Energy Efficiency Standards for
Residential and Nonresidential Buildings
(Title 24 Standards)

California's Energy Efficiency Standards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings (Title 24, Part 6 of the California Code of Regulations) were established in 1978 in response to a legislative mandate to reduce California's energy consumption. The standards are updated periodically to allow consideration and possible incorporation of new energy efficiency technologies and methods.

The 2005 Standards are no longer current as of December 31, 2009. The 2008 Standards became effective January 1, 2010. Projects that apply for a building permit on or after this date must comply with the 2008 Standards.

The Commission publishes compliance manuals designed to help owners, designers, builders, inspectors, examiners, and energy consultants comply with and enforce California's energy efficiency standards for residential and nonresidential buildings. The manuals are written as both references and as instructional guides and can be helpful for anyone that is directly or indirectly involved in the design and construction of energy efficient residential or nonresidential buildings.

In California, residential multifamily housing buildings (excluding hotels/motels) with four or more habitable stories must comply with the Nonresidential Buildings Compliance Manual, and all other multifamily housing buildings must comply with the Residential Buildings Compliance Manual.

For more information, contact the Energy Commission's Title 24 Hotline: