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Site conditions are the deciding factor
This credit promotes biodiversity by encouraging project teams to protect existing onsite native habitat or restore the site with native species.
How you go about earning this credit will depend on the existing conditions of your project site. If you have a greenfield site—one that has not been built, graded, or otherwise altered by human activity—you are required to limit site disturbance during construction.
If your site has been previously developedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development.", you must protect or restore a portion of the site—50% of the total area minus the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint., or 20% of the total site area, whichever is greater—and plant with native or adapted species. The protected or restored area can include vegetation, water bodies, soils, or other ecosystems.
Don’t confuse with SSc5.2
It’s easy to confuse the requirements of this credit, SSc5.1, with those of SSc5.2: Site Development—Maximize Open Space. While they both have the stated intent of promoting biodiversity, they’re actually quite different.
This credit focuses on protecting and restoring native habitat or limiting construction disturbances—depending on existing project conditions. Use of native or adapted species in landscaping is a key aspect of this credit.
SSc5.2, on the other hand, is aimed at increasing open space relative to local zoning requirements. It has no requirements for native vegetation—turf grass and even pedestrian-oriented hardscapeHardscape consists of the inanimate elements of the building landscaping. Examples include pavement, roadways, stone walls, concrete paths and sidewalks, and concrete, brick, and tile patios. could apply—and does not put restrictions on construction site disturbance.
What’s a green roof got to do it?
If your project is previously developed and earning SSc2: Development Density and Community Connectivity, you are allowed to include a vegetated roof with native or adapted species in your calculations. This clause allows dense urban sites to earn this credit even though they may not have enough exterior site area to qualify otherwise.
In order to comply with SSc5.1, green roofs must provide a diversity of native or adapted species that provide animal habitat. This means that extensive roofs with sedum monocultures won't contribute to this credit, as USGBC spelled out Iin LEED InterpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. #10231. Containerized plants are also unlikely to contribute. USGBC is looking for at least six inches of depth of growing medium—in line with an "intensive" green roof—and multiple species that are suited to provide native habitat. The Interpretation gives six species of sedum, on a six-inch growing medium, as an example of an acceptable green roof, as far as contributing to this credit.
Other options for urban sites
Projects with limited landscape opportunities can also use off-site land to earn this credit. They must donate offsite land in perpetuity, equal to 60% of the previously developed area (including the building footprint), to a land trust within the same EPA Level III Ecoregion identified for the project site. The land trust must adhere to the Land Trust Alliance ‘Land Trust Standards and Practices’ 2004 Revision.
Potential conflicts on previously developed sites
If you have a previously developed site, you might have a harder time with this credit if the nature of your project requires you to have a large surface parking area. Previously developed projects that can limit surface parking will have a much easier time.
Protecting native habitat like these plantings in the Rice Creek Open Space area in northern Shoreview, Minnesota, is a key focus of this credit. Photo Courtesy Shoreview, MNAlso on previously developed sites, using non-native landscaping over a significant portion of a site, such as lush greenery in an arid climate, may present difficulties—with this credit as well as with WEc1: Water Efficient Landscaping.Greenfield sites can also be a challenge
Meeting the requirements for a greenfield site can be challenging due to the limited range of site disturbance permitted under the credit. The limited buffers allowed for site disturbance may make contractors nervous about this credit because of the large turning radius of construction equipment.
Successful construction and development within these strict parameters is not standard practice—it will require careful mapping of the site to identify allowable areas for disturbance, and staking out construction boundaries to clearly communicate them to all teams working onsite.
The contractor has such an important role in executing the credit that making credit compliance a contractual obligation is important.Buffer requirements eased up
Although still a challenge, the buffer requirements were eased up under a November 2010 LEED addendum. The addendum introduced a new calculation method that could be very useful for teams that are meeting three of the buffer parameters, but having some difficulty with the fourth. See Checklists for more detail.
FAQs for SSc5.1
Can I count green roofs toward this credit?
In order to comply with SSc5.1, green roofs must provide a diversity of native or adapted species that provide animal habitat. This means that extensive roofs with sedum monocultures won't contribute to this credit, as USGBC spelled out Iin LEED Interpretation #10231, issued 10/1/2012.
Can I count green walls toward this credit?
No. LEED Interpretation #5310 issued 3/4/2008, states that "Although living walls or vertical landscaping may provide limited habitat for certain species adapted to urban areas, the credit language does not currently allow for use of this approach in calculating area compliance." This Interpetation also notes that green walls cannot contribute to SSc5.2.
