALGreen (A6.202.1) as the joint EPA/DOE program identifying energy‑efficient products.
  • When: mandatory where ENERGY STAR labeling exists and the item is provided by the builder; if ENERGY STAR is not applicable to a product, this prescriptive requirement does not force a different label. § A6.204.1.

Decision‑relevant summary

Measure Responsible party Decision threshold / value Code reference
ENERGY STAR equipment & appliances Builder (items provided by builder) Required if ENERGY STAR is applicable to the product § A6.204.1
Building orientation (long sides N–S) Designer / builder (site design) Orient long building sides north–south "when site and location permit"; protect envelope from wind/thermal loss § A6.106.9 (site development guidance)
Orientation & shading compliance Designer / builder “Locate, orient and shade the building as required in Section A6.106.11” (follow that section for shading details) § A6.204.6 → § A6.106.11

Note: CALGreen’s prescriptive orientation/shading requirement in § A6.204.6 explicitly refers back to the site development provisions (for example § A6.106.9 recommends long sides face north/south), but the shading specifics are in the referenced site sections.

Definitions and cross‑references

  • ENERGY STAR (defined in § A6.202.1) — a voluntary EPA/DOE program to identify energy‑efficient products; CALGreen relies on this program where applicable.
  • Commissioning and documentation expectations (owner’s project requirements, basis of design, commissioning plan and report) are required elsewhere in the prescriptive section and support demonstrating and verifying energy measures (see § A6.204.4). Use commissioning to document appliance/equipment lists and orientation/shading decisions.

Exceptions & special cases

  • The ENERGY STAR mandate applies only to products for which ENERGY STAR is applicable. If no ENERGY STAR specification exists for a product category, CALGreen does not force an alternative label by § A6.204.1.
  • The ENERGY STAR requirement applies to items provided by the builder. Owner‑provided or tenant‑supplied appliances are not covered by § A6.204.1 unless the builder supplies them.
  • § A6.204.6 ties orientation/shading requirements to other site provisions: where the prescriptive language points to § A6.106.11, follow that section for detailed shading rules. (Text of § A6.106.11 was referenced by § A6.204.6; the code also contains orientation guidance in § A6.106.9.) If you need the specific numeric shading prescriptions from § A6.106.11, consult that section — the document excerpts available here reference the linkage but do not include the full § A6.106.11 text.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming every appliance in the project must be ENERGY STAR — the rule covers only products to which ENERGY STAR applies and that are provided by the builder. Check the ENERGY STAR product list before assuming applicability. § A6.204.1.
  • Confusing builder‑provided vs. owner/tenant‑provided equipment. The requirement is explicit about “provided by the builder.” § A6.204.1.
  • Failing to document orientation/shading choices in the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) / Basis of Design (BOD) and commissioning plan — the prescriptive approach references commissioning and OPR/BOD for verification elsewhere in the appendix. Omitting documentation risks enforcement questions. § A6.204.4, § 5.410.2.1 (OPR) and related forms.
  • Using “north–south” orientation language as an absolute mandate regardless of site constraints — the orientation guidance is qualified (“when site and location permit”) in the site‑development provisions. § A6.106.9.

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: A builder constructs a single new 12,000 ft² medical office building. The builder will supply the central HVAC, bathroom exhaust fans, staff refrigerators and break‑room dishwasher. The site is rectangular, 120 ft (long) × 60 ft (wide).

  1. ENERGY STAR appliances:

    • The builder must specify ENERGY STAR‑labeled bathroom exhaust fans, refrigerator(s) and dishwasher because ENERGY STAR specifications exist for those product categories and the items are provided by the builder. Comply via § A6.204.1.
    • For documentation, list each provided appliance and include product ENERGY STAR certification/spec sheets in the construction documents and commissioning paperwork.

  2. Orientation & shading:

    • The site allows orientation change. Per § A6.106.9, orient the building so the long side (120 ft) faces north–south to reduce unwanted solar gain on the east/west façades when site and location permit. Use § A6.204.6 to confirm shading and siting follow the referenced site provisions (and document the decision in the OPR/BOD).
    • Provide shading strategies called for by the referenced site section (e.g., overhangs, trees, exterior shading devices) per § A6.106.11 (see § A6.204.6 linkage). If you need the specific dimensional rules for shading devices, consult § A6.106.11 directly — that detailed text is the controlling shading standard referenced by § A6.204.6.

Result: The project meets the prescriptive appliance requirement by installing ENERGY STAR‑labeled contractor‑supplied appliances and follows the site orientation guidance by placing long axis north–south and documenting shading in the OPR/BOD and commissioning plan.

Related provisions (CALGreen sections)

  • § A6.204.1 — ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances.
  • § A6.204.6 — Building orientation and shading (references § A6.106.11).
  • § A6.106.9 — Building orientation: orient long sides north/south, protect envelope from wind/thermal loss.
  • § A6.202.1 — Definitions (including ENERGY STAR).
  • § A6.204.4 — Commissioning (OPR, BOD, commissioning plan and report) — supports verification of prescriptive measures.
  • § 5.410.2.1 — Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) guidance and forms referenced by commissioning requirements.

