That certain document entitled "California Green Building Standards Code, 2022 Edition," as published by the California Building Standards Commission, is hereby adopted as the Green Building Standards Code of the City of Santa Monica.
(Added by Ord. No. 2328CCS § 30, adopted 11/9/10; amended by Ord. No. 2445CCS § 47, adopted 11/12/13; Ord. No. 2527CCS § 11, adopted 11/22/16; Ord. No. 2617CCS § 3, adopted 9/24/19; Ord. No. 2778CCS, 5/14/2024)
Notwithstanding any provisions of the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code, 2022 California Energy Code, or other codes adopted by any Chapter in Article VIII of the Municipal Code to the contrary, the following local amendments shall apply.
(Added by Ord. No. 2328CCS § 30, adopted 11/9/10; amended by Ord. No. 2527CCS § 11, adopted 11/22/16; Ord. No. 2617CCS § 3, adopted 9/24/19; Ord. No. 2778CCS, 5/14/2024)
In addition to definitions set forth in Section 202 of the 2019 California Green Building Standards Code, the following definitions shall apply:
Major addition.
The addition to any building of either: (1) an additional story; or (2) additional floor area equal to or greater than fifty percent of the building's existing floor area prior to the addition.
Sustainability.
Consideration of present development and construction impacts on the community, the economy, and the environment without compromising the needs of the future.
Unshaded area.
Area(s) where light emittance from the sun is unobstructed by fixed objects during the majority of daylight hours between March 21st and September 21st.
(Added by Ord. No. 2328CCS § 30, adopted 11/9/10; amended by Ord. No. 2390CCS § 2, adopted 2/28/12; Ord. No. 2445CCS § 50, adopted 11/12/13; Ord. No. 2513CCS § 1, adopted 4/26/16; Ord. No. 2527CCS § 11, adopted 11/22/16; Ord. No. 2617CCS § 3, adopted 9/24/19)
Section 301.1.1 of the 2019 California Green Building Standards Code is amended to read as follows:
301.1.1 Additions and Alterations. With the exception of Sections 4.201.4 and 4.201.5, which apply only to major additions to one-, two-, and multi-family dwellings (three stories or less), the mandatory provisions of Chapter 4 shall be applied to additions or alterations of existing residential buildings. The requirements shall apply only to and/or within the specific area of the addition or alteration.
(Added by Ord. No. 2445CCS § 51, adopted 11/12/13; amended by Ord. No. 2527CCS § 11, adopted 11/22/16; Ord. No. 2617CCS § 3, adopted 9/24/19)
Section 4.407.1 of the 2019 California Green Building Standards Code is amended to read as follows:
4.407.1 Flashing Details. Provide flashing details on the building plans which comply with accepted industry standards or manufacturer's instructions. Details are shown on the house plans at all of the following locations:
1. 
Around windows and doors.
2. 
Roof valleys.
3. 
Deck connections to the structure.
4. 
Roof-to-wall intersections.
5. 
Chimneys to roof intersections.
6. 
Drip caps above windows and doors with architectural projections.
7. 
Other locations as identified by the Building Officer.
(Added by Ord. No. 2328CCS § 30, adopted 11/9/10; amended by Ord. No. 2513CCS § 3, adopted 4/26/16; Ord. No. 2527CCS § 11, adopted 11/22/16; Ord. No. 2617CCS § 2, adopted 9/24/19)
Section 5.201 of the 2019 California Green Building Standards Code is amended to read as follows:
5.201.3 Pool Heating—Non-Residential, High-Rise Residential, and Hotel and Motel Buildings.
(a)
For new pool construction, if the pool is to be heated, an electric heat pump water heater or a solar thermal system shall be used for such heating.
5.201.4 Solar Photovoltaic Installation Requirements for Major Additions to Non-Residential, High-Rise Residential, and Hotel and Motel Buildings.
(a)
All major additions to non-residential, high-rise residential, and hotel and motel buildings are required to install a solar electric photovoltaic (PV) system. The PV system installed must have a minimum total wattage 2.0 times the square footage of the footprint of the addition (2.0 watts per square foot).
(b)
The requirements of this Section shall be waived or reduced, by the minimum extent necessary, where: (i) production of electric energy from solar panels is technically infeasible due to lack of available and feasible unshaded areas; (ii) the PV system size required is less than 1,200 watts DC; or (iii) the dwelling has an existing functioning grid-tied PV system meeting the electrical utility's interconnection requirements.
(c)
The requirements of this Section shall take priority if there is a conflict between compliance with Section 5.201.3 through use of a solar thermal system and compliance with this Section.
