CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

What VOC limits and table references apply to adhesives, sealants and caulks?

For CALGreen projects, adhesives, sealants and caulks must meet the VOC limits shown in Table A6.504.8(1) (adhesives) and Table A6.504.8(2) (sealants/primers) or any stricter local air‑district rule; aerosol/small units follow Title 17; prohibited solvents per Rule 1168 are not allowed.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — plain English

Adhesives, sealants and caulks used on a CALGreen project must meet local/regional air‑pollution district rules or the SCAQMD Rule 1168 VOC limits shown in the CALGreen tables. The controlling CALGreen provisions are § A6.504.8 (Finish material pollutant control) and § A6.504.8.1 (Adhesives, sealants and caulks); the tables with the numeric limits are Table A6.504.8(1) (adhesives) and Table A6.504.8(2) (sealants/primers) in the CALGreen appendix.

The single most important rule: use products at or below the VOC limits in Table A6.504.8(1) (adhesives) and Table A6.504.8(2) (sealants/primers), and do not use the Rule 1168‑prohibited toxic compounds unless an allowed exception applies.

Requirements in detail

Controlling sections (first mention bolded)

  • § A6.504.8 — Finish material pollutant control: finish materials must comply with the pollutant control provisions.
  • § A6.504.8.1 — Adhesives, sealants and caulks: lists the specific product categories and directs compliance with local APCD rules or SCAQMD Rule 1168 limits shown in the CALGreen tables. It also requires compliance with Rule 1168’s prohibition on certain toxic compounds, and specifies the aerosol/ small‑unit exception referencing Title 17.

Bold defined terms on first use: Adhesives, Sealants, Caulks, VOC, Aerosol adhesives.

Key numeric limits (decision‑relevant table)

Below are representative, decision‑relevant VOC limits pulled from the CALGreen tables. Always check the full table in the code text for other categories or updates. Values are “grams per liter (g/L) — less water and less exempt compounds.” Code Reference column points to the table where each limit appears in the CALGreen appendix.

Product category / substrate VOC limit (g/L) Code Reference
Indoor carpet adhesive 50 g/L Table A6.504.8(1) — Adhesive VOC limits (see § A6.504.8.1)
Wood flooring adhesive 100 g/L Table A6.504.8(1) — Adhesive VOC limits
Multipurpose construction adhesive 70 g/L Table A6.504.8(1)
Metal‑to‑metal adhesive (substrate‑specific) 30 g/L Table A6.504.8(1) (substrate specific entries)
Architectural sealant 250 g/L Table A6.504.8(2) — Sealant VOC limits (see § A6.504.8.1)
Single‑ply roof membrane sealant 450 g/L Table A6.504.8(2)
Sealant primer (porous) 775 g/L Table A6.504.8(2) — Sealant primers

Notes in the tables that affect decision‑making:

  • If an adhesive bonds dissimilar substrates, the adhesive with the highest VOC content listed for those substrates governs (i.e., you must meet the higher limit).
  • For measurement methodology and further detail the tables reference SCAQMD Rule 1168.

Other required product controls

  • Products must also comply with the Rule 1168 prohibition on use of certain toxic compounds (chloroform, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene), except where aerosol exceptions apply (see next subsection). § A6.504.8.1.
  • Aerosol adhesives and very small unit sizes (≤1 lb / ≤16 fl oz product) must follow California Title 17 statewide VOC standards and prohibitions (beginning at CCR Title 17 § 94507), rather than the table limits. § A6.504.8.1 (2).

Exceptions & special cases

  • Local APCD rules prevail: where a local or regional air pollution control rule is more stringent than the CALGreen table or SCAQMD Rule 1168, the local rule applies as required by § A6.504.8.1.
  • Aerosol & very small units: aerosol adhesives and very small product units must comply with CCR Title 17 requirements rather than the table VOC limits; see the Title 17 reference in § A6.504.8.1.
  • Toxic compound prohibition: Rule 1168’s ban on specific toxic solvents applies to these products unless the product category is explicitly excepted in the referenced rules. § A6.504.8.1.