Code references

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

  • CALGreen § 106.9 High relevance — show source text
    FEATURE OR MEASURE COMPLIANCE LEVELS Col3 Col4 NOTES
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2
    DIVISION A6.1 – PLANNING AND DESIGN
    SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development
    **A6.106.9 Building orientation.**Locate and orient the building as follows:
    1. When site and location permit, orient the building with the long sides facing north and
    south.
    2. Protect the building from thermal loss, drafts and degradation of the building envelope
    caused by wind and wind-driven materials such as dust.
    DIVISION A6.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY
    SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures
    A6.203.1 Energy performance. [OSHPD 1]
    **A6.203.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1]**Buildings must comply with the latest edition of
    “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures.”
    A.5.203.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] Buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings
    By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by 15 percent.
    SECTION A6.204 Prescriptive Measures
    **A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances.**All equipment and appliances provided
    by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment
    or appliance.
    A6.204.4 Commissioning. Building commissioning for all building systems covered by T24,
    Part 6, process systems and renewable energy systems shall be included in the design and
    construction processes of the building project. Commissioning requirements shall include as
    a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.
    **A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).**Documented before the design phase of
    the project begins the OPR shall include items listed in Section A6.204.4.
    **A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD).**A written explanation of how the design of the building
    systems meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and
    updated periodically to cover the systems listed in Section A6.204.4.2.
    **A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan.
  • CALGreen § 203.2 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION A6.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A6.203.2 Energy performance. It is the intent of this code to encourage green buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.

    A6.203.2.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen [Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By](http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf) Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf.

    A6.203.2.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.

    SECTION A6.204—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH

    A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances. All equipment and appliances provided by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment or appliance.

    A6.204.4 Commissioning. [OSHPD 1 & 4] Building commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the building project to verify that the building’s energy related systems are installed, calibrated and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design and construction documents.

    The owner and designer shall designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review and oversee the completion of the commissioning process activities. The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The design team shall develop the Basis of Design (BOD). The CxA shall review these documents for clarity and completeness. The owner and design team shall be responsible for updates to their respective documents, develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents and develop and implement a commissioning plan. The CxA shall verify the installation and performance of the systems to be commissioned, verify that training and operation and maintenance documentation have been provided to the owner’s operations staff and complete a commissioning report.

    Commissioning process activities shall be completed for the following energy-related systems, at a minimum:

    1. Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls.
    2. Lighting and daylighting controls.
    3. Domestic hot water systems.
    4. Renewable energy systems (wind, solar, etc.).
    5. Building envelope systems.

    A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented by the owner and the designer before the design phase of the project begins. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, this documentation shall include the following:

    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Energy efficiency goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-3

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

    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    1. Equipment and systems expectations.
    2. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.
  • CALGreen § 1-1 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-1

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

    APPENDIX A6.1-2 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    DIVISION A6.1 – SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

    SECTION A6.106—SITE DEVELOPMENT

    A6.106.9 Building orientation. Locate and orient the building as follows:

    1. When site and location permit, orient the building with the long sides facing north and south.
    2. Protect the building from thermal loss, drafts and degradation of the building envelope caused by wind and wind-driven materials such as dust, sand, snow and leaves, with building orientation and landscape features. Note: For information on sun angles and shading, visit: http://www2.aud.ucla.edu/energy-design-tools/.

    Calculations may be made using the Solar-2 tool.

    DIVISION A6.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A6.202—DEFINITIONS

    A6.202.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.

    ENERGY STAR. A joint program of the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy. ENERGY STAR is a voluntary program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products and practices.

    SECTION A6.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A6.203.2 Energy performance. It is the intent of this code to encourage green buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.

    A6.203.2.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen [Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By](http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf) Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf.

    A6.203.2.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.

    SECTION A6.204—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH

    A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances. All equipment and appliances provided by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment or appliance.

    A6.204.4 Commissioning. [OSHPD 1 & 4] Building commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the building project to verify that the building’s energy related systems are installed, calibrated and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design and construction documents.

    The owner and designer shall designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review and oversee the completion of the commissioning process activities. The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).

  • CALGreen § 203.1.1 High relevance — show source text

    [OSHPD 1]**
    **A6.203.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1]**Buildings must comply with the latest edition of
    “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures.”
    A.5.203.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] Buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings
    By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by 15 percent.||||| |SECTION A6.204 Prescriptive Measures||||| |**A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances.**All equipment and appliances provided
    by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment
    or appliance.||||| |A6.204.4 Commissioning. Building commissioning for all building systems covered by T24,
    Part 6, process systems and renewable energy systems shall be included in the design and
    construction processes of the building project. Commissioning requirements shall include as
    a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.
    **A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).**Documented before the design phase of
    the project begins the OPR shall include items listed in Section A6.204.4.
    **A6.204.4.2 Basis of Design (BOD).**A written explanation of how the design of the building
    systems meets the OPR shall be completed at the design phase of the building project and
    updated periodically to cover the systems listed in Section A6.204.4.2.
    **A6.204.4.3 Commissioning plan.**A commissioning plan describing how the project will be
    commissioned shall be started during the design phase of the building project and shall
    include as a minimum items listed in Section A6.204.4.3.
    A6.204.4.4 Functional performance testingshall demonstrate the correct installation and
    operation of each component, system and system-to-system interface in accordance with
    the approved plans and specifications.
    **A6.204.4.5 Post construction documentation and training.**A systems manual and
    systems operations training are required.
    **A6.204.4.5.1 Systems manual.**The systems manual shall be delivered to the building
    owner and facilities operator and shall include the items listed in Section A6.204.4.5.1.
    A6.204.4.5.2 Systems operations training. The training of the appropriate maintenance
    staff for each equipment type and/or system shall include as a minimum items listed in
    Section A6.204.4.5.2.
    **A6.204.4.6 Commissioning report.**A complete report of commissioning process activities
    undertaken through the design, construction and postconstruction phases of the building
    project shall be completed and provided to the owner.||







