CALGreen · California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)

How can a local jurisdiction adopt voluntary Tier provisions as mandatory?

A local city or county can make CALGreen voluntary Tier measures mandatory by adopting the appendix provisions by reference in a local ordinance, including the express findings required by § 101.7, filing the ordinance and findings with the Building Standards Commission (and obtaining CEC findings for local energy standards), and then enforcing the adopted measures once filings and approvals are complete.

Ask a question free See coverage

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

Local governments may convert CALGreen voluntary tiers into enforceable local requirements by adopting the appendix tier provisions by ordinance and following the amendment/filing rules in § 101.7. The residential model-adoption guidance says the voluntary measures are “designed and promulgated to be adopted by reference and made mandatory by local ordinance pursuant to Section 101.7” (§ A4.701.1) . The nonresidential tier scope likewise states those measures “are not mandatory unless adopted by local government as specified in Section 101.7” (§ A5.601.1) .

The single most important rule: a city, county, or city-and-county can make CALGreen voluntary Tier measures mandatory — but it must adopt them by ordinance with the express findings and filings required by § 101.7. § 101.7

Requirements in detail

Core legal steps (plain sequence)

  • Decide which voluntary Tier(s) (for example Tier 1 or Tier 2) and which appendix divisions you will adopt (residential Appendix A4 or nonresidential Appendix A5). See § A4.701.1 and § A5.601.1.
  • Prepare an adopting ordinance (or resolution) that adopts the identified appendix sections by reference, and include the factual information and findings required by § 101.7.1. § A4.701.1 directs jurisdictions to ensure the ordinance includes factual information showing the measures are “appropriate and achievable.” § 101.7.1 lists the required findings and filing steps.
  • If the adopted items change energy standards or impose local energy efficiency requirements, obtain the California Energy Commission finding required by Title 24, Part 1, Section 10‑106 before enforcement (see A5/A4 energy guidance). After the CEC finding, file the ordinance and findings with the California Building Standards Commission as required by § 101.7.1.
  • File the ordinance and the express findings with the Building Standards Commission (or HCD when directed for fire districts), and only enforce after the required filings/finding steps are complete and the effective-date rules in § 101.7 are observed. § 101.7.1 lists the filing addresses and filing responsibilities.

Decision-relevant dimensions (quick reference table)

Decision dimension Typical values/thresholds Action required by the jurisdiction Code reference
Measure type Non-energy vs Energy-related Non-energy: adopt by ordinance + §101.7 findings & filings. Energy-related: also obtain CEC finding under Title 24, Part 1 §10‑106 before enforcement. § A4.701.1, § A5.601.1, § 101.7
Where to file Building Standards Commission (BSC) — address in code File adopted amendment marked with findings; fire district findings routed to HCD as required. § 101.7.1
Required findings Based on climatic, topographical, or geological (including local environmental) conditions Draft and include express findings in the ordinance/resolution and attach with filing § 101.7.1.1
Effective date rules Cannot be effective earlier than CALGreen’s effective date Fileings determine local effective date; do not enforce prior to required filings/finding § 101.7
Documentation / verification Use Appendix checklists (A4/A5 verification guidance) Include verification requirements and plan-review/inspection documentation as part of enforcement A4/A5 checklists; § 102.3 verification guidance

What the residential model ordinance guidance requires

  • The residential model (Appendix A4, Division A4.7) explicitly states the voluntary measures are “designed … to be adopted by reference and made mandatory by local ordinance pursuant to Section 101.7” and recommends including specified factual information in the adopting ordinance so measures are shown to be “appropriate and achievable.” § A4.701.1

Nonresidential scope reminder

  • Appendix A5 confirms the voluntary measures are not mandatory unless adopted by local government per § 101.7; Appendix A5 also contains energy-related tiers and points users to CEC filing requirements where applicable. § A5.601.1 and A5.201.1

Exceptions & special cases

  • Energy provisions: when a local ordinance adopts voluntary provisions that modify energy standards or introduce local energy efficiency standards, the jurisdiction must obtain the California Energy Commission’s findings under Title 24, Part 1, Section 10‑106 before enforcement. The code points jurisdictions to that CEC procedure (see A5/A4 energy scope) and to § 101.7.1.4 for CEC‑related filing obligations.
  • Fire-protection districts: findings prepared by fire protection districts must be ratified by the local city/county and filed with the California Department of Housing and Community Development as specified in § 101.7.1.3.
  • Practical difficulties / modifications: CALGreen notes the enforcing agency may grant modifications for individual cases where strict compliance with tier thresholds is impractical; the enforcing agency must record the basis for the modification. See the voluntary tiers section (Section 304 / accompanying notes).