(Added by Ord. No. 2540CCS § 3, adopted 3/28/17; amended by Ord. No. 2617CCS § 2, adopted 9/24/19)
Electric vehicle charging for new residential and hotel and motel buildings is governed by Sections 4.106.4 through 4.106.4.3.6 of the Green Building Standards Code. Electric vehicle charging for new non-residential buildings is governed by Sections 5.106.5.3 through 5.106.5.3.5 of the Green Building Standards Code.
(Added by Ord. No. 2445CCS § 55, adopted 11/12/13; amended by Ord. No. 2527CCS § 11, adopted 11/22/16; Ord. No. 2617CCS § 2, adopted 9/24/19)
Section 4.106.4 of the 2022 California Green Building Code and its subsections are amended to read as follows:
A4.106.8 Electric vehicle (EV) charging for new construction. New construction shall comply with Section A4.106.8.1 or A4.106.8.2, to facilitate the installation and use of EV ready spaces. Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) shall comply with the California Electrical Code.
A4.106.8.1 New one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses with attached private garages.
Tier 1 and Tier 2. For each dwelling unit, a dedicated 208/240-volt branch circuit shall be installed in the raceway required by Section 4.106.4.1. The branch circuit and associated overcurrent protective device shall be rated at 40 amperes minimum. Other electrical components, including a receptacle or blank cover, related to this Section shall be installed in accordance with the California Electrical Code.
A4.106.8.1.1 Identification. The service panel or subpanel circuit directory shall identify the overcurrent protective device designated for future EV charging purposes as "EV READY" in accordance with the California Electrical Code. The receptacle or blank cover shall be identified as "EV READY."
A4.106.8.2 New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels. New multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels shall meet the following requirements:
A4.106.8.2.1 Multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels.
Tier 1. New multifamily projects shall comply with Option A.
Option A for new multifamily dwellings, hotels and motels.
1. 
EV Ready parking spaces with receptacles.
a. 
Hotels and motels. Fifty percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles.
b. 
Multifamily parking facilities. Fifty percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles.
EV charging receptacles required by this Section shall be located in at least one assigned parking space per dwelling unit where assigned parking is provided but need not exceed 50% of the total number of assigned parking spaces provided on the site.
Exceptions:
1. Areas of parking facilities served by parking lifts, including, but not limited to, automated mechanical-access open parking garages as defined in the California Building Code; or parking facilities otherwise incapable of supporting electric vehicle charging.
2. Hotels and motels may substitute Level 2 EV chargers for some or all of the required EV charging receptacles. Where Level 2 EV chargers are installed in place of low power Level 2 receptacles, at least 50% of the installed EV chargers shall be equipped with J1772 connectors.
2. 
EV Ready parking spaces with EV chargers.
a. 
Hotels and motels. Fifteen percent of the total number of parking spaces for hotels and motels shall be equipped with Level 2 EV chargers. At least 50% of the required EV chargers shall be equipped with J1772 connectors.
b. 
Multifamily parking facilities. Fifteen percent of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with Level 2 EV chargers. At least 50% of the required EV chargers shall be equipped with J1772 connectors. Where common use parking or unassigned parking is provided, EV chargers shall be located in common use or unassigned parking areas and shall be available for use by all residents or guests.
Exception:
1. Areas of parking facilities served by parking lifts, including, but not limited to, automated mechanical-access open parking garages as defined in the California Building Code; or parking facilities otherwise incapable of supporting electric vehicle charging.
An automatic load management system (ALMS) may be used to reduce the maximum required electrical capacity to each space served by the ALMS. The electrical system and any on-site distribution transformers shall have sufficient capacity to deliver at least 3.3 kW simultaneously to each EV charging station (EVCS) served by the ALMS. The branch circuit shall have a minimum capacity of 40 amperes, and installed EV chargers shall have a capacity of not less than 30 amperes.
A4.106.8.2.2 Technical requirements. The EV spaces required by Section A4.106.8.2 shall be designed and constructed in accordance with Sections 4.106.4.2, 4.106.4.2.2.1.1, 4.106.4.2.2.1.2, and 4.106.4.2.5.
(Added by Ord. No. 2634CCS § 2, adopted 4/28/20; amended by Ord. No 2723CCS § 3, adopted 10/11/22; Ord. No. 2783CCS, 6/25/2024)
Section 5.106.5.3 of the 2022 California Green Building Code and its subsections are amended to read as follows:
5.106.5.3 Electric vehicle (EV) charging. Construction shall comply with Section A5.106.5.3.1 Tier 1, and in accordance with regulations in the California Building Code and the California Electrical Code.
A5.106.5.3.1 Tier 1. Comply with Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces, Section 5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations and associated Table A5.106.5.3.1 Tier 1, or comply with Section A5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) — Power allocation method and associated Table A5.106.5.3.2 Tier 1.
Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.2 for the permitted use of Level 2 or direct current fast charger (DCFC) to create EVCS. Refer to Section 5.106.3.2.1 for the allowed use of DCFC to comply with both EV capable spaces and Level 2 EVSE. Refer to Section 5.106.5.3.3 for the allowed use of automatic load management system (ALMS).
Table A5.106.5.3.1
Total Number of Actual Parking Spaces
Tier 1 Number of Required EV Capable Spaces
Tier 1 Number of EVCS (EV Capable Spaces Provided with EVSE)2
0-9
2
0
10-25
5
2
26-50
11
4
51-75
19
5
76-100
26
9
101-150
38
13
151-200
53
18
201 and over
30% of actual parking spaces1
33% of EV capable spaces1
Notes:
1. Calculation for spaces shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.
2. The number of required EVCS (EV capable spaces provided with EVSE) in column 3 count toward the total number of required EV capable spaces shown in column 2.
3. At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
A5.106.5.3.2 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) - Power Allocation method. The power allocation method may be used as an alternative to the requirements in Section 5.106.5.3.1, Section 5.106.5.3.2, and associated Table A5.106.5.3.1 Tier 1. Use Table A5.106.5.3.2 Tier 1 to determine the total power in kVA required based on the total number of actual parking spaces.
Power allocation method shall include the following:
1.
Use any kVA combination of EV capable spaces, low power Level 2, Level 2 or DCFC EVSEs.
2.
At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
Table A5.106.5.3.2 Tier 1
Total Number of Actual Parking Spaces
Minimum Total kVA@ 6.6 kVA
Total kVA Required in any Combination of EV Capable3, 4, Low Power Level 2, Level 21, 2, or DCFC
0-9
13.2
13.2
10-25
33
33
26-50
72.6
72.6
51-75
125.4
125.4
76-100
171.6
171.6
101-150
250.8
250.8
151-200
349.8
349.8
201 and over
30% of actual parking spaces x 6.6
Total required kVA = P x 0.30 x 6.6
Where P = Parking spaces in facility
Notes:
1.
Level 2 EVSE at 6.6 kVA minimum.
2.
At least one Level 2 EVSE shall be provided.
3.
Maximum allowed kVA to be utilized for EV capable spaces is 67%.
4.
If EV capable spaces are utilized, they shall meet the requirements of Section 5.106.5.3.1 EV capable spaces.
5.106.5.3.3 Use of automatic load management systems (ALMS). ALMS shall be permitted for EVCS. When an ALMS is installed, the required electrical load capacity specified in Section 5.106.5.3.1 for each EVCS may be reduced when serviced by an EVSE controlled by an ALMS. Each EVSE controlled by an ALMS shall deliver a minimum 30 amperes to an EV when charging one vehicle and shall deliver a minimum 3.3 kW while simultaneously charging multiple EVs.
5.106.5.3.4 Accessible electric vehicle charging station (EVCS). When EVSE is installed, accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code Chapter 11B, Section 11B-228.3.
Note: 5.106.5.3.5 Electric vehicle charging station signage. For EVCS signs, refer to Electric vehicle charging stations shall be identified by signage or pavement markings in compliance with Caltrans Traffic Operations Policy Directive 13-01 (Zero Emission Vehicle Signs and Pavement Markings) or its successor(s).
5.106.5.3.5.1 Additional EV ready requirement for office facilities. In addition to the requirements of Table A5.106.5.3.1, for office parking facilities, an additional 20% (rounded to the nearest whole number) of the total number of parking spaces shall be equipped with low power Level 2 EV charging receptacles.
5.106.5.4 Additions or alterations to existing buildings or parking facilities [A]. [BSC-CG] Existing buildings or parking facilities being modified by one of the following shall comply with Section 5.106.5.4.1 or 5.106.5.4.2. When EVSE is installed, accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the California Building Code, Chapter 11B, Section 11B-228.3.
1. When the scope of construction work includes an increase in power supply to an electric service panel as part of a parking facility addition or alteration.
2. When a new photovoltaic system is installed covering existing parking spaces.
3. When additions or alterations to existing buildings are triggered pursuant to code Section 301.3 and the scope of work includes an increase in power supply to an electric service panel.
Exceptions:
1. On a case-by-case basis where the local enforcing agency has determined compliance with this Section is not feasible based upon one of the following conditions:
a. Where there is no local utility power supply.
b. Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power.
c. Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcement agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the implementation of Section 5.106.5.3, may adversely impact the construction cost of the project.
d. Where demonstrated as impracticable excluding local utility service or utility infrastructure issues.
2. Remote parking facilities that do not have access to the building service panel.
3. Parking area lighting upgrades where no trenching is part of the scope of work.
4. Emergency repairs, including, but not limited to, water line break in parking facilities, natural disaster repairs, etc.
