How to Comply with CALGreen (Step-by-Step)
What is the Difference Between Tier 1 and Tier 2 CALGreen?
Level Requirement Who Uses It Mandatory Base CALGreen Everyone (your ADU) Tier 1 +15% better (e.g., 25% waste diversion) LEED Silver, voluntary Tier 2 +30% better (e.g., net-zero ready) LEED Gold/Platinum You only need Mandatory — no tiers required.
What State Has the Toughest Building Codes?
California — by far. Category California Other States Energy TDV + ZNE goals kWh/ft² Green CALGreen mandatory Mostly voluntary Electrification Gas bans in new builds Rare HERS Verification Required Optional California = #1 in energy + green codes.
What is the CALGreen Checklist?
It’s the official compliance form: Lists every mandatory measure with yes/no/NA boxes. You must submit the signed checklist with your permit plans.
What is the Threshold for CALGreen?
There is no size threshold — CALGreen applies to ALL projects, even:
What Triggers the Requirement for Embodied Carbon in CALGreen (Nonresidential)?
Only for nonresidential projects ≥100,000 ft²:
What Does CALGreen Apply To?
All building types:
When Did CALGreen Start?
Year Milestone 2008 First mandatory CALGreen (basic measures) 2010 Full enforcement begins 2022 Current version (EV readiness, MERV 13, waste diversion) 2025 Your permit falls under 2022 CALGreen
Where is CALGreen Required?
Everywhere in California — 100% of cities and counties, including Monrovia, Los Angeles County, and all unincorporated areas. No opt-out. No exceptions. Even a 200 ft² backyard ADU must comply.
What is the Difference Between CALGreen and the California Energy Code?
Code Focus Title 24 Part CALGreen Green building (water, waste, materials, IAQ, EV, health) Part 11 Energy Code Energy efficiency (insulation, HVAC, lighting, TDV) Part 6 They work together: Your ADU needs both — CF1R for energy, CALGreen checklist for green.