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Various LEED initiatives including legislation, executive orders, resolutions, ordinances, policies, and incentives are found in 45 states, including 195 localities (132 cities, 35 counties, and 28 towns), 34 state governments, 13 federal agencies or departments, 17 public school jurisdictions and 39 institutions of higher education across the United States.
Please keep us up to date: publicpolicy@usgbc.org
See www.usgbc.org/GOVERNMENT for the most current list.
Quick jump to: Federal Initiatives - State Initiatives - Municipal/City/County Initiatives - School Initiatives - Higher Education - School Initiatives - K-12
NEW ADDITIONS
State of Illinois:
On August 24, 2009 Illinois Governor Quinn signed SB 1601, enacting Public Act 96-0630.The act, to take effect in January 2010, addresses several components of building design to improve sustainability through renovation projects. LEED and Green Globes certification costs have been added as valid “Redevelopment Project Costs” that can be funded by the Illinois Tax Increment Fund.
On July 24, 2009, Governor Quinn signed into law HB 1013, requiring all new state-funded building construction and major renovation of existing state-owned facilities to seek LEED or equivalent certification. New buildings and major renovations of 10,000 sq ft or more must achieve at minimum LEED Silver or equivalent certification. New buildings and major renovations under 10,000 sq ft must strive to meet the highest standard of the LEED rating system or equivalent but are not required to achieve certification.
Contact:
For more on Illinois, see State Initiatives below.
State of New York:
On September 1, 2009 Governor Paterson signed the State Green Building Construction Act into law. The act stipulates that new state buildings and major renovations of existing buildings comply with green building guidelines established by the Office of General Service. The OGS has recognized LEED, Green Globes, and the American National Standards Institute as model green building programs.
Contact:
For more on New York, see State Initiatives below.
State of Tennessee
On June 23, 2009, Governor Bredesen signed into law SB 1919, revising statutes governing housing authorities to expand opportunities for redevelopment. The revised statute permits housing authorities to finance additional investments in green building and energy efficiency, and specifically any costs related to modeling, documentation and certification fees for LEED, Green Globes or other related expenses.
Contact:
Bothell, WA:
On July 21, 2009, the Bothell City Council adopted an ordinance to provide incentives to commercial projects who seek LEED certification or certification from another third-party rating system. The ordinance allows qualifying projects to reduce the number of on-site parking stalls as required in code, authorizes building officials to approve alternative materials, design and methods of construction to account for new green building techniques, and provides rebates to the permitting fees: 10% for LEED Certified or equivalent and 50% for LEED Platinum or equivalent. In addition, the Council approved expedited permit review and a green building awards program for qualifying projects.
http://www.ci.bothell.wa.us/Site/Content/City%20Council/CouncilAgendaPackets/agnpkt072109/ab09-166.pdf (scroll down to page 7 for ordinance)
Contact:
Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA:
On August 4, 2009, the Carmel-by-the-Sea City Council adopted an ordinance and resolution requiring new commercial projects to follow the LEED checklist and achieve 26 of the possible points.
http://ci.carmel.ca.us/carmel/index.cfm?LinkServID=D1B63E67-3048-7B3D-C5422F0CA2D550A9&showMeta=0 (scroll down to page 86 for ordinance, page 92 for resolution)
Contact:
Pittsburgh, PA
On July 21, 2009, the Pittsburgh City Council adopted Ordinance 2008-0027, requiring all projects receiving Tax Increment Financing and all new construction on municipal owned property of 10,000 gross sq ft or greater or if the total project costs exceeds two million dollars, and renovations of municipal owned property where the total project costs exceeds two million dollars to achieve LEED Silver certification.
Contact:
For more on Pittsburgh, PA, see Municipal/City/County Initiatives below.
San Jose, CA
On June 23, 2009, the San Jose City Council adopted a Green Building Ordinance establishing requirements for new, private sector construction. New commercial or industrial buildings 25,000 sq ft or greater must achieve LEED Silver certification. New residential construction with 10 or more units must achieve be LEED Certified or be GreenPoint Rated. New residential construction over 75 feet must be LEED Certified. New commercial and industrial buildings under 25,000 sq ft and new residential buildings with less than 10 units must complete the LEED checklist. Projects requiring LEED certification must pay the Green Building Refundable Deposit fees prior to a building permit being issued to ensure that the building will achieve the green building requirements.
Contact:
Mary Tucker, City of San Jose; (408) 975-2581; mary.tucker@sanjoseca.gov
For more on San Jose, CA, see Municipal/City/County Initiatives below.
Wilmington, OH:
On July 16, 2009, the Wilmington City Council adopted an ordinance establishing a Green Enterprise Zone comprising all the land within the municipal boundaries of the City of Wilmington. Residential and commercial projects within in the Zone seeking LEED Certification are eligible for a 75% reduction in building and permitting fees and existing residential and commercial properties undertaking other green retrofits may be eligible for a 50% reduction in building and permitting fees. The ordinance also requires the City to perform a cost-benefit analysis of seeking LEED Certification for all new municipal buildings.
Contact:
FEDERAL INITIATIVES [top]
Department of Agriculture:
On June 19, 2006, the Department of Agriculture issued an agency-wide building policy that requires new or major renovation construction of covered facilities to achieve LEED Silver certification.
http://www.ocio.usda.gov/directives/doc/DR5500-001.pdf
Department of Agriculture- Forest Service:
U.S. Forest Service requires LEED registration and certification at the Silver level for all new construction of office buildings, visitor centers, research facilities, and climate controlled warehouses 2,500 GSF or greater in size.
Contact:
Bill Hamele, PE, Forest Service Engineering; (703) 605-4522; whamele@fs.fed.us
Department of Energy:
On February 29, 2008, Secretary of Energy Samuel Bodman issued a memorandum to DOE leadership directing heads of departments to adhere to Executive Order 13423, “Strengthening Federal Environmental, Energy and Transportation Management (72 FR 3919; Jan. 24, 2007)” by building all new Department buildings of $5M or greater to earn LEED Gold certification. The memorandum also gives preference to LEED Gold when selecting new leased space.
The Department of Energy also provided necessary support for the original development of the LEED Rating System, training workshops, and reference materials.
DOE High Performance Buildings: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/commercial_initiative/
Federal Energy Management Program’s Sustainable Design & Operations: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/femp/sustainable/
Contact:
Tom Robinson; Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy; (202) 586-0139
Matt Gray; Federal Energy Management Program; (202) 586-0067
Department of Health and Human Services:
The Department of Health and Human Services requires that all construction projects build with Federal funds over $3 million will achieve LEED certification or Green Globes certification.
Department of Interior:
On June 20, 2008, the Department of the Interior adopted its Sustainable Buildings Implementation Plan, which requires that all new construction and major renovation building projects with gross construction costs greater than $2,000,000 achieve LEED Certified or one Green Globe.
The Department of the Interior signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the USGBC supporting the use of LEED for Existing Buildings by its facilities. The DOI also signed a memorandum with the GSA and the USGBC supporting LEED for all partnered projects.
Contact:
Heather S. Davies; heather_davies@ios.doi.gov
Department of State:
The Department of State has committed to using LEED on the construction of new embassies worldwide over the next 10 years and has worked with the USGBC to coordinate a green charrette for the project teams in early 2001. The Department has several project registered for LEED certification.
Contact:
Donna McIntire; (703) 875-5336
Environmental Protection Agency:
As of FY 2006, the Environmental Protection Agency requires all its new facility construction and new building acquisition projects 20,000 square feet or larger achieve LEED Gold certification. The Agency currently has multiple projects registered for LEED for New Construction certification and supported the development of LEED for Existing Buildings. The Agency requires GSA to provide new major office leases that meet the Energy Star requirements. For updates from EPA on greening its buildings, visit: EPA Green Buildings.
EPA's Chelmsford, MA lab is the first Gold-rated federal building: http://www.epa.gov/greeningepa/
EPA's Green Buildings Vision and Policy Statement: http://www.epa.gov/oaintrnt/projects/policy.htm
Contact:
Cathy Berlow, (202) 564-3739; berlow.cathy@epa.gov
General Services Administration:
In order to objectively measure its sustainable design achievements, GSA decided in 2000 that beginning in 2003 all capital building projects must earn LEED Certified, with a target of LEED Silver. In 2008, in response to the changing market, GSA began requiring all lease construction to earn LEED Silver certification.
The General Services Administration is the nation's largest civilian landlord, managing space in over 8,600 owned and leased buildings for over one million federal employees. GSA was U.S. Green Building Council's first federal member and supported the development of LEED for Commercial Interiors. As of January 2008, GSA has 24 certified projects including courthouses, laboratories, office buildings, a border station, and a childcare facility.
http://www.gsa.gov/Portal/gsa/ep/contentView.do?contentType=GSA_BASIC&contentId=14167&noc=T
http://www.gsa.gov/sustainabledesign/
Contact:
Don Horn; donald.horn@gsa.gov;
National Aeronautics and Space Administration:
New construction and major renovations of NASA facilities projects planned for FY2006 and beyond are required to meet LEED Silver certification, and strive for LEED Gold. FY2004 and FY2005 projects will strive to meet LEED Silver certification. All other building projects will strive to follow the LEED rating system as much as possible. The LEED goal for NASA facilities projects will be reviewed, renewed, or changed every three years.