5.106.5.4.1 Existing buildings or parking areas without previously installed EV capable infrastructure [A]. When EV capable infrastructure does not exist at an existing parking facility or building, and the parking facility or building undergoes an addition or alteration listed in Section 5.106.5.4, construction shall include electric vehicle charging in compliance with either Section 5.106.5.3 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1, or Section 5.106.5.3.6 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.6 for the total number of actual parking spaces being added or altered.
5.106.5.4.2 Existing buildings or parking areas with previously installed EV capable infrastructure [A]. When EV capable infrastructure is available at an existing parking facility or building, and the parking facility or building is undergoing an addition or alteration listed in Section 5.106.5.4, construction shall include electric vehicle charging in compliance with either Section 5.106.5.3 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.1, or Section 5.106.5.3.6 and associated Table 5.106.5.3.6 utilizing the existing EV capable allocated power and infrastructure for the total number of actual parking spaces being added or altered. If the area being added or altered exceeds the existing EV capable capacity, allocated power and infrastructure, provide additional EV charging as needed to comply with this section.
5.106.5.5 Electric vehicle (EV) charging: medium-duty and heavy-duty. [N] [BSG-CG] Construction shall comply with Section 5.106.5.4.1 to facilitate future installation of electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). Construction for warehouses, grocery stores and retail stores with planned off-street loading spaces shall also comply with Section 5.106.5.4.5.1 for future installation of medium- and heavy-duty EVSE.
Exceptions:
1.
On a case-by-case basis where the local enforcing agency has determined compliance with this section is not feasible based upon one of the following conditions:
a.
Where there is no local utility power supply.
b.
Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power.
c.
Where there is evidence suitable to the local enforcing agency substantiating that additional local utility infrastructure design requirements, directly related to the implementation of Section 5.106.5.3, may adversely impact the construction cost of the project.
When EVSE(s) is/are installed, it shall be in accordance with the California Building Code, the California Electrical Code and as follows:
5.106.5.4.5.1 Electric vehicle charging readiness requirements for warehouses, grocery stores and retail stores with planned off-street loading spaces. In order to avoid future demolition when adding EV supply and distribution equipment, spare raceway(s) or busway(s) and adequate capacity for transformer(s), service panel(s) or subpanel(s) shall be installed at the time of construction in accordance with the California Electrical Code. Construction plans and specifications shall include, but are not limited to, the following:
1.
The transformer, main service equipment and subpanels shall meet the minimum power requirement in Table 5.106.5.5.1 to accommodate the dedicated branch circuits for the future installation of EVSE.
2.
The construction documents shall indicate one or more location(s) convenient to the planned off-street loading space(s) reserved for medium- and heavy-duty ZEV charging cabinets and charging dispensers, and a pathway reserved for routing of conduit from the termination of the raceway(s) or busway(s) to the charging cabinet(s) and dispenser(s), as shown in Table 5.106.5.5.1.
3.
Raceway(s) or busway(s) originating at a main service panel or a subpanel(s) serving the area where potential future medium- and heavy-duty EVSE will be located, and shall terminate in close proximity to the potential future location of the charging equipment for medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.
4.
The raceway(s) or busway(s) shall be of sufficient size to carry the minimum additional system load to the future location of the charging for medium- and heavy-duty ZEVs as shown in Table 5.106.5.4.5.1.
Table 5.106.5.4.5.1
Raceway Conduit and Panel Power Requirements for Medium- and Heavy-Duty EVSE [N]
Building Type
Building Size
(sq. ft.)
Number of Off-Street Loading Spaces
Additional Capacity Required (kVa) for Raceway & Busway and Transformer & Panel
Grocery
1 or 2
200
10,000 to 90,000
3 or Greater
400
Greater than 90,000
1 or Greater
400
Manufacturing Facilities
10,000 to 50,000
1 or 2
200
10,000 to 50,000
3 or Greater
400
Greater than 50,000
1 or Greater
400
Office Buildings
10,000 to 135,000
1 or 2
200
10,000 to 135,000
3 or Greater
400
Greater than 135,000
1 or Greater
400
Retail
10,000 to 135,000
1 or 2
200
3 or Greater
400
Greater than 135,000
1 or Greater
400
Warehouse
20,000 to 256,000
1 or 2
200
3 or Greater
400
Greater than 256,000
1 or Greater
400
5.106.5.6 Electric vehicle (EV) charging at public schools and community colleges. [DSA-SS] Electric vehicle infrastructure and electric vehicle charging stations shall comply with Section 5.106.5.6 and shall be provided in accordance with regulations in the California Building Code and the California Electrical Code.
