When Is Title 24 Not Required in California? | JSC Engineers
When Is Title 24 Not Required in California?
Understanding when Title 24 does not apply can help owners and contractors streamline their design process while still meeting performance goals.
Title 24 is California’s energy code governing lighting, HVAC, insulation, and more. It applies to most new construction and renovations—but not always. At JSC Engineers, we guide clients in San Diego and throughout the state on how to identify exemptions and maintain energy-conscious designs.
1. Exempt Building Types
- Industrial or agricultural buildings used for unconditioned storage or limited occupancy
- Temporary structures such as those used for fairs or festivals
2. Projects Outside California
- Only buildings within California’s jurisdiction must comply with Title 24
- Out-of-state or federally controlled projects may follow ASHRAE or IECC instead
3. Minor Renovations
- Simple upgrades like lighting replacements or small HVAC swaps may not trigger full compliance
- Still must meet prescriptive standards for components like controls or efficiency ratings
4. Low-Rise Residential with Prescriptive Path
- New construction or additions to homes under three stories often qualify for simplified prescriptive compliance
- Most require submission to a CEC-approved registry
5. Historic Landmark Buildings
- May be exempt from certain upgrades that alter character-defining features
- Must still comply where feasible and coordinate with SHPO if designated
6. Buildings With Existing Energy-Efficient Features
- Systems like high-efficiency HVAC or LED lighting may reduce scope of required upgrades
- New or modified systems still need to meet current Title 24 standards
Why Work With JSC Engineers
| Service | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Code Compliance Review | Avoids unnecessary costs and ensures documentation readiness |
| Prescriptive vs Performance Modeling | Tailors strategy to match budget and project goals |
| Historic Preservation Guidance | Balances energy upgrades with architectural conservation |
Let’s Keep Your Project On Track
At JSC Engineers, we bring clarity to California energy code compliance and offer practical engineering solutions for all project types. Whether you’re planning a renovation or a new facility, we’ll help you meet your goals—efficiently and cost-effectively.
👉 Contact JSC Engineers to discuss Title 24 exemptions and energy-efficient strategies for your project.