SITES v2

Rating System
For Sustainable Land Design and Development

SITES v2
Rating System
For Sustainable Land Design and Development

Copyright 2014 by the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

of The University of Texas at Austin, the U.S. Botanic Garden,
and the American Society of Landscape Architects. All rights
reserved.
The SITES v2 Rating System is intended for use by persons
engaged in sustainable land design and development. Such
persons may use the material contained in the SITES v2 Rating
System for the limited purpose of applying the guidelines and
performance benchmarks for sustainable land design and
development under the following conditions:
Attribution: Material must be attributed to the Sustainable
Sites Initiative.
No Derivative Works: The material may not be altered,
transformed, or built upon.
Noncommercial: The material may not be used for commercial purposes.
Since 2006, the Sustainable Sites Initiative has conducted
extensive research, worked with panels of experts, and
conducted a pilot program to create guidelines and
performance benchmarks for sustainable land design and
development that can be applied on a site-by-site basis
worldwide. This effort resulted in development of the
SITES v2 Rating System and Reference Guide.
The SITES v2 Rating System is modeled after and aligned with
the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
Green Building Rating SystemTM and draws from certain
LEED resource materials such as the LEED Reference Guides
authored by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
Representatives of USGBC participated in the development
of SITES v2. Any LEED content incorporated into SITES v2
or related SITES materials are used with the permission of
USGBC.
LEED is the preeminent program for the design, construction
and operation of high performance green buildings. Copyrights
in the LEED Reference Guides and in the LEED Rating
Systems, and the trademarks LEED, U.S. Green Building
Council and USGBC, are the property of the U.S. Green
Building Council, Inc.

IMAGE CREDITS:
Front cover, clockwise from upper left:
American University School of International Service,
Washington D.C.
Green roof, photo by Paul Davis
The Woodland Discovery Playground at Shelby Farms,
Memphis, Tennessee
Net and tree house adventure nest, photo courtesy of James
Corner Field Operations
National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL) Research Support
Facility, Golden, Colorado
Access bridges over bioswales within eastern plaza, photo by
Robb Williamson courtesy of RNL
Blue Hole Regional Park, Wimberley, Texas
Blue Hole swimming area, photo by Tim Campbell, Design
Workshop
George Doc Cavalliere Park, Scottsdale, Arizona
Seating area with LED lights at dusk, photo by Bill Timmerman,
Timmerman Photography
Cornell Universitys Mann Library Entrance, Ithaca, New York
New seating area outside Mann Library, photo by Nina Bassuk
Back cover, clockwise from upper left:
Charlotte Brody Discovery Garden at Sarah P. Duke
Gardens, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina
Pergola in the Charlotte Brody Discovery Garden, photo by
Rick Fishers Photography
Mesa Verde Visitor and Research Center, Mesa Verde
National Park, Colorado
View toward Visitor and Research Center, photo by National
Park Service
Novus International Headquarters Campus, St. Charles,
Missouri
The pavilion overlooking the improved aquatic habitat, photo
by SWT Design
Center for Sustainable Landscapes at Phipps Conservatory
and Botanical Gardens, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Center for Sustainable Landscapes with lagoon, boardwalk,
and terraced gardens, photo by Denmarsh Photography, Inc.
Taylor Residence, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania
Meditative garden labyrinth, photo by Mark Gormel
Cover flap, clockwise from upper left:
Grand Valley State University (GVSU) Student Recreation
Fields, Allendale, Michigan
Wildlife inhabiting the established stormwater bay, photo by
Andy Schwallier, FTC&H
SWT Design Campus, St. Louis, Missouri
Green roof garden showcasing many native Missouri plants,
photo by SWT Design
The Green at College Park at The University of Texas at
Arlington, Arlington, Texas
Shade structures and muhly grass garden, photo by Amar
Thakkar
Scenic Hudsons Long Dock Park, Beacon, New York
Sunset at Trakas Beacon Point, photo by Robert
Rodriguez, Jr.

Table of Contents

I. OVERVIEW OF SITES................................................................................................vi
Ecosystem Services: The Framework for SITES v2..................................................ix
The Goals for SITES v2............................................................................................ xii

II. THE SITES v2 PROCESS........................................................................................xiii

Eligible Sites: Where and When to Use SITES v2................................................... xiv
How to Use and Understand SITES v2................................................................... xiv
Where to Start......................................................................................................... xxi
Certification............................................................................................................ xxv
Updates and Addenda........................................................................................... xxv
Section 1: SITE CONTEXT.......................................................................................... 1
Context Prerequisite 1.1: Limit development on farmland (Required)....................... 2
Context Prerequisite 1.2: Protect floodplain functions (Required)............................ 4
Context Prerequisite 1.3: Conserve aquatic ecosystems (Required)........................ 6
Context Prerequisite 1.4: Conserve habitats for threatened and
endangered species (Required)................................................................................. 9
Context Credit 1.5: Redevelop degraded sites (3 6 points)................................... 11
Context Credit 1.6: Locate projects within existing developed areas (4 points)..... 12
Context Credit 1.7: Connect to multi-modal transit networks (2 3 points)............ 13
Section 2: PRE-DESIGN ASSESSMENT + PLANNING........................................... 14
Pre-Design Prerequisite 2.1: Use an integrative design process (Required)........... 15
Pre-Design Prerequisite 2.2: Conduct a pre-design site
assessment (Required)............................................................................................ 17
Pre-Design Prerequisite 2.3: Designate and communicate Vegetation and
Soil Protection Zones (Required)............................................................................. 22
Pre-Design Credit 2.4: Engage users and stakeholders (3 points).......................... 25
Section 3: SITE DESIGNWater.............................................................................. 26
Water Prerequisite 3.1: Manage precipitation on site (Required)............................ 27
Water Prerequisite 3.2: Reduce water use for landscape irrigation (Required)....... 29
Water Credit 3.3: Manage precipitation beyond baseline (4 6 points)................... 31
Water Credit 3.4: Reduce outdoor water use (4 6 points)...................................... 32
Water Credit 3.5: Design functional stormwater features as
amenities (4 5 points)............................................................................................. 34
Water Credit 3.6: Restore aquatic ecosystems (4 6 points)................................... 35

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Section 4: SITE DESIGNSoil + Vegetation........................................................... 37

Soil+Veg Prerequisite 4.1: Create and communicate a soil management
plan (Required)........................................................................................................ 38
Soil+Veg Prerequisite 4.2: Control and manage invasive plants (Required)............ 40
Soil+Veg Prerequisite 4.3: Use appropriate plants (Required)................................ 42
Soil+Veg Credit 4.4: Conserve healthy soils and appropriate
vegetation (4 6 points)............................................................................................ 43
Soil+Veg Credit 4.5: Conserve special status vegetation (4 points)........................ 45
Soil+Veg Credit 4.6: Conserve and use native plants (3 6 points)......................... 46
Soil+Veg Credit 4.7: Conserve and restore native plant
communities (4 6 points)........................................................................................ 47
Soil+Veg Credit 4.8: Optimize biomass (1 6 points)............................................... 48
Soil+Veg Credit 4.9: Reduce urban heat island effects (4 points)........................... 49
Soil+Veg Credit 4.10: Use vegetation to minimize building energy
use (1 4 points)....................................................................................................... 51
Soil+Veg Credit 4.11: Reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire (4 points)............... 53
Section 5: SITE DESIGNMaterials Selection....................................................... 54
Materials Prerequisite 5.1: Eliminate the use of wood from threatened
tree species (Required)............................................................................................ 55
Materials Credit 5.2: Maintain on-site structures and paving (2 4 points)............. 56
Materials Credit 5.3: Design for adaptability and disassembly (3 4 points)........... 57
Materials Credit 5.4: Reuse salvaged materials and plants (3 4 points)................ 58
Materials Credit 5.5: Use recycled content materials (3 4 points)......................... 59
Materials Credit 5.6: Use regional materials (3 5 points)........................................ 60
Materials Credit 5.7: Support responsible extraction of raw
materials (1 5 points).............................................................................................. 61
Materials Credit 5.8: Support transparency and safer chemistry (1 5 points)........ 63
Materials Credit 5.9: Support sustainability in materials
manufacturing (1 5 points)..................................................................................... 65
Materials Credit 5.10: Support sustainability in plant production (1 5 points)....... 67
Section 6: SITE DESIGNHuman Health + Well-Being......................................... 69
HHWB Credit 6.1: Protect and maintain cultural and historic
places (2 3 points).................................................................................................. 70
HHWB Credit 6.2: Provide optimum site accessibility, safety, and
wayfinding (2 points)................................................................................................ 71
HHWB Credit 6.3: Promote equitable site use (2 points)........................................ 72
HHWB Credit 6.4: Support mental restoration (2 points)........................................ 73
HHWB Credit 6.5: Support physical activity (2 points)............................................ 74
HHWB Credit 6.6: Support social connection (2 points)......................................... 75
HHWB Credit 6.7: Provide on-site food production (3 4 points)............................ 76
HHWB Credit 6.8: Reduce light pollution (4 points)................................................ 78
HHWB Credit 6.9: Encourage fuel efficient and multi-modal
transportation (4 points).......................................................................................... 82

