CRC · California Residential Code
A4 scope & definitions for residential energy measures
Appendix A4 contains voluntary residential energy measures; a city may adopt them as mandatory only after receiving California Energy Commission approval and California Building Standards Commission acceptance, and core A4 energy terms are defined in Chapter 2.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
The Appendix A4 energy provisions are voluntary by default and intended to encourage exemplary local energy performance; they do not replace the mandatory California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). To make any A4 provisions mandatory locally, a jurisdiction must obtain the California Energy Commission’s required approval and then file an ordinance (with findings) for acceptance by the California Building Standards Commission before enforcement. See § A4.201.1 and § A4.202.1 for the scope and where key terms are defined.
A local government cannot enforce Appendix A4 energy measures as a mandatory standard until it completes the Energy Commission filing and receives Building Standards Commission acceptance. § A4.201.1.
Requirements in detail
Scope and how A4 interacts with mandatory energy rules
- The A4 energy provisions are voluntary "residential voluntary measures" intended to encourage higher-than-required energy performance; they do not supplant the mandatory Title 24, Part 6 standards enforced statewide. § A4.201.1.
- If a local jurisdiction chooses to adopt A4 measures as mandatory local standards, two upstream actions are required before enforcement:
- Submit the required application and receive approval from the California Energy Commission (per Title 24, Part 1, § 10‑106).
- File an ordinance (with findings) and receive acceptance from the California Building Standards Commission (per § 101.7). § A4.201.1.
Definitions: what A4 points you to
- § A4.202.1 states that the following energy-related terms used in Division A4.2 are defined in Chapter 2: ENERGY BUDGET, LONG‑TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC), RECOVERED ENERGY, ON‑SITE, and SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM. The appendix points you to Chapter 2 for the authoritative text of each definition. § A4.202.1.
Decision‑relevant dimensions (quick reference)
| Decision dimension | What matters for a jurisdiction or project | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Applicability (voluntary vs mandatory) | Appendix A4 measures are voluntary by default; become mandatory only if locally adopted and approved by CEC/BSC. | § A4.201.1 |
| Required state approvals to enforce locally | Submit application to CEC under Title 24, Part 1 (§ 10‑106) and file ordinance + findings with BSC (§ 101.7) before enforcement. | § A4.201.1 |
| Where definitions live | Key energy terms used in Division A4.2 are defined in Chapter 2 (see list in A4.202.1). Always use Chapter 2 language for formal interpretation. | § A4.202.1 |
| Performance path cross‑references | Appendix A4 includes a performance approach for new buildings (see Division A4.2 / A4.203.x). | § A4.203.1 |
(Where the appendix references external Title 24 sections, consult those specific sections for procedural details — A4.201.1 names those filing steps explicitly.)
Exceptions & special cases
- The textual scope in § A4.201.1 makes clear these are voluntary measures unless a local jurisdiction follows the approval/filing process. Do not assume statewide applicability — local adoption and state acceptance are required first.
- Definitions used in A4 are not restated fully inside the A4 text; § A4.202.1 directs you to Chapter 2 for the exact statutory definitions. If you need the precise legal definition (for permitting, compliance modeling, or legal review), pull the Chapter 2 entries rather than relying on informal summaries.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Appendix A4 is automatically enforceable statewide. (It is voluntary unless the CEC and BSC approvals described in § A4.201.1 have been completed.)
- Using a non‑code paraphrase of a defined term (e.g., "energy budget") in compliance documentation instead of quoting the Chapter 2 definition referenced by § A4.202.1. The appendix specifically points to Chapter 2 for definitions.
- Skipping the Energy Commission application step (Title 24, Part 1, § 10‑106) and filing only with the local council — the Energy Commission review is an explicit prerequisite to enforcement under § A4.201.1.
Worked example — step‑by‑step (concrete scenario)
Scenario: A city wants to require new single‑family homes to meet the A4 performance target in Division A4.2.
