California Title 24 Update: Lighting Controls Required

California Title 24 Update: Lighting Controls Required

The much-anticipated update to California’s Title 24 Energy Efficiency Standards is finally here! Effective July 1, 2014, all electrical contractors, architects, and project managers must now meet strict new lighting control requirements for both new builds and retrofit projects. For a deeper dive into what’s required, check out our full Title 24 Compliance Guide.

What’s Changing?

The 2014 update to Title 24 mandates that traditional, manually operated lighting is no longer acceptable. Instead, all indoor lighting systems in commercial, industrial, and many residential buildings must include automated lighting controls.

⚠️ Why It Matters: Lighting must now respond to real-time occupancy—turning on when people enter a room and shutting off automatically when the space is vacant.

This ensures better energy conservation, reduced utility bills, and a smaller environmental footprint—core goals of Title 24.

Where Are Lighting Controls Required?

The code applies to any newly installed or retrofitted luminaires in enclosed spaces with defined ceilings. These include both emergency egress paths and general-use areas.

  • Shopping centers
  • Retail and sales floors
  • Convention halls
  • Multi-stall restrooms
💡 Pro Tip: Most of these areas must include occupancy sensors or automatic shut-off devices to comply with Title 24.

What’s Next?

More guidance is on the way! We’ll be sharing updates soon on additional shut-off control methods, product recommendations, and practical installation tips to help you stay compliant.

Need Help with Title 24 Compliant Emergency Lights?

Emergency Lights Co. is here 24/7 to support your compliance needs. Whether you're outfitting a new facility or upgrading to meet current standards, our team can help with:

  • Title 24-compliant product selection
  • Fast quotes and availability checks
  • Technical guidance for retrofits

Browse Emergency Lighting Solutions

💡 Why Combo Units? If you're short on space, exit sign and emergency light combo units offer illumination and exit guidance in one compact fixture—perfect for Title 24 upgrades.