CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

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

In plain language: interior carpet must be certified to specific low‑emission standards, carpet cushion and adhesives must meet specified programs/limits, and composite wood (plywood, particleboard, MDF) must meet ARB formaldehyde emission limits — keep product certificates, chain‑of‑custody or invoices on hand to show compliance when the enforcing agency asks (see **§§ A6.504.8.4**, **A6.504.8.4.1**, **A6.504.8.4.2**, **A6.504.8.5**, **A6.504.8.5.2**) file.

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2–4 sentences

Per § A6.504.8.4, all carpet installed in the building interior must meet the testing/product requirements of one of the listed certification/testing programs (for example, Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label Plus, CDPH Standard Method/Specification 01350, NSF/ANSI 140 Gold, or SCS Sustainable Choice) .
Per § A6.504.8.5, composite wood products (hardwood plywood, particleboard, MDF and thin MDF) used interior or exterior must meet the formaldehyde emission limits established by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) ATCM (17 CCR 93120 et seq.) — see Table A6.504.8.5 for limits and compliance dates .
Verification documentation for composite wood must be provided on request; the code lists acceptable documentation options in § A6.504.8.5.2 (product certification/specs; chain-of-custody; or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency) .

The single most important rule: use only carpet materials and cushions certified by an accepted VOC/test program and only composite wood products that meet ARB formaldehyde limits — and keep product documentation available for the enforcing agency.

Requirements in detail

Carpet systems (what to specify and verify)

  • All interior carpet must comply with one of the testing/certification options in § A6.504.8.4. The code explicitly lists:
    • Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label Plus Program,
    • California Department of Public Health Standard Practice (Specification 01350),
    • NSF/ANSI 140 at the Gold level, or
    • Scientific Certifications Systems Sustainable Choice.
  • Carpet cushion (underlay) installed in the interior must meet the Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label requirements (see § A6.504.8.4.1) .
  • Carpet adhesive must meet the limits in Table A6.504.8.1 as required by § A6.504.8.4.2 (the table sets VOC/toxic compound limits and local-rule references) — present the adhesive product submittals or manufacturer data to show compliance .

Decision table — carpet compliance options

Decision dimension Required value / action Code reference
Carpet product testing/certification Use one of: CRI Green Label Plus, CDPH 01350, NSF/ANSI 140 (Gold), SCS Sustainable Choice § A6.504.8.4
Carpet cushion Must meet Carpet and Rug Institute Green Label § A6.504.8.4.1
Carpet adhesive Must meet limits in Table A6.504.8.1 (VOC & toxic-compound limits / local rules) § A6.504.8.4.2

Composite wood products — formaldehyde limits and scope

  • Products covered: hardwood plywood, particleboard, medium density fiberboard (MDF) and thin MDF used on interior or exterior finish systems must meet ARB ATCM formaldehyde emission limits or be exempt under that ATCM, per § A6.504.8.5 .
  • Thin MDF maximum thickness is defined in the table notes as 8 millimeters (5/16 inch) — treat thin MDF separately where the table shows different limits .

Decision table — composite wood formaldehyde limits (as shown in § A6.504.8.5)

Product Current limit (ppm formaldehyde per Table A6.504.8.5) Historical compliance milestones / notes Code reference
Hardwood plywood — veneer core 0.05 See table footnotes referencing ARB ATCM testing method ASTM E1333 § A6.504.8.5
Hardwood plywood — composite core 0.08 (current); 0.05 by July 1, 2012 (table shows milestone dates) Table includes phased dates — confirm product date of manufacture/compliance § A6.504.8.5
Particleboard 0.09 — § A6.504.8.5
Medium density fiberboard (MDF) 0.11 — § A6.504.8.5
Thin MDF (≤ 8 mm / 5/16 in) 0.21 (current) ; 0.13 by Jan 1, 2012 (table shows date column) Table note: thin MDF defined as max 8 mm thickness § A6.504.8.5

Notes: the limits in Table A6.504.8.5 are derived from the ARB ATCM and are tested per ASTM E1333; verify product certification against the ARB regulation (17 CCR 93120 et seq.) when documenting compliance .

Documentation options — what to keep and present

  • Verification of compliance for composite wood must be provided when requested by the enforcing agency. Per § A6.504.8.5.2, acceptable documentation includes at least one of:
    1. Product certifications and specifications (manufacturer certs showing compliance with ARB ATCM limits),
    2. Chain-of-custody certifications, or
    3. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency (including labels/invoices showing the product meets the Composite Wood Products regulation, or other agency‑approved evidence).
  • The code and notes also point to ARB’s published lists of NAF and ULEF certified materials as an information resource for verifying compliance .