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HHWB Credit 6.10: Minimize exposure to environmental tobacco

smoke (1 2 points).................................................................................................. 83
HHWB Credit 6.11: Support local economy (3 points)............................................ 84
Section 7: CONSTRUCTION..................................................................................... 85
Construction Prerequisite 7.1: Communicate and verify sustainable
construction practices (Required)........................................................................... 86
Construction Prerequisite 7.2: Control and retain construction
pollutants (Required)................................................................................................ 87
Construction Prerequisite 7.3: Restore soils disturbed during
construction (Required)........................................................................................... 89
Construction Credit 7.4: Restore soils disturbed by previous
development (3 5 points)........................................................................................ 93
Construction Credit 7.5: Divert construction and demolition materials
from disposal (3 4 points)....................................................................................... 96
Construction Credit 7.6: Divert reusable vegetation, rocks, and soil from
disposal (3 4 points)............................................................................................... 97
Construction Credit 7.7: Protect air quality during construction (2 4 points)......... 98
Section 8: OPERATIONS + MAINTENANCE............................................................ 99
O+M Prerequisite 8.1: Plan for sustainable site maintenance (Required)............. 100
O+M Prerequisite 8.2: Provide for storage and collection of
recyclables (Required)........................................................................................... 104
O+M Credit 8.3: Recycle organic matter (3 5 points)........................................... 105
O+M Credit 8.4: Minimize pesticide and fertilizer use (4 5 points)....................... 106
O+M Credit 8.5: Reduce outdoor energy consumption (2 4 points).................... 109
O+M Credit 8.6: Use renewable sources for landscape electricity
needs (3 4 points)................................................................................................. 110
O+M Credit 8.7: Protect air quality during landscape
maintenance (2 4 points)...................................................................................... 112
Section 9: EDUCATION + PERFORMANCE MONITORING.................................. 113
Education Credit 9.1: Promote sustainability awareness and
education (3 4 points)........................................................................................... 114
Education Credit 9.2: Develop and communicate a case study (3 points)........... 116
Education Credit 9.3: Plan to monitor and report site performance (4 points)...... 117
Section 10: INNOVATION OR EXEMPLARY PERFORMANCE............................. 119
Innovation C10.1: Innovation or exemplary performance (39 bonus points)....... 120
III. Glossary............................................................................................................ 121
iv. Acknowledgments......................................................................................... 122

Sites v2 Rating System

I. Overview of Sites

As the worlds population grows, so does the pace of urbanization and development.
What is built on the land profoundly impacts ecological systems as well as the health,
safety, and welfare of our communities. Too often, however, landscapes, infrastructure,
and buildings are designed without regard to their harmful impacts on scarce resources,
underlying ecological systems, and quality of life in the community. A systematic
comprehensive set of guidelines and a rating system is needed to define sustainable
sites, measure their performance, and ultimately elevate the value of landscapes.
The Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES) is a program based on the understanding
that land is a crucial component of the built environment and can be planned, designed,
developed, and maintained to avoid, mitigate, and even reverse these detrimental
impacts. Sustainable landscapes create ecologically resilient communities better able to
withstand and recover from episodic floods, droughts, wildfires, and other catastrophic
events. They benefit the environment, property owners, and local and regional
communities and economies.
In contrast to buildings, built landscapes and green infrastructure have the capacity to
protect and even regenerate natural systems, thereby increasing the ecosystem services
they provide. These services are the beneficial functions of healthy ecosystems such
as sequestering carbon, filtering air and water, and regulating climate. Their economic
value is highly significant, yet the cost of replacing these functions is rarely reflected in
conventional decision-making. For example, wetlands filter pollutants and provide
protection against storm surges and flooding. When wetlands are lost to development,
new and costly levees, pipes, and pollution-control technology must perform the
functions those wetlands previously provided naturally. Nevertheless, estimates for a
projects total cost or value typically include neither these subsequent expenses nor
additional benefits such as wildlife habitat.
By aligning land design and development practices with the functions of healthy
ecosystems, the SITES program demonstrates how the work of developers, property
owners, landscape architects, engineers, planners, architects, and others can protect,
restore, and enhance ecosystem services. For environmental designers, their clients, and
the general public, SITES offers several significant benefits and values: 1) it advances
best practices in landscape architecture and other environmental design professions,
2) it may help design professionals fulfill their health, safety, and welfare responsibilities
for licensure,3) clients can be assured that their project has achieved rigorous, fieldtested standards for sustainability, 4) clients can market the SITES certification of their
projects (as many do for the LEED green building program), and 5) it is ethically
responsible, protects natural systems for present-day use and appreciation, and
preserves ecosystems and their essential services for future generations.
The central message of the SITES program is that any projectwhether the site of a university
campus, large subdivision, shopping mall, park, commercial center, or even a homeholds
the potential to protect, improve, and regenerate the benefits and services provided by
healthy ecosystems.

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vi

SITES provides guidance and incentives that can transform land development and
management practices towards regenerative design. The United States Botanic Garden,
the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin, and the
American Society of Landscape Architects have led the development of these guidelines,
which involves numerous other organizations and individuals. Development of the SITES
v2 Rating System has been a collaborative, interdisciplinary effort made possible by the
input of more than 70 dedicated contributors, including technical advisors, practitioners,
and representatives of professional, advocacy, and educational organizations.
Since 2007, SITES has published three reports containing draft guidelines and
performance benchmarks followed by extensive review of public comments. Following
the release of the Guidelines and Performance Benchmarks 2009 (version 1), this Rating
System was field-tested through a two-year pilot program that involved more than 160
projects. Information and knowledge gained from participating pilot projects informed
the development of the SITES v2 Rating System. The SITES Rating System is intended
to be a living product that will evolve over time as research and experience generate
more knowledge.
This document contains the SITES v2 Rating System with credits in an abbreviated
format. It is intended to introduce readers to the main goals and requirements of sustainable land design and development within the structure of the Rating System.
For more insight and an in-depth view of the SITES v2 Rating System, please read the
SITES v2 Reference Guide (www.sustainablesites.org).