    |







    || |**A6.204.6 Building orientation and shading.

  • CALGreen § 203.1.2.1 High relevance — show source text

    In addition, a minimum of two of
    the efficiency measures specified in Sections A4.203.1.2.1 through
    A4.203.1.2.8 will be required to be met.
    · Roof Deck Insulation or Ducts in Conditioned Space.
    · High-performance Walls.
    · Compact Hot Water Distribution System.
    · Drain Water Heat Recovery.
    · High Performance Vertical Fenestration.
    · Heat Pump Water Heater Demand Management.
    · Battery Storage System Controls.
    · **Heat Pump Space and Water Heating.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.3 Consultation with local electric service provider.**Local
    jurisdictions considering adoption of reduced EDR targets based on
    using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems larger than required by the
    California Energy Code shall consult with the local electric service
    provider to ensure that that PV system sizing required to comply with
    the EDR targets will be acceptable to the local electric service
    provider.||2|2||||

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-25

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

    APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued

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

    All    		 Installer or
    Designer

    All    		 Third
    party

    All
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2
    WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION
    Indoor Water Use
    4.303.1Plumbing fixtures (water closets and urinals) and fittings
    (showerheads, faucets and pre-rinse spray valves) installed in
    residential buildings shall comply with the prescriptive requirements
    of Sections 4.303.1.1 through 4.303.1.4.5.
    4.303.2 Submeters for multifamily building and dwelling units in
    **mixed-use residential/commercial buildings.
  • CALGreen § 409.4 High 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

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

    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:

    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:

    1. Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.

    2. Service water heating in restaurants as described in A5.203.1.1.2.

    3. Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.

    4. Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.

    5. Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.

    6. 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.

    1. From Division A5.4,
  • CALGreen § 108.1 High relevance — show source text

    108.1** Items in this section are necessary to address innovative
    concepts or local environmental conditions.||||||| |Item 1|
    |
    |
    |
    |
    |
    | |Item 2|
    |
    |
    |
    |
    |
    | |Item 3||||||| |ENERGY EFFICIENCY||||||| |General||||||| |4.201.1 Building meets or exceeds the requirements of the_California_
    _Building Energy Efficiency Standards_3.||2|2|||| |Performance Approach for Newly
    Constructed Buildings||||||| |**A4.203.1.1 Hourly Source Energy Rating (EDR1).**EDR1 ratings for
    building design shall be computed by Energy Compliant software and
    shall reduce the EDR1 required by the software by the compliance
    margins specified in Table A4.203.1.1.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.2 Prerequisite options.In addition, a minimum of two of
    the efficiency measures specified in Sections A4.203.1.2.1 through
    A4.203.1.2.8 will be required to be met.
    · Roof Deck Insulation or Ducts in Conditioned Space.
    · High-performance Walls.
    · Compact Hot Water Distribution System.
    · Drain Water Heat Recovery.
    · High Performance Vertical Fenestration.
    · Heat Pump Water Heater Demand Management.
    · Battery Storage System Controls.
    · **Heat Pump Space and Water Heating.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.3 Consultation with local electric service provider.**Local
    jurisdictions considering adoption of reduced EDR targets based on
    using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems larger than required by the
    California Energy Code shall consult with the local electric service
    provider to ensure that that PV system sizing required to comply with
    the EDR targets will be acceptable to the local electric service
    provider.||2|2||||