NASA Policy Directive
Contact:
Calvin Williams, Facilities Engineering and Real Property Division; (202) 358-2322; calvin.williams@nasa.gov
Smithsonian Institution:
On November 13, 2006, the Smithsonian Institution issued “Smithsonian Directive 422” in response to Executive Order 13123: Greening the Government through Efficient Energy Management. The directive articulates the Smithsonian’s goal to design, build, and maintain facilities that are eligible for, and that obtain, LEED certification. Initially, the Smithsonian requires all new buildings and renovation work to aim for a minimum of LEED certification. In addition, the Smithsonian will integrate the LEED checklist and guidelines into the planning, engineering, design, construction, deconstruction and maintenance of Smithsonian facilities.
Contact:
http://www.ofeo.si.edu/;
kelsonm@si.edu
U. S. Air Force:
The Air Force has developed a LEED Application Guide for Lodging projects and has conducted LEED training seminars for its design and construction personnel. The Air Force encourages the use of LEED for new or major renovations for MILCON projects and has created an online design guide for sustainable development structured after LEED. An online Sustainable Training course is also being developed.
Contact:
Boyce Bourland; (210) 536-5483
The Sustainable Development Guide:
http://www.afcee.af.mil/resources/installationplanning/sustainableplanning/index.asp
The LEED Application Guide for Lodging: http://www.afcee.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-070919-065.pdf
The Air Force Policy Letter for Sustainable Development: http://www.afcee.af.mil/shared/media/document/AFD-080609-022.pdf
U. S. Army:
The Army adopted LEED into its Sustainable Project Rating Tool (SPiRiT), but does not require certification of its projects. In January, 2006, the Army issued a memorandum stating that it will transition from SPiRiT to LEED beginning in FY2008. All new vertical construction projects will achieve LEED Silver certification. Additionally, the Army has committed to adopting LEED for Homes now that the program has launched.
U.S. Army Sustainability: http://www.sustainability.army.mil/
Contact:
Richard Schneider, U. S. Army Engineering Research & Development Center; 217-373-6752 r-schneider@cecer.army.mil
Construction Engineering Research Laboratory:
http://www.cecer.army.mil/SustDesign
U.S. Navy:
The Navy was the first federal agency to certify a LEED project. The Bachelor Enlisted Quarters at the Great Lakes Naval Training Center achieved LEED-NC v1.0 Bronze in 2000. This facility was awarded the White House Closing the Circle Award, Category/title: Model Demonstration Facility in 2000 for its LEED certification. The Navy continues to aggressively pursue sustainable development in its facilities requiring all applicable projects to be registered with USGBC for LEED certification AND achieve a minimum LEED Silver-level rating. The Navy currently has nine LEED certified buildings including the first Child Development Center (LEED-NC v2.1 Silver) in the Department of Defense, approximately 162 projects registered for LEED certification and over 115 LEED Accredited Professionals including active duty Military and civilians.
Contact:
Dennis Talton, R.A.; (757) 322-4211; dennis.talton@navy.mil
State of Arizona:
On Friday, Feb 11, 2005, Governor Janet Napolitano signed Executive Order #2005-05 requiring all state-funded buildings to achieve LEED Silver certification. The Executive Order also requires newly constructed state-funded buildings to incorporate renewable energy. This makes the state the first governmental entity in Arizona to adopt a mandatory green building standard.
Executive Order: http://www.governor.state.az.us/eo/2005_05.pdf
Contact:
Mick Dalrymple, Desert Moon Productions, Inc. (602) 321-7265; md@desertmooninc.com.
State of Arkansas:
On February 25, 2005 Governor Huckabee signed HB 2445 encouraging all state agencies to use green design strategies, including LEED. The bill also creates the Office of Sustainability with the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality and the Legislative Task Force on Sustainable Building Design and Practices which is to meet and continue to review, discuss and advise on issues related to sustainable building design.
Contact:
Mark Robertson, MESA Landscape Architects, Inc., (501) 372-6092; marobertson@mesainc.net
Martha Jane Murray, The Wilcox Group, (501) 666-4546; mmurray@thewilcoxgroup.com
State of California:
On September 23, 2008, Governor Schwarzenegger signed AB 1389, which requires the Department of Housing and Urban Community Development to review relevant green building guidelines when preparing proposed building standards for submittal to the California Building Standards Commission. Additionally, the Department should consider proposing as mandatory building standards those green building features determined by the Department to be cost effective and feasible to promote greener construction.
On July 17, 2008, the California Building Standards Commission passed the California Green Building Standards Code, which aims to reduce water and energy use in buildings through landscaping, appliance efficiency, building design, and the use of recycled materials. The code is voluntary through 2009 at which time it becomes mandatory. The Code is written so as to not preempt more stringent local policies.
Governor Schwarzenegger signed Executive Order #S-20-04 on December 14, 2004, requiring the design, construction, and operation of all new and renovated state-owned facilities to be LEED Silver. The state is pursuing LEED for New Construction for its projects and the Silver certification level, and LEED for Existing Buildings certification for existing facilities.
Green California: http://www.green.ca.gov/default.htm
Contact:
Dan Burgoyne, State of California, Department of General Services; (916) 376-5010; daniel.burgoyne@dgs.ca.gov
State of Colorado:
On April 16, 2007, Governor Bill Ritter signed Senate Bill 51 into law requiring any new or renovated building whose total project cost includes 25 percent or more in state funds to be designed and built to a high performance green building standard. The new law requires the State Architect to select an independent third-party certification program, such as LEED. The project must achieve the highest level performance certification possible, which is determined by calculating whether the increased initial costs can be recouped from decreased operational costs within 15 years.
Contact:
Rod Vanderwall, Office of the State Architect; (303) 866-6110; Rod.Vanderwall@state.co.us
On July 15, 2005, Governor Owens signed Executive Order # D005 05 adopting LEED for Existing Buildings and incorporating LEED for New Construction practices for all state buildings. The order also creates a Colorado Greening Government Coordinating Council to develop and implement conservation policies.
Contact:
Angie Fyfe, Governor’s Energy Office 303-866-2059; angie.fyfe@state.co.us
State of Connecticut:
On June 4, 2007, Governor Rell signed House Bill 7432, stating that not later than January 1, 2008, the Secretary of the Office of Policy and Management, after consulting with the State’s commissioners of public works, environmental protection and public safety, shall adopt, in accordance with the provisions of chapter 54 of the general statutes, regulations for buildings consistent with or exceeding LEED Silver for new commercial construction and major renovation projects, or an equivalent standard, and thereafter update such regulations as the secretary deems necessary.
Once enacted, these regulations will apply to the following types of projects, provided that they receive $2 million or more in state funding: a) new state facility construction of $5 million or more approved and funded on or after January 1, 2008; b) state facility renovations of $2 million or more approved and funded on or after January 1, 2008; c) new public school construction of $5 million or more authorized on or after January 1, 2009; and d) public school renovations of $2 million or more authorized on or after January 1, 2009.
The law also requires the State Building Inspector and the Codes and Standards Committee to revise the State Building Code to meet or exceed LEED Silver for all private buildings constructed after January 1, 2009 of $5 million or more and for all renovations beginning after January 1, 2010 of $2 million or more. Exempt from these code requirements are residential buildings of four units or less and certain buildings, as determined by the Institute for Sustainable Energy, where costs may outweigh benefits.
HB 7432 further authorizes $30 million in state bonds, the sale proceeds of which are to be allocated to fund on-site renewable energy projects in state buildings pursuing LEED certification.
Contact:
Bob Maddox; (203) 266-7973; bmaddox@sterlingplanet.com
State of Florida:
On June 25, 2008, Governor Crist signed into law HB 7135, requiring all new construction and renovation of state buildings to follow the guidelines of LEED or other green building rating systems, including Green Globes and the Florida Green Building Coalition standards. The bill requires the same of the following public entities in the State of Florida entering design after July 1, 2008: counties, municipalities, school districts, water management districts, state universities, community colleges, and Florida state courts. The bill further requires that all new leases of state-occupied office space must meet Energy Star.
On July 13, 2007, Governor Crist issued Executive Order #07-126 adopting LEED-NC for any new building constructed for or by the State. New construction projects must strive for Platinum certification, the highest level possible. The Executive Order also required the Department of Management Services to implement LEED-EB across all buildings currently owned and operated by the department on behalf of client agencies. In addition, agencies and departments were instructed to only enter into new leasing agreements for office space that meets Energy Star building standards, unless no other viable alternative exists.
The Department of Environmental Protection has committed to administratively working with other state agencies to improve energy diversity, sustainability, efficiency and conservation statewide as part of Florida’s Energy Plan, released in January 2006. The commitment includes requiring that all new state government buildings meet the LEED standard.
Contact:
State of Hawaii:
On June 26, 2006, Governor Lingle signed HB #2175, thus requiring each state agency to design and construct buildings to meet the LEED Silver certified level, or a comparable standard. The law applies to all new state-owned construction of 5,000 square feet or greater, including K-12 public schools.
The Hawaii state legislature amended its provisions to Hawaiian counties with HRS 46 19.6, requiring priority processing for all construction or development permits for projects that achieve LEED Silver or equivalent.
Contact:
State of Illinois:
On August 24, 2007, the Illinois State Senate amended the School Construction Law (Public Act #95-0416 ) with the governor’s approval, directing the Capital Development Board to only issue grants to school projects with LEED for Schools or comparable rating system certification, or to projects that meet the standards set forth by the Capital Development Board’s Green Building Advisory Committee.
