CalGreen – Frequently Asked Questions
CalGreen – Frequently Asked Questions
What is CalGreen?
CalGreen is an abbreviated reference to the California Green Building Standards Code. The code was first adopted in 2009 and is updated every three years. The code sets minimum requirements for sustainable practices for residential and commercial construction projects throughout the state.
What portions of construction are covered in the CalGreen Code?
The code covers sustainable aspects including site selection, storm water control, water efficiency of fixtures and appliances, electric vehicle charging stations, VOC limits, moisture control, construction waste recycling, indoor air quality and environmental comfort as part of the Mandatory Measures.
What are the Mandatory Measures?
The Mandatory Measures are defined in the CalGreen Code. However, just about every jurisdiction in the state publishes their own list of mandatory measures. Your project must comply with the CalGreen Mandatory Measures adopted by your local building department.
What portions of construction are covered in the CalGreen Code?
The code covers sustainable aspects including site selection, storm water control, water efficiency of fixtures and appliances, electric vehicle charging stations, VOC limits, moisture control, construction waste recycling, indoor air quality and environmental comfort as part of the Mandatory Measures.
What are the CalGreen Tiers?
The code encourages local jurisdictions to raise the sustainable goals by publishing two “voluntary” tiers of additional requirements. They are called Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 adds additional requirements beyond the mandatory measures. Tier 2 further increases the requirements. The term “voluntary” is somewhat of a misnomer. If your building department has adopted a Tier, it is mandatory for your project, not “voluntary”.
What is the current version of the CalGreen Code?
The current version of the CalGreen Code is the 2022 Green Building Standards Code. The code became effective as of January 1, 2023.
Does CalGreen apply to remodels?
The code applies to remodels that increase the building’s conditioned area, size or volume. The mandatory requirements only apply to the area, or within, the addition or remodel.
Is CalGreen part of Title 24?
No. CalGreen is a separate code called the Green Building Standards Code. “Title 24” is a mis-used synonym for the California Energy Code. The two codes are completely independent of each other. The California Energy Code scope is limited to the energy performance of buildings. The CalGreen code addresses sustainable building practices.
Does CalGreen include requirements for solar panels?
No. Solar panel requirements are covered in the California Energy Code and the California Electrical Code.
Does CalGreen include requirements for electric vehicles?
Yes. The current CalGreen Code has requirements for rough-in for future electric vehicle charging stations for both residential and commercial projects. The requirements include the receptacle box rough-in and an empty conduit to an adequately sized electrical panel.
What is the CalGreen Checklist?
Most building departments publish their own CalGreen Checklist. The checklist is designed to document that the building design team understands the CalGreen requirements for their project and has included them in the construction drawings/permit plans. Many jurisdictions require a CalGreen Special Inspector sign the CalGreen Checklist to verify that all CalGreen requirements are covered in the permit plans. See the links below for more information on checklists.
Does the contractor have CalGreen obligations during construction?
Yes. The contractor is required to initiate and document the construction waste plan, use only approved VOC containing materials, take moisture readings of construction lumber and provide the building owner with an Operation and Maintenance Manual. Other requirements may apply depending on jurisdiction.
Have another CalGreen question?
At CalGreen Energy Services we are specialists in the CalGreen Code. CalGreen is our only business. If you have a CalGreen question please feel free to give us a call. We are happy to share our knowledge.
Call us today and let us show you how we can help with your project.
Gary Welch
Email: gary@calgreenenergyservices.com
Phone: 707-328-5299
Gary Welch has over 35 years experience in the field of sustainable building design. He is the CEO of CalGreen Energy Services. Gary is an ICC Certified CalGreen Special Inspector and Plans Examiner.