- City council adopts an ordinance that references the specific A4 energy measures it intends to enforce (e.g., the A4 performance approach). (Local action — draft ordinance.)
- The city prepares and submits the required application / documentation to the California Energy Commission as required by Title 24, Part 1, Section 10‑106. (This filing is explicitly required by § A4.201.1.)
- After receiving the Energy Commission’s approval (step 2 completed), the city files the ordinance and findings with the California Building Standards Commission under § 101.7 for acceptance. Only after the BSC acceptance can enforcement begin. Total required approvals: 2 (CEC approval + BSC acceptance) before local enforcement. § A4.201.1.
Notes: The appendix itself points to Chapter 2 for the authoritative definitions you will need in enforcement documents (for example, the exact meaning of ENERGY BUDGET or LONG‑TERM SYSTEM COST (LSC)). Consult Chapter 2 entries referenced by § A4.202.1 when preparing compliance language.
Related provisions
- § A4.201.1 — Scope of A4 energy provisions (controls voluntary/mandatory adoption).
- § A4.202.1 — Lists the A4 terms that are defined in Chapter 2 (ENERGY BUDGET, LSC, RECOVERED ENERGY, SOLAR POOL HEATING SYSTEM).
- § A4.203.1 — Performance approach for newly constructed buildings (appendix energy performance path).
- § A4.601.1 — Describes Tier 1/Tier 2 adoption (voluntary unless locally adopted).
- Title 24, Part 1 — Filing procedure referenced (application to CEC under the procedural rules found in that part; A4.201.1 references § 10‑106).
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Residential Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
CRC § 108.1 High relevance — show source text
108.1** Items in this section are necessary to address innovative
concepts or local environmental conditions.||||||| |Item 1|
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| |Item 3||||||| |ENERGY EFFICIENCY||||||| |General||||||| |4.201.1 Building meets or exceeds the requirements of the_California_
_Building Energy Efficiency Standards_3.||2|2|||| |Performance Approach for Newly
Constructed Buildings||||||| |**A4.203.1.1 Hourly Source Energy Rating (EDR1).**EDR1 ratings for
building design shall be computed by Energy Compliant software and
shall reduce the EDR1 required by the software by the compliance
margins specified in Table A4.203.1.1.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.2 Prerequisite options.In addition, a minimum of two of
the efficiency measures specified in Sections A4.203.1.2.1 through
A4.203.1.2.8 will be required to be met.
· Roof Deck Insulation or Ducts in Conditioned Space.
· High-performance Walls.
· Compact Hot Water Distribution System.
· Drain Water Heat Recovery.
· High Performance Vertical Fenestration.
· Heat Pump Water Heater Demand Management.
· Battery Storage System Controls.
· **Heat Pump Space and Water Heating.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.3 Consultation with local electric service provider.**Local
jurisdictions considering adoption of reduced EDR targets based on
using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems larger than required by the
California Energy Code shall consult with the local electric service
provider to ensure that that PV system sizing required to comply with
the EDR targets will be acceptable to the local electric service
provider.||2|2||||2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-25
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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued
CRC § 203.1.2.1 High relevance — show source text
In addition, a minimum of two of
the efficiency measures specified in Sections A4.203.1.2.1 through
A4.203.1.2.8 will be required to be met.
· Roof Deck Insulation or Ducts in Conditioned Space.
· High-performance Walls.
· Compact Hot Water Distribution System.
· Drain Water Heat Recovery.
· High Performance Vertical Fenestration.
· Heat Pump Water Heater Demand Management.
· Battery Storage System Controls.