How should we document the off-site restoration option?
As recently as version 04, the LEED Online form doesn't mention this option. We recommend that teams document it as an alternative compliance path, by providing a letter on letterhead that includes the EPA Level III Ecoregion, confirms the offsite conservation easement is in compliance with the Land Trust Standards, and notes the size of the designated area.
Can turf grasses contribute to this credit?
Common turf grass is not considered native. However, it is possible that a variety of grasses, rather than a monoculture, that are selected with the native habitat in mind and are adpated to the local habitat, can contribute to the credit.
Legend
- Best Practices
- Gotcha
- Action Steps
- Cost Tip
USGBC
Excerpted from LEED 2009 for Core and Shell Development
SS Credit 5.1: Site development - protect or restore habitat
1 Point
Intent
To conserve existing natural areas and restore damaged areas to provide habitat and promote biodiversity.
Requirements
Case 1. Greenfield sites1
Limit all site disturbance to the following parameters:
- 40 feet (12 meters) beyond the building perimeter and parking garages;
- 10 feet (3 meters) beyond surface walkways, patios, surface parking and utilities less than 12 inches (30 centimeters) in diameter;
- 15 feet (4.5 meters) beyond primary roadway curbs and main utility branch trenches;
- 25 feet (8 meters) beyond constructed areas with permeable surfaces (such as pervious paving areas, stormwater detention facilities and playing fields) that require additional staging areas to limit compaction in the constructed area.
Case 2. Previously developed2 areas or graded sites
Restore or protect a minimum of 50% of the site (excluding the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint.) or 20% of the total site area (including building footprint), whichever is greater, with native or adapted vegetationAdapted (or introduced) plants reliably grow well in a given habitat with minimal winter protection, pest control, fertilization, or irrigation once their root systems are established. Adapted plants are considered low maintenance and not invasive..3 Projects earning SS Credit 2: Development Density and Community Connectivity may include vegetated roof surface in this calculation if the plants are native or adapted, provide habitat, and promote biodiversity.
Projects with limited landscape opportunities may also donate offsiteland in perpetuity, equal to 60% of the previously developed area (including the building footprint), to a land trust within the same EPA Level III Ecoregion identified for the project site. The land trust mustadhere to the Land Trust Alliance 'Land Trust Standards andPractices' 2004 Revision.
1 Greenfield sites are those that are not previously developed or graded and remain in a natural state.
2 Previously developed sites are those that previously contained buildings, roadways, parking lots or were graded or altered by direct human activities.
3 Native or adapted plants are plants indigenous to a locality or cultivars of native plants that are adapted to the local climate and are not considered invasive species or noxious weeds.
Potential Technologies & Strategies
Survey greenfield sites to identify site elements and adopt a master plan for developing the project site. Carefully site the building to minimize disruption to existing ecosystems, and design the building to minimize its footprint. Strategies include stacking the building program, tuck-under parking and sharing parking facilities with neighbors. Establish clearly marked construction boundaries to minimize disturbance of the existing site, and restore previously degraded areas to their natural state. For previously developedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development." sites, use local and regional governmental agencies, consultants, educational facilities, and native plant societies as resources for the selection of appropriate native or adapted plants. Prohibit plants listed as invasive or noxious weed species. Once established, native/adapted plants require minimal or no irrigation, do not require active maintenance such as mowing or chemical inputs such as fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides, and provide habitat value and promote biodiversity through avoidance of monoculture plantings.
FOOTNOTES
1. Greenfield sites are those that are not previously developed or graded and remain in a natural state.
2. Previously developed areas are those that previously contained buildings, roadways, parking lots or were graded or altered by direct human
activities.3. Native/adapted plants are plants indigenous to a locality or cultivars of native plants that are adapted to the local climate and are not considered
invasive species or noxious weeds.
Publications
National Invasive Species Information Center
This website provides links to local information on invasive species, provides an overview of the problem and regulations associated with invasive species, and provides information on grants and funding opportunities.
Ecological Restoration
This quarterly print and online publication from the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum provides a forum for people interested in all aspects of ecological restorationEcological restoration is the process of assisting in the recovery and management of ecological integrity and includes biodiversity, ecological processes and structures, regional and historical context, and sustainable cultural practices..
Land Trust Alliance
This website can help locate land trusts that may help a project with the offsite restoration option within this credit.
Organizations
North American Native Plant Society
NANPS is a nonprofit association dedicated to the study, conservation, cultivation, and restoration of native plants. Its website contains links to state and local associations.