Decision table — documentation options

Documentation type When it satisfies code Code reference
Product certification/specification (manufacturer letter, spec sheet showing ATCM/NAF/ULEF) Primary acceptable proof § A6.504.8.5.2
Chain-of-custody certification Acceptable (shows material provenance and certification) § A6.504.8.5.2
Product labeling / invoice showing ARB Composite Wood regulation compliance Acceptable where provided; agencies may accept other methods § A6.504.8.5.2

Exceptions & special cases

  • Materials explicitly exempt under the ARB ATCM are not required to meet the ATCM limits — check the ARB regulation (17 CCR 93120 et seq.) for exemptions and effective dates; the CALGreen section cross-references the ARB ATCM .
  • Phased limits and historic milestones: Table A6.504.8.5 includes milestone dates (for example, certain products moved to stricter limits on Jan 1, 2012 or July 1, 2012). When using older inventory or stock materials, confirm the product’s manufacture/ship date and the applicable limit column in the table .
  • Thin MDF is treated separately and is defined by a maximum thickness of 8 millimeters (5/16 inch); apply the thin‑MDF limit from the table where applicable .
  • For carpet adhesives, the code refers to Table A6.504.8.1 for limits; because local air districts may have additional rules, always confirm local VOC rules (SCAQMD Rule 1168, etc.) referenced in the table and documenting agency requirements .

Common mistakes

  • Failing to keep documentation on-site or available for the enforcing agency (product certs, chain of custody, invoices). The code requires documentation to be provided on request (see § A6.504.8.5.2) .
  • Assuming any “low‑VOC” label satisfies carpet rules — CALGreen requires one of the specific carpet test/programs listed in § A6.504.8.4; not all low‑VOC claims meet those programs .
  • Confusing CRI Green Label (carpet cushion) with CRI Green Label Plus (carpet product); the code requires Green Label Plus for carpet product options and Green Label for cushion where specified — reference § A6.504.8.4 and § A6.504.8.4.1 .
  • Misreading the composite wood table dates — the table includes historical compliance dates; verify which column applies to your product by manufacture date and the ARB ATCM text rather than assuming the most stringent number always applies .

Worked example — office tenant fit‑out

Scenario: interior office fit‑out installs 4,000 sq ft of carpet, 500 sq ft of built‑in cabinets using MDF shelving, and carpet cushion underlayment.

  1. Carpet: Designer specifies broadloom carpet. Per § A6.504.8.4, the product submittal must show the carpet is certified to one of the accepted programs (e.g., CRI Green Label Plus). Show the manufacturer Green Label Plus certificate on the submittal — this meets the carpet requirement .

  2. Cushion: Cushion underlayment must meet CRI Green Label (per § A6.504.8.4.1). Include the cushion manufacturer’s Green Label certificate in submittals .

  3. Adhesive: The installer must use carpet adhesive that meets Table A6.504.8.1 limits (provide the adhesive product SDS/manufacturer VOC spec or third‑party certification showing the adhesive meets the table limits) — reference § A6.504.8.4.2 and the adhesive table when submitting documentation .

  4. Composite wood (MDF shelving): Per § A6.504.8.5, MDF must meet the ARB ATCM formaldehyde emission limit (MDF limit per table is 0.11 ppm for standard MDF). Provide one of the documentation forms in § A6.504.8.5.2 — for example, the manufacturer’s product certification showing the panel meets ATCM limits or a chain‑of‑custody certificate. Keep that documentation on file and ready to present to the enforcing agency file.

In short: for this fit‑out you would collect (a) carpet Green Label Plus cert, (b) cushion Green Label cert, (c) adhesive VOC data showing compliance with Table A6.504.8.1, and (d) MDF product certification (or invoice/label showing ARB compliance) — and submit/retain them for inspection.

Related provisions

  • § A6.504.8.3 (Paints and coatings verification / VOC limits) — related finish material pollutant controls
  • § A6.504.8.4.1 (Carpet cushion — CRI Green Label requirement)
  • § A6.504.8.4.2 (Carpet adhesive — Table A6.504.8.1)
  • § A6.504.8.5 (Composite wood products & formaldehyde limits / Table A6.504.8.5)
  • § A6.504.8.5.2 (Documentation options for composite wood compliance)
  • ARB Composite Wood ATCM (17 CCR 93120 et seq.) — referenced as the compliance standard in § A6.504.8.5 (see table footnotes)

Code references

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

  • 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 § 504.8.3.1 High relevance — show source text

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

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

    A6.504.8.3.1 Aerosol paints and coatings. Aerosol paints and coatings shall meet the Product-Weighted MIR Limits for ROC in Section 94522(a)(3) and other requirements, including prohibitions on use of certain toxic compounds and ozone depleting substances, in Sections 94522(c)(2) and (d)(2) 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.

    A6.504.8.3.2 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. Manufacturers product specification.
    2. Field verification of on-site product containers.

    A6.504.8.4 Carpet systems. All carpet installed in the building interior shall meet the testing and product requirements of one of the following:

    1. Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label Plus Program.