· **Heat Pump Space and Water Heating.||2|2|||| |**A4.203.1.3 Consultation with local electric service provider.**Local
jurisdictions considering adoption of reduced EDR targets based on
using solar photovoltaic (PV) systems larger than required by the
California Energy Code shall consult with the local electric service
provider to ensure that that PV system sizing required to comply with
the EDR targets will be acceptable to the local electric service
provider.||2|2||||2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-25
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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
SECTION A4.602—RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST—continued
FEATURE OR MEASURE LEVELS
APPLICANT TO SELECT ELECTIVE MEASURESCol3 Col4 VERIFICATIONS
ENFORCING AGENCY TO SPECIFY
VERIFICATION METHODCol6 Col7 FEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Prerequisites and electives1 Prerequisites and electives1 Enforcing
Agency
AllInstaller or
Designer
AllThird
party
AllFEATURE OR MEASURE Mandatory Tier 1 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2 Tier 2 WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION Indoor Water Use 4.303.1Plumbing fixtures (water closets and urinals) and fittings
(showerheads, faucets and pre-rinse spray valves) installed in
residential buildings shall comply with the prescriptive requirements
of Sections 4.303.1.1 through 4.303.1.4.5. 4.303.2 Submeters for multifamily building and dwelling units in
**mixed-use residential/commercial buildings.CRC § 601.5.2 Medium relevance — show source text
A4.601.5.2 Prerequisite and elective measures for Tier 2. In addition to the mandatory measures, compliance with the following prerequisite and elective measures from Appendix A4 is also required to achieve Tier 2 status.
- From Division A4.1, Planning and Design.
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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
1.1. Comply with the topsoil protection requirements for Tier 1 and Tier 2 in Section A4.106.2.3. 1.2. Comply with the 30 percent permeable paving requirements in Section A4.106.4. 1.3. Comply with the cool roof requirements in Section A4.106.5. 1.4. Comply with the Tier 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging requirements in Section A4.106.8. 1.5. Comply with at least four elective measures selected from Division A4.1. 2. From Division A4.2, Energy Efficiency. 2.1. For newly constructed low-rise residential buildings, comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Sections A4.203.1, A4.203.1.1, Table A4.203.1.1, A4.203.1.2 and A4.203.1.3.
- From Division A4.3, Water Efficiency and Conservation. 3.1. Comply with at least three elective measures selected from Division A4.3.
- From Division A4.4, Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency. 4.1. Comply with the 25 percent cement reduction requirements in Section A4.403.2. 4.2. Comply with the 15 percent recycled content requirements in Section A4.405.3.1. 4.3. Comply with the 75 percent reduction in construction waste in Section A4.408.1. 4.4. Comply with at least four elective measures selected from Division A4.4.
- From Division A4.5, Environmental Quality. 5.1. Comply with the 100 percent resilient flooring systems requirements in Section A4.504.2. 5.2. Comply with the thermal insulation requirements for Tier 1 and Tier 2 in Section A4.504.3. 5.3. Comply with at least one elective measure selected from Division A4.5.
Note: The Residential Occupancies Application Checklist contained in Section A4.602 may be used to show which elective measures are selected.
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DIVISION A4.6 – TIER 1 AND TIER 2
SECTION A4.602 — RESIDENTIAL OCCUPANCIES APPLICATION CHECKLIST
CRC § 106.8.2.2 Medium 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.