Common mistakes

  • Failing to include express findings: municipalities often adopt code text without the climatic/topographical/geological findings that § 101.7.1 requires; missing those findings undermines the filing. § 101.7.1.1
  • Treating energy measures the same as non-energy measures: energy-related local standards require a CEC finding before enforcement — do not skip the Title 24 §10‑106 steps (A5/A4 energy guidance).
  • Not marking or filing local modifications: the ordinance must be “expressly marked and identified” and filed with the BSC (or HCD for certain filings) per § 101.7.1.2.
  • Assuming the voluntary appendices cannot be modified: the code explicitly allows cities/counties to “make necessary changes to the provisions contained in this code” pursuant to § 101.7.1 and model-adoption guidance in § A4.701.1 — but any changes still require the same findings/filings.

Worked example — City adopts A5 Tier 1 (nonresidential) with EV parking requirement

Scenario: City of Sunville (local jurisdiction) wants to adopt Appendix A5 Tier 1 as mandatory for new nonresidential construction. Tier 1 includes a parking/EV measure requiring 35 percent of parking capacity be designated for high-efficiency vehicles (see Tier 1 lists in A5) — for this example assume that is the local Tier 1 requirement the city will enforce. § A5.601.2.4 (Tier 1 voluntary measures) / Appendix A5 guidance.

Steps Sunville must follow:

  1. Draft an ordinance that adopts the A5 Tier 1 provisions by reference and include the factual basis that the measures are appropriate and achievable, per the residential model guidance language (adapted to nonresidential) in § A4.701.1 and the filing rules in § 101.7. § A4.701.1, § 101.7
  2. Prepare express findings showing the adoption is supported by local conditions (for example: local air quality/sustainability goals, vehicle electrification goals, climate zone considerations) as required by § 101.7.1.1.
  3. If any tier measures Sunville adopts change energy standards, Sunville must separately seek the CEC finding under Title 24 §10‑106 before enforcing. (In this example, the EV/parking measure is non‑energy, so the CEC step may not be required.) § A5.201.1, § 101.7.1.4
  4. File the ordinance and the findings with the California Building Standards Commission (BSC) at the address specified in § 101.7.1.2 and keep the filed package in the public record. § 101.7.1.2
  5. Enforce the new requirement after filings are complete and observing the effective-date rules in § 101.7. For a parking lot of 200 spaces, Sunville would require 0.35 × 200 = 70 designated high‑efficiency vehicle spaces and corresponding EV-ready/EV charging elements if the adopted Tier text requires EV infrastructure (confirm the specific A5 subsection adopted). § A5.601.2.4 and related A5 divisions for EV requirements.

Related provisions (quick list)

  • § A4.701.1 — Residential model ordinance / guidance to adopt voluntary measures by reference.
  • § A5.601.1 — Appendix A5 scope: voluntary measures not mandatory unless adopted by local government per § 101.7.
  • § 101.7 — City, county, or city-and-county amendments, additions or deletions; findings and filings required.
  • § A5.201.1 and § A4.201.1 — Energy-related adoption procedure; CEC finding (Title 24 Part 1 §10‑106) required before enforcement for local energy standards.
  • Section 304.1.1 — Voluntary tiers may be adopted by local governments and enforcing agencies may grant modifications for practical difficulties.
  • § 102.3 — Verification and documentation requirements for showing conformance with green building measures (checklists).

Code references

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

  • CALGreen § 301.5 High relevance — show source text

    301.5 Health Facilities. [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4] Health facilities under the jurisdiction of the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) are required to comply with the mandatory measures prescribed in Section 5.304, Outdoor Water Use. Compliance with Section 5.304, as adopted by the Building Standards Commission, is enforced by the local agency having jurisdiction. Evidence of local approval shall be submitted to OSHPD prior to issuance of plan approval or a building permit.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 3-3

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

    GREEN BUILDING

    SECTION 302—MIXED OCCUPANCY BUILDINGS

    302.1 Mixed occupancy buildings. In mixed occupancy buildings, each portion of a building shall comply with the specific green building measures applicable to each specific occupancy.