On August 21, 2007, Governor Blagojevich signed the “The Green Neighborhood Grant Act,” becoming the first state to create incentives for LEED for Neighborhood Development. This Act directs the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity the to fund up to 1.5% of total development costs for up to three (3) applicable neighborhoods per year, funds permitting. Applicable neighborhood developments will have achieved LEED-ND certification.
Contact:
Lisa Mattingly, P.E., State of Illinois Capital Development Board; (217) 524-6408; lisa.mattingly@illinois.gov
State of Indiana:
On June 28, 2008, Governor Daniels signed Executive Order 08-14, requiring all new state buildings earn LEED Silver certification, the EPA’s Energy Star rating, two Globes under the Green Globes rating system, or the equivalent under an ANSI accredited rating system. The EO also requires that all renovations of existing state buildings must follow LEED, Green Globes, or other guidelines.
Contact:
Commonwealth of Kentucky:
On April 24, 2009, Governor Beshear signed HB 2, requiring all new public facilities and renovations using 50% or more of state funding achieves LEED certification. Projects of $25 million or more must achieve LEED Silver certification or higher. Projects between $5 and $25 million must achieve LEED Certified and earn a minimum of seven points under the Energy and Atmosphere Credit 1, Optimize Energy Performance standards. All projects between $600,000 and $5 million shall use the LEED rating system as a guide.
Contact:
On August 30, 2007, Governor Fletcher signed HB1 into law, a bill that included an addition to KRS 56.776 that would instruct the Finance and Administration Cabinet to use LEED or other rating systems to develop green building incentives for private development in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
Contact:
State of Louisiana:
On February 12, 2008, the Louisiana Recovery Authority approved a resolution founding the State and Local Facilities Construction Authority to support public schools in their pursuit of LEED for schools certification or energy efficiency measures. The LRA has allocated $2.5 million for the creation of this Authority, likely to be operational by January 2009.
Contact:
State of Maine:
Governor John Baldacci issued an Executive Order in November 2003 directing all new or expanding state buildings to incorporate LEED guidelines provided that standards can be met on a cost-effective basis.
Contact:
Wendy Porter; (207) 876-3331
State of Maryland:
On April 24, 2008, Governor O’Malley signed the High Performance Building Act into law, requiring all new public construction and major renovation projects of 7,500 sq ft or greater, and intended for occupation, to earn LEED Silver certification or two Green Globes. The High Performance Building Act further requires that MD public schools using state funds earn LEED Silver certification or two Green Globes.The High Performance Building Act further adds that “ the State will pay half of any extra costs” incurred in building green public schools.
Maryland’s governor issued an Executive Order in October 2001 calling for all capital projects greater than 5,000 square feet to earn LEED certification. The House and Senate passed legislation in April 2005 requiring a green building standard, such as LEED (Silver), be used for state capital projects.
MD Green Building Council contacts:
Sean McGuire, Environmental Design; (410) 260-8727; www.dnr.state.md.us/ed
Steve Gilliss, MD Dept. of General Services; (410) 767-4675; sgilliss@dgs.state.md.us
The state has also approved a green building tax credit for commercial developers: http://business.marylandtaxes.com/taxinfo/taxcredit/greenbldg/default.asp
Contact:
Mike Li, Maryland Energy Administration; (410) 260-7183; mli@energy.state.md.us
Commonwealth of Massachusetts:
On April 18, 2007, Governor Deval Patrick signed Executive Order 484, “Leading by Example - Clean Energy and Efficient Buildings.” The order instructed all agencies involved in the construction and major renovation projects of over 20,000 square feet to meet LEED certification, incorporating energy performance 20% better than the Massachusetts Energy Code and outdoor water reduction requirements verified by an independent 3rd party commissioning authority.
Contact:
Jenna L. Ide; Energy Efficiency & Sustainable Buildings Group; Division of Capital Asset Management; (617) 727-4030; jenna.ide@state.ma.us
Barbra Batshalom, The Green Roundtable; (617) 374-3740; bb@greenroundtable.org
State of Michigan:
On April 22, 2005, Governor Granholm signed Executive Order #2005-4 requiring that all state-funded new construction and major renovation projects over $1,000,000 be built in accordance with LEED guidelines.
Contact:
State of Minnesota:
On May 25, 2007, Governor Pawlenty signed into law the Next Generation Energy Act of 2007 setting a roadmap towards a smarter energy future and requiring utilities provide technical assistance for commercial or residential projects that incorporate green building principles in their construction. Among other provisions, the Act established a goal of 100 commercial buildings achieving LEED or Green Globes certification by December 31, 2010.
Contact:
State of Nevada:
On June 8, 2009, Governor Gibbons signed into law SB 395, containing a provision that requires the State Public Works Board to adopt standards and performance guidelines concerning the efficient use of water and energy for state-owned and operated buildings. Effective July 1, 2009, this provision amends Chapter 341 of NRS. The State Public Works Board may consider standards as set forth in LEED, Green Globes, Energy Star, ASHRAE, FEMP, and IECC.
On June 15, 2007 Governor Gibbons approved AB621, amending previous green building tax abatement legislation passed in August, 2006 and June of 2005, making various changes in the provision of tax abatements and exemptions based upon the use of energy and repealing certain prospective energy requirements for public buildings. Companies that had planned construction projects by December of 2005 and received State approval by February 2007 will not be affected by the change. AB621 creates a three tiered property tax exemption plan, with a maximum of 35% for any private building achieving LEED Silver certification or higher, excluding single-family homes and residential structures three stories or fewer. AB621 also removes sales tax exemptions for products or materials used in the construction of eligible buildings.
On August 16, 2006, the Nevada Commission on Economic Development adopted the process and resolution to allow property tax abatement to any private building achieving LEED Silver certification or higher, excluding single-family homes and residential structures three stories or fewer.
On June 17, 2005 Governor Guinn signed AB3 requiring all state funded buildings be LEED Certified or higher in accordance with LEED or an equivalent standard. During each biennium, at least two occupied public buildings whose construction will be sponsored or financed by the State of Nevada must be designated as a demonstration project and be equivalent to a LEED Silver or higher certification, or an equivalent standard. The bill also provides tax abatements for property which has an eligible LEED Silver building and tax exemptions for products or materials used in the construction of a LEED Silver building.
Contact:
Lance Kirk, Lucchesi Galati Architects; (702) 263-7111; ljkirk@lgainc.com
State of New Jersey:
On January 13, 2008, Governor Corzine signed Senate Bill 843 into law, requiring all new state-owned buildings of 15,000 square feet or greater to earn LEED Silver certification or equivalent as determined by state authorities.
In July 2002, Governor James E. McGreevey signed into law Executive Order #24, requiring all new school designs to incorporate LEED guidelines. The New Jersey Economic Schools Construction Corporation is encouraging the use of LEED but not requiring certification of new projects built under its $12 billion public school construction program.
Contact:
Andrew Topinka; andrewtopinka@mac.com
State of New Mexico:
On April 1, 2009, Governor Richardson signed SB 291, the Sustainable Building Tax Credit. This legislation provides tax credits based on the square footage of the building. For commercial buildings, the tax credits range from $3.50 per square foot for buildings that achieve LEED for New Construction Silver certification to $6.25 for buildings that achieve LEED for New Construction Platinum certification. For residential buildings, the tax credits range from $5.00 per square foot for buildings that achieve LEED for Homes Silver certification to $9.00 per square foot for buildings that achieve LEED for Homes Platinum certification.
Contact:
In April 2007, Gov. Bill Richardson signed SB543 into law. The omnibus bill included a sustainable building tax credit to promote the construction of high performance, green design and construction. The credit applies to LEED for New Construction, Silver and higher; LEED for Existing Buildings, Silver or higher; LEED for Core and Shell, Silver and higher; LEED for Commercial Interiors, Silver or higher; and LEED for Homes, Silver or higher. The credit increases commensurate with the level of LEED certification achieved. The total amount of tax credits shall not exceed an aggregate amount of $5 million with respect to commercial buildings and an aggregate amount of $5 million with respect to residential buildings.
On January 16, 2006, Governor Bill Richardson signed Executive Order #06-001 requiring all public buildings over 15,000 ft2 to be LEED Silver certified.
Contact:
Karen Leigh Cook, President, EECOM, Inc.; (505) 842-9596; karen@eecominc.com
State of New York:
On September 29, 2008, Governor Patterson signed A10684 (search A10684 for the year 2008), authorizing the New York Star Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) to create and administer a green residential building grant program to encourage the construction of new homes and the renovation of existing homes that follow green building standards and criteria based on LEED for Homes. NYSERDA is authorized to provide incentives to qualified owners. For residential buildings with two or fewer dwelling units, incentives cannot exceed an amount equal to the product of the amount of qualified occupied square footage, not to exceed two thousand square feet, and three dollars and seventy-five cents. For residential buildings with greater than two dwelling units but fewer than six units, incentives cannot exceed an amount equal to the product of the amount of qualified occupied square footage, not to exceed three thousand square feet, and three dollars and seventy-five cents. For residential buildings with at least six dwelling units, incentives cannot exceed an amount equal to the product of the amount of qualified occupied square footage, not to exceed four thousand square feet, and three dollars and seventy-five cents.
On August 28, 2007, the Dormitory Authority, New York State’s building and construction agency, announced its commitment to register all new construction and major renovations projects with USGBC beginning in 2008, striving for LEED Silver. View the press release.