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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
CRC § 8-40 Medium relevance — show source text
. . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40
APPENDIX A4 RESIDENTIAL
VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3
A4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3 A4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-9 A4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A4-13 A4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-15 A4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-19 A4.6 Tier 1 and Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-21
Division A4.6—Residential Occupancies Application Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-23 A4.7 Residential Model Ordinance . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-31
APPENDIX A5 NONRESIDENTIAL
VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3
A5.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3 A5.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-13 A5.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A5-19 A5.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-25 A5.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-35 A5.6 Voluntary Tiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41 A5.601 CALGren Tier 1 and Tier 2. . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-41
A5.602 CALGreen Verification Guidelines Mandatory Measures Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-44
A5.602.1 CALGreen Verification Guidelines
Tier 1 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-48
A5.602.2 CALGreen Verification Guidelines
Tier 2 Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-55
APPENDIX A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH
CRC § 8-6 Medium relevance — show source text
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-6 Worksheet (WS-9) 5.409.2 and A5.409.2 Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-7 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Plan . . . . . . . . . . . 8-8 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Worksheet. . . . . . 8-9 Construction Waste Management (CWM) Acknowledgment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-10 Title 23, Waters, California Code of Regulations . . . . . . . . . 8-11 Commissioning Referenced Standards for Non-energy Systems. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-13 IES TM-15-11 Table A-1, Table 130.2-A and Table 130.2-B Uplight and Glare Ratings Tables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-40
APPENDIX A4 RESIDENTIAL
VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3
A4.1 Planning and Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-3 A4.2 Energy Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-9 A4.3 Water Efficiency and Conservation . . . APPENDIX A4-13 A4.4 Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-15 A4.5 Environmental Quality . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-19 A4.6 Tier 1 and Tier 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-21
Division A4.6—Residential Occupancies Application Checklist . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-23 A4.7 Residential Model Ordinance . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A4-31
APPENDIX A5 NONRESIDENTIAL
VOLUNTARY MEASURES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . APPENDIX A5-3
CRC § 3.1. Medium relevance — show source text
- From Division A4.3, Water Efficiency and Conservation. 3.1. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.3.
- From Division A4.4, Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency. 4.1. Comply with the 20 percent cement reduction requirements in Section A4.403.2. 4.2. Comply with the 10 percent recycled content requirements in Section A4.405.3.1. 4.3. Comply with the 65 percent reduction in construction waste in Section A4.408.1. 4.4. Comply with at least two elective measures selected from Division A4.4.
- From Division A4.5, Environmental Quality. 5.1. Comply with the 90 percent resilient flooring systems requirements in Section A4.504.2. 5.2. Comply with the thermal insulation requirements for Tier 1 in Section A4.504.3. 5.3. Comply with at least one elective measure selected from Division A4.5.
Note: The Residential Occupancies Application Checklist contained in Section A4.602 may be used to show which elective measures are selected.
A4.601.5 Tier 2. To achieve Tier 2 status a project must comply with the following.
Note: The measures necessary to achieve Tier 2 status are very stringent. Cities, counties, and cities and counties considering adoption of Tier 2 as mandatory should carefully consider the stringency of each measure and ensure that the measures are achievable in their location.
A4.601.5.1 Mandatory measures for Tier 2. The project shall meet or exceed all of the mandatory measures in Chapter 4, Divisions 4.1 through 4.5 and Chapter 7 as applicable.
A4.601.5.2 Prerequisite and elective measures for Tier 2. In addition to the mandatory measures, compliance with the following prerequisite and elective measures from Appendix A4 is also required to achieve Tier 2 status.
- From Division A4.1, Planning and Design.
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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
1.1. Comply with the topsoil protection requirements for Tier 1 and Tier 2 in Section A4.106.2.3. 1.2. Comply with the 30 percent permeable paving requirements in Section A4.106.4. 1.3. Comply with the cool roof requirements in Section A4.106.5. 1.4. Comply with the Tier 2 electric vehicle (EV) charging requirements in Section A4.106.8. 1.5. Comply with at least four elective measures selected from Division A4.1. 2. From Division A4.2, Energy Efficiency. 2.1. For newly constructed low-rise residential buildings, comply with the energy efficiency requirements in Sections A4.203.1, A4.203.1.1, Table A4.203.1.1, A4.203.1.2 and A4.203.1.3.
- From Division A4.3, Water Efficiency and Conservation. 3.1. Comply with at least three elective measures selected from Division A4.3.
- From Division A4.4, Material Conservation and Resource Efficiency. 4.1.
CRC § 101.7 Medium relevance — show source text
The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: †.
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A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
Some of 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 and provide additional measures that designers, builders and property owners may wish to consider during the planning, design and construction process.