    Exceptions:

    1. [HCD] Accessory structures and accessory occupancies serving residential buildings shall comply with Chapter 4 and Appendix A4, as applicable.
    2. [HCD] For the purposes of CALGreen, live/work units, complying with Section 508.5 of the California Building Code, shall not be considered mixed occupancies. Live/work units shall comply with Chapter 4 and Appendix A4, as applicable.

    SECTION 303—PHASED PROJECTS

    303.1 Phased projects. For shell buildings and others constructed for future tenant improvements, only those code measures relevant to the building components and systems considered to be new construction (or newly constructed) shall apply.

    303.1.1 Initial tenant improvements. The provisions of this code shall apply only to the initial tenant improvements to a project. Subsequent tenant improvements shall comply with the scoping provisions in Section 301.3 nonresidential additions and alterations.

    SECTION 304—VOLUNTARY TIERS

    304.1 Purpose. Voluntary tiers are intended to further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.

    304.1.1 Tiers. The provisions of Divisions A4.6 and A5.6 outline means, in the form of voluntary tiers, for achieving enhanced construction levels by incorporating additional measures for residential and nonresidential new construction. Voluntary tiers may be adopted by local governments and, when adopted, enforced by local enforcing agencies. Buildings complying with tiers specified for each occupancy contain additional prerequisite and elective green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each tier. See Section 101.7 of this code for procedures and requirements related to local amendments, additions or deletions, including changes to energy standards.

    [BSC & HCD] Where there are practical difficulties involved in complying with the threshold levels of a tier, the enforcing agency may grant modifications for individual cases. The enforcing agency shall first find that a special individual reason makes the strict letter of the tier impractical and that modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of the measure. The details of any action granting modification shall be recorded and entered in the files of the enforcing agency.

    SECTION 305 [OSHPD 1]— CALGreen TIER 1 AND CALGreen TIER 2

    305.1 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 buildings contain voluntary green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level.

  • CALGreen § 101.7. High relevance — show source text

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

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-29

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

    APPENDIX A4-30 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    DIVISION A4.7 – RESIDENTIAL MODEL ORDINANCE

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

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

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

    ATTACHMENT___.

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

    CITY OF ________________________

    RESOLUTION # __________________

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

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

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

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

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

  • CALGreen § 201.1 High relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX A5-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A5.201—GENERAL

    A5.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards. It is the intent of these voluntary provisions to encourage local jurisdictions through codification to achieve exemplary performance in the area of building energy efficiency. Local jurisdictions adopting these voluntary provisions as mandatory local energy efficiency standards shall submit the required application and receive the required findings of the California Energy Commission in compliance with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106, prior to enforcement. Once the required filing has been verified and finding has been made by the Energy Commission, local jurisdictions shall file an ordinance expressly marking the local modifications along with findings and receive the required acceptance from the California Building Standards Commission in compliance with Section 101.7 of this code, prior to enforcement (Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 is available at https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/building-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency

    SECTION A5.202—DEFINITIONS

    A5.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ENERGY BUDGET.

    GEOTHERMAL.

    LONG-TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC).

    PROCESS.

    RECOVERED ENERGY, ON-SITE.

    SOLAR ACCESS.

    SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM.

    SECTION A5.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A5.203.1 Energy efficiency. Nonresidential, high-rise residential and hotel/motel buildings that include lighting and/or mechanical systems shall comply with Sections A5.203.1.1 and A5.203.1.2. Newly constructed buildings and additions are included in the scope of these sections. Buildings permitted without lighting or mechanical systems shall comply with Section A5.203.1.1 but are not required to comply with Section A5.203.1.2.

    A5.203.1.1 Tier 1 and Tier 2 prerequisites. To comply with Tier 1, ONE of the following efficiency measures is required for all applicable components of the building project. To comply with Tier 2, TWO of the following efficiency measures are required.

    A5.203.1.1.1 Outdoor lighting. Outdoor lighting requirements are described below.

    A5.203.1.1.1.1 Newly installed outdoor lighting power shall be no greater than 90 percent of the Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power, and general hardscape lighting within the scope of Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7(b)1 shall have a color temperature no higher than 3000K. The Allowed Outdoor Lighting Power calculation is specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 140.7, Requirements for Outdoor Lighting.

