California Clean Construction Program

What is the California Clean Construction Program?

The California Clean Construction Program recognizes construction projects using cleaner construction practices, particularly cleaner off-road equipment. The program is designed to be:

Straightforward – easy to understand and join
Flexible – adaptable to many project types and sizes

Participation is voluntary. The program focuses on recognizing positive action and gives project teams flexibility in how they meet program goals.

Why participate?

Construction activities can have a negative impact on local air quality and public health. This program helps highlight efforts that reduce those impacts.

Participating projects can:

Demonstrate leadership in sustainability and community health
Show alignment with California’s clean air goals
Receive recognition for adopting cleaner construction practices and reducing emissions

The California Clean Construction Program is intended to encourage progress by recognizing projects and companies using zero-emission construction equipment. Additionally, the program may also be considered as a potential mitigation measure to help awarding bodies pursue compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) by encouraging environmentally responsible construction projects that minimize project associated diesel emissions.

For project awarding bodies

If you commission or award construction projects, the program offers a simple, consistent way to support cleaner construction.

It can help you:

Signal sustainability goals clearly and consistently
Encourage cleaner construction practices without adding regulatory complexity
Receive recognition for projects that reduce emissions and support community environmental goals

The California Clean Construction Program can be incorporated as a project goal or recognition standard while preserving flexibility for the awarding body.

For construction companies and contractors

The program recognizes construction companies that use cleaner equipment on participating projects.

Many contractors already meet program expectations through existing practices. The program is designed to recognize that work.

Participation can:

Increase visibility for clean construction leadership
Strengthen competitiveness on projects that value sustainability
Support relationships with project owners focused on community benefits

Contractors can meet program goals in ways that make sense for each project.