Society for Ecological Restoration International
The mission of this nonprofit consortium of scientists, planners, administrators, ecological consultants, landscape architects, engineers, and others is to promote ecological restorationEcological restoration is the process of assisting in the recovery and management of ecological integrity and includes biodiversity, ecological processes and structures, regional and historical context, and sustainable cultural practices. as a means of sustaining the diversity of life and to reestablish an ecologically healthy relationship between nature and culture.
Soil and Water Conservation Society
This organization focuses on fostering the science and art of sustainable soil, water, and related natural resource management.
Nature Conservancy
The Nature Conservancy is a conservation organization that works to protect ecologically important lands and water.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center
The center, located in Austin, Texas, has the mission of educating people about the environmental necessity, economic value, and natural beauty of native plants. The website offers a number of resources, including a nationwide native plant information network and a national suppliers directory.
Site Plan Documentation
Case 1: Greenfield Site
If your greenfield project documents this credit through the use of a site plan you will need to provide a document similar to this example.
Site Plan Documentation
Case 2: Previously Developed Site
If your previously developedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development." site project documents this credit through the use of a site plan you will need to provide a document similar to this example.
LEED Online Forms: CS-2009 SS
The following links take you to the public, informational versions of the dynamic LEED Online forms for each CS-2009 SS credit. You'll need to fill out the live versions of these forms on LEED Online for each credit you hope to earn.
Version 4 forms (newest):
- SSp1: Construction Activity Pollution Prevention
- SSc1: Site Selection
- SSc2: Dev. Density & Community Connectivity
- SSc3: Brownfield Redevelopment
- SSc4.1: Alt. Trans.—Public Trans. Access
- SSc5.2: Site Dev.: Maximize Open Space
- SSc6.1: Stormwater Design—Quantity Control
- SSc6.2: Stormwater Design—Quality Control
- SSc7.1: Heat Island Effect—Non-Roof
- SSc7.2: Heat Island Effect—Roof
- SSc8: Light Pollution Reduction
Version 3 forms:
- SSp1: Construction Activity Pollution Prevention
- SSc1: Site Selection
- SSc2: Dev. Density & Community Connectivity
- SSc3: Brownfield Redevelopment
- SSc4.1: Alt. Trans.—Public Trans. Access
- SSc4.2: Alt. Trans.—Bicycle Storage
- SSc4.3: Alt. Trans.—Low-Emitting Vehicles
- SSc4.4: Alt. Trans.—Parking Capacity
- SSc5.1: Site Dev.—Protect or Restore Habitat
- SSc5.2: Site Dev.: Maximize Open Space
- SSc6.1: Stormwater Design—Quantity Control
- SSc6.2: Stormwater Design—Quality Control
- SSc7.1: Heat Island Effect—Non-Roof
- SSc7.2: Heat Island Effect—Roof
- SSc8: Light Pollution Reduction
- SSc9: Tenant Guidelines
These links are posted by LEEDuser with USGBC's permission. USGBC has certain usage restrictions on these forms; for more information, visit LEED Online and click "Sample Forms Download."
Construction Submittal
Documentation for this credit is part of the Construction Phase submittal.
LEEDuser is produced by BuildingGreen, Inc., with YR&G authoring most of the original content. LEEDuser enjoys ongoing collaboration with USGBC.
79 Comments
Open bottom planters
Reading the missing manuals I saw that planters can contribute to credit compliance as long as they are open bottom.
By language barriers we do not fully understand the difference betweet an open bottom and a closed bottom.
Could somebody please explain the differrence between these two?
Thank you very much.
Off-site Native Vegetation
Can anyone clarify how we can achieve SSc5.1 through the use of off-site native vegetationPlants indigenous to a locality (native) and adapted to the local climate; they require limited irrigation following planting, do not require active maintenance such as mowing, and provide habitat value.? Do we use an alternative compliance approach and submit forms from LEED EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. for this same credit? I am confused as to why the credit language discusses (almost as an afterthought) the use of an off-site land trust donation as an option but then does not include it in the forms. Has anyone earned this credit through this approach?
The credit language for Case 2 of LEED CS SSc5.1:
"Case 2. Previously developedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development." areas or graded sites
Restore or protect a minimum of 50% of the site (excluding the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint.) or 20% of the total site area (including building footprint), whichever is greater, with native or adapted vegetationAdapted (or introduced) plants reliably grow well in a given habitat with minimal winter protection, pest control, fertilization, or irrigation once their root systems are established. Adapted plants are considered low maintenance and not invasive.. Projects earning SS Credit 2: Development Density and Community Connectivity may include vegetated roof surface in this calculation if the plants are native or adapted, provide habitat, and promote biodiversity.