    Exception to Section A5.203.1.1.1.1:

  • CALGreen § 703.1 High relevance — show source text

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

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-29

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

    APPENDIX A4-30 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    DIVISION A4.7 – RESIDENTIAL MODEL ORDINANCE

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

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

  • CALGreen § 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 § 304.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 304—VOLUNTARY TIERS

    304.1 Purpose. Voluntary tiers are intended to further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.

    304.1.1 Tiers. The provisions of Divisions A4.6 and A5.6 outline means, in the form of voluntary tiers, for achieving enhanced construction levels by incorporating additional measures for residential and nonresidential new construction. Voluntary tiers may be adopted by local governments and, when adopted, enforced by local enforcing agencies. Buildings complying with tiers specified for each occupancy contain additional prerequisite and elective green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each tier. See Section 101.7 of this code for procedures and requirements related to local amendments, additions or deletions, including changes to energy standards.

    [BSC & HCD] Where there are practical difficulties involved in complying with the threshold levels of a tier, the enforcing agency may grant modifications for individual cases. The enforcing agency shall first find that a special individual reason makes the strict letter of the tier impractical and that modification is in conformance with the intent and purpose of the measure. The details of any action granting modification shall be recorded and entered in the files of the enforcing agency.

    SECTION 305 [OSHPD 1]— CALGreen TIER 1 AND CALGreen TIER 2

    305.1 CALGreen Tier 1 and CALGreen Tier 2 buildings contain voluntary green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level.

    305.1.1 CALGreen Tier 1. To achieve CALGreen Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/main/page_ downloads_ sbd_healthcare.html.

    305.1.2 CALGreen Tier 2. 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 306 [DSA-SS]—VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    306.1 Purpose. For public schools and community colleges, voluntary measures further encourage building practices that improve public health, safety and general welfare by promoting the use of building concepts which minimize the building’s impact on the environment and promote a more sustainable design.

    306.1.1 Appendix A5, Divisions A5.1 through A5.5, outline means of achieving enhanced sustainable design and construction by incorporating voluntary measures that exceed the mandatory measures.

    306.1.2 Chapter 5 Nonresidential Mandatory Measures that are not adopted as mandatory measures by DSA-SS are voluntary measures recommended and encouraged for the design, construction, verification and maintenance of non-energy systems.

    Note: The building commissioning requirements for energy efficiency specified in the California Energy Code are required.

    3-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 4 – RESIDENTIAL MANDATORY MEASURES

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

  • CALGreen § 509.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION A4.509 —INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

    A4.509.1 Innovative concepts and local environmental conditions. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the use of any alternate material, appliance, installation, device, arrangement, method, design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code. This code does not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county government to make necessary changes to the provisions contained in this code pursuant to Section 101.7.1.

    APPENDIX A4-20 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A4.6 – TIER I AND TIER 2

    SECTION A4.601—GENERAL

    A4.601.1 Scope. The measures contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless adopted by a city, county, or city and county as specified in Section 101.7. The provisions of this section outline means of achieving enhanced construction or reach levels by incorporating additional green building measures. In order to meet one of the tier levels designers, builders or property owners are required to incorporate additional green building measures necessary to meet the threshold of each level.

    A4.601.2 Prerequisite measures. Tier 1 and Tier 2 thresholds require compliance with the mandatory provisions of this code and incorporation of the required prerequisite measures listed in Section A4.601.4.2 for Tier 1 and A4.601.5.2 for Tier 2. Prerequisite measures are also identified in the Residential Occupancies Application Checklist in Section A4.602.

    As specified in Section 101.7, additional prerequisite measures may be included by the enforcing agency to address specific local environmental conditions and may be listed in the Innovative Concepts and Local Environmental Conditions portions of the checklist.

    A4.601.3 Elective measures. In addition to the required measures, Tier 1 and Tier 2 buildings must incorporate at least the number of elective measures specified in Sections A4.601.4.2 and A4.601.5.2.

    A4.601.4 Tier 1. To achieve Tier 1 status a project must comply with the following:

    A4.601.4.1 Mandatory measures for Tier 1. The project shall meet or exceed all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 4, Divisions 4.1 through 4.5 and Chapter 7 as applicable.