DIVISION A4.1 – PLANNING AND DESIGN
PREFACE
Given that land use and planning are largely regulated locally, cities, counties, and cities and counties should consider reducing greenhouse gas emissions associated with development through local land-use practices in conjunction with enforcing the provisions of this code. Specific land use strategies a city, county, or city and county may wish to consider include but are not limited to the following:
Site selection. Develop sites for buildings, hardscape, roads or parking areas consistent with the local general plan and regional transportation plan pursuant to SB 375 (Stats 2008, Ch. 728).
Regional sustainable communities strategy. Site selection and building design and use shall conform the project with the prevailing regional sustainable communities strategy or alternative planning strategy, whichever meets the greenhouse gas target established by the California Air Resources Board pursuant to SB 375 (Stats. 2008, Ch. 728), including the general location of uses, residential densities and building intensities.
Transit priority projects. To qualify as a transit priority project, the project shall meet three criteria:
(1) (a) contain at least 50 percent residential use, based on total building square footage and, if the project contains between 26 and 50 percent nonresidential uses, a floor area ratio of not less than 0.75; (b) provide a minimum net density of at least 20 dwelling units per acre; and (c) be within one-half mile of a major transit stop or high-quality transit corridor included in a regional transportation plan as described in Section 21155 of Stats. 2008, Ch. 728;
(2) be consistent with the prevailing sustainable communities strategy or alternative planning strategy, whichever meets the greenhouse gas target established by the California Air Resources Board, including the general location of uses, residential densities and building intensities; and
(3) have all necessary entitlements required by the applicable local government.
Note: For additional information, see Government Code Sections 65080, 65080.1, 65400 and 65470, and Public Resources Code Sections 21061.3 and 21155.
SECTION A4.101—GENERAL
A4.101.1 Scope. The provisions of this division outline planning, design and development methods that include environmentally responsible site selection, building design, building siting and development to protect, restore and enhance the environmental quality of the site and respect the integrity of adjacent properties.
SECTION A4.102—DEFINITIONS
A4.102.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.
BROWNFIELD SITE.
DEVELOPMENT FOOTPRINT.
GREENFIELDS.
GREYFIELD SITE.
CRC § 407.6 Medium relevance — show source text
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APPENDIX A4 — RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
A4.407.6 Door protection. Exterior doors to the dwelling are covered to prevent water intrusion by one or more of the following:
An awning at least 4 feet in depth is installed.
The door is protected by a roof overhang at least 4 feet in depth.
The door is recessed at least 4 feet.
Other methods which provide equivalent protection.
A4.407.7 Roof overhangs. A permanent overhang or awning at least 2 feet in depth is provided at all exterior walls.
SECTION A4.408—CONSTRUCTION WASTE REDUCTION, DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING
A4.408.1 Enhanced construction waste reduction. Nonhazardous construction and demolition debris generated at the site is diverted to recycle or salvage in compliance with one of the following:
Tier 1. At least a 65 percent reduction. Any mixed recyclables that are sent to mixed-waste recycling facilities shall include a qualified third party verified facility average diversion rate. Verification of diversion rates shall meet minimum certification eligibility guidelines, acceptable to the local enforcing agency.
Tier 2. At least a 75 percent reduction with a third-party verification as required for Tier 1.
Exceptions:
- Equivalent or alternative waste reduction methods are developed by working with local agencies if diversion or recycle facilities capable of compliance with this item do not exist.
- The enforcing agency may make exceptions to the requirements of this section when jobsites are located in areas beyond the haul boundaries of the diversion facility.
A4.408.1.1 Documentation. Documentation shall be provided to the enforcing agency which demonstrates compliance with this section. Documentation shall be in compliance with Section 4.408.5.
SECTION A4.409—LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT (RESERVED)
SECTION A4.410—BUILDING MAINTENANCE AND OPERATION (RESERVED)
SECTION A4.411 —INNOVATIVE CONCEPTS AND LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
A4.411.1 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.