Projects with limited landscape opportunities may also donate offsiteland in perpetuity, equal to 60% of the previously developed area (including the building footprint), to a land trust within the same EPA Level III Ecoregion identified for the project site. The land trust mustadhere to the Land Trust Alliance 'Land Trust Standards andPractices' 2004 Revision."
Phil, I would fill out the regular CS SSc5.1 form, but explain your approach in a narrative under special circumstances. Looking at the EBOMEBOM is an acronym for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance, one of the LEED 2009 rating sytems. SSc5 form is a good idea in terms of what is expected for documentation, and you should provide that documentation as well. If it seems expedient to use the EBOM form in addition to your CS form, I would do so and upload it.
Incorporating LEED interpretation to SSc5.1
Hi all,
I have a question regarding a recent LEED interpretationLEED Interpretations are official answers to technical inquiries about implementing LEED on a project. They help people understand how their projects can meet LEED requirements and provide clarity on existing options. LEED Interpretations are to be used by any project certifying under an applicable rating system. All project teams are required to adhere to all LEED Interpretations posted before their registration date. This also applies to other addenda. Adherence to rulings posted after a project registers is optional, but strongly encouraged. LEED Interpretations are published in a searchable database at usgbc.org. citing SSc5.1. The interpretation basically states that in order for green roofs to count towards this credit, they must be INtensive (6" min. depth) rather than extensive and must incorporate at least 6 different species of sedum. My question is this: Since our project was registered on 2/15/12 and this LEED interpretation was published 10/1/12, is it required that we adhere to its ruling? We were on track to achieve this credit but had specified an extensive system (4" depth). Thanks.
Phil, typically you would not be held to an Interpretation posted after your registration date. However, the requirement that a green roof contribute to habitat value to contribute to this credit is not new—it's built into the credit language, and this Interpretation only clarifies specific criteria that USGBC is looking for. So I think you can make a case for earning the credit, and note in your documentation that the Interpretation was posted after your registration date, but I wouldn't feel confident about earning the credit.
Thanks Tristan. I just saw in the credit language that there is an option for an offsite land trust donation. I don't recall seeing this option in the LEED online form (v2009, form version 4.0). If we decided to pursue this option, would we document it under "Alternative Compliance Path"? Has anyone had success using this option?
Yes, document it as an ACP.
Green Walls
Hi all!
Can I get any benefit from having green walls in my project, for the purpose of this credit?
P.S: It is a Previously DevelopedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development." Area.
Probably not—you're not likely to be able to show that it is adequate to the standards of the credit, and it would be tricky to show equivalence in terms of area. You're welcome to make a case for it, though!
Marcio, LEED Interpretation #5385 states that green walls cannot be applied to the vegetation calculations for this credit. So that is a more definitive answer for you.
Building Footprint- Underground Wine Caves
We are working on a winery project with an above ground winery building and connected underground wine storage caves. Should we included the underground caves in our building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint. calculations for the amount of restored area required?
Kevin, if the area above those caves is essentially open green space and not hardscapeHardscape consists of the inanimate elements of the building landscaping. Examples include pavement, roadways, stone walls, concrete paths and sidewalks, and concrete, brick, and tile patios., then I would probably not count it. But it's kind of a gray area.
Building footprint definition
According to the LEEDuser glossary, «building footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan».
Taking this in consideration, a building’s footprint is the horizontal projected area of the built structure from the roof down to ground level? Or is it only the area covered by the structure at ground level or at grade?
In other words, do we have to consider the projections from the upper floors and/or roof?
Regards.
Pedro, you have two options, either of which is defensible in my opinion—use the perimenter of the plan view at grade, or use the perimeter of the plan view when viewed from above the whole building. The grade-level option is usually simpler, but with large overhangs or terraces the other option might make more sense.
Thank you Tristan.
In the case I'm currently working the building is comprised of two volumes crossed by a road at grade level, and this volumes are connected at first floor level. Taking into account that the area of the building is larger at 1st floor level and that the ground area covered by the building's first floor is impermeable I thought that it would make more sense to consider the area of the first floor as the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint..
By the way, do you have any idea if LEED reviewers are usually picky with area definitions such as LEED site boundary and building footprint?