    A4.601.4.2 Prerequisite and elective measures for Tier 1. In addition to the mandatory measures, compliance with the following prerequisite and elective measures from Appendix A4 is also required to achieve Tier 1 status:

    1. From Division A4.1, Planning and Design. 1.1. Comply with the topsoil protection requirements in Section A4.106.2.3. 1.2. Comply with the 20 percent permeable paving requirements in Section A4.106.4. 1.3. Comply with the cool roof requirements in Section A4.106.5. 1.4. Comply with the Tier 1 electric vehicle (EV) charging requirements in Section A4.106.8. 1.5. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.1.
    2. From Division A4.2, Energy Efficiency. 2.1.
  • CALGreen § 201.1 High relevance — show source text

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

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

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections that
    are listed below    		 X
    Chapter/Section
    Appendix A5.2 X

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-11

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

    APPENDIX A5-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A5.201—GENERAL

    A5.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards. It is the intent of these voluntary provisions to encourage local jurisdictions through codification to achieve exemplary performance in the area of building energy efficiency. Local jurisdictions adopting these voluntary provisions as mandatory local energy efficiency standards shall submit the required application and receive the required findings of the California Energy Commission in compliance with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106, prior to enforcement. Once the required filing has been verified and finding has been made by the Energy Commission, local jurisdictions shall file an ordinance expressly marking the local modifications along with findings and receive the required acceptance from the California Building Standards Commission in compliance with Section 101.7 of this code, prior to enforcement (Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 is available at https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/building-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency

    SECTION A5.202—DEFINITIONS

    A5.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ENERGY BUDGET.

    GEOTHERMAL.

  • CALGreen § 106.8.2.2 High relevance — show source text

    Exception: Areas of parking facilities served by parking lifts, including but not limited to automated mechanicalaccess open parking garages as defined in the California Building Code ; or parking facilities otherwise incapable of supporting electric vehicle charging.

    A4.106.8.2.2 Technical requirements. The EV spaces required by Section A4.106.8.2 shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections 4.106.4.2, 4.106.4.2.2.1.1, 4.106.4.2.2.1.2, and 4.106.4.2.5.

    SECTION A4.107 (RESERVED)

    SECTION A4.108 —INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

    A4.108.1 Innovative concepts and local environmental conditions. The provisions of this code are not intended to prevent the use of any alternate material, appliance, installation, device, arrangement, method, design or method of construction not specifically prescribed by this code. This code does not limit the authority of city, county, or city and county government to make necessary changes to the provisions contained in this code pursuant to Section 101.7.1.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-7

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

    APPENDIX A4-8 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A4.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A4.201—GENERAL

    A4.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards in the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). It is the intent of these voluntary provisions to encourage local jurisdictions through codification to achieve exemplary performance in the area of building energy efficiency. Local jurisdictions adopting these voluntary provisions as mandatory local energy efficiency standards shall submit the required application and receive the required approval of the California Energy Commission in compliance with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 prior to enforcement. Once the required filing has been verified and finding has been made by the Energy Commission, local jurisdictions shall file an ordinance expressly marking the local modification along with findings and receive the required acceptance from the California Building Standards Commission in compliance with Section 101.7 of this code, prior to enforcement. (Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 is available at https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/build- ing-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency

    SECTION A4.202—DEFINITIONS

    A4.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ENERGY BUDGET.

    LONG-TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC).

    RECOVERED ENERGY, ON-SITE.

    SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM.

    SECTION A4.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH FOR NEWLY CONSTRUCTED BUILDINGS

  • CALGreen § 405.4 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. From Division A5.4,

    a. Comply with recycled content of 10 percent of materials based on estimated total cost, or use two products from Table A5.405.4 for at least 75 percent by cost in Section A5.405.4. b. Comply with the 65-percent reduction in construction and demolition waste in Section A5.408.3.1. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division.

    1. From Division A5.5,

    a. Comply with resilient flooring systems for 90 percent of resilient flooring in Section A5.504.4.7. b. Comply with thermal insulation meeting 2009 CHPS low-emitting materials list in Section A5.504.4.8. c. Comply with one elective measure selected from this division. 6. Comply with one additional elective measure selected from any division.

    1 Cool roof is required for compliance with Tiers 1 and 2 and may be used to meet energy standards in Part 6, exceed energy standards and to mitigate heat island effect.

    A5.601.3 CALGreen Tier 2.

    A5.601.3.1 Prerequisites. To achieve CALGreen tier status, a project must meet all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 5 and, in addition, meet the provisions of this section.

    A5.601.3.2 Energy performance. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards.

    A5.601.3.3 Tier 2. Comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Section A5.203.1.1 and Section A5.203.1.2.2.