Governor Pataki issued Executive Order #111 in June 2001 encouraging but not requiring state projects to incorporate LEED Criteria and seek LEED Certification where possible. New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) awards incentives and technical assistance to help state agencies achieve the Executive Order objective. NYSERDA also offers incentives for owners and design teams of any privately owned and operated buildings in the state for energy efficiency measures and whole buildings that achieve a LEED rating with at least two points in Energy and Atmosphere Credit 1, Optimizing Energy Performance. NYSERDA's New Construction and Green Buildings Program offers a 10% increase on incentives for energy efficiency measures that reduce the use of electricity if the building achieves LEED plus 2 points in Energy and Atmosphere Credit 1 and a 25% increase in incentives if the building achieves 4 points in Energy and Atmosphere Credit 1. NYSERDA program funds up to $800,000 per building in Upstate New York and up to $1.5 million per project in New York City. NYSERDA will also buy down the interest rate on loans (4% below market rate) for energy efficiency measures and measures that assist in attaining a LEED credit. A low-interest loan may cover up to $1.5 million in energy and green measures.
The New York State Green Building Tax Credit Program provides an income tax incentive to commercial developments incorporating specific green strategies informed by LEED. New York Green Building Tax Incentive Program:
The New York Executive Order, Green and Clean State Buildings and Vehicles.
Contacts:
Craig Kneeland, NYSERDA; (518) 862-1090 ext. 3311; cek@nyserda.org
Charle-Pan Dawson, NYSERDA; 518-862-1090, x.3244 cad@nyserda.org
State of North Carolina:
On August 2, 2007, the State of North Carolina enacted Senate Bill 581, formally granting permission to cities and counties to encourage green building practices in their jurisdictions through the use of reduced permitting fees or partial rebates for construction projects that achieve LEED certification or certification from other rating systems.
Contact:
State of Ohio:
On September 27, 2007, the Ohio School Facilities Commission (OSFC) passed Resolution #07-124, approving the incorporation of energy efficiency and sustainable design features into all future and some previously approved school projects. All K-12 public school projects approved by the OSFC are required to meet a minimum of LEED for Schools Silver certification, with strong encouragement to achieve the Gold level. There is additional emphasis on maximizing Energy & Atmosphere credits. The resolution directs OSFC to cover all LEED registration and certification fees and to provide a supplemental allowance to project budgets for the incorporation of sustainable, green strategies.
Contact:
Franklin Brown, Ohio School Facilities Commission; (614) 580-4855; Franklin.Brown@osfc.state.oh.us
State of Oklahoma:
On June 3, 2008, Governor Henry signed HB 3394 into law, requiring all state buildings over 10,000 sq ft to follow LEED guidelines or those of Green Globes. Compliance will be measured by the Department of Central Services. This legislation applies to buildings entering the design phase after July 1, 2008.
Contact:
State of Oregon:
A LEED Business Energy Tax Credit (BETC) is being administered by the state Office of Energy. LEED for New Construction, Core and Shell, or Commercial Interiors projects achieving a minimum Silver certification will be eligible. Projects must also meet certain technical requirements.
Contact:
Ann Grim, Oregon Office of Energy; (503) 378-4912
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania:
In July 2005, the Pennsylvania legislature passed Act 46 of 2005 (House Bill 628, amending school construction reimbursement rates for Pennsylvania Public Schools, specifically providing hundreds of dollars of funding per pupil for public schools within the Commonwealth with proof of LEED Silver certification or higher, or two Green Globes or higher.
Four state funds including the $20 million Sustainable Energy Fund provide grants, loans and "near-equity" investments in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects in Pennsylvania.
Contact:
Maureen Guttman, Governor’s Green Government Council; mguttman@state.pa.us
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico:
On October 24, 2007, Governor Acevedo Vilá signed Executive Order OE-2007-41 , requiring that all new construction or major renovations of government-owned or substantially-funded buildings earn LEED certification, including buildings built for the use of the Commonwealth, including schools. Applicable buildings of 10,000 sq ft or greater are required to earn LEED Certified, and 30,000 sq ft or greater to earn LEED Silver certification. The EO further requires all such buildings to certify at least every 5 years through LEED for Existing Buildings, or the most appropriate USGBC-sponsored rating system. The certification thresholds for existing buildings are also LEED Certified for 10,000 sq ft or greater, and LEED Silver for 30,000 sq ft or greater.
Contact:
State of Rhode Island:
On August 22, 2005, Governor Donald Carcieri signed Executive Order # 05-14 requiring all new construction and renovations of public buildings to meet LEED Silver certification or higher.
Contact:
State of South Carolina:
On June 20, 2007, the South Carolina legislature passed H3034 requiring that all state-owned and state-funded construction greater than 10,000 ft2 and any major renovation projects of greater than fifty percent of total building space or value achieve LEED-NC Silver certification or comparable standard. With a focus on energy efficiency, the legislation specifically requires a minimum of four credits earned in Energy & Atmosphere Credit 1, “Optimize Energy Performance.”
Contact:
State of South Dakota:
On March 17, 2008 Governor Rounds signed into law SB 188, establishing leadership in public buildings by requiring all new construction and major renovations of state-owned buildings costing at least $500K or greater than 5,000 square feet to earn LEED Silver, two Green Globes or a comparable standard.
Contact:
State of Utah:
On May 21, 2009, the Utah State Building Board raised the High Performance Building Rating Systemstandards to require all new state buildings to achieve LEED Silver certification. Specifically, new building projects must achieve the following credits: WE Credit 1.1, EA Credit 3, EQ Credit 3.1, EQ Credit 4.1, EQ Credit 4.2.
Contact: David Hart, Executive Director and Architect of the Capitol, Utah State Capitol Complex; mailto:dhart@utah.gov
Commonwealth of Virginia:
On June 10, 2009, Governor Kaine signed Executive Order 82, which requires all new executive branch buildings greater than 5,000 gross sq ft in size or renovations to existing executive branch buildings where costs exceeds 50% of the value of the building to conform to LEED Silver or two Green Globes. The bill also puts forth guidelines and requirements for smarter building location, procurement and other measures for environmental management, and encourages the private sector to adopt similar practices.
On March 04, 2008 Governor Kaine signed into law HB 239, amending and reenacting Section 58.1-3221.2 of the Code of Virginia thus declaring energy efficient buildings to be a separate class of taxation from other real property. The amended code provides for localities in the Commonwealth to levy equal or lesser taxes on energy efficient buildings, as defined in the code as meeting the performance standards of LEED, Energy Star, Green Globes or EarthCraft.
On April 5, 2007 Gov. Tim Kaine signed Executive Order 48, “Energy Efficiency in State Government,” which set out to reduce non-renewable energy purchases and increase overall energy savings.
As part of instituting the energy saving goals, the order instructs all state agencies and institutions constructing state-owned facilities over 5,000 gross square feet in size, and renovations of such buildings valued at 50% of the assessed building value, shall be designed and constructed consistent with the energy performance standards at least as stringent as LEED or EPA’s Energy Star rating.
In addition, the order instructs the Commonwealth to encourage the private sector to adopt energy-efficient building standards by giving preference when leasing facilities for state use to facilities meeting LEED or Energy Star.
Contact:
State of Washington:
On April 8, 2005, Governor Gregoire approved Chapter 39.35D of the Revised Code of Washington, “High-Performance Public Buildings,” requiring all projects over 5,000 square feet receiving capital funds after July 1, 2006 to be certified to the LEED Silver standard. The code also requires that all K-12 schools be certified to the LEED Silver standard or built to comply with the Washington Sustainable Schools Protocol as of July 1, 2007.
In addition, the code required all affordable homes receiving money from the state's Housing Trust Fund after July 1, 2008, to be built in compliance with the Evergreen Standard for Affordable Housing. By 2009, all new construction projects and major renovations receiving Washington State funds will be built to a green standard.
The Dept. of Corrections has made LEED Silver a requirement and certification is also required for buildings larger than 5,000 sq ft.
Community Colleges, Dept. of General Administration, The Evergreen State College, and several other smaller agencies have made LEED Silver the standard for design and construction, however certification is not required.
New Energy Life Cycle Cost Analysis Guidelines (ELCCA) went into effect January 2005 requiring that all new and remodeled public projects over 25,000 square feet in Washington State to submit a completed scorecard reflecting an attempt at LEED Silver. Project teams are permitted to submit an alternative means for scoring their efforts in sustainable building as approved by WA State Dept. of General Administration.
Department of General Administration green building webpage: www.ga.wa.gov/eas/green
Contact:
Stuart Simpson, Green Building Advisor, Dept. of General Administration; (360) 902-7199 Ssimpso@GA.WA.GOV
Contact:
Patricia Jatzcek, Office of the Superintendent for Public Instruction (OSPI); (360) 725-4973; patricia.jatczak@k12.wa.us
State of Wisconsin:
On April 11, 2006, Governor Jim Doyle signed Executive Order 145 Relating to Conserve Wisconsin and the Creation of High Performance Green Building Standards and Energy Conservation for State Facilities and Operations. The Executive Order directs the Department of Administration to establish and adopt guidelines based on LEED for New Construction and LEED for Existing Buildings within 6 months. Any project that requests LEED certification as part of the initial project request will be supported by Department of Administration.
