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1. Where can I find a copy of the code?

The California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen) is part 11 of Title 24, California Code of Regulations. The CALGreen code is published by the International Code Council (ICC) and is available on its website, along with other parts of the California Building Standards Code. The applicable sections for residential construction can be found in Section 4.408 and in Section 5.408 for most non-residential new construction. Sections 301.1.1 and 301.3 address additions and alterations diversion requirements.

2. What are the effective dates of CALGreen's waste diversion requirements?

CALGreen became mandatory on January 1, 2011. This was concurrent with other parts of the 2010 Building Standards Code (Title 24). The 2012 Supplement is effective July 1, 2012. The 2013 CALGreen became effective January 1, 2014. The 2016 CALGreen is effective January 1, 2017.

3. What are the code’s waste diversion requirements?

Effective January 1, 2017, in all jurisdictions including those without a Construction & Demolition (C&D) ordinance requiring the diversion of 65% of construction waste, the owners/builder of construction projects within the covered occupancies will be required to divert 65% of the construction waste materials generated during the project. The code also allows a disposal reduction option that can be met when the project’s disposal rate is less than 2 pounds per square foot for non-residential and high rise residential or less than 3.4 pounds per square foot for low-rise residential.

4. Which types of construction occupancies are covered under CALGreen?

The code applies to various occupancies and types. Please visit the CalRecycle website for general requirements for each type. For specifics on the code’s scope, see Section 101.3. Also see Section 101.11 for a list of steps that can be used to determine which sections apply to each type of occupancy.