    A5.601.3.4 Voluntary measures for Tier 2. In addition to the provisions of Sections A5.601.3.1 and A5.601.3.3 above, compliance with the following voluntary measures from Appendix A5 is required for Tier 2:

    1. From Division A5.1, a. Comply with the designated parking requirements for fuel efficient vehicles for a minimum of 50 percent of parking capacity per Section A5.106.5.1. b. Electric vehicle (EV) charging [N] and Table A5.106.5.3.2 with footnotes. c. Comply with thermal emittance, solar reflectance or SRI values for cool roofs in Section A5.106.11.2 and Table A5.106.11.2.3. [1]

    d. Comply with three elective measures selected from this division.

    APPENDIX A5-42 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    1. From Division A5.2 comply with TWO of the following:

    2. Outdoor lighting as described in A5.203.1.1.1.

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

    4. Warehouse Dock Seal Doors A5.203.1.1.3.

    5. Daylight Design Power Adjustments 5.203.1.1.4.

    6. Exhaust Air Heat Recovery A5.203.1.1.5.

    7. From Division A5.3,

  • CALGreen § 102.1 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. The application checklist identifies which measures are required by this code and allows users to check off which voluntary items have been selected to meet voluntary tier levels if desired or mandated by a city, county, or city and county.

    SECTION 102—CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS AND INSTALLATION VERIFICATION

    102.1 Submittal documents. Construction documents and other data shall be submitted in one or more sets with each application for a permit. Where special conditions exist, the enforcing agency is authorized to require additional construction documents to be prepared by a licensed design professional and may be submitted separately.

    Exception: The enforcing agency is authorized to waive the submission of construction documents and other data not required to be prepared by a licensed design professional.

    102.2 Information on construction documents. Construction documents shall be of sufficient clarity to indicate the location, nature and scope of the proposed green building feature and show that it will conform to the provisions of this code, the California Building Standards Code and other relevant laws, ordinances, rules and regulations as determined by the enforcing agency.

    102.3 Verification. Documentation of conformance for applicable green building measures shall be provided to the enforcing agency. Alternate methods of documentation shall be acceptable when the enforcing agency finds that the proposed alternate documentation is satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance with the intent of the proposed green building measure.

    [HCD] Documentation of conformance for applicable green building measures shall be provided to the enforcing agency. All projects shall submit a completed Residential Occupancies Application Checklist that includes Chapter 4 residential mandatory measures and Tier 1 or Tier 2, as applicable. References to the measure-specific documentation used to show compliance shall be included. Alternate methods of documentation shall be acceptable when the enforcing agency finds that the proposed alternate documentation is satisfactory to demonstrate substantial conformance with the intent of the proposed green building measure.

    Note: HCD’s Residential Occupancies Application Checklist that includes the minimum criteria for documentation is available at: http://www.hcd.ca.gov/building-standards/calgreen/cal-green-forms.shtml.

    SECTION 103—BUILDING STANDARDS COMMISSION

    103.1 BSC-CG. Specific scope of application of the agency responsible for enforcement, the enforcement agency, and the specific authority to adopt and enforce such provisions of this code, unless otherwise stated.

    1. Application— All occupancies where no state agency has the authority to adopt green building standards applicable to those occupancies. Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law. Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Sections 18930.5(a), 18938 and 18940.5. Reference— Health and Safety Code, Division 13, Part 2.5, commencing with Section 18901.
    2. Graywater systems. The construction, installation and alteration of graywater systems for indoor and outdoor uses in nonresidential occupancies. Application— All occupancies where no state agency has the authority to adopt green building standards applicable to those occupancies. Enforcing agency— State or local agency specified by the applicable provisions of law. Authority cited— Health and Safety Code Section 18941.8. Reference— Health and Safety Code Section 18941.8.

    103.1.1 Adopting agency identification. The provisions of this code applicable to buildings identified in this section will be identified in the Matrix Adoption Tables under the acronym BSC-CG.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 1-5

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

    ADMINISTRATION

  • CALGreen § 106.9 Medium relevance — show source text
    Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
    Check the appropriate box(es) for the list below.
    □ Mandatory: I attest that the mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.
    □ Tier 2 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected meet or exceed the total number required
    to achieve Tier 2 compliance.
    □ Partial Tier 2 compliant: I attest that the total number of voluntary measures selected do not meet the total number
    required to achieve Tier 2 compliance; however, partial Tier 2 compliance has been achieved.    		 Col2
    Signature:
    Company:
    		 Date:
    Address:
    		 License:
    City/State/Zip: Phone:

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-61

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

    APPENDIX A5-62 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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

    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE APPENDIX A6—VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    The following sections are relocated from the voluntary appendices into one appendix to assist code users in the planning, design and construction of environmentally sustainable medical facilities under the authority of the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development specified in Chapter 1 of this code.