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SITES GUIDING PRINCIPLES

These principles informed the development of specific and measurable criteria for site
sustainability, and can also be applied to the land design and development process.
Do no harm.
Make no changes to the site that will degrade the surrounding environment. Promote
sustainable design projects on sites where previous disturbance or development presents
an opportunity to regenerate ecosystem services through sustainable design.
Apply the precautionary principle.
Be cautious in making decisions that could threaten human and environmental health. Some
actions can cause irreversible damage. Examine a full range of alternatives (including no
action), and be open to contributions from all potentially affected parties.
Design with nature and culture.
Create and implement designs that are responsive to economic, environmental, and cultural
conditions and to the local, regional, and global context.
Use a decision-making hierarchy of preservation, conservation, and
regeneration.
Maximize the benefit of ecosystem services by preserving existing environmental features,
conserving resources in a sustainable manner, and regenerating lost or damaged
ecosystem services.
Provide regenerative systems as intergenerational equity.
Provide future generations with a sustainable environment supported by regenerative
systems and endowed with regenerative resources.
Support a living process.
Continuously re-evaluate assumptions and values, and adapt to demographic and
environmental change.
Use a systems thinking approach.
Understand and value the relationships in an ecosystem. Use an approach that reflects
and sustains ecosystem services and re-establishes the integral and essential relationship
between natural processes and human activity.
Use a collaborative and ethical approach.
Encourage direct and open communication among colleagues, clients, manufacturers, and
users to link long-term sustainability with ethical responsibility.
Maintain integrity in leadership and research.
Implement transparent and participatory leadership; develop research with technical rigor;
and communicate new findings in a clear, consistent, and timely manner.
Foster environmental stewardship.
In all aspects of land development and management, foster an ethic of environmental
stewardshipan understanding that responsible management of healthy ecosystems
improves the quality of life for present and future generations.

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Ecosystem Services: The Framework for SITES v2

The SITES v2 Rating System, and specifically its site-specific performance benchmarks,
is based on the concept of ecosystem services; an understanding of natural processes;
best practices in landscape architecture, ecological restoration, and related fields; and
knowledge gained through peer-reviewed literature, case-study precedents, and SITES
pilot projects. By achieving these benchmarks, a project will contribute to maintaining,
supporting, and enhancing natural systems and the essential services they provide.
The services provided by healthy ecosystems are the unobtrusive foundation of daily life.
Trees help regulate local climate by providing shade and acting as windbreaks. Through
evaporation, transpiration, and the uptake and storage of carbon, plants moderate the
climate of the world and provide a breathable atmosphere. Thousands of different
pollinator species visit their respective flowers and promote the growth of myriad plants
and crops. Soils and vegetation purify stormwater as it seeps through to groundwater and
underground aquifers. Ecosystem services such as these occur at a variety of scales and
in habitats ranging from equatorial rainforests to urban parks. Yet because these services
occur largely unseen in the background and can be difficult to measure and monetize,
their value is typically ignored in project design and budgeting. As a result, the ecosystem
services provided by the site prior to construction are lost. Replacing these services, if it
is possible to do so, would require expensive technological solutions.
An accurate accounting must take into consideration how the adoption of sustainable
practices can not only be cost effective for both public and private entities but can
leverage additional costs and provide multiple benefits. A growing body of research
suggests that natural elements within cities and other areas generate ecosystem services
that can substantially protect and improve a communitys resiliency and quality of life in a
variety of ways and in a range of contexts.

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Ecosystem Services
Ecosystem services are goods and services of direct or indirect benefit to humans that are
produced by ecosystem processes that involve the interactions of living elements, such as
vegetation and soil organisms, and non-living elements such as bedrock, water, and air.
The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment 2005 report separated ecosystem services into four
categories: Supporting (services that are necessary for the production of all other ecosystem
services), Provisioning (products, such as food and water, obtained from ecosystems),
Regulating (benefits obtained from the regulation of ecosystem processes such as carbon
sequestration), and Cultural (nonmaterial benefits people obtain from ecosystems through
spiritual enrichment, cognitive development, reflection, recreation, and aesthetic experiences).
Researchers have developed various lists of these benefits and services. The Sustainable
Sites Initiative has consolidated the research into the following list of ecosystem services
that a sustainable site can protect or regenerate through sustainable land development and
management practices.
Global climate regulation
Maintaining balance of atmospheric gases at historic levels
Maintaining healthy air quality
Sequestering carbon
Local climate regulation
Regulating local temperature, precipitation, and humidity through shading,
evapotranspiration, and windbreaks
Air and water cleansing
Removing and reducing pollutants in air and water
Water supply retention
Storing and conserving water within watersheds and aquifers
Erosion and sediment control
Retaining soil within an ecosystem
Preventing damage from erosion and siltation
Hazard mitigation
Reducing vulnerability to damage from flooding, storm surge, wildfire, and drought
Pollination
Providing for the reproduction of crops and other plants
Habitat functions
Providing refuge and reproduction habitat to plants and animals, contributing to the
conservation of biological and genetic diversity and evolutionary processes
Waste decomposition and treatment
Breaking down waste
Cycling nutrients
Human health and well-being
Enhancing physical, mental, and social well-being as a result of interaction with nature
Food and renewable non-food products
Producing food, fuel, energy, medicine, or other products for human use
Cultural benefits
Enhancing cultural, educational, aesthetic, and spiritual experiences as a result of
interaction with nature

Sites v2 Rating System

SITES Decision-Making Hierarchy

high

PERFORMANCE

CONSERVE

low

MANAGE

RESTORE

GENERATE
EXISTING
CONDITIONS

DURING SITES
PROJECT
DEVELOPMENT

FUTURE
CONDITIONS

Built sites can be modeled after healthy systems, thereby increasing the ecosystem
services they provide post-development. Landscape performance increases as
relationships between soil, vegetation, and organisms mature over long periods of time,
becoming more complex and interdependent. The decision-making hierarchy provided
by the SITES Guiding Principles (p. ix) gives projects a step-by-step framework for
approaching existing site elements in order to conserve, manage, restore, or generate
high-functioning ecosystems.
When healthy soil, vegetation, and habitat are found on site, management of these
systems should take place to conserve biodiversity and the long-term health and
vitality of the site. This management includes ensuring land design and development
protect, maintain, and improve existing features (e.g., wetlands, habitat, floodplains) and
appropriately remove and manage any undesirable elements (e.g., invasive species),
which contribute to the loss of ecosystem function. When features such as large trees
or streams have been lost to previous development, restore the landscape to regain
performance benefits. On brownfields or previously developed sites with limited
ecological activity, opportunities may exist to generate ecosystem services by planting
native vegetation or implementing technologies such as raingardens or green roofs. Such
management will ensure that future conditions will yield high-performance landscapes
that provide ecosystem services.
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The Goals for SITES v2

In the SITES v2 Rating System, a total of 200 potential points are allocated among
48 credits for a given project site. The Rating System reflects each credits impact on
improving site sustainability and protecting and restoring ecosystem services. Projects
will receive SITES certification by achieving the minimum requirements (i.e. prerequisites)
and a certain specified number of points for different levels of performance. The value
assigned to each credit is based on its potential effectiveness in meeting the four goals
outlined below.
SiteS Goals
Create Regenerative Systems and Foster Resiliency
Protect and restore natural resources such as soil, water, and vegetation.
Encourage biodiversity.
Enhance landscapes to provide multiple ecosystem services such as cleaning air and water,
providing habitat, and storing carbon.
Mitigate for evolving hazards and natural disasters.
Plan for monitoring and adaptive management.
Ensure Future Resource Supply and Mitigate Climate Change
Minimize energy consumption and encourage use of low carbon and renewable energy
sources.
Minimize or eliminate greenhouse gas emissions, heavy metals, chemicals, and other
pollutants.
Reduce, reuse, recycle, and upcycle materials and resources.
Conserve water.
Increase the capacity of carbon sinks through re-vegetation.
Transform the Market through Design, Development, and Maintenance Practices
Foster leadership in industry and professional practice.
Use a systems-thinking, integrative and collaborative design approach.
Use lifecycle analyses to inform the design process.
Support local economies and sustainability policies.
Enhance Human Well-Being and Strengthen Community
Reconnect humans to nature.
Improve human health (physical, mental, and spiritual).
Foster stewardship by providing education that promotes the understanding of natural
systems, and recognizes the value of landscapes.
Encourage cultural integrity and promote regional identity.
Provide opportunities for community involvement and advocacy.

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II. The SITES v2 Process

ELIGIBLE SITES: WHERE AND WHEN TO USE SITES v2

In this Rating System, a site is the physical location or land on which a project is
developed. The SITES v2 Rating System applies to new construction projects as well
as existing sites that include major renovations. There is no maximum size for a SITES
project, but the minimum size is considered to be 2,000 square feet (185.8 square
meters). For projects that were completed more than two years prior to SITES registration
(i.e. completed by submitting an application and fee), the project team should closely
examine the prerequisite and credit requirements to ensure that the associated
documentation exists to prove compliance for certification.
The SITES v2 Rating System accommodates regional differences and various types
of sites (e.g., urban, suburban, or rural locations; previously developed or undeveloped
sites). Many benchmarks consider the sites pre-existing condition and function in
recommending performance criteria. While SITES can be applied worldwide, some
references are specific to the Unites States; therefore, project teams in other countries
are responsible for referencing and documenting comparable local resources.
The SITES v2 Rating System can apply to projects located on sites with or without
buildings, including:
Open spaceslocal, state, and national parks; botanic gardens; arboretums
Streetscapes and plazas
Commercialretail and office areas; corporate campuses
Residentialneighborhoods or individual yards
Educational/Institutionalpublic and private campuses; museums; hospitals
Infrastructure
Government
Military
Industrial
For sites that include buildings, the SITES v2 Rating System focuses on the area from the
building skin outwards. For more details, see Where to Start on page xxiii.
The SITES program supports and encourages projects that plan to pursue simultaneous
certification with the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Leadership in Energy &
Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating Systems and the SITES v2 Rating
System. For further guidance on the synergies and potential equivalences between the
LEED and SITES rating systems, please visit the SITES website (www.sustainablesites.org).

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HOW TO USE AND UNDERSTAND SITES v2

The SITES v2 Rating System consists of 18 prerequisites and 48 credits totaling 200
points for measuring project sustainability. Additionally, projects that employ innovative
and exemplary performance strategies can receive bonus points (see Section 10:
Innovation + Exemplary Performance). By providing performance measures rather than
prescribing practices, SITES supports the unique conditions of each site and encourages
project teams to be flexible and creative as they design and develop beautiful, functional,
and regenerative sites appropriate for their context and intended use.
Prerequisites and credits in the SITES v2 Rating System are organized into 10 sections
that follow typical design and construction phases. Achieving a sustainable site eligible
for certification begins with proper site selection and site assessment, continues through
site design and construction, and includes effective and appropriate operations and
maintenance. SITES v2 concludes with an emphasis on education and performance
monitoring in order to increase the knowledge base of site sustainability.
Prerequisite requirements must be met if a project is to be considered for certification.
All credits are considered optional; however, a certain number of credit points must be
approved for a project to achieve certification (see Certification on page xxvii). Not all
credits will apply to every project, but the array of credits provides multiple opportunities
to achieve certification.
A brief overview of the SITES v2 Rating System follows below. It aims to provide project
teams with an understanding of the overarching goals of each section and how each
relates to other areas.
Section 1: Site Context
Particular attention is placed on understanding the context of where a project is located
and developed. SITES requires careful planning and the protection of existing, functioning
natural features that are unique, critical, sensitive, or threatened, such as farmlands,
floodplains, wetlands, and wildlife habitats. These features provide essential ecosystem
functions for wildlife, site users, and the surrounding community.
SITES considers previous uses of the site and rewards projects that are located on
degraded sites because of the opportunity and, sometimes the urgency, to restore
ecosystem services in these areas. Redevelopment also reduces pressure on
undeveloped land, or greenfields. This section also looks beyond the site boundary
to consider how the surrounding area can contribute to reducing pollution, improving
human health and well-being, and supporting local economies and communities.
Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning
Before design begins, an integrated design team must conduct a comprehensive site
assessment of existing physical, biological, and cultural conditions that will inform
planning and design. This team must include experts in natural systems, design,
construction, and maintenance, in addition to representatives of the community, the
owners, and the intended site users.

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PRE
CIP
ITA

IO N
RAT

ILT

TI
RA A
P O IR
EVA NSP
TRA

WATER
CYCLE

NF

N
TIO
A
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ON
TI

CO
ND
EN

Section 3: Site DesignWater

Natural systems are of critical value for their ability to store, clean, and distribute available
water. This section encourages projects that are designed to conserve water, maximize
the use of precipitation, and protect water quality. For example, a sustainable project may
harvest rainwater on site and use it, rather than potable water, for irrigation and water
features. The goal is to incorporate strategies and technologies that restore or mimic
natural systems.

/I

O
TI N
ON /

RU

F
NO

Protect
Floodplains
Conserve + P
1.2
Aquatic
P1.3
Ecosy
stems

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Aq store
Ec uatic
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em
s

C3

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Ma nof
Ru
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P3 .3
C3
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P7

Collect
Runoff
P3.2
C3.4
C3.5

This diagram illustrates how prerequisites and credits in the SITES v2 Rating System
relate to and support the processes of the natural water cycle, shown highlighted in the
blue circle above. The bottom right shows the actions that SITES encourages in gray,
while the corresponding prerequisite and credit numbers are shown in the dark gray bar.

Sites v2 Rating System

xv

.6

C5
.1
0

GER
MI
NA
TI
SOIL

N
O

/
ON
ITI G
S
PO LIN
M YC

.3
C8

DE
C
RE O
C

Protect +
Conserve
Soil +
Vegetation

RE

GR

SEEDS

SOIL +
VEGETATION
LIFE-CYCLE

OWT

C7

Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

This section requires proper soil management as a design element and construction
priority. In addition to serving as the foundation for robust vegetation, healthy soils
filter pollutants and help prevent excess runoff, erosion, sedimentation, and flooding.
Using appropriate vegetation, managing invasive plants, and restoring biodiversity
(emphasizing native species) are some key strategies that have multiple environmental,
economic, and social benefits. They can reduce or eliminate landscape irrigation, increase
the quality of wildlife habitat, promote regional identity, and reduce maintenance needs.

LE

AS

Ma
In nage
Ve vasive
ge
tat
ion

P4
C8 .2
.4

3
P4.
8
C4.
C4.9
C4.10
C4.11
C8.4

.7
C4 3
.
P7 4
.
C7

Install New
Vegetation

+
re on
sto ati
Reeget
V il
So

/
FLO
N
IN G
F R U W E R C TI O
IT P R O D U

P2.3
P4.1
C4.4
C4.5
C4.6
C4.
7
C4.
8
C7.
6

This diagram illustrates how prerequisites and credits in the SITES v2 Rating System
relate to and support the processes of the natural soil and vegetation life-cycle, shown
highlighted in the blue circle above. The bottom right shows the actions that SITES
encourages in gray, while the corresponding prerequisite and credit numbers are shown in
the dark gray bar.

Sites v2 Rating System

xvi

Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Appropriate selection and use of materials can contribute to a projects ability to support
and enhance ecosystem services on the site and wherever the material exists throughout
its life-cycle. The demolition, selection, procurement, and use of materials in site design
and construction present considerable opportunities to decrease the amount of materials
sent to landfills, to preserve natural resources, to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and
to support the use of sustainable building products.

.3
C8

P5
.1

C5
.7

EXT
RA
CT
IO

R
RE ESO
CO

CE Y
UR ER
V

C T U RIN G

UFA

AN

US

.4
C5
5.3
C5.2 C

MATERIALS
LIFE-CYCLE

C5
.8
C5.9
C5.10

C5
.5

C7
.5

6
7.
C

.2
P8

.2
P7
8
C

.4

TRAN

IO
SP O RTAT

C5.6

This diagram illustrates how prerequisites and credits in the SITES v2 Rating System,
shown in dark gray, relate to and support the processes of the materials life-cycle, shown
highlighted in the blue circle above.