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-25

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

    APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued

  • CALGreen § 8-24 High relevance — show source text

    Permit Number: _____________________________

    ITEM # OPR ITEMS PAGE NUMBER IN
    OPR DOCUMENT
    OWNER AND USER REQUIREMENTS—PROJECT PROGRAM
    1 General building information (size, stories, construction type, occupancy type and number)
    2 Intended uses and schedules
    3 Future expandability and flexibility of spaces
    4 Quality and/or durability of materials and desired building lifespan
    5 Budget or operation constraints
    ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABILITY GOALS
    6 Level of compliance with the_California Green Building Standards Code_: Mandatory, Tier 1 or Tier 2
    7 Specific environmental or sustainability goals (e.g., water efficiency, water reuse, CO2 monitoring, xeriscaping, etc.)
    BUILDING SUSTAINABLE GOALS
    8 Measures affecting energy efficiency desired by owner (e.g., building orientation, shading, daylighting, natural venti-
    lation, renewable power, etc.)
    INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REQUIREMENTS
    9 Lighting
    10 Temperature and humidity
    11 Acoustics
    12 Air quality, ventilation and filtration
    13 Desired adjustability of system controls
    14 Accommodations for after-hours use
    15 Other owner requirements (e.g., natural ventilation, daylight, views, etc.)
    EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS EXPECTATIONS
    16 Level of quality, reliability, equipment type, flexibility, maintenance and complexity desired
    17 Specific efficiency targets, desired technologies or preferred manufacturers for building systems, acoustics and
    vibration
    18 Degree of system integration, automation and functionality for controls (i.e. load shedding, demand response,
    energy management)
    BUILDING OCCUPANT AND O&M PERSONNEL EXPECTATIONS
    19 Description of how the building will be operated and by whom
    20 Level of training and orientation required to understand, operate and use the building systems for building
    operation and maintenance staff, as well as occupants
    21 Building operation and maintenance staff location and capabilities
    COMMISSIONING AGENT INFORMATION
    22 Name of commissioning agency:
    23 Address of agency:
    24 Contact person(s) name(s):

    8-24 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Owner/Owner’s Representative Acknowledgement

    Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The expectations and requirements of the building appropriate to its phase shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. The OPR includes the elements listed above and they have been approved by the Owner or Owner’s Representative.

    Name: _______________________________  Owner  Owner’s Representative

    Company Name (if applicable): ________________________

    Signature: ________________________ Date: ___________

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-25

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    BASIS OF DESIGN (BOD)

    COMPLIANCE TEMPLATE

  • CALGreen § 207.3.3 High relevance — show source text

    **
    A6.207.3.3 Installation.||


    |


    || |A6.207.4 Natural gas central furnaces, cooking equipment and pool and spa heaters.
    Pilot lights prohibited.||||| |A6.207.5 Controls for space-conditioning systems.
    A6.207.5.1 Thermostatic controls for each zone.
    A6.207.5.2 Criteria for zonal thermostatic controls.
    A6.207.5.3 Heat pump controls.
    A6.207.5.4 Dampers for air supply and exhaust equipment.
    A6.207.5.5 Automatic demand shed controls.||




    |




    || |A6.207.6 Pipe insulation.||||| |SECTION A6.209 Lighting||||| |A6.209.1 Lighting control devices, ballasts and luminaires.
    A6.209.1.1 All devices: Instructions and calibration.
    A6.209.1.2 Indicator lights.
    A6.209.1.3 Automatic time switch control devices.
    A6.209.1.4 Occupant sensors, motion sensors and vacancy sensors.
    A6.209.1.5 Multilevel occupant sensor.
    A6.209.1.6 Automatic daylighting control devices.
    A6.209.1.7 Interior Photosensors.
    A6.209.1.8 Multilevel astronomical time-switch controls.
    A6.209.1.9 Outdoor astronomical time-switch controls.
    A6.209.1.10 Dimmers.||









    |









    || |A6.209.2 Indoor lighting controls.
    A6.209.2.1 Area controls.
    A6.209.2.2 Multilevel lighting controls.
    A6.209.2.3 Daylight areas.
    A6.209.2.3.1 Daylight area.
    A6.209.2.3.1.2 Daylight area, primary sidelit.
    **A6.209.2.3.1.3 Daylight area, secondary sidelit.

  • CALGreen § 5.410 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 5.410—BUILDING MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION

    5.410.1 Recycling by occupants. Provide readily accessible areas that serve the entire building and are identified for the depositing, storage and collection of non-hazardous materials for recycling, including (at a minimum) paper, corrugated cardboard, glass, plastics, organic waste and metals, or meet a lawfully enacted local recycling ordinance, if more restrictive.

    Exception: Rural jurisdictions that meet and apply for the exemption in Public Resources Code 42649.82 (a)(2)(A) et seq. shall also be exempt from the organic waste portion of this section.

    5.410.1.1 Additions. All additions conducted within a 12-month period under single or multiple permits, resulting in an increase of 30 percent or more in floor area, shall provide recycling areas on site.

    Exception: Additions within a tenant space resulting in less than a 30-percent increase in the tenant space floor area.

    5.410.1.2 Sample ordinance. Space allocation for recycling areas shall comply with Chapter 18, Part 3, Division 30 of the Public Resources Code. Chapter 18 is known as the California Solid Waste Reuse and Recycling Access Act of 1991 (Act).

    Note: A sample ordinance for use by local agencies may be found in Appendix A of the document at the CalRecycle’s web site.

    5.410.2 Commissioning. [N] New buildings 10,000 square feet and over. For new buildings 10,000 square feet and over, building commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the building project to verify that the building systems and components meet the owner’s or owner representative’s project requirements. Commissioning shall be performed in accor

    5-26 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    dance with this section by trained personnel with experience on projects of comparable size and complexity. For I-occupancies that are not regulated by OSHPD or for I-occupancies and L-occupancies that are not regulated by the California Energy Code Section 100.0 Scope, all requirements in Sections 5.410.2 through 5.410.2.6 shall apply.