Common mistakes

  • Assuming one statewide table covers everything — local APCD limits may be more stringent; always confirm local rules as directed by § A6.504.8.1.
  • Using the lower VOC limit when bonding dissimilar substrates — the table note requires applying the highest applicable VOC limit.
  • Treating aerosol products as covered by the table instead of Title 17 — aerosol and very small packaging have a separate compliance path per § A6.504.8.1.
  • Forgetting the Rule 1168 toxic‑compound prohibitions — some products may meet VOC numbers but still contain prohibited solvents; check manufacturer data sheets.

Worked example

Scenario: installing wood flooring adhesive to bond engineered wood flooring to a plywood subfloor.

  • Lookup: Table A6.504.8(1) sets the wood flooring adhesive limit at 100 g/L.
  • Product A (manufacturer label): VOC = 95 g/L (less water and exempt compounds) → compliant.
  • Product B: VOC = 120 g/L → noncompliant; do not use on the project unless local APCD has a different allowable limit (check local rules). § A6.504.8.1 requires compliance with the tables or local APCD.

Alternate example (dissimilar substrates): bonding wood to fiberglass:

  • Table limits: wood = 30 g/L (substrate‑specific), fiberglass = 80 g/L. The CALGreen table note says if bonding dissimilar substrates, the adhesive with the highest VOC content shall be allowed — i.e., design/product selection must meet the 80 g/L requirement.

Related CALGreen provisions

  • § A6.504.8 — Finish material pollutant control (applies to finish materials generally).
  • § A6.504.8.1 — Adhesives, sealants and caulks (direct reference to Tables A6.504.8(1) and A6.504.8(2)).
  • Table A6.504.8(1) — Adhesive VOC limits (adhesive categories & substrate‑specific entries).
  • Table A6.504.8(2) — Sealant and sealant primer VOC limits.
  • A6.504.8.3 — Paints and coatings VOC content limits (related finish‑material VOC controls).
  • A6.504.8.4 — Carpet systems and carpet adhesive requirements (references adhesive table for carpet adhesives).

Code references

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

  • CALGreen § 4-13 High relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 4-13

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

    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    4.504.2.4 Verification. Verification of compliance with this section shall be provided at the request of the enforcing agency. Documentation may include, but is not limited to, the following:

    1. Manufacturer’s product specification.
    2. Field verification of on-site product containers.
    TABLE 4.504.1—ADHESIVE VOC LIMIT1, 2
    Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds in Grams per Liter    		 Col2
    ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATIONS ** VOC LIMIT**
    Indoor carpet adhesives 50
    Carpet pad adhesives 50
    Outdoor carpet adhesives 150
    Wood flooring adhesive 100
    Rubber floor adhesives 60
    Subfloor adhesives 50
    Ceramic tile adhesives 65
    VCT and asphalt tile adhesives 50
    Drywall and panel adhesives 50
    Cove base adhesives 50
    Multipurpose construction adhesives 70
    Structural glazing adhesives 100
    Single-ply roof membrane adhesives 250
    Other adhesives not specifically listed 50
    SPECIALTY APPLICATIONS
    PVC welding 510
    CPVC welding 490
    ABS welding 325
    Plastic cement welding 250
    Adhesive primer for plastic 550
    Contact adhesive 80
    Special purpose contact adhesive 250
    Structural wood member adhesive 140
    Top and trim adhesive 250
    SUBSTRATE SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS
    Metal to metal 30
    Plastic foams 50
    Porous material (except wood) 50
    Wood 30
    Fiberglass 80
    1. If an adhesive is used to bond dissimilar substrates together, the adhesive with the highest VOC content shall be allowed.
    2. For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in this table, see South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168.    		 1. If an adhesive is used to bond dissimilar substrates together, the adhesive with the highest VOC content shall be allowed.
    2. For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in this table, see South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168.

    4-14 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    TABLE 4.504.2 —SEALANT VOC LIMIT
    Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds in Grams per Liter    		 Col2
    SEALANTS ** VOC LIMIT**
    Architectural 250
    Marine deck 760
    Nonmembrane roof 300
    Roadway 250
    Single-ply roof membrane 450
    Other 420
    SEALANT PRIMERS
    Architectural
    Nonporous
    Porous    		 250
    775
    Modified bituminous 500
    Marine deck 760
    Other 750

    |TABLE 4.504.3—VOC CONTENT LIMITS FOR ARCHITECTURAL COATINGS2, 3
    Grams of VOC per Liter of Coating, Less Water

  • CALGreen § 504.5.1 High relevance — show source text

    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.