Exceptions:
1. On a case-by-case basis where compliance with this Section has been demonstrated to be not feasible based upon one of the following conditions, and with concurrence by the Division of the State Architect (DSA), compliance with Section 5.106.5.6 shall not be required.
a.
Where there is no local utility power supply.
b.
Where the local utility is unable to supply adequate power.
c.
The installation of EVCS is impracticable.
2. Parking spaces accessible only by automated mechanical car parking systems are not required to comply with Section 5.106.5.6.
5.106.5.6.1 EV capable spaces. EV capable spaces shall be provided in accordance with Table A5.106.5.6.1 and the following requirements:
1. Raceways complying with the California Electrical Code and no less than one-inch (25 mm) diameter shall be provided and shall originate at a service panel or a subpanel(s) serving the area and shall terminate in close proximity to the proposed location of the EV capable space and into a suitable listed cabinet, box, enclosure or equivalent. A common raceway may be used to serve multiple EV capable spaces.
2. A service panel or subpanel(s) shall be provided with panel space and electrical load capacity for a dedicated 208/240 volt, 40-ampere minimum branch circuit for each EV capable space, with delivery of 30-ampere minimum to an installed EVSE at each EVCS.
3. The electrical system and any on-site distribution transformers shall have sufficient capacity to supply full rated amperage at each EV capable space.
4. The service panel or subpanel circuit directory shall identify the reserved overcurrent protective device space(s) as "EV CAPABLE." The raceway termination location shall be permanently and visibly marked as "EV CAPABLE."
5.106.5.6.2 Electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS). EV capable spaces shall be provided with EVSE to create EVCS in the number indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.1 and shall comply with Section 5.106.5.6.2. EVCS shall be serviced by Level 2 or Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) EVSE, or with EVSE in any combination of Level 2 and DCFC. Accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with California Building Code Chapter 11B.
5.106.5.6.2.1 Reduced number of EV capable spaces. The installation of each DCFC EVSE shall be permitted to reduce the minimum number of required EV capable spaces indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.1 by five and reduce proportionally the required electrical load capacity to the service panel or subpanel.
5.106.5.6.2.2 Multiple connectors. EVSE with multiple vehicle connectors capable of charging multiple EVs simultaneously shall be permitted if the electrical load capacity required by Section 5.106.5.6.1 for each EV capable space is accumulatively supplied to the EVSE.
5.106.5.6.2.3 Use of automatic load management systems (ALMS). ALMS shall be permitted for EVCS installed in accordance with Section 5.106.5.6.2. When ALMS is installed, the required electrical load capacity specified in Section 5.106.5.6.1 for each EVCS may be reduced when serviced by an EVSE controlled by an ALMS. Each EVSE controlled by an ALMS shall deliver a minimum 30 amperes to an EV when charging one vehicle and shall deliver a minimum 3.3 kW while simultaneously charging multiple EVs.
5.106.5.6.3 EVCS alternative compliance.
In lieu of compliance with Section 5.106.5.6.2, EVCS shall be provided with Level 1, low power Level 2, or Level 2, or any combination of Level 1, low power Level 2 or Level 2 EVSE such that the total power supplied by the combination of EVSE meets the minimum power indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.3, based on the total number of actual parking spaces in each parking facility.
Table 5.106.5.6.3
Number of Parking Spaces in a Parking Facility
Minimum Total Power (kVa) Required for EVCS
0-9
0
10-25
7
26-50
14
51-75
20
76-100
27
101-150
40
151-200
60
201 and over
Total required KVA = P x 0.05 x 6.6
Where P = Parking spaces in facility
5.106.5.6.4 EVCS for alterations of or additions to parking facilities. Alterations of or additions to parking facilities shall provide EVCS in compliance with Section 5.106.5.6.4. The installation of infrastructure for EV capable spaces required to be provided without EVSE shall not be required.
5.106.5.6.4.1 Alterations of and additions to parking facilities. EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the number indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.1 or minimum power indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.3 when the scope of work includes an increase in power supply to an electric panel serving light fixtures illuminating the parking area or when area containing parking spaces is added to a parking facility. The number of required EVCS shall be based on the total number of existing and new parking spaces in the parking facility.
5.106.5.6.4.2 Alterations consisting of the installation of photovoltaic systems. EVCS shall be provided in accordance with the number indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.1 or maximum power indicated in Table 5.106.5.6.3 when a new photovoltaic system is installed in an existing parking facility.
5.106.5.6.5 Requirement to install EVSE. Level 2 EVSE shall be provided in all existing EV capable spaces to create EVCS when a project is required by California Administrative Code Section 4-309 to be submitted for plan approval to the Division of the State Architect. When EVSE is installed in existing EV capable spaces, accessible EVCS shall be provided in accordance with California Building Code Chapter 11B.