    Note: For energy-related systems under the scope (Section 100) of the California Energy Code, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning (HVAC) systems and controls, indoor lighting systems and controls, as well as water heating systems and controls, refer to California Energy Code Section 120.8 for commissioning requirements.

    Commissioning requirements shall include:

    1. Owner’s or owner representative’s project requirements.
    2. Basis of design.
    3. Commissioning measures shown in the construction documents.
    4. Commissioning plan.
    5. Functional performance testing.
    6. Documentation and training.
    7. Commissioning report.

    Exceptions:

    1. Unconditioned warehouses of any size.

    2. Areas less than 10,000 square feet used for offices or other conditioned accessory spaces within unconditioned warehouses.

    3. Tenant improvements less than 10,000 square feet as described in Section 303.1.1.

    4. Open parking garages of any size, or open parking garage areas, of any size, within a structure.

    Note: For the purposes of this section, unconditioned shall mean a building, area or room which does not provide heating and/or air conditioning.

    Informational Note:

  • CALGreen § 504.8.3 High relevance — show source text

    NONRESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST [OSHPD 1, 2 and 4] — continued

    FEATURE OR MEASURE COMPLIANCE LEVELS Col3 Col4 NOTES
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2
    **A6.504.8.3 Paints and coatings.**Architectural paints and coatings shall comply with Table
    A6.504.8.3.
    A6.504.8.3.2 Verification.
    **A6.504.8.4 Carpet systems.**All carpet installed in the building interior shall meet the
    testing and product requirements of one of the standards listed in Section A6.504.8.3.
    **A6.504.8.4.1 Carpet cushion.**All carpet cushion installed in the building interior shall
    meet the requirements of the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label program.
    **A6.504.8.4.2 Carpet adhesive.**All carpet adhesive shall meet the requirements of Table
    A6.504.8.1.
    **A6.504.8.5 Composite wood products.**Hardwood plywood, particleboard and medium
    density fiberboard composite wood products used on the interior or exterior of the building
    shall meet the requirements for formaldehyde as specified in Table A6.504.8.
    **A6.504.8.5.2 Documentation.**Verification of compliance with this section shall be
    provided as requested by the enforcing agency. Documentation shall include at least one
    of the following.
    1. Product certifications and specifications
    2. Chain of custody certifications
    3. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency











    **A6.504.4.9 Acoustical ceilings and wall panels.**Comply with Chapter 8 in Title 24, Part 2
    and with the VOC-emission limits defined in the CHPS Low-emitting Materials List.
    **A6.504.5 Hazardous particulates and chemical pollutants.**Minimize and control pollutant
    entry into buildings and cross-contamination of regularly occupied areas.
    **A6.504.5.1 Entryway systems.**Install permanent entryway systems measuring at least six
    feet in the primary direction of travel to capture dirt and particulates at entryways directly
    connected to the outdoors as listed in Items 1 through 3 in Section A6.504.5.1.

    **A6.504.9 Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) control.
  • CALGreen § 110.10 High relevance — show source text

    Exception 3 to Section 110.10(b)1B: Buildings with a designated solar zone area that is no less than 50 percent of the potential solar zone area. The potential solar zone area is the total area of any low-sloped roofs where the annual solar access is 70 percent or greater and any steep-sloped roofs oriented between 90 degrees and 300 degrees of true north where the annual solar access is 70 percent or greater. 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.

    Exception 4 to Section 110.10(b)1B: Low-rise and high-rise multifamily buildings with all thermostats in each dwelling unit are demand response controls that comply with Section 110.12(a), and are capable of receiving and responding to Demand Response Signals prior to granting of an occupancy permit by the enforcing agency. In addition, either A or B below:

    A. In each dwelling unit, comply with one of the following measures: i. Install a dishwasher that meets or exceeds the ENERGY STAR Program requirements with either a refrigerator that meets or exceeds the ENERGY STAR Program requirements or a whole house fan driven by an electronically commutated motor; or ii. Install a home automation system that complies with Section 110.12(a) and is capable of, at a minimum, controlling the appliances and lighting of the dwelling and responding to demand response signals; or iii. Install alternative plumbing piping to permit the discharge from the clothes washer and all showers and bathtubs to be used for an irrigation system in compliance with the California Plumbing Code and any applicable local ordinances; or iv. Install a rainwater catchment system designed to comply with the California Plumbing Code and any applicable local ordinances, and that uses rainwater flowing from at least 65 percent of the available roof

    area.

    B. Meet the Title 24, Part 11, Section A4.106.8.2 requirements for electric vehicle charging spaces.

    Exception 5 to Section 110.10(b)1B: Buildings where the roof is designed and approved to be used for vehicular traffic or parking or for a heliport. 2. Azimuth range. All sections of the solar zone located on steep-sloped roofs shall have an azimuth range between 90 degrees and 300 degrees of true north. 3. Shading. A. No obstructions, including but not limited to, vents, chimneys, architectural features and roof mounted equipment, shall be located in the solar zone.

    B. Any obstruction, located on the roof or any other part of the building that projects above a solar zone shall be located at least twice the distance, measured in the horizontal plane, of the height difference between the highest point of the obstruction and the horizontal projection of the nearest point of the solar zone, measured in the vertical plane. Exception to Section 110.10(b)3: Any roof obstruction, located on the roof or any other part of the building, that is oriented north of all points on the solar zone. 4. Structural design loads on construction documents. For areas of the roof designated as solar zone, the structural design loads for roof dead load and roof live load shall be clearly indicated on the construction documents.