    1. Qualifying entryways are those that serve as regular entry points for building users.
    2. Acceptable entryway systems include, but are not limited to, permanently installed grates, grilles or slotted systems that allow cleaning underneath.
    3. Roll-out mats are acceptable only when maintained regularly by janitorial contractors as documented in service contract or by in-house staff as documented by written policies and procedures.

    A6.504.8 Finish material pollutant control. [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] Finish materials shall comply with Sections A6.504.4.1 through A6.504.4.5.

    A6.504.8.1 Adhesives, sealants and caulks. Adhesives, sealants and caulks used on the project shall meet the requirements of the following standards:

    1. Adhesives, adhesive bonding primers, adhesive primers, sealants, sealant primers and caulks shall comply with local or regional air pollution control or air quality management district rules where applicable or SCAQMD Rule 1168 VOC limits, as shown in Tables A6.504.8(1) and A6.504.8(2). Such products also shall comply with the Rule 1168 prohibition on the use of certain toxic compounds (chloroform, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene), except for aerosol products as specified in Subsection 2, below.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-33

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

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

    1. Aerosol adhesives and smaller unit sizes of adhesives and sealant or caulking compounds (in units of product, less packaging, which do not weigh more than one pound and do not consist of more than 16 fluid ounces) shall comply with statewide VOC standards and other requirements, including prohibitions on use of certain toxic compounds, of California Code of Regulations, Title 17, commencing with Section 94507.

    Note: Title 17 may be found at http://ccr.oal.ca.gov/.

    TABLE A6.504.8(1)—ADHESIVE VOC LIMIT1, 2
    Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds in Grams per Liter    		 Col2
    ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATIONS CURRENT VOC LIMIT
    Indoor carpet adhesives 50
    Carpet pad adhesives 50
    Outdoor carpet adhesives 150
    Wood flooring adhesive 100
    Rubber floor adhesives 60
    Subfloor adhesives 50
    Ceramic tile adhesives 65
    VCT and asphalt tile adhesives 50
    Drywall and panel adhesives 50
    Cove base adhesives 50
    Multipurpose construction adhesives 70
    Structural glazing adhesives 100
    Single-ply roof membrane adhesives 250
    Other adhesive not specifically listed 50
    SPECIALTY APPLICATIONS
    PVC welding 510
    CPVC welding 490
    ABS welding 325
    Plastic
  • CALGreen § 5.504.4 High relevance — show source text

    5.504.4 Finish material pollutant control. Finish materials shall comply with Sections 5.504.4.1 through 5.504.4.6.

    5.504.4.1 Adhesives, sealants and caulks. Adhesives, sealants and caulks used on the project shall meet the requirements of the following standards:

    1. Adhesives, adhesive bonding primers, adhesive primers, sealants, sealant primers and caulks shall comply with local or regional air pollution control or air quality management district rules where applicable, or SCAQMD Rule 1168 VOC limits, as shown in Tables 5.504.4.1 and 5.504.4.2. Such products also shall comply with the Rule 1168 prohibition on the use of certain toxic compounds (chloroform, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene), except for aerosol products as specified in subsection 2, below.
    2. Aerosol adhesives, and smaller unit sizes of adhesives, and sealant or caulking compounds (in units of product, less packaging, which do not weigh more than one pound and do not consist of more than 16 fluid ounces) shall comply with statewide VOC standards and other requirements, including prohibitions on use of certain toxic compounds, of Califor- nia Code of Regulations, Title 17, commencing with Section 94507.
    TABLE 5.504.4.1—ADHESIVE VOC LIMIT1,2—Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds in Grams Per Liter Col2
    ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATIONS CURRENT VOC LIMIT
    Indoor carpet adhesives 50
    Carpet pad adhesives 50
    Outdoor carpet adhesives 150
    Wood flooring adhesive 100
    Rubber floor adhesives 60
    Subfloor adhesives 50
    Ceramic tile adhesives 65
    VCT and asphalt tile adhesives 50
    Drywall and panel adhesives 50
    Cove base adhesives 50
    Multipurpose construction adhesives 70
    Structural glazing adhesives 100
    Single-ply roof membrane adhesives 250
    Other adhesive not specifically listed 50
    SPECIALTY APPLICATIONS
    PVC welding 510
    CPVC welding 490
    ABS welding 325
    Plastic cement welding 250
    Adhesive primer for plastic 550
    Contact adhesive 80
    Special purpose contact adhesive 250
    Structural wood member adhesive 140
    Top and trim adhesive 250
    SUBSTRATE SPECIFIC APPLICATIONS
    Metal to metal 30
    Plastic foams 50
    Porous material (except wood) 50
    Wood 30
    Fiberglass 80
    1. If an adhesive is used to bond dissimilar substrates together the adhesive with the highest VOC content shall be allowed.
    2. For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in this table, seeSouth Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168,
    http://www.arb.ca.gov/DRDB/SC/CURHTML/R1168.PDF.    		 1. If an adhesive is used to bond dissimilar substrates together the adhesive with the highest VOC content shall be allowed.
    2.
  • CALGreen § 4.504.2.2 High relevance — show source text