Contact:
Sherrie Gruder, University of Wisconsin-Extension, Solid & Hazardous Waste Education Center; (608) 262-0398; gruder@engr.wisc.edu
MUNICIPAL/CITY/COUNTY INITIATIVES [top]
Acton, MA:
On April 5, 2004, the Town of Acton adopted a zoning by-law (section 5.5B.2.2.d) allowing for a density bonus for buildings achieving LEED certification in the East Acton Village District.
Contact:
Roland Bartl, Town Planner; (978) 264-9636; planning@acton-ma.gov
Alameda, CA:
On May 6, 2008, the Alameda City Council adopted the Civic Green Building Ordinance, updating Chapter 13 of the Alameda Municipal Code, requiring all city-owned and city-funded projects exceeding $3 million in construction costs to earn LEED Certified or a GreenPoint Rated score of 50.
Contact:
Alameda County, CA:
All county projects initiated after July 1, 2003 must be LEED “Silver” certified. This ordinance added chapter 4.38 to Title 4 of the Administrative Code of the County of Alameda.
Contact:
Michael Cadrecha, Architect, County of Alameda GSA-TSD; (510) 208-9589; michael.cadrecha@acgov.org.
Albany, CA:
On April 26, 2006, Albany city council adopted an ordinance requiring all city-sponsored construction projects of at least 5,000 square feet of occupied nonresidential space will achieve LEED Certified. Private commercial projects of 10,000 square feet are also required to achieve LEED Certified.
Projects in Albany pursuing LEED are also required to have a LEED AP as a principal member of the design team.
Contact:
Albuquerque, NM:
On September 25, 2007, Mayor Martin Chávez signed legislation adopting the 2007 Albuquerque Energy Conservation Code – Volumes I and II, requiring commercial and multifamily residential buildings to be 30% more efficient than a baseline building per ASHRAE 90.1 1999 and requiring one- and two-family dwellings to meet ICC 2006 and several other energy efficiency requirements. The provisions of this code do not apply to commercial and multi-family residential buildings that are LEED certified and that earn a minimum of 4 credits in EAc1 “Optimize Energy Performance,” or one- and two-family dwellings with proof of LEED for Homes Silver certification.
Mayor Martin Chavez signed an Executive Order on March 28, 2005 establishing high performance green building standards. All city-owned and city-funded projects 5,000 ft2 and above and/or using over 50 KW electrical demand must meet a minimum rating of LEED Silver certification. This includes LEED for New Construction, LEED for Existing Buildings, LEED for Core and Shell, or LEED for Commercial Interiors rating system.
Contact:
Richard Kennedy, Deputy Director; Environmental Health Department, City of Albuquerque; (505) 768-2625
Alexandria, VA:
On April 18, 2009, the Alexandria City Council adopted their Green Building Policy requiring all new municipal buildings to achieve LEED Silver certification and all new commercial buildings to achieve LEED Silver certification. The policy also requires all new residential buildings to be LEED Certified with the intention of increasing the standard over time.
http://dockets.alexandriava.gov/fy09/041809ph/di11.pdf
The City’s Department of General Services developed a Green Building Policy and adopted by the City Manager in February 2004. The policy establishes procedures for analyzing LEED feasibility for facilities 5,000 square feet or greater, outlines staff resource and training goals, and identifies program participation opportunities, including Energy Star, Rebuild America, and USGBC.
Contact:
Jeremy McPike, Project Manager, Alexandria Department of General Services; 703-838-4770; Jeremy.mcpike@alexandriava.gov
Anaheim, CA:
On August 8, 2006, the Anaheim City Council adopted Resolution 2006-187, requiring all new municipal buildings over 10,000 sq ft to be LEED Certified and encouraging private developers and builders to earn LEED certification for all their future projects.
Contact:
Anchorage, AK:
On August 12, 2008, the Anchorage Assembly adopted Ordinance 2008-93, requiring all new municipal buildings, including new private construction for municipal leasing or renting, and major renovations of existing municipal buildings to be LEED Certified. Beginning July 1, 2012, the minimum level required will be increased to LEED Silver. The Ordinance also requires all Anchorage School District building construction and renovation over 20,000 sq ft to earn LEED Certified. The Department of Development Services will refund 100% of the expedited portion of building permitting fees for public and private projects that earn LEED Certified. In addition, 10% of the regular portion of building permitting fees for public and private development will be refunded for projects that earn LEED Certified, 15% for LEED Silver, 22.5% for LEED Gold, and 35% for LEED Platinum.
Contact:
Annapolis, MD:
On March 10, 2008 Mayor Ellen O. Moyer signed into law Ordinance 0-56-07, adding to the city code Chapter 17.14, “Green Buildings,” requiring all public construction to earn LEED Silver certification beginning January 2009.
The policy further applies new construction and major renovation of private sector commercial and residential projects as follows: commercial an mixed-use buildings of 7,500 sq ft or greater must earn LEED Certified; five or more single-family homes on one lot or any one home in excess of 3,250 sq ft must earn LEED Certified. The policy allows for projects to register and certify under the appropriate LEED Rating System or an energy and environmental design standard deemed equivalent by the Director of the Department of Neighborhood and Environmental Programs.
Contact:
Annapolis Neighborhood and Environmental Programs; (410) 263-7946
Arlington, MA:
In May 2003, the town of Arlington voted in favor of requiring all new buildings, major renovation projects, and additions to achieve a LEED Silver rating at a minimum. The measure is listed in Section 4 of the Town Bylaws, under Title 1, Article 16.
Contact:
Town of Arlington Permanent Town Building Committee; (781) 316-3000
Arlington County, VA:
On March 14, 2009, the Arlington County Board approved the Green Building Density Incentive Policy. The policy makes changes to the green building bonus density incentives currently offered. Office projects earn a density bonus of 0.05 FAR for LEED Certified, 0.15 FAR for LEED Silver, 0.35 FAR for LEED Gold, and 0.45 FAR for LEED Platinum. Residential projects earn a density bonus of 0.10 FAR for LEED Certified, 0.20 FAR for LEED Silver, 0.40 FAR for LEED Gold, and 0.50 FAR for LEED Platinum. Also, the Green Building Fund contribution guideline is increased to $0.045 per sq ft GFA though the contribution can be waived if the project earns LEED certification.
http://arlington.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=2&clip_id=1188&meta_id=59477 (click on Board Report #24)
Contact:
Arlington County's Green Building Incentive Program, adopted in 1999 and expanded in 2003, allows commercial projects and private developments earning LEED Silver certification to develop sites at a higher density than conventional projects.
All site plan applications for commercial projects are required to include a LEED Scorecard and have a LEED Accredited Professional on the project team regardless of whether or not the project intends to seek LEED certification. All projects must contribute to a green building fund for county-wide education and outreach activities. The contribution is refunded if projects earn LEED certification.
Arlington sponsors a voluntary green home program that encourages builders of new single-family homes to incorporate energy efficient and other green building components in their projects. The County offers "front-of-the-line" plan review, site signs, and publicity to program participants who achieve a given number of points as outlined by Arlington's Green Home Choice program.
Contact:
Joan Kelsch; (703) 228-3599; jkelsch@arlingtonva.us
Department of Environmental Services:
http://www.arlingtonva.us/Departments/EnvironmentalServices/epo/EnvironmentalServicesEpoGreenBuildings.aspx
Asheville, NC:
On April 24, 2007, the Asheville City Council passed Resolution 07-91 that requires all new, occupied, city-owned buildings greater than or equal to 5,000 square feet will be designed, contracted and built to achieve LEED Gold, and to strive for LEED Platinum whenever project resources and conditions permit. The policy also requires an energy savings payback on the incremental cost of no greater than ten years. If the payback period for recovering incremental construction cost is greater than ten years, City staff shall design, contract and build such a facility to be certified as LEED Silver.
In addition, all new, occupied city-owned buildings which are less than 5,000 square feet will be designed, contracted and built to incorporate measures that would allow them to be certified at a minimum of LEED Silver certification.
Contact:
Mark Combs, Director of Public Works; (828) 259-5935; mcombs@ashevillenc.gov
Athens-Clarke County, GA:
On June 1, 2004 the Mayor and Commission of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County (ACC) Georgia adopted a resolution requiring all new municipal buildings to earn LEED Certified, with priority given to credits related to indoor air quality credits. The resolution also requires all new municipal projects to include a LEED AP in the design and construction oversight teams. Since that time a Policy and Procedure statement has been prepared by staff that gives priority to the certification efforts of municipal buildings of at least 5,000 sq ft of conditioned space and intended for regular occupancy. This statement also covers building major renovations involving more than 50 percent of the aggregate area of the building.
Contact:
Richard C. Field, Ph.D, ACC Environmental Coordinator; (706) 613-3530 ext 245; DickField@co.clarke.ga.us
Atlanta, GA:
The city passed Ordinance #03-0-1693 in December 2003 requiring all city-funded projects over 5,000 square feet or costing $2 million to meet a LEED Silver certified level. Projects exempt from this policy are required to complete a LEED checklist to assess any sustainable design techniques.
Code of Ordinances (see Chapter 75)
Contact:
Mandy Mahoney, Director of Sustainability, City of Atlanta; (404) 865-8965; mmahoney@atlantaga.gov
Auburn Hills, MI:
On November 13, 2006, the Auburn Hills City Council adopted the Auburn Hills Green Building Policy, encouraging all applicable municipal and private development projects to achieve LEED certification and approving the City’s membership in the U.S. Green Building Council.