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A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
DIVISION A4.5 – ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
SECTION A4.501—GENERAL (RESERVED)
SECTION A4.502—DEFINITIONS
A4.502.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.
MERV.
NO ADDED FORMALDEHYDE (NAF) BASED RESINS.
ULTRA-LOW EMITTING FORMALDEHYDE (ULEF) RESINS.
SECTION A4.503—FIREPLACES (RESERVED)
SECTION A4.504—POLLUTANT CONTROL
CRC § 110.4 Medium relevance — show source text
A heat pump pool heater as the primary heating system that meets the sizing requirements of Reference Joint Appendix JA16.3. The control for the heat pump pool heater shall meet the requirements specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 110.4(d). The supplementary heater can be of any energy source; or 3. A heating system that derives at least 60 percent of the annual heating energy from on-site renewable energy or on-site recovered energy; or 4. A combination of a solar pool heating system and heat pump pool heater without any additional supplementary heater; or 5. A pool heating system determined by the Energy Commission Executive Director to use no more energy than the systems specified in Item 1, 2, 3, or 4 above.
Exception 1 to A4.204.1.2: Portable electric spas compliant with 20 CCR, Section 1605.3(g)(7) of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations.
Exception 2 to A4.204.1.2: A pool or spa that is heated solely by a solar pool heating system without any supplementary heater.
Exception 3 to A4.204.1.2: An existing building with inadequate Solar Access Roof Area (SARA) as specified in Title 24, Part 6, Section 170.2(f) for a solar pool heating system to be installed.
Exception 4 to A4.204.1.2: Heating systems which are used exclusively for permanent spa applications in existing buildings with gas availability.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4 and 25402.8, Public Resources Code.
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-11
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A4-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
DIVISION A4.3 – WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION
SECTION A4.301—GENERAL (RESERVED)
SECTION A4.302—DEFINITIONS (RESERVED)
SECTION A4.303—INDOOR WATER USE
A4.303.1 Kitchen faucets. The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi. Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons per minute at 60 psi, and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi.
Note: Where complying faucets are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction.
A4.303.2 Alternate water sources for nonpotable applications. Alternate nonpotable water sources are used for indoor potable water reduction. Alternate nonpotable water sources shall be installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.
A4.303.3 Appliances. Install at least one qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer.
Note: See Section A5.303.3 for nonresidential dishwashers and clothes washers.
CRC § 207.1.1 Medium relevance — show source text
**
A6.207.1.1 Efficiency.
A6.207.1.2 Controls for heat pumps with supplementary electric resistance heaters.
A6.207.1.3 Thermostats.
A6.207.1.4 Gas-and oil-fired furnace standby loss controls.||
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|| |A6.207.2 Space conditioning systems.
A6.207.2.1 Supply air temperature reset controls.
A6.207.2.2 Electric resistance heating.
A6.207.2.3 Heat rejection systems.
A6.207.2.4 Hydronic system measures.
A6.207.2.5 Air distribution system duct leakage sealing.
A6.207.2.6 Variable air volume control for single zone systems.||
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|| |A6.207.3 Service water-heating systems and equipment.
A6.207.3.1 Certification by manufacturers.
A6.207.3.2 Efficiency.
A6.207.3.3 Installation.||
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|| |A6.207.4 Natural gas central furnaces, cooking equipment and pool and spa heaters.
Pilot lights prohibited.||||| |A6.207.5 Controls for space-conditioning systems.
A6.207.5.1 Thermostatic controls for each zone.
A6.207.5.2 Criteria for zonal thermostatic controls.
A6.207.5.3 Heat pump controls.
A6.207.5.4 Dampers for air supply and exhaust equipment.
A6.207.5.5 Automatic demand shed controls.||
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|| |A6.207.6 Pipe insulation.||||| |SECTION A6.209 Lighting||||| |A6.209.1 Lighting control devices, ballasts and luminaires.
