Site development - maximize open space

Intent

Provide a high ratio of open space to development footprint to promote biodiversity.

Requirements

Option 1

Reduce the development footprint (defined as the total area of the building footprint, hardscape, access roads and parking) and/or provide vegetated open space within the project boundary to exceed the local zoning’s open space requirement for the site by 25%.

OR

Option 2

For areas with no local zoning requirements (e.g., some university campuses, military bases), provide vegetated open space area adjacent to the building that is equal to the building footprint.

OR

Option 3

Where a zoning ordinance exists, but there is no requirement for open space (zero), provide vegetated open space equal to 20% of the project’s site area.

All options:

• For projects located in urban areas that earn SS Credit 2, vegetated roof areas can contribute to credit compliance.
• For projects located in urban areas that earn SS Credit 2, pedestrian oriented hardscape areas can contribute to credit compliance. For such projects, a minimum of 25% of the open space counted must be vegetated.
• Wetlands or naturally designed ponds may count as open space if the side slope gradients average 1:4 (vertical: horizontal) or less and are vegetated.