The project that I refered above is located inside an industrial campus, and the building that is being intervened has some vegetated areas associated that will also suffer alterations. The question is that these vegetated areas go beyond the parcel that will be altered. Do you think that I can include the altered part of these vegetated areas in the site boundary or will I be accused of gerrymandering?
Regards.
Pedro, given your situation I would consider the first floor area as the footprint.
If a reviewer sees something in these figures that seems off, and that may impact credit achievement, then they might question it. It may be a good idea to include a brief narrative explaining the situation and how you are interpreting it.
If the vegetated areas are adjacent to the building then I don't see why you can't include them, but it's possible that I'm not understanding your question.
farmland and disturbance limits
1. Does farmland fall under case 1 or 2?
2. Case 1 requires to limit site disturbance. Does it mean that materials storage and all construction facilities have to be within these limits?
Adam, farmland is generally defined as not previously developedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development.".
If materials storage and construction facilities will disturb the site, then yes, they need to be within those limits.
Yes but I'm not sure if I should consider it a greenfield site or a graded site.
Adam, what aren't you sure about? I'd need more information on the project site to help you determine that. I would strongly recommend carefully reviewing the definition of previously developedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development.", as well as the credit language for this credit and other relevant credits such as SSc1.
Exemplary performance for offsite land
We are planning to donate offsite land to a land trust to gain earn this credit. This land will be equal to more than 75% of the previously developedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development." area (including the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint.). Are we eligible for exemplary performanceIn LEED, certain credits have established thresholds beyond basic credit achievement. Meeting these thresholds can earn additional points through Innovation in Design (ID) or Innovation in Operations (IO) points. As a general rule of thumb, ID credits for exemplary performance are awarded for doubling the credit requirements and/or achieving the next incremental percentage threshold. However, this rule varies on a case by case basis, so check the credit requirements. using this compliance path?
When the offsite option was added with an 11/3/10 addenda, the EP paths for this credit were not revised to include an offsite path. You could request a CIRCredit Interpretation Ruling. Used by design team members experiencing difficulties in the application of a LEED prerequisite or credit to a project. Typically, difficulties arise when specific issues are not directly addressed by LEED information/guide to clarify if this is possible, but on its surface, LEED does not allow this. Also, given that the offsite threshold is higher than the onsite threshold to earn the basic credit, I would think that an EP threshold for offsite, it if existed, might be higher than 75%.
vegetated roof accessible for everyone
Can a project that doesn't get points under SS Cre 2 include green roof surface that is accessible for everyone in calculations for SS Cre 5.1? Does the statement from the reference guide that says "projects earning SS Credit 2: Development Density and Community Connectivity may include vegetated roof surface in this calculation" include both roofs accessible and not accessible for people?
Adam, reading the logic of that statement from the credit language, it follows that green roof areaRoof area is the area of the uppermost surface of the building which covers enclosed Gross Floor Area, as measured when projected onto a flat, horizontal surface (i.e. as seen in Roof Plan view). ‘Roofs’, or portions of roofs, covering unenclosed areas (e.g. roofs over porches and open covered parking structures) are not included in the areas used to evaluate compliance with SSc7.2, though they may be applicable to SSc7.1. may not be included in credit compliance here if you are not earning SSc2.
Accessibility to people is not a factor under SSc5.1—see SSc5.2 for that.
Make sense?
Yes, thanks. I just wanted to make sure it's like that. We are fighting for every poit.
But I think that then I cannot include green roof (even if it's accessible for people) under SSc5.2 either because the project doesn't get SSc2.
Private terrace
My C&S project has a terrace on the 1st floor (below there is only the parking garage). That terrace is only accessible by the Meeting Room, which is used by the building users. The meeting room is only accessible by the people that rent the meeting room (by hour).
The terrace of that meeting room has native and adapted vegetationAdapted (or introduced) plants reliably grow well in a given habitat with minimal winter protection, pest control, fertilization, or irrigation once their root systems are established. Adapted plants are considered low maintenance and not invasive..
Question: Can I count that area for SSc5.1, or is there any restriction to that area, as it is not completely acessible by everyone and is not considered roof above a densely occupied space? Thank you in advance!
Marcio, I think your question is more applicable to SSc5.2. See the LEEDuser guidance above titled "Don’t confuse with SSc5.2."
Appurtenances
I'm reviewing a project that will install skylight for basement parking. The skylight and the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint. is inside the project boundary. My question is, should the skylight be excluded from the calculations for this credit? Thanks.
Mary Ann, I would count the skylight as part of the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint..
project footprint definiton
I have a building with 3 foot overhangs around it. When calculating the "footprint of project building" under "project summery details", do i include these overhangs as a part of the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint.?