    2. California Department of Public Health Standard Practice for the testing of VOCs (Specification 01350).

    3. NSF/ANSI 140 at the Gold level.

    4. Scientific Certifications Systems Sustainable Choice.

    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 ARB’s Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood (17 CCR 93120 et seq.), by or before the dates specified in those sections, as shown in Table A6.504.8.5.

    TABLE A6.504.8.5—FORMALDEHYDE LIMITS1 Col2 Col3 Col4
    Product Current Limit Jan 1, 2012 July 1, 2012
    Hardwood plywood veneer core 0.05
    Hardwood plywood composite core 0.08 0.05
    Particle board 0.09
    Medium density fiberboard 0.11
    Thin medium density fiberboard2 0.21 .13
    1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333-96 (2002). For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of eight millimeters.    		 1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333-96 (2002).
  • CALGreen § 4.504.3 High relevance — show source text

    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 from the Air Resources Board.|

    4.504.3 Carpet systems. All carpet installed in the building interior shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.

    https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx

    4.504.3.1 Carpet cushion. All carpet cushion installed in the building interior shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.

    https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx

    4.504.3.2 Carpet adhesive. All carpet adhesive shall meet the requirements of Table 4.504.1.

    4.504.4 Resilient flooring systems. Where resilient flooring is installed, at least 80 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.

    https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx

    4.504.5 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 ARB’s Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood (17 CCR 93120 et seq.) as shown in Table 4.504.5.

    4.504.5.1 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. Product labeled and invoiced as meeting the Composite Wood Products regulation (see CCR, Title 17, Section 93120, et seq .).

    4-16 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

  • CALGreen § 504.8.4.2 High relevance — show source text

    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 ARB’s Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood (17 CCR 93120 et seq.), by or before the dates specified in those sections, as shown in Table A6.504.8.5.

    TABLE A6.504.8.5—FORMALDEHYDE LIMITS1 Col2 Col3 Col4
    Product Current Limit Jan 1, 2012 July 1, 2012
    Hardwood plywood veneer core 0.05
    Hardwood plywood composite core 0.08 0.05
    Particle board 0.09
    Medium density fiberboard 0.11
    Thin medium density fiberboard2 0.21 .13
    1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333-96 (2002). For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of eight millimeters.    		 1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333-96 (2002). For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of eight millimeters.    		 1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333-96 (2002). For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of eight millimeters.    		 1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333-96 (2002). For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of eight millimeters.

    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.
  • 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 § 504.1 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 § 5.504.4.5.1 High relevance — show source text

    Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of 5/16 inch (8 mm).|

    5.504.4.5.1 Early compliance. Reserved.

    5.504.4.5.3 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. Product labeled and invoiced as meeting the Composite Wood Products regulation (see CCR, Title 17, Section 93120, et seq .).
    4. Exterior grade products marked as meeting the PS-1 or PS-2 standards of the Engineered Wood Association, the Australian AS/NZS 2269 or European 636 3S standards.
    5. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    5.504.4.6 Resilient flooring systems. Where resilient flooring is installed, at least 80 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx#material

    5.504.4.6.1 Verification of compliance. Documentation shall be provided verifying that resilient flooring materials meet the pollutant emission limits.

    5.504.4.7 Thermal insulation . Comply with the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/ Pages/VOC.aspx#material

    5.504.4.7.1 Verification of compliance. Documentation shall be provided verifying that thermal insulation materials meet the pollutant emission limits.

    5.504.4.8 Acoustical ceilings and wall panels . Comply with the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs. https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx#material

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

  • CALGreen § 4.504.4 High relevance — show source text

    4.504.4 Resilient flooring systems. Where resilient flooring is installed, at least 80 percent of floor area receiving resilient flooring shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.

    https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx

    4.504.5 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 ARB’s Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood (17 CCR 93120 et seq.) as shown in Table 4.504.5.

    4.504.5.1 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. Product labeled and invoiced as meeting the Composite Wood Products regulation (see CCR, Title 17, Section 93120, et seq .).

    4-16 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

    1. Exterior grade products marked as meeting the PS-1 or PS-2 standards of the Engineered Wood Association, the Australian AS/NZS 2269, European 636 3S, and Canadian CSA O121, CSA O151, CSA O153 and CSA O325 standards.
    2. Other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency.
    TABLE 4.504.5—FORMALDEHYDE LIMITS1
    Maximum Formaldehyde Emissions in Parts per Million    		 Col2
    PRODUCT CURRENT LIMIT
    Hardwood plywood veneer core 0.05
    Hardwood plywood composite core 0.05
    Particleboard 0.09
    Medium density fiberboard 0.11
    Thin medium density fiberboard2 0.13
    1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333. For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of 5/16 inch (8 mm).    		 1. Values in this table are derived from those specified by the California Air Resources Board, Air Toxics Control Measure for Composite Wood as tested in accordance with ASTM
    E1333. For additional information, see_California Code of Regulations_, Title 17, Sections 93120 through 93120.12.
    2. Thin medium density fiberboard has a maximum thickness of 5/16 inch (8 mm).