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG    		 SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)    		 X X X
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed below
    Chapter/Section
    A6.106.9 X X X
    A6.203 X
    A6.505.4.5.1 X X X

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

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

  • CALGreen § 5.508.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    000 square feet or more|5.508.2
    through
    5.508.2.6.3||||| |||END OF MANDATORY PROVISIONS||||||

    Documentation Author's / Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement
    □ Mandatory: I attest that this mandatory provisions checklist is accurate and complete.    		 Col2
    Signature: Signature:
    Company: Date:
    Address: License:
    City/State/Zip: Phone:

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-47

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

    APPENDIX A5 — NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    A5.602.1

    CALGreen VERIFICATION GUIDELINES

    TIER 1 CHECKLIST

    Application: This checklist shall be used for nonresidential projects that meet the following: new construction, or building additions of 1,000 square feet or greater, or building alterations with a permit valuation of $200,000 or more pursuant to Section 301.3, AND are adopting Tier 1 voluntary measures.

    Note: All applicable mandatory requirements in Chapter 5 shall be met prior to applying Tier 1 voluntary measures.

    Instructions:

    Comply with all Tier 1 prerequisite measures from the various categories shown on the table below.

    Add a “ Y ” to all mandatory and Tier 1 prerequisite measures in the appropriate columns.

    Select the required number of additional electives from those categories shown on the table below and add a “ Y ” on the selected elective and add an “ N ” on the rest.

    Count the total number of Tier 1 prerequisite measures plus the additional electives and write down the total number at the end of the checklist. Determine if the required number of Tier 1 measures have been selected to achieve Tier 1 compliance.

    Y = Yes (section has been selected and/or included) N = No (section has not been selected and/or included) O = Other (provide explanation)

    [N] = New construction pursuant to Section 301.3

    [A] = Additions and/or Alterations pursuant to Section 301.3

    CHAPTER 5
    DIVISIONS    		 Col2 SECTION TITLE CODE
    SECTION    		 Y N O PLAN SHEET,
    SPEC OR
    ATTACH
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Deconstruction and reuse of existing structures,
    Scope with Exception    		 5.105.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Reuse of existing building & Verification of compliance with note 5.105.2 and 5.105.2.1
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Storm water pollution prevention for projects that disturb
    less than 1 acre of land    		 5.106.1 through
    5.106.2
    DIVISION 5.1
    Planning and
    Design
    (continued)    		 Mandatory Short-term bicycle parking 5.106.4.1.

Frequently asked questions

Can a city adopt only selected Tier measures instead of the entire Tier?

Yes. The code contemplates adoption by reference and local tailoring; jurisdictions should identify the sections being adopted and include the required findings and filings under § 101.7. The model-adoption language in § A4.701.1 supports selective inclusion so long as the ordinance and findings are produced.

Do I always need a California Energy Commission approval?

Only when the local adoption changes or augments energy standards. The energy divisions in Appendices instruct jurisdictions adopting energy-related voluntary provisions as mandatory to obtain the CEC finding under Title 24, Part 1, Section 10‑106 before enforcement. § A5.201.1 and § A4.201.1 explain this requirement.

Where do I file the ordinance and findings?

File the expressly marked ordinance and findings with the California Building Standards Commission at the address specified in § 101.7.1.2. Fire‑district findings have a separate routing requirement to HCD per § 101.7.1.3.

Are modifications for practical difficulties allowed after adoption?

Yes. The voluntary-tier section notes enforcing agencies may grant modifications for individual cases where strict compliance is impractical; the agency must document the basis and record the action. See Section 304.1.1 and related notes.

Is sample adoption language available?

Yes — Appendix A4 (Division A4.7) provides a sample resolution / model ordinance and guidance for the factual information the adopting ordinance should include. § A4.701.1

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

How is compliance with Tier checklists documented and verified?

What project records and owner/designer declarations are required for Tier compliance?

Verification, Checklists, and Making Voluntary Tiers Mandatory

California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen)