West Hollywood, California’s Green Building Ordinance has gone into effect – one of the first mandatory “green building” programs in the country. The Green Building Requirements and Incentives for Private Development Ordinance:
1. Establishes new development standards that apply to all development, including all new residential and commercial projects as well as remodels and tenant improvements;
2. Develops a point system for new construction with incentives for projects that achieve “exemplary” status; and
3. Implements “green building” education and outreach program.
These standards were incorporated into the Zoning Ordinance so that all projects incorporate elements such as drought-tolerant landscaping, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and energy efficient appliances.
The green building point system will be incorporated in all new structures, with incentives for projects that go above and beyond minimum requirements. The requirements are structured as a point system to allow for maximum flexibility and the points allowed each reflect West Hollywood’s unique opportunities and constraints. Specifically, the point system was designed to emphasize locally-available materials, encourage green elements to be incorporated early into project design and provide flexibility to alter green elements as the project evolves.
Mandatory Items for all Projects Including Remodels and Additions
1. Divert 80% of construction and demolition waste away from landfills.
2. Label storm drains in the public right-of-way that drain to the ocean.
3. Provide a roof layout plan showing how future photovoltaic panels could be installed, and provide a conduit from the roof to electrical panel.
4. Provide a construction air quality management plan.
5. Interior paints and wood finishes shall be low VOC.
6. Install Energy Star appliances in residential construction.
7. Conserve water, minimize drainage to the storm drains, and improve water quality by: providing permeable surfaces in front, side and rear yards, installing drought tolerant landscape and water-conserving irrigation systems, installing low flow showerheads, faucets and water closets, and controlling construction debris.
8. Provide bicycle parking as required by the code.
9. Provide area for recyclable materials storage. 10. Install energy efficient outdoor lighting.
11. Provide landscaping in new surface parking areas.
12. Reduce vehicle trips by complying with the City’s Transportation Demand Management programs.
13. Comply with the revised energy efficiency standards in Title 24 of the Building Code.
The Green Building Resource Center located on the second floor at West Hollywood City Hall will provide a sampling of building materials and practices that increase energy efficiency, indoor air quality and water conservation. The display provides information and outreach to homeowners, renters, businesses and developers. The Resource Center will also provide a manual for the City’s Green Building Ordinance to explain each requirement and methods for achieving them.
In upcoming weeks the Resource Center will be supplemented with additional educational materials for people considering sustainable remodels to kitchen, bath, and landscape areas, etc, The City’s website has also been updated to provide additional information on sustainability and green building:
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