    SECTION 4.505—INTERIOR MOISTURE CONTROL

    4.505.1 General. Buildings shall meet or exceed the provisions of the California Building Standards Code.

  • CALGreen § 1-35 High relevance — show source text

    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

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

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

    A6.504.8.3.1 Aerosol paints and coatings. Aerosol paints and coatings shall meet the Product-Weighted MIR Limits for ROC in Section 94522(a)(3) and other requirements, including prohibitions on use of certain toxic compounds and ozone depleting substances, in Sections 94522(c)(2) and (d)(2) 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.

    A6.504.8.3.2 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. Manufacturers product specification.
    2. Field verification of on-site product containers.

    A6.504.8.4 Carpet systems. All carpet installed in the building interior shall meet the testing and product requirements of one of the following:

    1. Carpet and Rug Institute’s Green Label Plus Program.

    2. California Department of Public Health Standard Practice for the testing of VOCs (Specification 01350).

    3. NSF/ANSI 140 at the Gold level.

    4. Scientific Certifications Systems Sustainable Choice.

    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.

  • 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 § 5.504.4.3.1 High relevance — show source text

    More informa-
    tion is available from the 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 from the Air Resources Board.|

    5.504.4.3.1 Aerosol paints and coatings. Aerosol paints and coatings shall meet the PWMIR Limits for ROC in Section 94522(a)(3) and other requirements, including prohibitions on use of certain toxic compounds and ozone depleting substances, in Sections 94522(c)(2) and (d)(2) 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.

    5.504.4.3.2 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

    5.504.4.4 Carpet systems. All carpet installed in the building interior shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.

    https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx#material

    5.504.4.4.1 Carpet cushion. All carpet cushion installed in the building interior shall meet the requirements of the California Department of Public Health, “Standard Method for the Testing and Evaluation of Volatile Organic Chemical Emissions from Indoor Sources Using Environmental Chambers,” Version 1.2, January 2017 (Emission testing method for California Specification 01350).

    See California Department of Public Health’s website for certification programs and testing labs.

    https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CCDPHP/DEODC/EHLB/IAQ/Pages/VOC.aspx#material

    5.504.4.4.2 Carpet adhesive. All carpet adhesive shall meet the requirements of Table 5.504.4.1.

    5.504.4.5 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 ARB’s Air Toxics

    5-34 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

  • CALGreen § 5.504.4.4 High relevance — show source text

    5**
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Carpet systems|5.504.4.4||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Carpet cushion|5.504.4.4.1||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Carpet adhesives per Table 5.504.4.1|5.504.4.4.2||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Composite wood products|5.504.4.5||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Composite wood products: documentation|5.504.4.5.3||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Resilient flooring systems|5.504.4.6||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Resilient flooring: verification of compliance|5.504.4.6.1||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Tier 2
    Prerequisite|Resilient flooring systems, Tier 2 (with verification of
    compliance)|A5.504.4.7.1,
    A5.504.4.7.2||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Thermal insulation|5.504.4.7||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Verification of compliance|5.504.4.7.1||||| |DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|DIVISION 5.5
    Environmental
    Quality
    (continued)|Mandatory|Acoustical ceilings and wall panels|5.504.4.8||||| |**DIVISION 5.

Frequently asked questions

What proof do I need on-site for composite wood?

Acceptable proofs are listed in § A6.504.8.5.2: product certifications/specs, chain‑of‑custody certifications, or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency (labels/invoices showing ARB compliance are commonly used) .

Does any “low‑VOC” carpet meet CALGreen?

No — § A6.504.8.4 requires carpet be certified under one of the listed programs (CRI Green Label Plus, CDPH 01350, NSF/ANSI 140 Gold, or SCS Sustainable Choice). Generic “low‑VOC” claims are not sufficient unless tied to those programs .

Which formaldehyde limit applies to MDF I’m purchasing now?

Use the limits in Table A6.504.8.5 under § A6.504.8.5 and confirm whether the table’s “current limit” or a phased date column applies based on the product’s manufacture date; MDF is shown with a 0.11 ppm limit in the table .

Is there an approved list of compliant composite wood products?

ARB maintains lists and resources for NAF and ULEF certified materials referenced by the code; the CALGreen notes refer users to the ARB resources for manufacturer lists .

Do I need separate documentation for cushion and adhesive?

Yes — cushion must meet CRI Green Label and adhesives must meet Table A6.504.8.1; provide manufacturer documentation for each product type showing compliance as required by §§ A6.504.8.4.1–.4.2 file.

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

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)