San Francisco 2026 Benchmark Mandate: Avoid Late Fees

Your building could cost you daily.  

If you own or manage a large building in San Francisco 2026 could be an expensive year?  

In 2026, the city will enforce a strict rule: you must submit your energy benchmark report or you’ll get charged $100 every single day that it’s late. 

This guide explains what the new rule means, how to file your report the right way, and how to avoid fines by preparing early. 

Don’t risk late fees, repare your San Francisco report now using this guide..

What Is The San Francisco Energy Benchmark Mandate for 2026?

The city is tracking your energy use.  

San Francisco passed a law that requires building owners to track and report their energy use each year. The city uses the data to measure building performance and help reduce energy waste. 

If you miss the April 1, 2026 deadline, you could face $100 per day in late fees. That’s not a guess, it’s written into the city’s energy rules. 

So…. 

Who Has to File This Report?

Good news. Not every building is affected. But if your property meets the square foot requirements, you’ll need to submit. 

Here’s who must comply: 

• Commercial buildings over 10,000 square feet 
• Multifamily buildings over 50,000 square feet 

If that’s you, you’re required to report energy use for the entire 2025 calendar year. Missing the report or filing with errors can cost you. 

Why You Should File Early 

The smartest move? Get your report done before the last-minute rush. 

Filing early helps you avoid many common problems, including surprise fines or data errors that need fixing. Plus, it gives you peace of mind. 

Here’s why acting early pays off: 

• Save money: Avoid the $100/day late fee 
• Avoid stress: You’ll have time to check for mistakes 
• Skip the rush: Many wait until March and auditors and systems get overwhelmed 

Stay in good standing: Don’t risk city enforcement or bad publicity 

How to File a Benchmark Report in San Francisco

Filing your energy report sounds difficult but it follows a clear process. You just need the right tools and the correct data from your utility providers. 

To complete your 2026 benchmark report: 

• Create an ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager account if you don’t already have one 
• Log in to PG&E’s Benchmarking Portal to add your building 
• Enter your 2025 utility data—include electric, gas, and any other energy types 
• Check everything for mistakes before submitting 
• Submit your report to the City of San Francisco by April 1, 2026 

This is how to file a benchmark report in San Francisco the right way. 

The Most Common Benchmarking Mistakes

Many people who wait until the last minute end up submitting incorrect data. That’s a big problem because reports with errors can still trigger fines. 

Before you submit, double-check for these common issues: 

• Wrong building size or property type 
• Missing utility accounts (like forgetting a second electric meter) 
• Incorrect dates or formatting mistakes 
• Leaving out water or other required utility data 

Even small mistakes can lead to rejections or daily penalties. That’s why early prep matters.

Your SF Building Energy Data Checklist for 2026 

To help you stay on track, use this checklist as a step-by-step guide for submitting your benchmark. 

This simple list can help you avoid late fees under the SF ordinance.

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline? 

Good question. 

The rules are strict and the penalties are automatic. If you don’t submit by April 1, you’ll be charged fines. 

Here’s what to expect if you miss the benchmark deadline: 

• $100/day fines, up to a maximum of $2,500/year 
• Public non-compliance notices (the city may list your building) 
• Added attention from enforcement teams 
• Increased risk of losing future incentives or funding 

Once the clock starts ticking, it’s hard to stop the fines. Filing late is a costly mistake. 

Made a Mistake? Do This To Recover Your Compliance 

Even if you’ve already submitted, mistakes can happen. If you realize something’s wrong, you may still be able to fix it before fines begin. 

Take these steps right away: 

• Log into your benchmark portal to double-check the report 
• Correct any errors in building data, utility entries, or reporting format 
• Resubmit if needed—or get help from a compliance expert 

Correct data errors before they cost you—get help today.

Summary: Don’t Let a Simple Mistake Cost You $100/Day 

Benchmarking may feel like a small task, but ignoring it comes with big penalties. Start early, follow the checklist, and make sure your data is correct. 

Here’s the bottom line: 

• You must file by April 1, 2026 
• You risk $100 per day if you’re late 
• You can prevent mistakes by filing early 

Ensure your ENERGY STAR data is filed on time.
Avoid $100/day fines—get your SF benchmark filed early.