Sites v2 Rating System

xvii

Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Any access to nature, whether in a park or natural area, or simply viewing green space
during daily life, positively affects mental health and facilitates social connection. These
effects are essential to healthy human habitat and extend to include positive physical
health outcomes. This section promotes outdoor opportunities for physical activity,
restorative and aesthetic experiences, and social interaction. It also encourages projects
to address social equity in their design and development choices. The intent is to build
stronger communities and create or renew a sense of environmental stewardship.
Section 7: Construction
Sustainable construction practices start with ensuring that contractors are aware of
sustainability goals set in the initial design phase. Then, proper actions can be taken
through the construction phase. This section encourages projects to protect air quality
through low-emitting equipment, strive for a net-zero waste site, ensure healthy
vegetation through soil restoration strategies, and protect receiving waters from
polluted runoff and sedimentation.
Section 8: Operations + Maintenance
To produce a design and to meet performance goals that will conserve resources and
reduce pollution and waste throughout the life of the project, work with a maintenance
professional during the design phase. This section promotes maintenance strategies
that maximize the sites long-term potential in providing ecosystem services. Strategies
include reducing material disposal, ensuring long-term health of soil and vegetation,
reducing pollution, conserving energy, and encouraging the use of renewable energy.
Section 9: Education + Performance Monitoring
This section recognizes projects for efforts made to inform and educate the public
about the project goals and sustainable practices implemented in site design,
construction, and maintenance. It also creates an incentive to monitor, document,
and report the performance of the site over time in order to influence and improve
the body of knowledge in site sustainability.
Section 10: Innovation or Exemplary Performance
This section encourages creativity and innovation in fulfilling prerequisite and
credit requirements. It awards bonus points to projects that demonstrate exemplary
performance above and beyond the targets established by one or more of the credits.
SITES also supports innovation by awarding extra points to projects that develop or
pursue sustainable practices or meet benchmarks for sustainable performance that are
not currently addressed in the SITES v2 Rating System.
Credit Format
Throughout the SITES v2 Rating System, each section is given a shorthand title (e.g.,
Pre-Design stands for Pre-Design Assessment + Planning) and references to prerequisites
and credits have been shortened to P or C, followed by the section number, credit
number and title.
Example: Pre-Design P2.1: Use an integrative design process
Section

Prerequisite
or Credit

Section
Number

Credit
Number

Pre-Design

.1

Sites v2 Rating System

Title
Use an integrative
design process

xviii

Prerequisites and Credits

A project must satisfy all prerequisites to be considered for certification. SITES considers
each credit optional, but a certain number of credit points are required for certification.
See the section on Certification on page xxvii for more details. Information about each
prerequisite and credit is presented in a standard format for simplicity and quick reference
as follows.
Please note that this document contains an abbreviated version of the credits to serve as an
introduction to SITES v2.
*These headings are excluded. For the complete resource, see the SITES v2 Reference Guide
(www.sustainablesites.org).
Title previews the content of the prerequisite or credit and offers a general overview of the
action to be taken.
Point level sets forth the range of points that can be earned by fulfilling the requirements of
each credit. Prerequisites are required; therefore, they do not have a point range.
Intent describes the objective or benefit of the prerequisite or credit.
Requirements are the measures or benchmarks a project must meet to satisfy the
prerequisite or achieve the credit. For certain credits, multiple thresholds are provided and
point values reflect these incremental improvements. In some prerequisites and credits,
specific pathways are outlined as Cases, Options, or Methods (see below).
Cases indicate how projects with particular pre-existing conditions should document
compliance.
Options allow project teams to choose actions to satisfy credit requirements. Options are
allotted credit value commensurate with their requirements.
Methods indicate techniques for achieving the credit requirements, although all methods
result in the same number of points. This term appears only in HHWB Credit 6.8: Reduce
light pollution.
Submittal documentation* specifies what a project must submit to prove compliance with
the requirements of the prerequisite or credit. This documentation may include a site plan
detailing specific criteria, calculations demonstrating a sites performance, or a narrative
explaining procedures undertaken to meet the requirements. Consistent, clear documentation
is critical to prove compliance.
Documentation guidance* offers additional tools, procedures, or advice for assessing a
requirement and submitting documentation. To assist projects with documentation for certain
SITES credits, hypothetical project examples demonstrate the information that must be
shown on maps and site plans submitted for certification review (See Where to StartSite
Plans and Maps in the SITES v2 Reference Guide for more background on these example
sites).
Recommended strategies are site practices that a project team can use to fulfill the
prerequisite or credit. The technologies and strategies listed in this section are not allinclusive, and SITES encourages projects to use creative site-specific solutions to meet
the requirements of a prerequisite or credit.
Economic and social benefits* describe the value of ecosystem services that a prerequisite
or credit could provide. Economic benefits may take the form of avoided costs, such as lower
healthcare costs due to improved air and water quality; reduced infrastructure costs because
rainwater capture lessens pressure on storm sewers; or increased property values. Social
benefits make take the form of improved physical outcomes (e.g., weight loss); reduced
symptoms of depression and aggression; or increase in performance on creative or problemsolving tasks. The benefits listed per credit are only examples and not all-inclusive. For further
information on the benefits and value of sustainable sites, visit www.sustainablesites.org.

Sites v2 Rating System

xix

Definitions* clarify the meaning of certain terms used in descriptions of each prerequisite
or credit. A term that is defined will be underlined. Some definitions will link to a particular
prerequisite or credit. A glossary is provided at the end of the reference guide citing each
prerequisite and credit in which a term appears.
Resources* provide additional guidance, information or research findings. All efforts have
been made to ensure web links are current at the time of publishing, but the constantly
changing nature of Internet information means they may not remain up to date indefinitely. For
any SITES credits adapted from USGBC LEED credits, the applicable LEED credits are noted
as the first bullet in this section.
Links to other SITES prerequisites and credits* demonstrate the interrelationships and
synergies within the rating system. This graphic found in the SITES v2 Reference Guide is
intended to guide project teams to higher levels of sustainability (through increased credit
achievement) by outlining the connections between credits and performance criteria. Prerequisites and credits have a graphic (example below) that demonstrates Required and Related
Links between other prerequisites and credits.
Required Links refer to any mandatory cross-credit documentation that teams must submit
for a project to satisfy the requirements and intent of a given prerequisite or credit. In the
graphic, Required Links are shown in blue.
Related Links indicate other prerequisites or credits that might benefit from strategies used
for a given credit or prerequisite. In the graphic, Related Links are shown in gray.