Contact:
Austin, TX:
On June 8, 2000, the Austin City Council passed Resolution 000608-43 requiring all municipal projects over 5,000 sq ft earn a minimum of LEED Silver certification.
Contact:
Richard Morgan, City of Austin-Green Building Program; (512) 482-5309; Richard.morgan@austinenergy.com
City of Austin Green Building Program: http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/greenbuilder/
Babylon, NY:
On November 29, 2006, the Town of Babylon passed a resolution adopting a local law that requires LEED certification for any new construction of commercial buildings, office buildings, industrial buildings, multiple residence, or senior citizen multiple residence over 4,000 square feet. If certification is achieved, the Town will refund the certification fees paid to USGBC by the developer.
Contact:
Peter Caradonna, peterCARADONNArchitecture; (631) 689-1120; pcaradonna@pcaia.com
Baltimore, MD:
On August 14, 2007, Mayor Dixon signed into law Council Bill 07-0602 amending the Baltimore City Revised Code to require all city and city-funded projects greater than 10,000 square feet budgeted or permitted before July 1, 2009 to achieve a minimum of LEED Certified of the appropriate LEED Rating System. All city and city-funded buildings greater than 10,000 square feet budgeted for FY 2010 or permitted after July 1, 2009 will be required to earn a minimum of LEED Silver certification.
Commercial buildings or multi-family residential buildings of 10,000 square feet or greater that request a permit on or after July 1, 2009 must achieve a minimum of LEED Silver of the appropriate LEED Rating System. The building official is directed to deny occupancy permits and certificates of completion for noncompliant projects. Successful achievement of energy and environmental design standards deemed by the city building official to be equivalent to the minimum required levels of LEED are in compliance with this code.
Contact:
Brownwyn Phillips, Baltimore City Green Building Task Force; brownwyn.phillips@baltimorecity.gov
Baltimore County, MD:
On April 22, 2008 the Baltimore County Council adopted Bill #28-08 providing tax credits for new residential construction that earn a minimum of LEED Silver certification. Projects earning LEED Silver will earn a 40% property tax credit, 60% for LEED Gold, and 100% for LEED Platinum. The tax credits will be in effect for 3 years or up to $1 million in total incentives. This act takes effect June 4, 2008.
On October 15, 2007 the County Council passed Bill #78-07, High Performance Buildings, to replace Bill #85-06. The Bill expanded the tax credit to LEED for New Construction, LEED Core and Shell, and LEED for Existing Buildings. LEED for New Construction will earn a 50% property tax credit for Silver, 60% for Gold, and 80% for Platinum. LEED Core and Shell Silver will receive 40%, Gold 50%, and Platinum 70%. LEED for Existing Buildings Silver will earn a tax credit for 10%, 25% for Gold, and 50% for Platinum. The duration of the LEED NC and LEED CS tax credits are for five years consecutive years; whereas, the duration of the LEED EB tax credit is for three years.
On June 5, 2006, the County Council passed Bill #85-06 that gives a county property tax credit to any commercial building that achieves LEED for New Construction Silver certification. The duration of the tax credit is for ten consecutive years.
Contact: Elizabeth S. Glenn, Chief Community Planning and Development, eglenn@baltimorecountymd.gov
Bangor, ME:
On September 14, 2007 the Bangor City Council adopted a policy for all new city-owned or city-funded construction and major renovation projects to achieve LEED Certified. Projects of less than 5,000 square feet will comply with the Maine State Housing Authority Green Building Standards. The policy also encourages the private sector to design, construct and operate its buildings consistent with LEED.
Contact:
Wendy Warren; City of Bangor; (207) 992-4255; wendy.warren@bangormaine.gov
Bar Harbor, ME:
On June 13, 2006, Bar Harbor amended its municipal codes to award a density bonus of an additional market-rate dwelling unit for construction projects in which all dwelling units meet LEED standards. This bonus applies to projects within a Planned Unit Development and compliance is determined by either application or by affidavit for adherence during construction.
Contact:
Battery Park City, NY:
In May 2005, the Battery Park City Authority published the Residential Environmental Guidelines which require developers to earn a minimum of LEED for New Construction Gold certification for all buildings and employ a LEED AP as the Green Team Leader for the project. The developer or building owner must earn LEED for Existing Buildings Certified every five years. Additionally, all community space must earn LEED for Commercial Interiors Gold certification.
In March 2002, the Battery Park City Authority published the Commercial/Institutional Environmental, substantially based on the LEED rating system, that require a customized, but similar version of LEED Gold certification for commercial buildings.
Contact:
Battery Park City Authority; (212) 417-2000; info@bpcauthor.org
Bellingham, WA:
On May 9, 2005, the Bellingham City Council adopted Resolution 2005-21, requiring all new municipal building construction and renovation over 5,000 sq ft where the City provides a majority of the funding to earn LEED Silver certification. The City also provides a 0.5 Floor Area Ratio (FAR) bonus for private development that earns LEED Silver certification.
Contact:
Berkeley, CA:
On November 18, 2003, the Berkeley City Council adopted Resolution #62,284-NS, requiring municipal buildings over 5,000 sq ft and $200,000 that enter design and construction after January 1, 2004 to follow LEED Certified guidelines. The Resolution increases this requirement to a minimum of LEED Silver “guidelines” beginning on January 1, 2006.
Contact:
Rahul Young, City of Berkeley's Green Building Coordinator; (510) 981-7535; RahulYoung@ci.berkeley.ca.us
Berlin, CT:
On December 4, 2007, the Berlin Town Council adopted a resolution encouraging town planners and private developers to follow LEED for New Construction and LEED for Existing Building guidelines when constructing or renovating municipal, industrial, commercial, and residential buildings over 25,000 sq ft or exceeding $1 million.
Contact:
Bloomington, IN:
On March 25, 2009, the Bloomington City Council adopted Ordinance 09-04, requiring all new construction and major renovation of occupied municipal buildings achieve LEED Silver certification. The ordinance also calls for an evaluation of the City’s existing building stock and calls upon the City to develop a schedule for retrofitting all existing buildings within ten years to achieve LEED Silver certification.
http://bloomington.in.gov/media/media/application/pdf/4622.pdf (scroll down to page 5)
Contact:
Boston, MA:
On January 10, 2007 the City of Boston added Article 37 to Section 80 of the Boston Zoning Code requiring that all public and private development projects over 50,000 square feet earn either LEED Certified or successful review and approval through Boston Interagency Council Review (with the same LEED documentation and an optional 4 Boston-specific credits). The Article directs the City to deny permits and certificates of occupancy to noncompliant projects. For all projects regardless of size, the Boston Redevelopment Authority requires a LEED checklist to be submitted.
Aligned with the Mayor’s January 2007 upgrade to the Boston Zoning Code, in April 2007, the Boston Department of Neighborhood Development updated its Residential Design Standards requiring the use of LEED for Homes (or LEED for New Construction for larger projects) as a design guide for new construction and rehabilitation of affordable housing projects, further requiring Energy Star Homes certification for projects less than four stories. While certification is not required, projects must be approved as “certifiable” through DND review of documentation.
In addition, the Boston Department of Neighborhood Development requires private projects under 50,000 square feet to follow the same requirements for LEED certification or Boston Interagency Council Review of LEED documentation.
Contact:
John Dalzell, Boston Redevelopment Authority; (617) 918-4334; John.Dalzell.BRA@cityofboston.gov
In December 2004, Mayor Menino adopted the recommendations of his Green Building Task Force and now requires LEED Silver for all city-owned new construction and major renovation projects and LEED Certified for all city supported development projects.
Contact:
Sarah D. Zaphiris, Office of the Mayor; (617) 635-2886; Sarah.Zaphiris@cityofboston.gov
Boulder, CO:
On November 13, 2007, the Boulder City Council adopted Ordinance 7565 establishing the Boulder Residential Green Points Program and setting the Green Point requirements for new single-unit and multi-unit residential construction and renovation begun after February 1, 2008. Any structure that earns a minimum of LEED Silver certification is exempt from the Green Points requirement.
Contact:
Elizabeth A. Vasatka, Environmental Coordinator; (303) 441-1964; vasatkae@ci.boulder.co.us
Bowie, MD:
The City Council passed Resolution #R-15-03 requiring all municipal projects to follow green building criteria and to use LEED guidelines on a project by project basis. The city has partnered with several local, state, and federal agencies to construct the city’s first green demonstration project, the Parks and Grounds Facility, with a minimum certification of LEED Silver.
Contact:
Ruth Newell, City of Bowie; (301) 809-3009
Brisbane,CA:
On December 17, 2007, the Brisbane City Council adopted Ordinance 524, requiring all new municipal buildings over 5,000 sq ft to earn LEED Silver certification and all new commercial construction and renovation over 10,000 sq ft to earn LEED Silver certification. Commercial projects smaller than 10,000 sq ft are encouraged to follow LEED guidelines.
Contact:
Brookhaven, NY:
On May 1, 2007, the Brookhaven Town Board adopted Green Building/LEED Standards for New Large Commercial Retailer Development requiring all new commercial shopping centers 125,000 sq ft and larger to obtain a green building permit. The policy also established a density bonus of a 1% increase in floor area ratio (FAR) per level of LEED certification achieved.
http://www.brookhaven.org/PressRoom/tabid/56/mid/970/newsid970/265/Default.aspx
Contact:
Broward County, FL:
On October 14, 2008, the Broward County Commission adopted a Green Building Policy requiring all new County-owned and operated buildings to be LEED Certified.
www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=5189 (scroll down to page 4)
Contact:
Burbank, CA:
In March of 2004, the City of Burbank issued its Green Building and Sustainable Architecture Reference Manual including Burbank-specific guidelines on a credit-by-credit basis with the LEED Rating System for New Construction. Expedited permit approval and reduced permit fees (5%-15%) are available to varying degrees based on the level of sustainability achieved.