Tanner, I would not include those in the footprint.
Offsite Landscape
I'm working on a project in Sao Paulo, Brazil and our project will implement a green area (1506.95 sf) outside our leed project boundary. This area is owned by the city government but will be maintained by the owner or the LEED building's administration. It can be counted for compliance with this credit requirement?
Irina, it might be able to -- check the Minimum Program Requirements supplemental guidance document from USGBC for guidance.
Planters
We need to apply for the option 2 in our project since the 20% of the total site area is greater than the 50% of the site excluding the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint..
According to the 20% requirement, we need to provide 8,313 sqft of green area (total site area is 41,570 sqft).
We are providing a total of 9,151 sqft of vegetated surface by the following:
7,184 sqft of green areas (greenroof and at ground level)
1,967 sqft of planters (on green roof and ground level too)
Can we use the planters' area in order to achieve credit compliance?
If we only count the green areas we will be out of compliance. If we use the planters we will achieve it.
We area applying for SSc2 Development Density.
Any comments will be appreciated. Thank you.
Samuel, I would count the planters, although it's up to GBCI to decide if they truly pass muster. Let us know how it works out.
Can Interior vegetated areas in the ground floor be counted?
I´m working in a Project in Buenos Aires, Argentina, that is trying to achieve SSc5.1. As per LEED Calculations, we need 2,012.05 square meters (21,657.53 sf) of vegetated area, with native plants that guarantee a good native habitat while restoring the site with native species. The project is a tall tower in an open site, which has both hardscapeHardscape consists of the inanimate elements of the building landscaping. Examples include pavement, roadways, stone walls, concrete paths and sidewalks, and concrete, brick, and tile patios. surfaces for pedestrians and vegetated areas for native plants. The site is in a dense downtown area, with tall buildings and few green spaces.
Currently the Project has 2,089.60 sm (22,492.27 sf) in three major areas:
1. Green Vegetated Roof: 199.86 sm (2,151.28 sf)
2. Green Aras in the Ground Plaza – Open Plaza (also has Pedestrian Areas): 1,653.86 sm (17,802.00 sf)
3. Interior Vegetated Areas in the Ground Floor: 235.88 sm (2,539.00sf)
The architects have decided that in order to reinforce the green and sustainable concept of the building, the green areas from the Plaza will become part of the interior Ground Floor space. The ground level has a glass curtain wall that will permit the views from the interior to the exterior, unifying both spaces. The intention is that the green areas flow both inside and outside of the building.
The main question then is: can I count this interior surface as part of the vegetated areas? The plants that will be used will be native plants that can live in interior conditions. If I do not count this interior vegetated area; I will be off by 158.33 sm (1,650.43 sf), almost 7 % less than what is required, and will not make use of one of the most important green and sustainable elements of the building, its connection to the outdoors.
Any Advice? Is it ok to count these interior areas?
Sonia, based on the credit intent, to provide habitat and promote biodiversity, I don't think it would be logical to include these interior planters.
Sedums as Habitat
I've heard recently that Sedum roofs are no longer being accepted as providing enough habitat to achieve 5.1. Is there any truth to this?
Brittany, it's my understanding that this is true, but that it's not a new thing. We discuss this in a couple places under the Checklists tab above.
Anyone else have experience trying to get sedums recognized as habitat?
Land trust
Our project has very limited landscape options and I just found out about the offsite land donation.
We are by no means familiar with the Land trust nor the EPA level III ecoregion. Would somebody please explain a little bit more about these?
Thank you so much.
David, what are your specific questions about this option? There is more information above, and you can review the standard that is referenced for information.
Building Footprint - Parking Garages
Dears,
In our recent projects we are having some doubts about the “Building Footprint” definition. These doubts have appeared in relation with the exclusion of some types of spaces of the Building footprint . Below the “Building Footprint” definition, presented in LEED On line.
“Building footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint."
Considering the text above, we have some questions about the exclusion of the parking garages and parking lots of the Building footprint, we are concerned if this exclusion is applied for all situations. So we have two scenarios in which we would like to know if we should exclude or not the parking garages area from the building footprint:
1. Case: When the garage is connected to the building and placed by its side.
2. Case: when the garage is under the building and it has a larger projection.
3. Case: When the garage is not connected to the building but placed inside the leed boundary.
Best regards,
Wagner, I think in all cases it is clear that the parking garage should not add to the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint. numbers. The footprint is of the building on its own.
Building Footprint
Hi all,
I have doubts about the definition of nonbuilding facilities (when it said ‘Parking lots, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint’).
My project has an overhang area with ~ 5500 ft², the problem is that in some parts exists vegetation under this structure. May I count this structure as part of the building footprint? And that vegetation, can I count it to SSc5.1 and SSc5.2?
When defining the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint. it can be difficult to distinguish between "inside" and "outside" in some climate regions when there are transitional spaces that are open to the outside but partially enclosed.
The project team will need to decide on where to draw that boundary and be able to explain it if questioned by a reviewer. Without knowing more about the space under your overhang it is difficult to say for sure, but it sounds like it would be considered "hardscapeHardscape consists of the inanimate elements of the building landscaping. Examples include pavement, roadways, stone walls, concrete paths and sidewalks, and concrete, brick, and tile patios." area that would be outside the building footprint. If so, that hardscape could count toward SSc5.2. If you are earning SSc2, pedestrian oriented hardscape can be counted toward SSc5.2, but if not then only the landscaped area would be counted.
Since the SSc5.1 credit is earned by creating habitat, and not just ornamental plantings, turf grass and plants in containers don't qualify to be included. It might be possible for plantings under a canopy to be considered "habitat" if they are native and adaptive plants, and are large enough area - you may have to make a good case that they should be included.
Permeable pedestrian sidewalk
Would anyone inform if permeable pedestrian sidewalk on the ground, recharging groundwater, may be counted towards the achievement of the restored área and ecollogic site feature?
Tks
Marcio, sidewalk space, even if it's permeable, doesn't contribute to habitat onsite and so doesn't help with this credit. If you are also earning SSc2, it might help you with SSc5.2 however.
See the bird's eye view tab above for an explanation on how these two credits fundamentally differ.
OK, Thank you Tristan!
Open Space and LEED Project Boundary
If there are city/state/federal restrictions on development such that development in certain areas is prohibited by law, can I include those areas in the LEED project boundary? I have a project where we have purchased a large parcel that includes some areas that are zoned for conservation, and we're obviously not disturbing those and they are covered with natural vegatation. Are we allowed to include the whole lot as part of the LEED project boundary to achieve the point?
Sara, I believe the key document for shedding light on your question is the MPR Supplemental Guidance doc from USGBC. This includes discussion of gerrymandering and how to avoid it. I don't think your situation is really anticipated there, however, since it focuses more on preventing unreasonable exclusions.
I would say that if the land is reasonably associated with the project building in some way (and ownership is clearly one component of that) then you are justified in including it.
Bldg Footprint_Cooling Tower & Generator
We have a cooling tower and emergency generator adjacent to our building that is on a concrete pad and surrounded by a screen enclosure. Should this area count as part of the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint.?
I think these can be excluded from the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint..
Building footprint
Our project is an office tower connected to a large 4 level car park with a public plaza on top and retail at the perimeter on ground level. I understand the exclusion of surface parking from the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint., but what do you think about structured parking such as this?
Thanks
Is the parking structure part of your scope? If so, it sounds like this should be included as part of the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint.. If this is beyond your scope (and not part of the LEED boundary), I think this can be excluded.
Tunnels counted in building footprint?
Our project has a tunnel that is totally below grade. Our initial thought is to exclude the tunnel from the building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint., as that does not get counted in the site open area calculations. Does anyone have any experience with this?
thanks,
I would agree and exclude it from the footprint. Especially since things like parking lots are exclued. It seems more liek a site feature.
Building footprint
Hi all,
I have read your definition of building footprintBuilding footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, parking garages, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint. (Building footprint is the area on a project site used by the building structure, defined by the perimeter of the building plan. Parking lots, landscapes, and other nonbuilding facilities are not included in the building footprint) but I have some questions.
My proyect is composed by 3 buildings. The buildings are not jointed at ground floor but they are at first floor. My doubt is if the building footprint should include the projection of the first floor or if the building footprint is defined just by the walls of the ground floor.
Thanks a lot!
There is some room for interpretation, in my opinion. Given that, in this case, the buildings connect so close to the ground I would probably be inclined to include the projections in the footprint. If it's more like the Petronas Towers, I might not.
Potted plants
The project we are working on is achieving SSc2. Green roof will be installed on portion of the roof and the green area on the ground cannot be extended. Can using plans in huge pots located between the parking spots contribute to the compliance with SSc5.1 and SSc5.2 under LEED CS 2009?