P2.2
P2.3

P4.1
P4.2
P4.3
C4.4

C1.6

CONTEXT P1.1

LIMIT DEVELOPMENT ON FARMLAND

Sites v2 Rating System

C6.1
C6.2
C6.3
C6.4
C6.5
C6.6
C6.7

P7.1
P7.2
P7.3

INNOVATION

EDUCATION

O+M

CONSTRUCTION

HHWB

MATERIALS

SOIL + VEG

WATER

PRE-DESIGN

CONTEXT

Links To Other SITES Prerequisites And Credits

P8.1

Required
Related

xx

WHERE TO START
Integrated Design Team
An integrative design process is a critical component of the SITES v2 Rating System. It
requires project team members of diverse disciplines (i.e., knowledgeable about natural
systems, design, construction, and maintenance) to engage with each other, the client
or owner, and local stakeholders and experts. This inclusive, collaborative, goal-driven
approach is aimed at achieving high-performance project design and widespread buy-in
from all parties involved. An integrated design team must be formed before beginning
site design (see Pre-Design P2.1: Use an integrative design process) and all participants
should be included in the initial review of the rating system and in determining the
associated performance goals of the project.
SITES Scorecard
The SITES scorecard is a list of all the SITES v2 prerequisites and credits and their
respective points. This tool helps projects note their initial goals and their progress in
terms of the required prerequisites as well as the credits that the project team intends
to pursue. The scorecard is a concise summary of a projects credit goals, and
SITES requires submission of the scorecard for certification review. Please visit
www.sustainablesites.org to download the SITES v2 scorecard.
Prerequisites
There are 18 prerequisites in the SITES v2 Rating System, and a project must satisfy
all of them in order to be considered for certification. Prerequisites represent a baseline
performance for any SITES certified project. Projects must review and understand
prerequisite requirements to assess whether their project is eligible, particularly those
found in Section 1: Site Context and Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning.
The prerequisites are as follows:
Context P1.1: Limit development on farmland
Context P1.2: Protect floodplain functions
Context P1.3: Conserve aquatic ecosystems
Context P1.4: Conserve habitats for threatened and endangered species
Pre-Design P2.1: Use an integrative design process
Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment
Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones
Water P3.1: Manage precipitation on site
Water P3.2: Reduce water use for landscape irrigation
Soil+Veg P4.1: Create and communicate a soil management plan
Soil+Veg P4.2: Control and manage invasive plants
Soil+Veg P4.3: Use appropriate plants
Materials P5.1: Eliminate the use of wood from threatened tree species
Construction P7.1: Communicate and verify sustainable construction practices
Construction P7.2: Control and retain construction pollutants
Construction P7.3: Restore soils disturbed during construction
O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site maintenance
O+M P8.2: Provide for storage and collection of recyclables

Sites v2 Rating System

xxi

Site Assessment
The site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment) is a
comprehensive data-gathering exercise in which the integrated design team assesses
and maps the existing conditions and characteristics of the project site to help explore
options for sustainable outcomes. This task informs future decisions about site design,
construction, operations, and maintenance. SITES considers the site assessment as a
roadmap to better understanding the rating system.
Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs)
The rating system requires projects to conserve existing healthy natural resources that are
critical, rare, or sensitive, such as prime farmland, within Vegetation and Soil Protection
Zones (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate Vegetation and Soil Protection
Zones). To prevent damage to vegetation, soil structure, and function, teams should
identify these areas during the pre-design phase and protect them throughout
construction according to VSPZ requirements. Not all sites will contain a VSPZ, because
VSPZs are based on existing healthy site features.
Plans and Punchlist
Several prerequisites require projects to consider and document how a site will operate
during the construction and maintenance phases. Teams must communicate the
SITES goals for the project to all members including contractors and operations and
maintenance personnel. This documentation also addresses requirements of other SITES
prerequisites and credits.
Soil Management Plan (Soil+Veg P4.1: Create and communicate a soil
management plan)
Teams should complete this plan in the design phase. It details actions required for
soil protection and restoration during the construction phase of the project.
SITES Punchlist (Construction P7.1: Communicate and verify sustainable
construction practices)
Prior to the pre-construction meeting, a team must develop a punchlist that details
communication and accountability between team members and ensures that SITES
goals are met throughout construction.
Site Maintenance Plan (O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site maintenance)
Created by the integrated design team (including a team member knowledgeable in
site maintenance), this plan intends to inform and structure maintenance strategies
that ensure long-term site sustainability. It serves as a foundation for a more extensive
operations and maintenance manual.
Defining a SITES Project Boundary
The SITES project boundary defines the limits of the project submitted for SITES
certification. All maps or plans provided as credit documentation must reflect this SITES
project boundary.
Generally, the SITES project boundary must be the legal property boundary. For projects
located on publicly owned land or campuses that do not have internal property lines, the
SITES project boundary may use the legal limits of the campus or, for SITES purposes,
define an alternative boundary that is wholly contained within the legally owned site. It
may not exclude sections of land to create boundaries in unreasonable shapes for the
sole purpose of complying with prerequisites or credits. Other criteria for defining the
boundary are as follows:
All contiguous land that is associated with and supports normal site operations must
be included in the SITES project boundary, including all land disturbed, protected, or
conserved during the project. The SITES project boundary must not contain noncontiguous parcels except for parcels separated by public rights-of-way.
Sites v2 Rating System

xxii

 All activities (i.e., conservation, restoration, construction, maintenance) must occur

within the SITES project boundary and be consistently accounted for in prerequisite and
credit documentation.
Existing land uses and buildings may be included, but a majority of the projects total
area should either be recently completed (within two years of SITES registration),
planned as new construction, or a major renovation of an existing site.
The entire area contained within the project boundary must be held by the same
ownership, property manager, or developer, or maintained under one operating body.
Special Cases
Regularly occupied buildings are buildings where occupants (e.g., workers, students,
residents) are inside for extended periods of time. In situations where regularly occupied
buildings are located within the SITES project boundary:
SITES certification generally concerns the area from the building skin outward; therefore
most materials and spaces within a regularly occupied building footprint should be
excluded from SITES calculations. In general, this division occurs at the outside-most
material layer of the building enclosure.
Exterior building materials must be included if they are part of an area (e.g., green roof,
living wall) being used for SITES credits. If the project team elects to include exterior
building materials, they must consistently account for them in all applicable SITES
prerequisites and credits.
In some cases, land and facilities outside the SITES project boundary may be included in
submittals:
Submittals for all credits within Section 3: Site DesignWater may include an offsite
catchment area, defined as land outside the SITES project boundary.
The project SITES boundary may exclude a construction staging area that includes
previously developed land used solely for construction staging and materials sorting.
However, all credit calculations within Section 7: Construction must include the staging
area.
A project may use facilities such as parking lots that are outside the SITES project
boundary when they serve the project but are not a part of the SITES construction
scope.
Base Calculation Guidance
SITES asks projects seeing certification to provide base calculations in multiple credit
submittals, and these numbers should be used consistently across all prerequisites and
credits.
Total site area represents the entire area within the SITES project boundary, and may
be presented in square feet, acres, or square meters (for projects outside the United
States). The total site area should exclude the area of regularly occupied buildings,
unless a portion (e.g., green roof) counts toward SITES credits.
Vegetated area describes all portions of the sites that will support vegetation.
Existing vegetated area is the pre-project area within the SITES project boundary
that supports vegetation, including any invasive vegetation, as noted in credits such
as Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment, and Soil+Veg C4.4:
Conserve healthy soils and appropriate vegetation.
Final vegetated area represents the entire area within the SITES project boundary that
will support vegetation after the project is complete as noted in credits such as Water
P3.2: Reduce water use for landscape irrigation, Soil+Veg C4.6: Conserve and use
native plants, and Construction P7.3: Restore soils disturbed during construction.

Sites v2 Rating System

xxiii

Total materials cost represents the total cost of all materials used in the SITES
project. The Materials Worksheet is available to registered project teams to assist in
tracking and calculating project materials costs.
Total site users number represents the typical number of simultaneous users on a
site during the busiest time period, excluding rare or singular events. Site users are
defined as individuals who are expected to occupy, work at, or pass through the site.
Users may visit the site regularly or only periodically. Site users will range in age,
ethnicity, and socio-economic status, but all users needs should be considered.
For projects with regularly occupied buildings, the total number of site users should
include both full-time equivalent (FTE) occupants and either calculated or estimated
temporary occupants. FTE occupants are typically the users of a site during a
standard eight-hour period. An FTE occupant has a value of 1.0, while a temporary
occupant has a value based on his or her hours per day divided by eight (occupant
value = occupant hours/8 hours). If there are multiple shifts, use only the highest
volume shift in the FTE calculation but consider shift overlap when determining peak
site users.
For projects with more transient populations, reasonable methods of calculating
estimated site users are acceptable with SITES approval.
SITES recommends that the integrated design team work collaboratively to estimate
the average number of users likely to be on site. SITES suggested methodology
includes the following metrics:
Consider daily use patterns and recurring events. If an event occurs more than 10
times per year, the number of users at those events should be considered.
Site visitors present for two hours or less need not be factored into the number of
total site users.
Consider overlapping use patterns to estimate the total simultaneous site users.
Worksheets and Calculators
Registered projects receive access to specific worksheets and calculators mentioned
throughout the SITES v2 Rating System (e.g., Vegetation Worksheet, Native Plants
Calculator, Materials Worksheet). SITES provides these tools to assist project teams
in tracking and calculating data consistently throughout the design and development
process.
SITES Maps and Plans
For consideration for SITES certification, projects must provide a pre- and postconstruction base map of the site showing the projects key components. Credit
documentation must use this information consistently as it helps demonstrate compliance
with SITES prerequisites and credits. All additional maps or plans provided as supporting
credit documentation must reflect this base map information and should also follow these
guidelines:
Include the SITES project ID number, project name, relevant credit or prerequisite,
location, and date of preparation
Choose colors and images that clearly communicate the intent of the project
Include a legend if icons, hatch patterns, or color palettes are used
Provide a scale and north arrow
Clearly define the SITES project boundary on all maps provided for review
Clearly define any Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs)

