Site Development: Maximize Open Space

LEED 2.2 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%.

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.

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.

Submittals (DESIGN):
Provide a copy of the project's site/landscape drawings highlighting the dedicated vegetated open space.  In addition, please provide the following based on the appropriate compliance path:

Option 1

• Provide the area (sq. ft.) of open space required by local zoning codes/ordinances.
• Provide the area (sq. ft.) of the vegetated dedicated open space provided by the project.

Option 2

• Provide the total building footprint area (sq. ft.)
• Provide the area (sq. ft.) of the vegetated dedicated open space provided by the project.

Option 3

• Provide the project site area (sq. ft.)
• Provide the area (sq. ft.) of the vegetated dedicated open space provided by the project.
• AND (For Projects With Special Circumstances - Any Compliance Path) - Provide an optional narrative to describe any additional comments or notes regarding special circumstances or considerations regarding the project's credit approach.