    Note: Section 110.10(b)4 does not require the inclusion of any collateral loads for future solar energy systems.

  • CALGreen § 409.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    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.|1.
    Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring.
    2.
    Solar water-heating system requirement for newly constructed restaurants as per A5.203.1.1.2.
    Exceptions:
    a. Buildings with a natural gas service water heater with a minimum of 95-percent thermal efficiency.
    b. Buildings where greater than 75 percent of the total roof area has annual solar access that is less than 70 percent. 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.|1.
    Exception: Allowance may be permitted in Tier 2 for up to 5-percent specialty purpose flooring.
    2.
    Solar water-heating system requirement for newly constructed restaurants as per A5.203.1.1.2.
    Exceptions:
    a. Buildings with a natural gas service water heater with a minimum of 95-percent thermal efficiency.
    b. Buildings where greater than 75 percent of the total roof area has annual solar access that is less than 70 percent. 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

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

    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.

  • CALGreen § 5.410.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    CALGreen Commissioning Requirement 5.410.2.1, Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR)

    5.410.2.1 Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR). [N] The expectations and requirements of the building appropriate to its phase shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include the following: 1. Environmental and sustainability goals. 2. Building sustainable goals. 3. Indoor environmental quality requirements. 4. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after hours operation. 5. Equipment and systems expectations. 6. Building occupant and operation and maintenance (O&M) personnel expectations.

    Col1 OPR ELEMENTS INCLUDED
    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Building sustainable goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.
    4. Project program, including facility functions and hours of operation,
    and need for after-hours operation.
    5. Equipment and systems expectations.
    6. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.

    Owner/Owner’s Representative Signature Date

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-23

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    OWNER’S PROJECT REQUIREMENTS (OPR)

    COMPLIANCE CHECKLIST

    INCORPORATE THIS FORM IN THE PLANS

    Project Address: _________________________________________________________

    Permit Number: _____________________________

    ITEM # OPR ITEMS PAGE NUMBER IN
    OPR DOCUMENT
    OWNER AND USER REQUIREMENTS—PROJECT PROGRAM
    1 General building information (size, stories, construction type, occupancy type and number)
    2 Intended uses and schedules
    3 Future expandability and flexibility of spaces
    4 Quality and/or durability of materials and desired building lifespan
    5 Budget or operation constraints
    ENVIRONMENTAL AND SUSTAINABILITY GOALS
    6 Level of compliance with the_California Green Building Standards Code_: Mandatory, Tier 1 or Tier 2
    7 Specific environmental or sustainability goals (e.g., water efficiency, water reuse, CO2 monitoring, xeriscaping, etc.)
    BUILDING SUSTAINABLE GOALS
    8 Measures affecting energy efficiency desired by owner (e.g., building orientation, shading, daylighting, natural venti-
    lation, renewable power, etc.)
    INDOOR ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REQUIREMENTS
    9 Lighting
    10 Temperature and humidity
    11 Acoustics
    12 Air quality, ventilation and filtration
    13 Desired adjustability of system controls
    14 Accommodations for after-hours use
    15 Other owner requirements (e.g., natural ventilation, daylight, views, etc.)
    EQUIPMENT AND SYSTEMS EXPECTATIONS
    16 Level of quality, reliability, equipment type, flexibility, maintenance and complexity desired
    17 Specific efficiency targets, desired technologies or preferred manufacturers for building systems, acoustics and
    vibration
    18 Degree of system integration, automation and functionality for controls (i.e. load shedding, demand response,
  • CALGreen § 8-14 Medium relevance — show source text

    8-14 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    Selection of “trained,” qualified personnel is required by this code. In order to meet this requirement, the commissioning provider should be evaluated via the methods discussed above. In addition, various organizations have training and certification programs that may be a source for identification of qualified commissioning providers.

    For information about enforcement and compliance of each commissioning element see Sections 5.410.2.1 through 5.410.2.6.

    For compliance forms and templates see Part 2 following this standard.

    Reference: 1 Owner’s Project Requirements

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.1, Owner’s or Owner representative’s Project Requirements (OPR).

    1.1 Intent:

    The Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) documents the functional requirements of a project and expectations of the building use and operation as it relates to systems being commissioned. The document describes the physical and functional building characteristics desired by the owner and establishes performance and acceptance criteria. The OPR is most effective when developed during predesign and used to develop the Basis of Design (BOD) during the design process. The level of detail and complexity of the OPR will vary according to building use, type and systems.

