Title 24, Part 6 is California's energy code — and lighting is where most remodels trip up. Here is the plain-English version our lighting designers use with homeowners.
1. The Core Idea
New and remodeled spaces must use high-efficacy lighting (in practice: JA8-certified LEDs), with dimmers or vacancy controls in key rooms, so homes waste less light and heat.
2. What Triggers Requirements
- Kitchens — strictest rules: JA8 lamps plus vacancy/dimmer controls.
- Bathrooms, garages, laundry, utility rooms — vacancy-sensor or dimmer control typically required.
- Outdoor & landscape — motion/photocell control plus efficacy minimums.
- Like-for-like screw-in bulb swaps — generally not a trigger; new recessed cans usually are.
3. The Cheapest Compliant Path
Canless JA8 LED retrofits with integrated dimming satisfy most rooms in one product — no cans, no attic trips, lower labor. We include a free Title 24 lighting plan with 10+ fixtures — request yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
For permitted remodels, yes — the lighting schedule and controls are a standard inspection item.
Only JA8-listed lamps count toward compliance; most decorative smart bulbs are not. We specify compliant models.
Simple fixture swaps usually do not trigger upgrades — new circuits and cans generally do.
Need this done in your city? Licensed C-10 techs across 32 California cities — 60-90 min emergency response.
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