    Such products also shall comply with the Rule 1168 prohibition on the use of certain toxic compounds (chloroform, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene), except for aerosol products, as specified in Subsection 2 below. 2. Aerosol adhesives, and smaller unit sizes of adhesives, and sealant or caulking compounds (in units of product, less packaging, which do not weigh more than 1 pound and do not consist of more than 16 fluid ounces) shall comply with statewide VOC standards and other requirements, including prohibitions on use of certain toxic compounds, of Califor- nia Code of Regulations, Title 17, commencing with Section 94507.

    4.504.2.2 Paints and coatings. Architectural paints and coatings shall comply with VOC limits in Table 1 of the ARB Architectural Suggested Control Measure, as shown in Table 4.504.3, unless more stringent local limits apply. The VOC content limit for coatings that do not meet the definitions for the specialty coatings categories listed in Table 4.504.3 shall be determined by classifying the coating as a Flat, Nonflat or Nonflat-high Gloss coating, based on its gloss, as defined in subsections 4.21, 4.36 and 4.37 of the 2007 California Air Resources Board, Suggested Control Measure, and the corresponding Flat, Nonflat or Nonflat-high Gloss VOC limit in Table 4.504.3 shall apply.

    4.504.2.3 Aerosol paints and coatings. Aerosol paints and coatings shall meet the Product-weighted MIR Limits for ROC in Section 94522(a)(2) and other requirements, including prohibitions on use of certain toxic compounds and ozone depleting substances, in Sections 94522(e)(1) and (f)(1) of California Code of Regulations, Title 17, commencing with Section 94520; and in areas under the jurisdiction of the Bay Area Air Quality Management District additionally comply with the percent VOC by weight of product limits of Regulation 8, Rule 49.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 4-13

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

    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    4.504.2.4 Verification. Verification of compliance with this section shall be provided at the request of the enforcing agency. Documentation may include, but is not limited to, the following:

    1. Manufacturer’s product specification.
    2. Field verification of on-site product containers.
    TABLE 4.504.1—ADHESIVE VOC LIMIT1, 2
    Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds in Grams per Liter    		 Col2
    ARCHITECTURAL APPLICATIONS ** VOC LIMIT**
    Indoor carpet adhesives 50
    Carpet pad adhesives 50
    Outdoor carpet adhesives 150
    Wood flooring adhesive 100
    Rubber floor adhesives 60
    Subfloor adhesives 50
    Ceramic tile adhesives 65
    VCT and asphalt tile adhesives 50
    Drywall and panel adhesives 50
    Cove base adhesives 50
    Multipurpose construction adhesives 70
    Structural glazing adhesives 100
    Single-ply roof membrane adhesives 250
    Other adhesives not specifically listed 50
    **SPECIALTY
  • CALGreen § 4.503 High relevance — show source text

    REACTIVE ORGANIC COMPOUND (ROC).

    VOC.

    SECTION 4.503—FIREPLACES

    4.503.1 General. Any installed gas fireplace shall be a direct-vent sealed-combustion type. Any installed woodstove or pellet stove shall comply with US EPA New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) emission limits as applicable, and shall have a permanent label indicating they are certified to meet the emission limits. Woodstoves, pellet stoves and fireplaces shall also comply with applicable local ordinances.

    SECTION 4.504 —POLLUTANT CONTROL

    4.504.1 Covering of duct openings and protection of mechanical equipment during construction. At the time of rough installation, during storage on the construction site and until final startup of the heating, cooling and ventilating equipment, all duct and other related air distribution component openings shall be covered with tape, plastic, sheet metal or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency to reduce the amount of water, dust and debris, which may enter the system.

    4.504.2 Finish material pollutant control. Finish materials shall comply with this section.

    4.504.2.1 Adhesives, sealants and caulks. Adhesives, sealants and caulks used on the project shall meet the requirements of the following standards unless more stringent local or regional air pollution or air quality management district rules apply:

    1. Adhesives, adhesive bonding primers, adhesive primers, sealants, sealant primers and caulks shall comply with local or regional air pollution control or air quality management district rules where applicable or SCAQMD Rule 1168 VOC limits, as shown in Table 4.504.1 or 4.504.2, as applicable. Such products also shall comply with the Rule 1168 prohibition on the use of certain toxic compounds (chloroform, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene), except for aerosol products, as specified in Subsection 2 below.
    2. Aerosol adhesives, and smaller unit sizes of adhesives, and sealant or caulking compounds (in units of product, less packaging, which do not weigh more than 1 pound and do not consist of more than 16 fluid ounces) shall comply with statewide VOC standards and other requirements, including prohibitions on use of certain toxic compounds, of Califor- nia Code of Regulations, Title 17, commencing with Section 94507.

    4.504.2.2 Paints and coatings. Architectural paints and coatings shall comply with VOC limits in Table 1 of the ARB Architectural Suggested Control Measure, as shown in Table 4.504.3, unless more stringent local limits apply. The VOC content limit for coatings that do not meet the definitions for the specialty coatings categories listed in Table 4.504.3 shall be determined by classifying the coating as a Flat, Nonflat or Nonflat-high Gloss coating, based on its gloss, as defined in subsections 4.21, 4.36 and 4.37 of the 2007 California Air Resources Board, Suggested Control Measure, and the corresponding Flat, Nonflat or Nonflat-high Gloss VOC limit in Table 4.504.3 shall apply.

  • CALGreen § 5-32 High relevance — show source text

    For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in this table, seeSouth Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168,
    http://www.arb.ca.gov/DRDB/SC/CURHTML/R1168.PDF.|1. If an adhesive is used to bond dissimilar substrates together the adhesive with the highest VOC content shall be allowed.
    2. For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in this table, seeSouth Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168,
    http://www.arb.ca.gov/DRDB/SC/CURHTML/R1168.PDF.|

    5-32 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    TABLE 5.504.4.2—SEALANT VOC LIMIT—Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds in Grams per Liter Col2
    SEALANTS CURRENT VOC LIMIT
    Architectural 250
    Marine deck 760
    Nonmembrane roof 300
    Roadway 250
    Single-ply roof membrane 450
    Other 420
    SEALANT PRIMERS
    Architectural
    Nonporous
    Porous    		 250
    775
    Modified bituminous 500
    Marine deck 760
    Other 750
    Note: For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in these tables, see South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168. Note: For additional information regarding methods to measure the VOC content specified in these tables, see South Coast Air Quality Management District Rule 1168.

    5.504.4.3 Paints and coatings. Architectural paints and coatings shall comply with VOC limits in Table 1 of the ARB Architectural Coatings Suggested Control Measure, as shown in Table 5.504.4.3, unless more stringent local limits apply. The VOC content limit for coatings that do not meet the definitions for the specialty coatings categories listed in Table 5.504.4.3 shall be determined by classifying the coating as a Flat, Nonflat or Nonflat-High Gloss coating, based on its gloss, as defined in Subsections 4.21, 4.36 and 4.37 of the 2007 California Air Resources Board Suggested Control Measure, and the corresponding Flat, Nonflat or Nonflat-High Gloss VOC limit in Table 5.504.4.3 shall apply.

    |TABLE 5.504.4.3—VOC CONTENT LIMITS FOR ARCHITECTURAL COATINGS2, 3
    Grams of VOC per Liter of Coating,

