High Performance Buildings for Building Departments

This comprehensive training equips building department staff with the knowledge and tools to efficiently review, permit, and inspect all-electric and high-performance buildings in California.

With a focus on Title 24, CALGreen, local Reach Codes, and evolving Building Performance Standards (BPS), the course enhances code compliance, inspection accuracy, and customer satisfaction—all while supporting community climate goals.

Participants will gain practical insights into electric technologies like heat pumps, solar PV, and EV infrastructure, learn how to streamline permitting and reduce resubmittals, and become trusted resources for builders and homeowners.

Tailored to real-world permitting workflows, this program prepares departments to lead the transition to cleaner, safer, and more efficient buildings across the state.

Key benefits of this Training for Building Departments include:

• Enhanced Code Compliance & Review Efficiency: Equip staff with in-depth knowledge of California's Title 24, CALGreen, and local "Reach Codes" and Building Performance Standards as they apply to all-electric and high-performance buildings, leading to faster, more accurate plan reviews and fewer resubmittals.
• Improved Inspection Accuracy: Train inspectors to identify critical components and proper installation techniques for heat pumps, advanced insulation, air sealing, and ventilation systems, ensuring projects meet stringent energy efficiency and performance standards.
• Reduced Project Delays & Costs: A knowledgeable building department can expedite the permitting process, minimizing delays for builders and homeowners, resulting in cost savings and increased satisfaction.
• Valuable Resource for the Community: Position your building department as a go-to resource for builders and homeowners navigating the complexities of high-performance buildings, offering informed guidance and support on everything from technologies to incentives.
• Support for Local Climate Goals: Empower your department to actively facilitate the transition to all-electric construction, directly contributing to local and state climate action plans and carbon reduction targets.
• Proactive Adaptation to Evolving Standards: Prepare your team for future code updates and the increasing prevalence of all-electric and high-performance building practices, ensuring your department remains a leader in sustainable development.
• Increased Public Trust & Confidence: A well-trained and competent building department fosters greater trust with developers, contractors, and the public, demonstrating a commitment to quality, safety, and environmental stewardship.
• Better Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ): Understand and verify design elements that contribute to superior indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and occupant health in high-performance homes.
• Effective Troubleshooting & Problem Solving: Provide staff with the expertise to address common challenges and "red flags" specific to all-electric and high-performance building plans and installations.
• Optimized Renewable Energy Integration: Ensure proper review and inspection of solar PV systems and EV charging infrastructure, which are integral to all-electric, high-performance designs.

In Partnership with:

Build Smart

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Please be aware that USGBC-CA may capture photos and videos during this event. By participating, you may appear in these visual recordings. Your presence at the event signifies your consent to be featured in these photos or videos, which may be utilized for educational, archival, or promotional endeavors.