They could theoretically count toward SSc5.2, due to the provision that says that for projects earning SSc2, green roofs and pedestrian-oriented hardscapeHardscape consists of the inanimate elements of the building landscaping. Examples include pavement, roadways, stone walls, concrete paths and sidewalks, and concrete, brick, and tile patios. can qualify. However, in practice, a parking lot with potted plants doesn't sound to me like "pedestrian-oriented hardscape."
Relative to SSc5.1, this area definitely would not count, since the focus is more on plant and wildlife habitat. Make sense?
Indoor vegetation.
Can indoor vegetation be counted as green area so we can comply with SSC5.1 under the RESTORE path?
How would you define something that "promotes" biodiversity?
Thank you.
David think about it—does your indoor vegetation provide animal habitat and promote biodiversity (not just plants, but the whole community of life)? Probably not!
We were thinking the same about it, just wanted to double check it, thanks again.
Tristan,
Our project will implement a lot of green areas outside our leed project boundary. I remember green areas outside the boundary but are maintained by the owner or the LEED building's administration can be counted for compliance with this credit requirement when 2 sqft of outside land is counted as one inside the LEED Boundary.
Please, correct me if I am wrong.
David, there is a provision for offsite conservation, but it is more complicated. See the credit language above.
You may also want to review the MPR supplemental guidance, which may help.
I just checked the credit language and visited the EPA Site, our project is located outside the US (it is in Panamá City, in the country of Panama), so my first question will be:
1. How would someone define what Level III ecoregion the project is if it is outside the US.
Our idea to achieve this credit is the following:
Our site has multiple buildings so it will be built by phases, and our 1st phase (the only one being now built) will apply for LEED-CS certification. Phase 1 and 2 will have adjacents greenrofs.
Our idea is to use the phase 2 greenroof to comply with SSC5.1, the situation here is that phase 2 greenroof will be built about a year after phase 1.
We just checked the MPR guidance number 3 (must use a reasonable site boundary) and it provides some information about buildings built by phases when all phases are applying for LEED certification so it does not provide clear enough information about our situation.
Since phase 2 greenroof will be adjacent to phase 1 we think we can use this area to comply with phase 1 credit requirements. So our question number 2 is:
2. What do you think about using phase 2 greenroof to comply with phase 1 certification requirements?
Thanks Tristan.
Vertical Greening
How does vertical greening (e.g. green roof) contribute to vegetated spaces requirement for credit SS 5.1 and 5.2 under LEED CS 2009?
I don't think a green roof will be consider vertical. If by vertical you mean something like a green wall LEED does not allow you to consider that one as a green area so it w ill be excluded from any type of calculation and credit regarding vegetation (please someone correct me if I am wrong).
If you only mean greenroofs then they can be considered as green area so you can use it to comply with SSC5.1 only under the path restoring the site (if it has local and adapted vegetationAdapted (or introduced) plants reliably grow well in a given habitat with minimal winter protection, pest control, fertilization, or irrigation once their root systems are established. Adapted plants are considered low maintenance and not invasive.) and you can also use it to comply with SSC5.2 under any kind of path. But remember, you can only comply with those two using a green roof not only if it has local and/or adapted vegetation but also if you are achieving SSC2 and your project is located in an urban area.
Restored Areas
I´m reviewing a project which is a case 2 (Previously DevelopedPreviously developed sites are those altered by paving, construction, and/or land use that would typically have required regulatory permitting to have been initiated (alterations may exist now or in the past). Previously developed land includes a platted lot on which a building was constructed if the lot is no more than 1 acre; previous development on lots larger than 1 acre is defined as the development footprint and land alterations associated with the footprint. Land that is not previously developed and altered landscapes resulting from current or historical clearing or filling, agricultural or forestry use, or preserved natural area use are considered undeveloped land. The date of previous development permit issuance constitutes the date of previous development, but permit issuance in itself does not constitute previous development."). It complies with SS C.2 and will several have roof gardens. It´s also planning to have some vertical vegetation (ej. vegetated walls, or vegetated sculptures). I would like to know if the area of vertical surfaces with native vegetationPlants indigenous to a locality (native) and adapted to the local climate; they require limited irrigation following planting, do not require active maintenance such as mowing, and provide habitat value. can count towards the achievement of this credit. Does somebody know?
I don't think this would normally be approvedl. You would have to make a strong case that it should be considered equivalent, or at a fractional value of, regular open space.
Keep in mind that the intent of this credit is to provide plant
and animal habitat and promote biodiversity.
Does the vertical vegetation do that?
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