Exception: Projects in which improvements in parking areas consist only of accessibility improvements are not required to comply with Section 5.106.5.6.5.
(Added by Ord. No. 2634CCS § 3, adopted 4/28/20; amended by Ord. No. 2723CCS § 4, adopted 10/11/22; Ord. No. 2783CCS, 6/25/2024)
(a) 
Adoption of Local Amendments. That certain document entitled "California Green Building Standards Code, 2022 Edition," as published by the California Building Standards Commission, is hereby amended with the following local amendments:
(b) 
Definitions. Unless defined herein, all defined terms shall be those found in the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code. For the application of this Section the following definitions shall apply:
Cement Limit:
The maximum allowed amount of cement in concrete at specified compressive strengths measured in pounds per cubic yards and listed on concrete mix designs.
Concrete:
Any approved combination of mineral aggregates bound together into a hardened conglomerate in accordance with the requirements of this Code.
Environmental Product Declaration (EPD):
EPDs present quantified environmental information on the lifecycle of a product to enable comparisons between products fulfilling the same function. EPDs must conform to ISO 14025, and EN 15804 or ISO 21930, and have at least a "cradle to gate" scope (which covers product lifecycle from resource extraction to the factory).
High Early Strength Cement:
Cement used to produce concrete with the compressive strength shown on submitted building plans within 12 hours.
Newly-Constructed Building:
A new structure that has never before been used or occupied for any purpose or removal and replacement of an existing structure, or repair, alteration, modification, addition to, or rehabilitation of an existing structure, where a demolition will occur, as defined Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 9.25.030(A)(1) or (A)(2).
(c) 
Scope. The requirements of this Section shall apply to all newly-constructed buildings and swimming pools and spas as provided in Section 8.106.130, subsection (a) for which a building permit for construction is issued on or after 30 days following the second reading of the ordinance codified in this Section. Projects that do not meet the thresholds requiring plan review, as determined by the Building Officer, shall be exempt from this Section.
(d) 
California Building Standards Code Amendments.
(1) 
Section 1901.2 of the 2022 California Building Code is hereby amended as follows:
Structural concrete shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the requirements of this Chapter and ACI 318 as amended in Section 1905 of this Code and Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130. Except for the provisions of Sections 1904 and 1907, and other than compliance with Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130, the design and construction of slabs on grade shall not be governed by this Chapter unless they transmit vertical loads or lateral forces from other parts of the structure to the soil.
(2) 
Section R402.2.1 of the 2022 California Residential Code is hereby amended as follows:
R402.2.1 Materials for concrete. Materials for concrete shall comply with the requirements of Section R608.5.1, as amended by Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130.
(3) 
Section R404.1.3 of the 2022 California Residential Code is hereby amended as follows:
R404.1.3 Concrete foundation walls. Concrete foundation walls that support light-frame walls shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this Section, ACI 318, ACI 332, or PCA 100, as amended by Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130. Concrete foundation walls that support above-grade concrete walls that are within the applicability limits of Section R608.2 shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this Section, ACI 318, ACI 332, or PCA 100, as amended by Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130. Concrete foundation walls that support above-grade concrete walls that are not within the applicability limits of Section R608.2 shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of ACI 318, ACI 332, or PCA 100, as amended by Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130. Where ACI 318, ACI 332, PCA 100 or the provisions of this Section, as amended by Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130, are used to design concrete foundation walls, project drawings, typical details and specifications are not required to bear the seal of the architect or engineer responsible for design, unless otherwise required by the state law of the jurisdiction having authority.
(4) 
Section R506.1 of the 2022 California Residential Code is hereby amended as follows:
R506.1 General. Concrete slab-on-ground floors shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of this Section or ACI 332, as amended by Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130. Floors shall be a minimum 3 1/2 inches (89 mm) thick (for expansive soils, see Section R403.1.8). The specified compressive strength of concrete shall be as set forth in Section R402.2.
(5) 
Section R608.5 of the 2022 California Residential Code is hereby amended as follows:
R608.5 Materials. Materials used in the construction of concrete walls shall comply with this section, as amended by, Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130.
(6) 
Section 301 of the 2022 California Green Building Standards Code is hereby augmented with the following:
301.6 Low-carbon concrete requirements for all projects. Plain and reinforced concrete installed as part of any project subject to the application of this Code shall demonstrate compliance with the requirements of Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 8.106.130, the full text of which is herein added to this Code by reference.
(7) 
Section 5.409.3 Product GWP compliance - prescriptive path, of the California Green Building Standards Code, is hereby adopted and amended as follows:
5.409.3 Product GWP compliance - Prescriptive path. Each product that is permanently installed and listed in Table 5.409.3 shall have a Type III environmental product declaration (EPD), either product-specific or factory-specific. All concrete must comply with Section 5.409.3.2.
Table 5.409.3
PRODUCT GWP LIMITS
Buy Clean California Materials Product Category1
Maximum acceptable GWP value
(unfabricated)
(GWP allowed)
Unit of Measurement
Hot-rolled structural steel sections
1.77
MT CO2e/MT
Hollow structural sections
3.00
MT CO2e/MT
Steel plate
2.61
MT CO2e/MT
Concrete reinforcing steel
1.56
MT CO2e/MT
Flat glass
2.50
kg CO2e/MT
Light-density mineral wool board insulation
5.83
kg CO2e/1 m2
Heavy-density mineral wool board insulation
14.28
kg CO2e/1 m2
Concrete, Ready-Mixed2, 3
Concrete Product Category
Maximum GWP allowed value
(GWP allowed)
Unit of Measurement
up to 2499 psi
450
kg CO2e/m3
2500-3499 psi
489
kg CO2e/m3
3500-4499 psi
566
kg CO2e/m3
4500-5499 psi
661
kg CO2e/m3
5500-6499 psi
701
kg CO2e/m3
6500 psi and greater
799
kg CO2e/m3
Concrete, Lightweight Ready-Mixed2
Concrete Product Category
Maximum GWP allowed value
(GWP allowed)
Unit of Measurement
up to 2499 psi
875
kg CO2e/m3
2500-3499 psi
956
kg CO2e/m3
3500-4499 psi
1,039
kg CO2e/m3
Footnotes:
1.
The GWP values of the products listed in Table 5.409.3 are based on 175 percent of Buy Clean California Act (BCCA) GWP values, except for concrete products which are not included in BCCA.
2.
For concrete, 175 percent of the National Ready Mix Concrete Association (NRMCA) 2022 version 3 Pacific Southwest regional benchmark values are used for the GWP allowed, except for High Early strength.
3.
Concrete High Early Strength ready-mixed shall be calculated at 130 percent of the Ready mixed concrete GWP allowed values for each product category.
Notation:
Authority: Health and Safety Code Section 18930.5
Reference(s): Health and Safety Code Section 18930.5
5.409.3.1. Products shall not exceed the maximum GWP value specified in Table 5.409.3.
Exception: Concrete may be considered one product category to meet compliance with this section. A weighted average of the maximum GWP for all concrete mixes installed in the project shall be less than the weighted average maximum GWP allowed per Table 5.409.3 using Exception Equation 5.409.3.1. Calculations shall be performed with consistent units of measurement for the material quantity and the GWP value. For the purposes of this exception, industry wide EPD's are acceptable.
Exception EQUATION 5.409.3.1
GWPn < GWPallowed
where
GWPn = Ʃ (GWPn)(Vn) and GWPallowed = Ʃ (GWPallowed)(Vn)
and
n = each concrete mix installed in the project
GWPn = the GWP for concrete mix n per concrete mix EPD, in kg CO2e/m3
GWPallowed = the GWP potential allowed for concrete mix n per Table 5.409.3
Vn = the volume of concrete mix n installed in the project, in m3.
5.409.3.2. Verification of compliance. Calculations to demonstrate compliance, Type III EPDs for products required to comply if included in the project, and Worksheet WS-5 signed by the design professional of record shall be provided on the construction documents. Updated EPDs for products used in construction shall be provided to the owner at the close of construction and to the enforcement entity upon request. The enforcing agency may require inspection and inspection reports in accordance with Sections 702.2 and 703.1 during and at completion of construction to demonstrate substantial conformance. Inspection shall be performed by the design professional of record or third party acceptable to the enforcing agency.
5.409.3.2 Reduction in cement use requirements. All plain and reinforced concrete installed in residential and non-residential newly-constructed buildings and swimming pools and spas as provided in Section 8.106.130, Subsection (a) for which a building permit for construction is issued on or after 30 days after the second reading of the ordinance codified in this Section shall comply with Section 5.409.3 to reduce embodied carbon in concrete. Projects that do not meet the thresholds requiring plan review, as determined by the Building Officer, shall be exempt from this Section.
5.409.3.2.1. Products shall comply with the requirements for product GWP or cement limit performance in accordance with Section 5.409.3 using the maximum acceptable GWP or cement limit value for the product category listed in Table 5.409.3.5.
5.409.3.3 Project based compliance. A weighted average of the maximum GWP or cement limit for all concrete mixes installed in the project shall be less than the weighted average maximum GWP or cement limit allowed per Table 5.409.3.5 using Project Based Equation 5.409.3.3A or 5.409.3.3B calculations shall be performed with consistent units of measurement for the material quantity and the GWP or cement limit value. For the purposes of this exception, industry wide EPDs are acceptable.