For Level I, projects must submit proof of construction waste diversion and stormwater prevention programs; for Level II, projects must submit proof of sustainable building methods and materials programs in addition to Level I requirements; for Level III, projects must submit proof of LEED certification.
Contact:
Calabasas, CA:
On January 7, 2004, the Calabasas City Council adopted Ordinance #2003-185 requiring all non-residential, city and privately-owned buildings between 500 ft2 and 5,000 ft2 to meet the LEED Certified level. Buildings over 5,000 ft2 must meet the LEED Silver level.
Contact:
Cambridge, MA:
The City of Cambridge has adopted a City Green Building Policy requiring that all new construction and major renovation of municipal buildings, including public schools, follow LEED guidelines. The project review special permit process, adopted as part of the 2001 City-wide Rezoning for review of all large projects in the City, requires applicants to outline how the proposed development performs on the LEED checklist. Following LEED certification standards and other evolving environmental efficiency standards is encouraged.
Contact:
Iram Farooq, Cambridge Planning Board; (617) 349-4606; ifarooq@cambridgema.gov
Campbell, CA:
On December 4, 2007, the Campbell City Council adopted Resolution 10850, requiring all new and renovated municipal buildings over 5,000 sq ft to achieve LEED Silver certification.
Contact:
Carroll County, MD:
On April 30, 2009, the Carroll County Board of Commissioners adopted Ordinance 09-03, the Green Building Tax Credit, which provides a 25% tax credit for new buildings that achieve LEED Silver certification or equivalent, a 50% tax credit for new buildings that achieve LEED Gold certification or equivalent, and a 75% tax credit for new buildings that achieve LEED Platinum certification or equivalent for a period of 5 consecutive years. This tax credit only applies to property that principally used for business, commercial, or industrial purposes.
http://ccgovernment.carr.org/ccg/code/index.asp (Chapter 209, Article XIII)
Contact:
Catawba County, NC:
On February 16, 2009, the Catawba County Board of Commissioners adopted their Green Construction Permitting Incentives Plan, which provides a 25% rebate of blanket permit fees (not to exceed $500.00) for new buildings that achieve LEED certification or certification from EnergyStar or NC HealtyBuilt Homes. New commercial buildings that achieve LEED certification will have 50% of the fees related to plan review or expedited plan review rebated.
Contact:
Chamblee, GA:
On March 18, 2008 the Chamblee City Council adopted a policy amending City Code of Ordinances requiring all future public construction of any size to earn LEED Certified or one Green Globe. The policy also requires that all new commercial construction of 20,000 sq ft or greater earn LEED Certified certification or one Green Globe.
Contact:
Dan Schultz, Zoning Administrator; (770) 986-5010; dschultz@chambleega.com
Mark Wedge, Chamblee City Council; (770) 986-5010
Chandler, AZ:
On June 26, 2008, the Chandler City Council adopted Resolution #4199, requiring that all new municipal buildings over 5,000 sq ft earn LEED Silver certification and that all renovations of municipal buildings over 5,000 sq ft follow LEED guidelines. The Resolution also provides for expedited plan review for private developments that register with the intent to certify at LEED Silver or better. The resolution further offers LEED certification fee reimbursements: 50% for LEED Certified and LEED Silver projects; 100% for LEED Gold and LEED Platinum projects. Projects that earn a minimum of LEED Certified will also be recognized in various ways by the City of Chandler, including inclusion on the Chandler Green Building Program Participant list and signage recognizing the building as being green.
http://www.chandleraz.gov/Content/20080626_15.pdf (scroll down to page 10)
Contact:
Jason Crampton, City Planner - Long Range Planning; Town of Chandler; (480)782-3072; jason.crampton@chandleraz.gov
http://www.chandleraz.gov/greenbuilding
Chapel Hill, NC:
On May 9, 2005, the Chapel Hill City Council adopted Ordinance O-3, requiring that all new construction of municipal buildings over 5,000 sq ft earn LEED Silver certification. The Council may also decide that municipal buildings smaller than 5,000 sq ft must earn LEED Silver certification. The Ordinance also requires that the design and project management teams for these buildings include a LEED AP. The City further encourages retrofits and renovations of existing municipal buildings and new public housing to follow LEED guidelines.
Contact:
David Bonk, Long Range Planning and Transportation Coordinator; Town of Chapel Hill; (919) 968-2728; dbonk@townofchapelhill.org
Charleston, SC:
On April 22, 2008, the Mayor Riley signed into law Resolution 2008-05 supporting a variety of sustainability policies, including requiring all new municipal buildings be LEED Certified, beginning in 2009.
Contact: Marcia Grant, Council Secretary, City of Charleston; grantm@ci.charleston.sc.us
Charlotte County, FL:
On May 12, 2009, the Charlotte County Board of Commissioners adopted a Green Building Ordinanceestablishing a Green Building Program. New residential projects and residential renovation projects that are certified under the LEED for Homes Rating System and new commercial projects, commercial renovation projects that are certified under the appropriate LEED Rating System, and land developments that are certified under the LEED for Neighborhood Development Rating System are eligible to participate in this program. All program participants are eligible for fast-track permitting and will be included in a marketing program to promote green building in Charlotte County. The County Board may adopt at a later date a resolution providing monetary incentives for green building if County funds allow. Also, once the County Comprehensive Plan is adopted, the County Board will consider offering additional incentives including density bonuses for projects that are certified at LEED Silver and higher.
Contact:
Chatham County, GA:
In May, 2006, the Board of Commissioners of Chatham County passed an ordinance (page 79-85) amending Chapter 7 of the county code that gives full property state and county tax abatement for commercial buildings achieving LEED Gold certification for the first five years, then tapering off by 20% each year until the tenth year. Qualifying projects are new or expanding businesses in an enterprise zone that increase employment opportunities.
Contact:
Chesapeake, VA:
On July 9, 2007, the City adopted an Administrative Regulation 4.18requiring all new municipal buildings over 5,000 sq ft gross occupied space to be LEED Certified.
Contact:
Roger P. Morgan, AIA, General Services Dept, Project Manager; rmorgan@cityofchesapeake.net
Chicago, IL:
In June 2004, the City of Chicago passed a resolution requiring all new city-funded construction and major renovation projects will earn LEED certification. The Chicago Standard is a product of this resolution. Numerous buildings are already being designed and constructed using LEED.
The Chicago Department of Construction and Permits (DCAP) has also developed a Green Permit Program, offering expedited permitting for projects that incorporate innovative green building strategies, including LEED certification. Commercial projects are eligible for an expedited permit in less than 30 days if the project achieves LEED certification. Projects that achieve higher levels of LEED certification are eligible to have the consultant review fee waived as well as an expedited permit in less than 15 days.
Contact:
Sadhu Johnston, Chief Environmental Officer; City of Chicago; (312) 744-1803; sjohnston@cityofchicago.org
Cincinnati, OH:
On December 12, 2007, the Cincinnati City Council adopted Ordinance 446-2007 , amending Ordinance 182-2007 and providing an automatic 100% real property tax exemption of the assessed property value for newly-constructed or rehabilitated commercial or residential properties that earn a minimum of LEED Certified. Buildings that earn LEED Certified, Silver or Gold can receive a real property tax abatement up to $500,000, with no limit for LEED Platinum buildings. The property tax exemption period is 15 years for new residential, commercial, or industrial buildings; 12 years for renovated commercial and industrial buildings and renovated residential buildings with 4 or more units; and 10 years for renovated residential buildings with 1-3 units.
On September 20, 2006, the Cincinnati City Council approved a motion requiring that all new municipal buildings earn LEED Certified. The motion also requires that existing municipal buildings be renovated following LEED guidelines.
Contact: Eric Denson, Senior Development Officer, eric.denson@cincinnati-oh.gov
Clayton, MO:
On September 26, 2006, the City of Clayton passed Resolution #06-21 requiring new construction and major renovations of City-owned, occupied, or funded buildings over 5,000 sq ft to earn LEED Silver certification.
Contact:
Punit K. Jain, Cannon Design; (314) 425-8731; pjain@cannondesign.com
Conyers, GA:
On October 1, 2008, the Conyers City Council adopted Ordinance 777, requiring all new residential or municipal buildings with over 5,000 sq ft of occupied space to achieve LEED certification or be EarthCraft House certified.
Contact:
Steven Owens, Chief Building Inspector, City of Conyers; steve.owens@conyersga.com
Cook County, IL:
Cook County Commissioner Mike Quigley proposal (search LEED) for an ordinance requiring LEED certification of all county building projects passed on October 21, 2002. The ordinance calls for projects to earn a minimum of 8 credits in the Energy & Atmosphere category to ensure best life-cycle returns. The ordinance also calls for each retrofitted county building to achieve LEED for Existing Building certification.
Contact:
Sadhu Johnson, Assistant to the Mayor for Green Initiatives; sjohnston@cityofchicago.org
Costa Mesa, CA:
On September 4, 2007, the Costa Mesa City Council approved a resolution that established a green building incentive program for private development, effective September 5, 2007 through June 30, 2008. The program encourages green building practices through various incentives, including priority permitting and fee waivers for all green installations and fee reductions to cover the cost of LEED certification.