A6.209.1.1 All devices: Instructions and calibration.
A6.209.1.2 Indicator lights.
**A6.209.1.3 Automatic time switch control devices.CRC § 303.1 Medium relevance — show source text
2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A4-11
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
APPENDIX A4-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
A4 RESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES
DIVISION A4.3 – WATER EFFICIENCY AND CONSERVATION
SECTION A4.301—GENERAL (RESERVED)
SECTION A4.302—DEFINITIONS (RESERVED)
SECTION A4.303—INDOOR WATER USE
A4.303.1 Kitchen faucets. The maximum flow rate of kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi. Kitchen faucets may temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gallons per minute at 60 psi, and must default to a maximum flow rate of 1.5 gallons per minute at 60 psi.
Note: Where complying faucets are unavailable, aerators or other means may be used to achieve reduction.
A4.303.2 Alternate water sources for nonpotable applications. Alternate nonpotable water sources are used for indoor potable water reduction. Alternate nonpotable water sources shall be installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.
A4.303.3 Appliances. Install at least one qualified ENERGY STAR dishwasher or clothes washer.
Note: See Section A5.303.3 for nonresidential dishwashers and clothes washers.
A4.303.4 Nonwater urinals and waterless toilets. Nonwater urinals or composting toilets are installed.
Where approved, nonwater urinals with drain cleansing action (formerly hybrid urinals), as defined in Chapter 2, shall be considered nonwater urinals.
A4.303.5 Hot water recirculation systems. One- and two-family dwellings shall be equipped with a demand hot water recirculation system, as defined in Chapter 2. The demand hot water recirculation system shall be installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code, California Energy Code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
SECTION A4.304—OUTDOOR WATER USE
A4.304.1 Rainwater catchment systems. An approved rainwater catchment system is designed and installed to use rainwater generated by at least 65 percent of the available roof area. Rainwater catchment systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.
A4.304.2 Potable water elimination. When landscaping is provided and as allowed by local ordinance, a water efficient landscape irrigation design that eliminates the use of potable water beyond the initial requirements for plant installation and establishment shall be provided. Methods used to accomplish the requirements of this section shall comply with the requirements of the California Building Standards Code and shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
- Use of captured rainwater.
- Use of recycled water.
- Water treated for irrigation purposes and conveyed by a water district or public entity.
- Use of graywater.
- Use of drought tolerant plants.
A4.304.3 Landscape water meters. For new water service connections, landscaped irrigated areas less than 5,000 square feet shall be provided with separate submeters or metering devices for outdoor potable water use.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly must a city do before it can enforce A4 energy measures?
The city must (1) submit the required application to and receive approval from the California Energy Commission per Title 24, Part 1 (see A4.201.1), and (2) file its ordinance and findings with the California Building Standards Commission for acceptance (per § 101.7) — both steps are required prior to enforcement.
Where do I find the legal definitions of terms like “ENERGY BUDGET” used in A4?
§ A4.202.1 directs you to Chapter 2 for the formal, code‑level definitions of those terms. The Appendix does not restate the full text of those Chapter 2 definitions.
Is Appendix A4 a replacement for Title 24, Part 6 (the Energy Code)?
No. Appendix A4 is voluntary guidance to encourage higher performance; mandatory energy standards continue to be adopted and enforced through the California Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). § A4.201.1 clarifies this relationship.
If I cite a defined term from A4 in a permit condition, which wording should I use?
Use the Chapter 2 wording (the authoritative definition) referenced in § A4.202.1 rather than an informal paraphrase from the Appendix.
Are there performance pathways inside Appendix A4?
Yes — Division A4.2 (including § A4.203.1 and related subsections) contains a performance approach for newly constructed buildings; check those sections for specific performance metrics and calculation references.
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Appliances, kitchen faucets and minimum energy-related fixtures (A4.303)
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