  • CALGreen § 504.8.3 High relevance — show source text
    TABLE A6.504.8.3—VOC CONTENT LIMITS FOR ARCHITECTURAL COATINGS2, 3
    Grams of VOC Per Liter of Coating, Less Water and Less Exempt Compounds    		 Col2 Col3
    COATING CATEGORY EFFECTIVE
    1/1/2010    		 EFFECTIVE
    1/1/2012
    Flat coatings 50
    Nonflat coatings 100
    Nonflat-high gloss coatings 150
    Specialty coatings Specialty coatings Specialty coatings
    Aluminum roof coatings 400
    Basement specialty coatings 400
    Bituminous roof coatings 50
    Bituminous roof primers 350
    Bond breakers 350
    Concrete curing compounds 350
    Concrete/masonry sealers 100
    Driveway sealers 50
    Dry fog coatings 150
    Faux finishing coatings 350
    Fire-resistive coatings 350
    Floor coatings 100
    Form-release compounds 250
    Graphic arts coatings (sign paints) 500
    High-Temperature coatings 420
    Industrial maintenance coatings 250
    Low solids coatings1 120
    Magnesite cement coatings 450
    Mastic texture coatings 100
    Metallic pigmented coatings 500
    Multicolor coatings 250
    Pretreatment wash primers 420
    Primers, sealers and undercoaters 100
    Reactive penetrating sealers 350
    Recycled coatings 250
    Roof coatings 50
    Rust preventative coatings 400 250
    Shellacs:
    Clear
    Opaque    		 730
    550
    Specialty primers, sealers and undercoaters 350 100
    Stains 250
    Stone consolidants 450
    Swimming pool coatings 340
    Traffic marking coatings 100
    Tub and tile refinish coatings 420
    Waterproofing membranes 250
    Wood coatings 275
    Wood preservatives 350
    Zinc-rich primers 340
    1. Grams of VOC per liter of coating, including water and including exempt compounds.
    2. The specified limits remain in effect unless revised limits are listed in subsequent columns in the table.
    3. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Architectural Coatings Suggested Control Measure, February 1, 2008. More informa-
    tion is available at Air Resources Board.    		 1. Grams of VOC per liter of coating, including water and including exempt compounds.
    2. The specified limits remain in effect unless revised limits are listed in subsequent columns in the table.
    3. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Architectural Coatings Suggested Control Measure, February 1, 2008. More informa-
    tion is available at Air Resources Board.    		 1. Grams of VOC per liter of coating, including water and including exempt compounds.
    2. The specified limits remain in effect unless revised limits are listed in subsequent columns in the table.
    3. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Architectural Coatings Suggested Control Measure, February 1, 2008. More informa-
    tion is available at Air Resources Board.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-35

  • CALGreen § 42649.82 High relevance — show source text

    if more restrictive.
    **Exception:**Rural jurisdictions that meet and apply for the exemption in
    Public Resources Code Section 42649.82 (a)(2)(A) et seq. will also be
    exempt from the organic waste portion of this section.||||||| |Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions||||||| |A4.411.1Items in this section are necessary to address innovative
    concepts or local environmental conditions.||||||| |Item 1|
    |
    |
    |
    |
    |
    | |Item 2|
    |
    |
    |
    |
    |
    | |Item 3||||||| |ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY||||||| |Fireplaces||||||| |4.503.1Any installed gas fireplace shall be a direct-vent sealed-
    combustion type. Any installed woodstove or pellet stove shall
    comply with US EPA New Source Performance Standards (NSPS)
    emission limits as applicable, and shall have a permanent label
    indicating they are certified to meet the emission limits. Woodstoves,
    pellet stoves and fireplaces shall also comply with applicable local
    ordinances.||||||| |Pollutant Control||||||| |4.504.1Duct openings and other related air distribution component
    openings shall be covered during construction.||||||| |4.504.2.1Adhesives, sealants and caulks shall be compliant with VOC
    and other toxic compound limits.||||||| |4.504.2.2 Paints, stains and other coatings shall be compliant with
    VOC limits.||||||| |4.504.2.3 Aerosol paints and coatings shall be compliant with
    product weighted MIR limits for ROC and other toxic compounds.||||||| |4.504.2.4Documentation shall be provided to verify that compliant
    VOC limit finish materials have been used.|
    |||
    |
    |
    | |4.504.3Carpet and carpet systems shall be compliant with VOC limits.||||||| |4.504.480 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall
    comply with specified VOC criteria.||||||| |4.504.5Particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and
    hardwood plywood used in interior or exterior finish systems shall
    comply with low formaldehyde emission standards.