On the same day, the City established leadership by becoming the first municipality in the State of California to require all new municipal construction to achieve LEED Gold, with no size or cost minimums.
Contact:
Khanh Nguyen, Building Official; City of Costa Mesa; (714) 754-5277; knguyen@ci.costa-mesa.ca.us
Cranford, NJ:
On November 15, 2005, the Township of Cranford adopted Ordinance No. 2005-46 requiring all township-funded facilities projects and township-owned facilities to meet LEED Silver certification. The Township also adopted LEED for Existing Buildings for its existing facilities.
The ordinance also established a Green Building Density Incentive program whereby redevelopers who achieve LEED certification and comply with the specific program requirements may earn a development density bonus from the Township.
Contact:
Nelson Dittmar, Chair; Cranford Environmental Commission; candndittmar@cs.com
Cupertino, CA:
On November 20, 2007, the Cupertino City Council adopted a policy requiring all new municipal buildings to achieve LEED Silver certification.
http://64.165.34.13/weblink7/DocView.aspx?id=23721 (scroll down to page 9)
Contact:
Cutler Bay, FL:
On May 21, 2008 and June 18th 2008, the Town of Cutler Bay Council passed Ordinance 08-11 and Ordinance 08-12, imposing a moratorium on the issuance of site plans that include non-residential or mixed-use buildings in excess of 50,000 gross square feet, and a moratorium on all residential development site plans for a period of nine months. The moratoriums provide exceptions to developments that commits to achieving LEED Silver certification or higher or a certification from the Florida Green Building Coalition. On February 18, 2009, the Town Council passedOrdinance 09-09, extending the moratoriums until August 20, 2009.
Contact:
Sandra Cuervo, Building Division Manager; SOcampo@cutlerbay-fl.gov
Dallas, TX:
On April 10, 2008 the City of Dallas adopted a green building ordinance requiring energy and water efficiency improvements for new residential and commercial buildings. Starting in October of 2009 and prior to 2011, new residential construction must submit a residential green building checklist (LEED for Homes, GreenPoint Rated, Green Communities, Green Built North Texas or equivalents) and new commercial construction greater than 50,000 sq feet must attempt a number of priority LEED credits. Expedited permitting is available for all covered projects. After 2011, all new residential and commercial construction must submit a complete scorecard for one of the approved rating systems.
Contact:
Zaida Basora, Dallas Public Works and Transportation; (214) 948-4634; zaida.basora@dallascityhall.com
In August, 2007, the Dallas Public Works and Transportation Department issued an updated “LEED Policy,” requiring all city buildings larger than 10,000 square feet in the 2006 Bond Program and subsequent bond program to achieve LEED Gold certification. Furthermore, the decision requires facilities to earn WEc3.1 and 3 points in EAc1 in their pursuit of LEED certification. The previous policy, 03-0367, passed on January 22, 2003 required these buildings to earn LEED Silver certification.
Contact:
Jill Jordan, City of Dallas; (214) 670-5299
Deltona, FL:
On January 10, 2009, the Deltona City Council adopted Ordinance 42-2008, requiring all new and remodeled residential buildings to follow the guidelines of LEED for Homes or the current Green Home Designation Standard of the Florida Green Building Council. It also requires all new and renovated municipal and institutional buildings to follow the guidelines of LEED for New Construction or the current Green Commercial Designation Standard of the Florida Green Building Council. Projects that register intent to complete certification with either standard are eligible for expedited permitting and reduced permitting fees.
http://www.usgbc.org/ShowFile.aspx?DocumentID=5422 (scroll down to page 2)
Contact:
Denver, CO:
On October 24, 2007, Mayor Hickenlooper signed Executive Order 123 requiring new municipal building construction over 5,000 sq ft and major renovations (affecting at least 25% of existing building) that are funded after July 12, 2006 to earn LEED for New Construction Silver certification. The Order also requires all existing and future municipal facilities to be maintained and operated using all appropriate LEED for Existing Buildings principles.
In his State of the City 2006 address, Mayor Hickenlooper announced a new action plan to strengthen Denver’s environmental and economic legacy and declared that the city will be requiring all new public buildings and major municipal renovations to be LEED Silver certified and to meet EPA Energy Star guidelines.
Contact:
Derry, NH:
On March 4, 2008 the Derry Town Council adopted a green building policy requiring all new construction or major renovations to town-owned or town-funded projects to achieve LEED Certified. In addition, this policy also requires the purchase of alternative fuel and hybrid vehicles for the Town’s fleet.
Contact:
Doraville, GA:
On August 4, 2008, the Doraville City Council adopted an ordinance requiring all new municipal buildings and all commercial, industrial, and multifamily residential buildings over 20,000 sq ft to be LEED Certified.
Contact: Bob Roche, Mayor Pro Tem, City of Doraville; bobroche@mindspring.com
Doylestown Borough, PA:
On June 18, 2007, the Doylestown Borough Council adopted Resolution 2007-10, amending the fee schedule to create a Green Points Building Incentives Program, providing a 60% reduction in applicable building permit fees for new commercial and residential construction, additions, and interior remodels earning a minimum of LEED Silver certification. Non-LEED certified projects can earn fee reductions by demonstrating compliance with green building practices.
Contact:
Dublin, CA:
In March 2004, the City Council approved Ordinance 9-04 that all municipal projects with an estimated construction cost of $3 million or greater must register with the USGBC and achieve LEED Silver certification. Smaller projects are required to incorporate as many green building principles as deemed appropriate by the Green Building Compliance Official.
Contact:
Durham County, NC:
On October 27, 2008, the Durham Board of County Commissioners adopted a High Performance Building Policy requiring all new County buildings over 10,000 sq ft to earn at minimum LEED Gold certification or a comparable standard. New County buildings between 4,000 and 10,000 sq ft must earn at minimum LEED Silver certification or a comparable standard. The policy also requires all County building renovations in excess of 25% of the building and comprising upgrades or replacements of two of the three major systems (HVAC, lighting, and plumbing) to earn LEED Certified or a comparable standard.
Contact: Tobin Fried, Sustainability Manager, Durham City and County; mailto:tfried@co.durham.nc.us
Eagle County, CO:
On September 27, 2006, Eagle County, Colorado implemented the Eagle County Efficient Building Code (ECObuild), applying to all new single and multi-family homes as well as residential expansions of more than 50% of existing square footage. ECObuild offers point-based prescriptive compliance in siting, water conservation, materials, energy efficiency, renewable energy, and indoor air quality. Projects achieving LEED certification are exempt from the requirements of the program. Homes that obtain points above the required minimum are eligible for rebates of 25% (up to $5,000) off their permit fees, as well as additional 10% rebates for each 20-point increment achieved above the minimums.
The County implements a strategy of funding desired behavior by penalizing undesired behavior, allowing projects to elect to pay a fee for the number of points missed below the minimum. These fees provide funding for financial assistance, incentives, and rebates for sustainable building and sustainable energy projects in Eagle County.
Contact:
Adam Palmer, ECObuild Specialist; (970) 328-8734; adam.palmer@eaglecounty.us
East Lansing, MI:
On April 21, 2009, the East Lansing City Council adopted a resolution establishing a green building policy for the City. Included in the policy is a requirement that new municipal construction over 5,000 sq ft achieves at minimum LEED Silver certification and renovations to existing municipal projects follow the LEED checklist. The policy also requires new private construction for any single building that receives municipal incentives up to 15% of the total project cost to attain at minimum LEED Certified, private development projects that receive over 15% municipal incentives with one building to achieve at minimum LEED Silver certification, and private development projects that receive over 15% municipal incentives with multiple buildings to achieve at minimum LEED for Neighborhood Development Silver certification and achieve at least 1 point under Green Infrastructure & Buildings Credit 1 or achieve at minimum LEED Silver certification for each building. Private building renovations that receive municipal incentives are required to achieve at minimum LEED Certified. Incentives referenced in this policy include tax increment financing funds, brownfield redevelopment funds, community development block grant funds, parking revenue bonds, or other similar financing mechanisms.
Contact: Timothy R. Schmitt, Community Development Analyst, City of East Lansing; mailto:tschmitt@ci.east-lansing.mi.us
El Paso, TX:
On June 10, 2008, the El Paso City Council adopted an ordinance requiring all new municipal buildings over 5,000 sq ft earn a minimum of LEED Silver certification.
http://www.ci.el-paso.tx.us/muni_clerk/agenda/06_10_08/06100809G.pdf (scroll down to page 2)
On September 11, 2007, the El Paso City Council unanimously adopted the Green Building Grant Program, providing grants for commercial projects greater than 5,000 square feet and multi-family, multi-story residential projects that LEED certification. Grants are awarded only upon receipt of a certificate of occupancy and review of LEED certification wherein ten (10) of the seventeen (17) available points in Energy & Atmosphere credit category must be earned. Grants are awarded at increasing intervals determining on level of certification. Maximum grant allowance is $200,000 for LEED Platinum for new construction and $400,000 for LEED Platinum for “multistory existing buildings” that are mixed use and that have been 50% vacant for 5 years, or as further defined by the City.
Contact:
El Segundo, CA:
On April 7, 2009, the El Segundo City Council adopted three recommendations from their Environ