Sites v2 Rating System

xxiv

CERTIFICATION
The SITES v2 Rating System is a 200-point system with four certification levels of
achievement.
The 18 prerequisites within the rating system are required and therefore are not assigned
a point value. Credits are optional and assigned a point value or a range of possible
points, which provides projects additional flexibility in selecting a target certification level
that is appropriate and achievable.
Certification under the SITES v2 Rating System is awarded according to the following
scale:
SITES v2 Certification Levels:

200 Points Total

Certified

70 points

Silver

85 points

Gold

100 points

Platinum

135 points

UPDATES AND ADDENDA

This is the first edition of the SITES v2 Rating System: For Sustainable Land Design and
Development. The prerequisites and credits may need to be updated and amended as the
science and body of knowledge on site sustainability improves and evolves. SITES will
make updates and addenda available on its website (www.sustainablesites.org).
For more insight and an in-depth view of the SITES v2 Rating System, please see the
SITES v2 Reference Guide, available for purchase at www.sustainablesites.org.

Sites v2 Rating System

xxv

SECTION 1

SITE CONTEXT

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

Context P1.1

Limit development on farmland

Required

Context P1.2

Protect floodplain functions

Required

Context P1.3

Conserve aquatic ecosystems

Required

Context P1.4

Conserve habitats for threatened and endangered species

Required

Context C1.5

Redevelop degraded sites

3-6 points

Context C1.6

Locate projects within existing developed areas

4 points

Context C1.7

Connect to multi-modal transit networks

2-3 points

Section 1: Site Context

Prerequisite 1.1:
Limit development on farmland

P1.1

Required
Intent
Conserve the most productive farmland for future generations by protecting prime
farmland, unique farmland, and farmland of statewide or local importance.
Requirements
The requirements below apply exclusively to areas of the site that contain healthy soils,
as identified in the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site
assessment), or areas of the site that have not been previously developed.
Refer to prime farmland, unique farmland, farmland of statewide importance, or farmland
of local importance as defined by the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations, Title 7, Volume
6, Parts 400 to 699, Section 657.7 and identified in the U.S. Department of Agricultures
Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) soil survey (or local equivalent for
projects outside the United States).
Case 1: Sites without farmland soils
Locate the project on a site that does not contain soils defined by the NRCS (or
local equivalent for projects outside the United States) as prime farmland, unique
farmland, or farmland of statewide or local importance.
Case 2: Sites with farmland soilsVSPZs
Designate at least 95 percent of all healthy soils on site defined by the NRCS (or local
equivalent for projects outside the United States) as prime farmland, unique farmland,
and farmland of statewide or local importance in Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones
(VSPZs) (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate VSPZs).
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and describes the on-going management activities to protect
the integrity of the VSPZs.
Case 3: Sites with farmland soilsMitigation
A site containing soils defined by the NRCS (or local equivalent for projects outside the
United States) as prime farmland, unique farmland, or farmland of statewide or local
importance is eligible for Case 3 if it is not located in an area designated by the municipality, county, or state as an agricultural conservation or rural conservation zone, and at least
one of the following applies:
Locate the project on an infill site (this action also satisfies the requirements of Context
C1.6: Locate projects within existing developed areas).
Locate the project within an area that has been designated by the municipality, county,
or state as a desired development zone, a preferred growth area, or an urban
growth boundary, using a comprehensive planning process (e.g., assessing future
agricultural needs, affordable housing opportunities, transportation corridors, desires
for density).

Sites v2 Rating System

Section 1: Site Context

Mitigation requirements: 100 percent of prime farmland, unique farmland, or farmland of
statewide or local importance soils lost to development must be mitigated as follows:
The purchase of agricultural conservation easements* must provide permanent
protection from development on land with comparable soils at a 2:1 ratio (i.e., two acres
or 0.81 hectares of easement for every one acre or 0.40 hectares of farmland soils lost
to development).
--Comparable soils must be productive farmland soils defined by the NRCS (or
local equivalent for projects outside the United States) as prime farmland, unique
farmland, or farmland of statewide or local importance
All off-site mitigation (i.e., purchase of easements) must post-date SITES registration
and must be located within 100 miles (160.93 kilometers) of the site.
Up to 15 percent of the on-site soils defined by the NRCS (or local equivalent for
projects outside the United States) as prime farmland, unique farmland, or farmland of
statewide or local importance may be excluded from the mitigation requirements if it is
permanently dedicated for on-site food production (see HHWB C6.7: Provide on-site
food production). The minimum size of land designated for on-site food production
must be at least 2,000 square feet (185.81 square meters).

P1.1

* Criteria for agricultural conservation easements:

>>Must be used for the purpose of keeping land available for farming in
perpetuity
>>Must maintain soil health (i.e., must be restored, vegetated with a perennial
crop, or farmed with restorative agriculture practices that limit damage to soil
and waterways)
>>Must allow (though not require) continued farming of the land
>>Refer to agricultural conservation easements proposed by the American
Farmland Trust (or local equivalent for projects outside the United States)
Recommended strategies
Refer to the NRCS Web Soil Survey (websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/app/HomePage.htm),
NRCS SSURGO soil surveys (soildatamart.nrcs.usda.gov), and NRCS soil survey maps
from local Soil and Water Conservation District offices (or local equivalent for projects
outside the United States) to determine if soils designated as prime farmland, unique
farmland, or farmland of statewide or local importance are present on site.
If farmland soils are present on site, consider relocating project development to
an alternate site. If developing on an alternate site is not possible, locate project
development within the site so as to conserve prime farmland soils and minimize
disturbance due to construction activity.

Sites v2 Rating System

Section 1: Site Context

Prerequisite 1.2:
Protect floodplain functions

P1.2

Required
Intent
Protect floodplain functions (e.g., storage, habitat, water quality benefits) by limiting new
development within the 100-year floodplain of all types of waterways and watercourses.
Requirements
Case 1: Sites without floodplain
Locate the project on a site that does not contain any land within a 100-year floodplain
as defined and mapped by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or a
local or state floodplain management agency map, whichever is more stringent (or local
equivalent for projects outside the United States).
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete, including documentation that the site is not located within
a 100-year floodplain.
Case 2: Previously developed and brownfield sites within floodplain
Locate the project on a previously developed or brownfield site.
--Demonstrate how the proposed development or redevelopment activities within
the floodplain mitigate and improve existing floodplain conditions. Such activities
must maintain or increase existing floodplain storage, improve water quality, and
be designed so as not to be damaged by floods. Activities must not increase flood
elevations.
--Comply with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements for
developing any structures within the 100-year floodplain (or local equivalent for
projects outside the United States).
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and documents the location of the 100-year floodplain.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and describes the on-going management activities to protect
the integrity of the floodplain functions.
Case 3: Greenfield sites within floodplain
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and documents the location of the 100-year floodplain.
Designate Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs) for 90 percent of the land
within the 100-year floodplain (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate
VSPZs).
Demonstrate that any minimal impact site development within the VSPZ improves
existing floodplain conditions, which means it maintains or increases existing floodplain
storage, improves water quality, is designed so as not to be damaged by floods, and
does not singularly or cumulatively increase flood elevations.
Comply with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements for developing
any structures within the 100-year floodplain (or local equivalent for projects outside the
United States).
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and describes the on-going management activities to protect
the integrity of the VSPZs and the floodplain functions.