  • CALGreen § 504.8 High relevance — show source text

    Documentation must be provided verifying that materials are certified to meet the
    pollutant emission limits. A list of manufacturers and theirNAF and ULEF certified materials
    is provided at http://www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/compwood/naf_ulef/listofnaf_ulef.htm.
    **A6.504.8 Finish material pollutant control.**Finish materials shall comply with Sections
    A6.504.8.1 through A6.504.8.4.
    A6.504.8.1 Adhesives, sealants and caulks. Adhesives, sealants and caulks used on the
    project shall meet the requirements of the following standards.
    1. Adhesives, adhesive bonding primers and adhesive primers, sealants and
    sealant primers shall comply with Table A6.504.8.1.
    2. Aerosol adhesives shall meet the requirements of_California Code of Regulations,_
    Title 17, commencing with Section 94507, http://ccr.oal.ca.gov/.||



    |



    ||

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-39

    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] — 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.
  • CALGreen § 504.4.5.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION A6.504—POLLUTANT CONTROL

    A6.504.4.5.1 No-added formaldehyde. Use composite wood products approved by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) as no-added formaldehyde (NAF) based resins or ultra-low-emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) resins.

    Notes:

    1. See Title 17, Section 93120.3(c) and (d), respectively.
    2. Documentation must be provided verifying that materials are certified to meet the pollutant emission limits. A list [of manufacturers and their NAF and ULEF certified materials is provided at http://www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/comp-](http://www.arb.ca.gov/toxics/comp-wood/ naf_ulef/ listofnaf_ulef.htm.) wood/ naf_ulef/ listofnaf_ulef.htm.

    A6.504.4.9 Acoustical ceilings and wall panels. Comply with Chapter 8 in Title 24, Part 2, the California Building Code and with the VOC-emission limits defined in the 2009 CHPS criteria and listed on its High Performance Products Database.

    A6.504.4.9.1 Verification of compliance. Documentation shall be provided verifying that acoustical finish materials meet the pollutant emission limits.

    Note: Products compliant with CHPS criteria certified under the Greenguard Children & Schools program may also be used.

    Note: [OSHPD 1, 2 &4] Documentation shall be provided that verifies that finish materials are certified to meet the pollutant emission limits.

    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.

    1. Qualifying entryways are those that serve as regular entry points for building users.
    2. Acceptable entryway systems include, but are not limited to, permanently installed grates, grilles or slotted systems that allow cleaning underneath.
    3. Roll-out mats are acceptable only when maintained regularly by janitorial contractors as documented in service contract or by in-house staff as documented by written policies and procedures.

    A6.504.8 Finish material pollutant control. [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] Finish materials shall comply with Sections A6.504.4.1 through A6.504.4.5.

    A6.504.8.1 Adhesives, sealants and caulks. Adhesives, sealants and caulks used on the project shall meet the requirements of the following standards:

    1. Adhesives, adhesive bonding primers, adhesive primers, sealants, sealant primers and caulks shall comply with local or regional air pollution control or air quality management district rules where applicable or SCAQMD Rule 1168 VOC limits, as shown in Tables A6.504.8(1) and A6.504.8(2). Such products also shall comply with the Rule 1168 prohibition on the use of certain toxic compounds (chloroform, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene), except for aerosol products as specified in Subsection 2, below.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-33

  • CALGreen § 504.1 High relevance — show source text

    504.1**Duct openings and other related air distribution component
    openings shall be covered during construction.||||||| |4.504.2.1Adhesives, sealants and caulks shall be compliant with VOC
    and other toxic compound limits.||||||| |4.504.2.2 Paints, stains and other coatings shall be compliant with
    VOC limits.||||||| |4.504.2.3 Aerosol paints and coatings shall be compliant with
    product weighted MIR limits for ROC and other toxic compounds.||||||| |4.504.2.4Documentation shall be provided to verify that compliant
    VOC limit finish materials have been used.|
    |||
    |
    |
    | |4.504.3Carpet and carpet systems shall be compliant with VOC limits.||||||| |4.504.480 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall
    comply with specified VOC criteria.||||||| |4.504.5Particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and
    hardwood plywood used in interior or exterior finish systems shall
    comply with low formaldehyde emission standards.|||||||

    APPENDIX A4-28 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    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
    A4.504.1Use composite wood products made with either California
    Air Resources Board approved no-added formaldehyde (NAF) resins
    or ultra-low emitting formaldehyde (ULEF) resins.


