Local Ordinances Exceeding the 2025 Energy Code

Local jurisdictions wishing to enforce locally adopted energy standards must submit an application addressed to the California Energy Commission (CEC) executive director. The application must contain the following documents:

1. The proposed energy standards (signed and dated adopted ordinance), 
2. The local jurisdiction’s findings and supporting analyses on the energy savings and cost-effectiveness of the proposed energy standards,
3. A statement or finding by the local jurisdiction that the local energy standards will require buildings to be designed to consume no more energy than permitted by Title 24, Part 6, and 
4. Any findings, determinations, declarations or reports, including any negative declaration or environmental impact report, required pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act.

Questions and complete applications should be submitted to the CEC via email to Anushka Raut.

CEC Application Submission Guidance Document
This guidance document is provided by the CEC to assist local governmental agencies seeking to enforce locally adopted energy standards that are more stringent than the state’s mandatory Energy Code (Title 24, Part 6). This document outlines the application submission process, documentation, and formatting requirements, and provides an overview of the CEC’s review process and timeline.

California Building Standards Commission's Guidance for Local Ordinances
This guidance document outlines the requirements and procedures for local governments to adopt, amend, and file ordinances that modify state building standards, including documentation and timelines needed for CBSC review and approval.

California Statewide Codes & Standards Program
The California Statewide Codes & Standards Program provides cost-effectiveness studies to assist local jurisdictions in considering ordinances that reach beyond the mandatory requirements of the Energy Code.  

BayREN Codes & Standards Program Reach Codes
The BayREN Codes & Standards Program is a joint effort of the Bay Area cities and counties to increase compliance with the California Energy Code and local ordinance development.

3C-REN Reach Code Support
Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3C-REN) supports San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties to deliver energy-saving programs and industry trainings that help reduce energy use, strengthen local job markets, and support efforts to achieve climate goals.