June 21, 2026 – Sacramento, CA – California Tightens Building Energy Standards
The California Energy Commission has adopted updated Title 24 building energy standards that require occupancy sensors in all commercial spaces, effective January 1, 2027.
The updated code mandates occupancy-based lighting control in all commercial spaces, including offices, retail, healthcare, and educational facilities. Previously, these requirements applied primarily to larger spaces and specific occupancy types.
Key requirements include:
- All commercial spaces must have occupancy sensors in every enclosed space
- Open plan areas require sensors every 400 square feet maximum
- Hold time maximum of 15 minutes after last detection
- Must detect seated occupants (not just moving)
“The requirement to detect seated occupants is driving demand for high-sensitivity PIR sensors,” said a Panasonic executive. “Standard motion-only sensors will not meet code requirements for offices and classrooms.”
The California Building Contractors Association estimates the update will affect approximately 50 million square feet of new commercial construction annually, plus significant retrofit demand.