    A4.504.2Install VOC compliant resilient flooring systems.
    **Tier 1.
  • CALGreen § 4.410.2 High relevance — show source text

    structures.

    1. Information and/or drawings identifying the location of grab bar reinforcements.

    4.410.2 Recycling by occupants. Where 5 or more multifamily dwelling units are constructed on a building site, provide readily accessible area(s) that serves all buildings on the site and are identified for the depositing, storage and collection of nonhazardous 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 Section 42649.82 (a)(2)(A) et seq. are not required to comply with the organic waste portion of this section.

    4-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    4 RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    DIVISION 4.5 – ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY

    SECTION 4.501—GENERAL

    4.501.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall outline means of reducing the quantity of air contaminants that are odorous, irritating and/or harmful to the comfort and well- being of a building’s installers, occupants and neighbors.

    SECTION 4.502—DEFINITIONS

    4.502.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    AGRIFIBER PRODUCTS.

    COMPOSITE WOOD PRODUCTS.

    DIRECT-VENT APPLIANCE.

    MAXIMUM INCREMENTAL REACTIVITY (MIR).

    MOISTURE CONTENT.

    PRODUCT-WEIGHTED MIR (PWMIR).

    REACTIVE ORGANIC COMPOUND (ROC).

    VOC.

    SECTION 4.503—FIREPLACES

    4.503.1 General. Any installed gas fireplace shall be a direct-vent sealed-combustion type. Any installed woodstove or pellet stove shall comply with US EPA New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) emission limits as applicable, and shall have a permanent label indicating they are certified to meet the emission limits. Woodstoves, pellet stoves and fireplaces shall also comply with applicable local ordinances.

    SECTION 4.504 —POLLUTANT CONTROL

    4.504.1 Covering of duct openings and protection of mechanical equipment during construction. At the time of rough installation, during storage on the construction site and until final startup of the heating, cooling and ventilating equipment, all duct and other related air distribution component openings shall be covered with tape, plastic, sheet metal or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency to reduce the amount of water, dust and debris, which may enter the system.

    4.504.2 Finish material pollutant control. Finish materials shall comply with this section.

    4.504.2.1 Adhesives, sealants and caulks. Adhesives, sealants and caulks used on the project shall meet the requirements of the following standards unless more stringent local or regional air pollution or air quality management district rules apply:

    1. Adhesives, adhesive bonding primers, adhesive primers, sealants, sealant primers and caulks shall comply with local or regional air pollution control or air quality management district rules where applicable or SCAQMD Rule 1168 VOC limits, as shown in Table 4.504.1 or 4.504.2, as applicable.

Frequently asked questions

Are aerosol adhesives covered by the CALGreen adhesive tables?

No. Aerosol adhesives and very small product units must comply with California CCR Title 17 VOC standards and prohibitions (starting at § 94507), not the Table A6.504.8(1) numeric limits. § A6.504.8.1 (2).

What if my local air district has stricter VOC limits?

Follow the local or regional air pollution control or air quality management district rules where applicable — they take precedence if more stringent, per § A6.504.8.1.

How do I verify a product is compliant?

Documentation such as the manufacturer’s product specification (showing VOC in g/L less water and exempt compounds) and on‑site verification of product containers are typical verification methods cited in CALGreen. See the verification notes in the finish material sections.

If an adhesive bonds two different substrates which table entry applies?

Use the adhesive limit associated with the substrate that has the highest VOC limit — CALGreen explicitly allows applying the higher limit for dissimilar substrates (table note).

Are there prohibited solvents I must check for even if VOC is low?

Yes. CALGreen requires compliance with Rule 1168’s prohibition on specific toxic compounds (chloroform, ethylene dichloride, methylene chloride, perchloroethylene and trichloroethylene) for adhesives/sealants except where aerosol exceptions apply. § A6.504.8.1.

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 the VOC requirements and verification steps for paints and coatings?

What requirements apply to carpet systems, composite wood and product documentation?

What indoor air quality controls cover environmental tobacco smoke and moisture?

Materials, Finishes & Indoor Environmental Quality (A6.504–A6.505)

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)