5.409.3.4 Verification of compliance. Calculations to demonstrate compliance, Type III EPDs for products required to comply if included in the project, or mix designs showing the cement content, and the Acknowledgement Worksheet signed by the design professional of record shall be provided on the construction documents. Updated EPDs or mix designs for products used in construction shall be provided to the owner at the close of construction and to the City. The City requires inspection and inspection reports in accordance with Sections 702.2 and 703.1 during and at completion of construction to demonstrate substantial conformance. Inspection shall be performed by the design professional of record or third party acceptable to the City
TABLE 5.409.3.5
Concrete GWP and Cement Limits
Note: Acceptable supplementary cementitious materials used to replace cement in concrete mix designs include, but are not limited to:
1. Fly ash conforming to ASTM C618.
2. Slag cement (GGBFS) conforming to ASTM C989.
3. Silica fume conforming to ASTM C1240.
4. Natural pozzolan conforming to ASTM C618.
5. Blended supplementary cementitious materials conforming to ASTM C1697.
6. Ultra-fine fly ash (UFFA) conforming to ASTM C618.
7. Metakaolin conforming to ASTM C618.
8. Ground-glass pozzolan per ASTM C1866/C1866M.
9. Other materials with comparable or superior environmental benefits, as approved by the Engineer of Record and enforcing authority.
Concrete, Ready-Mixed
Cement Limits
Global Warming Potential (GWP) Limits
Minimum specified 28 day compressive strength f'c, psi
Maximum cement content, lbs/yd3
Maximum Global Warming Potential (GWP) kg CO2e/m3
up to 2500
362
260
3000
410
289
4000
456
313
5000
503
338
6000
531
356
7000
594
394
7001 and higher
657
433
up to 2499 light weight
512
500
Up to 3499 light weight
571
546
Up to 4499 light weight
629
594
Notes
(1)
For concrete strengths between the stated values, use linear interpolation to determine cement and/or GWP limits.
(2)
Cement of any type per ASTM C150, ASTM C595.
(3)
Project applicants can choose to comply using the maximum cement limits OR the maximum global warming potential limits.
5.409.3.6 Allowable increases.
1. Cement or GWP limits shown in Table 5.409.3.5 can be increased by 30% for concrete demonstrated in writing to the Building Official or for Public Works Projects, the City Engineer, as requiring high early strength. Such concrete could include precast, prestressed concrete; beams and slabs above grade; shotcrete; and other applications as demonstrated in writing by the professional engineer or other licensed professionals.
2. Approved Cements. The industry-average EPD describing Portland cements produced in the United States by the Portland Cement Association, certified by ASTM, lists a Portland cement global warming potential of 922 kg CO2e/metric ton. If your plant specific EPD for a cement or blended cement, demonstrated to the Building Official by an approved EPD, is lower than 922 kg CO2e/metric ton an increase in cement is allowed (e.g. use of ASTM 595 Type 1L Cement). The maximum cement content may be increased above the compliance level in Table 5.409.3.5 proportionate to the percentage difference in GWP of the plant specific EPD and the industry-average 922 kg CO2e/metric ton.
Formula: 922 - Plant Specific GWP = Difference
Difference/922 = Percent Allowable Increase
For example: A plant specific EPD of 900 kg CO2e/metric ton could allow up to a 2% increase in allowable cement.
922 - 900 = 22
22/922 = 0.02.
5.409.3.7 Exemptions. If an applicant for a project subject to this chapter believes that circumstances exist that make it a hardship or infeasible to meet the requirements of this Section, the applicant may request an exemption in writing to the Building Department or Public Works (for City project or work within the public right-of-way). In applying for an exemption, the burden is on the applicant to show hardship or infeasibility. Circumstances that constitute hardship or infeasibility may include:
1.
There is a lack of commercially available material necessary to comply with this Section. Applicant must provide written notice from at least two local concrete suppliers that there is a lack of commercially available materials necessary to comply.
2.
The cost of the concrete mix that achieves compliance is more than the cost of a 100% Portland cement (ASTM C-150) or a 100% Portland limestone cement (ASTM C-595 Type 1L) mix. Applicant must provide quotes from at least two local concrete suppliers comparing the cost of a 100% PC (ASTM C-150) or 100% PLC (ASTM C-595 Type 1L) mix and equivalent strength low-carbon concrete mix.
3.
Emergency purchases made in conformance with Section 2.24.240.
4.
Building permit applications submitted over the counter are exempt from this Section.
5.
This Section does not apply to pre-packaged proprietary concrete bags used for small quantities (less than three yards) or where there is an immediate need for on-site concrete mixing.
(Added by Ord. No. 2778CCS, 5/14/2024)