    1.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance is demonstrated by the owner or owner’s representative developing and/or approving the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR) document and can be defined as follows:

    1. Environmental and Sustainability Goals—Establish environmental project goals and objectives exceeding the code for the project’s sustainability, which may include: a. CALGreen voluntary measures or Tiers sought, or other specific green building rating system or program credits and/or level of certification sought b. Specific environmental or sustainability goals such as water efficiency, water reuse, CO 2 monitoring, xeriscaping, etc.
    2. Building Sustainable Goals—Establish goals and targets affecting energy efficiency, which may include: a. Measures affecting building sustainability desired by owner i. Building orientation and siting ii. Daylighting iii. Facade, envelope and fenestration

    iv. Roof

    v. Natural ventilation

    vi. Onsite renewable power generation and net-zero energy use vii. Landscaping and shading 3. Indoor Environmental Quality Requirements—For each program space describe indoor environmental requirements including intended use and anticipated schedule, and the following: a. Temperature and humidity

    b. Acoustics

    c. Air quality, ventilation and filtration d. Desired adjustability of system controls

    e. Accommodations for after-hours use

    f. Other owner requirements including natural ventilation, operable windows, daylight, views, etc. 4. Project Program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation—Describe primary purpose, program and use of proposed project include the following: a. Building size, number of stories, construction type, occupancy type and number b. Building program areas including intended use and anticipated occupancy schedules c. Future expandability and flexibility of spaces d. Quality and/or durability of materials and building lifespan desired e. Budget or operational constraints f. Applicable codes 5. Equipment and Systems Expectations—Describe the following for each system commissioned: a. Level of quality, reliability, equipment type, automation, flexibility, maintenance and complexity desired b. Specific efficiency targets, desired technologies or preferred manufacturers for building systems, acoustics and vibration c. Degree of system integration, automation and functionality for controls 6.

  • CALGreen § 8-40 Medium 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 § 504.8.5.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    A6.504.8.5.2 Documentation. Verification of compliance with this section shall be provided as requested by the enforcing agency. Documentation shall include at least one of the following:

    1. Product certifications and specifications.
    2. Chain of custody certifications.
    3. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    A6.504.9 Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) control. [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] Where outdoor areas are provided for smoking, prohibit smoking within 25 feet of building entries, outdoor air intakes and operable windows and within the building, if not already prohibited by other laws or regulations, or as enforced by ordinances, regulations or policies of any city, county, city and county, California Community College, campus of the California State University or campus of the University of California, whichever are more stringent. When ordinances, regulations or policies are not in place, post signage to inform building occupants of the prohibitions.

    SECTION A6.505 [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]—INDOOR MOISTURE CONTROL

    A6.505.2 Indoor moisture control. Buildings shall meet or exceed the provisions of California Building Code, CCR, Title 24, Part 2, Sections 1203 and Chapter 14.

    APPENDIX A6.1-36 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    NONRESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST [OSHPD 1, 2 and 4]

    FEATURE OR MEASURE COMPLIANCE LEVELS Col3 Col4 NOTES
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen    		 VOLUNTARY
    CALGreen
    FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory
    CALGreen    		 Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2
    DIVISION A6.1 – PLANNING AND DESIGN
    SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development SECTION Site Development
    **A6.106.9 Building orientation.**Locate and orient the building as follows:
    1. When site and location permit, orient the building with the long sides facing north and
    south.
    2. Protect the building from thermal loss, drafts and degradation of the building envelope
    caused by wind and wind-driven materials such as dust.
    DIVISION A6.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY
    SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures SECTION A6.203 Performance Measures
    A6.203.1 Energy performance. [OSHPD 1]
    **A6.203.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1.
  • CALGreen § 602.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    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

    FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.1 Site Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-3 A6.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-32 A6.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A6.1-33

    INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . INDEX-1

    HISTORY NOTE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HIST-1

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE vii

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

    viii 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 1 – ADMINISTRATION

    (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

  • CALGreen § 8-15 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. Building Sustainable Goals—Establish goals and targets affecting energy efficiency, which may include: a. Measures affecting building sustainability desired by owner i. Building orientation and siting ii. Daylighting iii. Facade, envelope and fenestration

    iv. Roof

    v. Natural ventilation

    vi. Onsite renewable power generation and net-zero energy use vii. Landscaping and shading 3. Indoor Environmental Quality Requirements—For each program space describe indoor environmental requirements including intended use and anticipated schedule, and the following: a. Temperature and humidity

    b. Acoustics

    c. Air quality, ventilation and filtration d. Desired adjustability of system controls

    e. Accommodations for after-hours use

    f. Other owner requirements including natural ventilation, operable windows, daylight, views, etc. 4. Project Program, including facility functions and hours of operation, and need for after-hours operation—Describe primary purpose, program and use of proposed project include the following: a. Building size, number of stories, construction type, occupancy type and number b. Building program areas including intended use and anticipated occupancy schedules c. Future expandability and flexibility of spaces d. Quality and/or durability of materials and building lifespan desired e. Budget or operational constraints f. Applicable codes 5. Equipment and Systems Expectations—Describe the following for each system commissioned: a. Level of quality, reliability, equipment type, automation, flexibility, maintenance and complexity desired b. Specific efficiency targets, desired technologies or preferred manufacturers for building systems, acoustics and vibration c. Degree of system integration, automation and functionality for controls 6. Building Occupant and O&M Personnel Expectations—Describe the following: a. How building will be operated and by whom b. Level of training and orientation required to understand, operate and use the building systems for building operation and maintenance staff, as well as occupants c. Building operation and maintenance staff location and capabilities

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 8-15

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

    COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    1.3 Enforcement:

    At their discretion, the inspector confirms demonstrated compliance at Plan Intake by: a) Receipt of a copy of the OPR document, or b) Receipt of a form signed by the owner or owner representative attesting that the OPR has been completed and approved by the owner.

