Pasadena is in California climate zone 9, and the city requires ADUs, additions and new construction to be submitted online. We prepare the Title 24 report (CF1R) as plan-ready sheets you can upload with the rest of your set.
What climate zone is Pasadena in?
Climate zone 9. On the California Energy Commission's ZIP code list, every main Pasadena ZIP code is zone 9: 91101, 91103, 91104, 91105, 91106, 91107 and 91125.
Some neighboring ZIP codes, like 91001 (Altadena) and 91108 (San Marino), overlap small parts of the city. They are also zone 9 on the CEC list.
Who reviews building plans in Pasadena?
The Building and Safety Division, part of Pasadena's Planning & Community Development Department.
How do I submit plans in Pasadena?
Online. Pasadena's "Apply for a Permit" page says:
Note that all new construction, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), tenant improvements, additions, solar (commercial) and seismic retrofits (commercial) must be submitted online.
The same page says you can "submit plans for new construction, tenant improvements, accessory dwelling units and additions" through the city's online permit center.
For a Title 24 report, that means a clean PDF. Our CF1R sheets match the size of your plan set, so they upload as part of it.
Does Pasadena have pre-approved ADU plans?
Yes. Pasadena's ADU page announces "the launch of the ADU Standard Plans program offering several pre-approved ADU plans for homeowners in Pasadena ranging in size from studios to spacious two-bedroom units."
The same page offers an ADU Virtual Consultation, a meeting with city staff for preliminary feedback on zoning requirements before you submit plans.
What will my Pasadena ADU's report need?
That depends on the type of ADU, under the 2025 Energy Code:
- New detached ADU: treated as a new home. It usually needs new solar PV and must meet battery-ready rules unless its service is 125 amps or less.
- Attached ADU or garage conversion: an addition. No solar required. If it is 700 square feet or less, the prescriptive QII inspection does not apply.
- Conversion of space that is already conditioned: an alteration. The rules apply to what you change.
In climate zone 9:
- Prescriptive ceiling insulation for additions is R-38.
- The maximum window U-factor for additions and alterations is 0.30.
- Cool roof rules for steep-sloped roofs on additions do not apply. They cover zones 10 through 15.
See Title 24 for ADUs.
Will I need an ECC (HERS) rater?
Most new ADUs with a mini-split do. Refrigerant charge verification is required for heat pumps in every climate zone, and in zone 9 for new air conditioners too. See ECC rater testing for ADUs.
Need a report for a Pasadena project? See our flat prices.
Frequently asked questions
What climate zone is Pasadena in?
Climate zone 9. Pasadena's ZIP codes (91101, 91103, 91104, 91105, 91106, 91107 and 91125) are all zone 9 on the California Energy Commission's ZIP code list.
Can I submit ADU plans in person in Pasadena?
No. Pasadena's permit page says all new construction, ADUs, additions and tenant improvements must be submitted online.
Does Pasadena have pre-approved ADU plans?
Yes. Pasadena's ADU page announces an ADU Standard Plans program with pre-approved plans ranging from studios to two-bedroom units.
Who reviews building plans in Pasadena?
The Building and Safety Division of the Planning & Community Development Department.
Related
Sources
- energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/building-energy-efficiency-standards/climate-zone-tool-maps-and
- energy.ca.gov/sites/default/files/2020-04/BuildingClimateZonesByZIPCode_ada.xlsx
- cityofpasadena.net/planning/building-and-safety/
- cityofpasadena.net/planning/permit-center/apply-for-permit/
- cityofpasadena.net/planning/planning-division/community-planning/accessory-dwelling-units/
- energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/building-energy-efficiency-standards/energy-code-support-center-6/2025