    Reference: 2 Basis of Design (BOD)

    CALGreen Section 5.410.2.2, Basis of Design (BOD).

    2.1 Intent:

    The Basis of Design (BOD) describes the building systems to be commissioned and outlines design assumptions not indicated in the design documents. The design team develops the BOD to describe how the building systems’ design meets the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR), and why the systems were selected. The BOD is most effective when developed early in the project design and updated as necessary throughout the design process.

    2.2 Compliance Method:

    Compliance requires the completion of the BOD document and should include the following where applicable: 1.

  • CALGreen § 5.105.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception: Combined addition(s) to existing building(s) of two times the area or more of the existing building(s) is not eligible to meet compliance with Section 5.105.2 or Section A5.105.2.

    A5.409.2 Whole building life cycle assessment. Projects shall meet the minimum requirements of Section A5.409.2 for Tier 1 or Tier 2 compliance.

    A5.409.2.1 Tier 1. Projects shall conduct a cradle-to-grave whole building life cycle assessment meeting the requirements of Section 5.409.2 and performed in accordance with ISO 14040 and 14044, excluding operating energy, demonstrating a minimum 15-percent reduction in global warming potential (GWP) as compared to a reference baseline building of similar size, function, complexity, type of construction, material specification, and location that meets the requirements of all parts of the California Building Standards Code currently in effect. Software used to conduct the whole building life cycle assessment, including reference baseline building, shall have a data set compliant with ISO 14044, and ISO 21930 or EN 15804, and the software shall conform to ISO 21931 and/or EN 15978. The software tools and data sets shall be the same for evaluation of both the baseline building and the proposed building.

    Exception: For projects that include building reuse, the reference baseline building shall exclude the reused elements. The percent reduction in GWP shall be achieved through the design and construction of new project elements.

    A5.409.2.2 Tier 2. Projects shall conduct a cradle-to-grave whole building life cycle assessment meeting the requirements of Section 5.409.2 and performed in accordance with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044, excluding operating energy, demonstrating a minimum 20-percent reduction in GWP as compared to a reference baseline building of similar size, function, complexity, type of construction, material specification, and location that meets the requirements of all parts of the California Building Standards Code currently in effect. Software used to conduct the whole building life cycle assessment, including reference baseline building, shall have a data set compliant with ISO 14044, and ISO 21930 or EN 15804, and the software shall conform to ISO 21931 and/or EN 15978. The software tools and data sets shall be the same for evaluation of both the baseline building and the proposed building.

    Exception: For projects that include building reuse, the reference baseline building shall not be of new construction and shall retain existing materials. The percent reduction in GWP shall be achieved through the design and construction of new project elements.

    A5.409.2.3 Verification of compliance. A summary of the GWP analysis produced by the software and Worksheet WS-7 signed by the design professional of record shall be provided in the construction documents as documentation of compliance. A copy of the whole building life cycle assessment which includes the GWP analysis produced by the software, in addition to maintenance and training information, shall be included in the operation and maintenance manual and shall be provided to the owner at the close of construction. The enforcing agency may require inspection and inspection reports in accordance with Sections 702.2 and 703.1 during and at completion of construction to demonstrate substantial conformance. Inspection shall be performed by the design professional of record or third party acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    A5.409.3 Product GWP compliance—prescriptive path. Each product that is permanently installed and listed in Table A5.409.3 shall have a Type III environmental product declaration (EPD), either product-specific or factory-specific.

Frequently asked questions

Who is responsible for making appliances ENERGY STAR?

The builder is responsible for providing ENERGY STAR‑labeled equipment and appliances only when the items are supplied by the builder and ENERGY STAR applies to that product category (see § A6.204.1).

Does every appliance on a job have to be ENERGY STAR?

No — only those appliance types for which ENERGY STAR has a program/specification and that are provided by the builder fall under § A6.204.1. If ENERGY STAR does not cover a product category, the prescriptive requirement does not apply.

What exactly does “orient the building north–south” mean in practice?

CALGreen’s site guidance recommends placing the long sides facing north and south when site conditions permit to reduce east/west solar exposure; see § A6.106.9 and the linkage from § A6.204.6 to site shading rules.

Where are the shading device details found?

§ A6.204.6 directs you to the site development/shading provisions (for example § A6.106.11). If you need the numeric shading dimensions or solar‑access calculations, consult § A6.106.11 and related site sections (the code excerpts here show the linkage).

Do I need to include these measures in commissioning documents?

Yes — CALGreen’s prescriptive approach references commissioning (OPR, BOD, commissioning plan and report) as the verification path; include appliance lists, ENERGY STAR certificates and orientation/shading decisions in those documents. § A6.204.4 and related OPR/BOD guidance.

More in California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

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

What are CALGreen Tier 1 and Tier 2 energy performance requirements for health facilities?

What commissioning documentation and testing are required?

Energy Efficiency & Performance (Division A6.2)

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)