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Section 1: Site Context

Recommended strategies
Design the site to limit development and disturbance within the 100-year floodplain.
Design new development, such as a trail or boardwalk, in such a way that it will not
be damaged by flooding or result in a negative impact to existing floodplain storage or
conveyance.
Re-establish areas of vegetated floodplain on brownfield or previously developed sites,
and manage invasive plant species where necessary.
Carefully situate new development to avoid causing erosion and directing sediment and
potential contaminants from stormwater runoff into receiving waters.

Sites v2 Rating System

P1.2

Section 1: Site Context

Prerequisite 1.3:
Conserve aquatic ecosystems

P1.3

Required
Intent
Conserve and protect aquatic ecosystems, including wetlands and deepwater habitats
that provide critical ecosystem functions for fish, other wildlife, and people.
Requirements
Aquatic ecosystems include wetlands, deepwater habitats, and areas classified in
accordance with the Classification of Wetlands and Deepwater Habitats of the United
States as follows:
MarineTidal wetlands, shorelines, mudflats, reefs
EstuarineBays, lagoons, marshes
RiverineStreams, rivers (associated floodplains and their riparian buffer)
LacustrineLakes, ponds (associated shorelines and their riparian buffer)
PalustrineNon-tidal wetlands, seeps, springs, vernal pools, seasonal wetlands
Wetlands are defined in the U.S. Clean Water Act and delineated according to the
appropriate regional supplement to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers delineation manual
(see Resources section). The boundaries of other aquatic ecosystems are defined by
the ordinary high water mark (OHWM), which is also explained in Corps reports (see
Resources section). Use local equivalent for projects outside the United States.
Case 1: Sites without aquatic ecosystems
Locate the project on a site that does not contain any aquatic ecosystems, including
isolated wetlands.
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and demonstrates that no aquatic ecosystems, including
isolated wetlands, are located on site.
The following features are not considered aquatic ecosystems that must be protected for
the purposes of this prerequisite:
A previously developed site, unless the site contains naturally occurring wetlands,
deepwater habitats, or previously constructed mitigation wetlands
Human-made water bodies (e.g., industrial mining pits, concrete-lined canals,
stormwater retention ponds) that lack natural edges and floors or native ecological
communities in the water and along the edge.
Human-made linear wetlands that result from the interruption of natural upland
drainages by existing rights-of-way (except aquatic ecosystems that have been
relocated by a right-of-way)
Aquatic ecosystems including wetlands that are incidental results of development
activity and have been rated poor for all measured wetland functions. A qualified
professional using a method that is accepted by regional, state, or federal permitting
agencies must perform an aquatic ecosystem quality assessment.
Case 2: Sites with naturally occurring aquatic ecosystems
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and documents any aquatic ecosystems, including
isolated wetlands, located on site.
Delineate the full geographic extent, within the project site boundary, of the aquatic
ecosystems according to U.S. Army Corps of Engineers guidance.

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Section 1: Site Context

Designate Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs) for wetland and deepwater
habitat buffer designations as defined below (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and
communicate VSPZs). Restoration activities are encouraged within the limits of VSPZs.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and demonstrates how protection or restoration of the
aquatic ecosystems will maintain their health long term. Indicate how maintenance and
monitoring activities will ensure sustained proper aquatic function.
Wetland and deepwater habitat buffers are designated by local, state, or federal
regulations applicable to the jurisdiction in which the site is located, or as follows,
whichever is greater:
Classification

Aquatic ecosystem habitat buffer designation

Marine

200 feet (60.96 meters) landward from normal high tide line

Estuarine

100 feet (30.48 meters) landward from the normal high tide line

Riverine

Tidal100 feet (30.48 meters) landward from the normal high tide
line

P1.3

Lower and upper perennial100 feet (30.48 meters) from the

ordinary high water mark or the 100-year floodplain, whichever is
greater
Intermittent and unknown perennial50 feet (15.24 meters) from the
ordinary high water mark or the 100-year floodplain, whichever is
greater
Lacustrine

Water body greater than 50 contiguous acres (20.23 hectares)100

feet (30.48 meters) landward from the normal water edge
Water body less than 50 contiguous acres (20.23 hectares)50 feet
(15.24 meters) landward from the normal water edge

Palustrine

100 feet (30.48 meters) landward from the delineated edge of the
delineated wetland

Note: An existing aquatic ecosystem cannot be utilized for primary water quality treatment. Stormwater
management design must not impact existing aquatic ecosystem hydrology and features.

Case 3: Sites with naturally occurring poor quality aquatic ecosystems

This option is only available for naturally occurring aquatic ecosystems that have been
rated poor for measured functions, including hydrologic function, vegetation, and
habitat. A qualified professional using a method that is accepted by regional, state, or
federal permitting agencies must perform the aquatic ecosystem quality assessment.
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and documents any aquatic ecosystems, including
isolated wetlands, located on site.
Delineate the full geographic extent of the aquatic ecosystem, within the project site
boundary, using the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers guidance (see Resources section).
Demonstrate how the aquatic ecosystems functions will be protected, restored, and
maintained for projects that will encroach on the required buffer of naturally occurring,
poor quality aquatic ecosystems.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and demonstrates protection or restoration of the aquatic
ecosystems to maintain their health long-term. Indicate how maintenance and monitoring
activities will ensure sustained proper aquatic function.

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Section 1: Site Context

Recommended strategies
During the site selection process, give preference to developing sites that do not
contain aquatic ecosystems, such as wetlands or deepwater habitats.
Design the site to minimize disruption to existing wetlands or deepwater habitats.
If the project site boundary is directly adjacent to an off-site aquatic ecosystem, an
on-site buffer may be implemented to protect all measured functions and the long-term
health of the aquatic ecosystem.

Sites v2 Rating System

P1.3

Section 1: Site Context

Prerequisite 1.4:
Conserve habitats for threatened
and endangered species

P1.4

Required
Intent
Protect ecosystem function by avoiding development of areas that contain habitat for
plant and animal species identified as threatened or endangered.
Requirements
Case 1: Brownfields and previously developed sites
For all natural areas greater than 2,000 contiguous square feet (185.81 square meters):
--As part of the pre-design site assessment (Pre-design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment), identify whether the site is in the range of potential habitats for
any plant or animal species on U.S. federal or state threatened or endangered
lists or on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of
Threatened Species as critically endangered (CR) or endangered (EN).
--Designate the full extent of habitats for threatened or endangered species on
the site as Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs) (see Pre-Design P2.3:
Designate and communicate VSPZs).
--Protect all listed animals and plants from damage or removal. Construction
activities for minimal impact site development, and restoration and maintenance
activities within VSPZs shall only occur during seasons when the animal species is
not present.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and details the process for avoiding impacts to threatened
and endangered species and their habitats during site maintenance.
Case 2: Greenfield sites
As part of the pre-design site assessment (Pre-design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site
assessment), identify whether the site is in the range of potential habitats for any plant
or animal species on U.S. federal or state threatened or endangered lists or on the
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species
as critically endangered (CR) or endangered (EN).
If the site is in the range of any threatened or endangered plant or animal species,
conduct a habitat assessment for each identified species.
Designate the full extent of habitats for threatened and endangered species on the site
as VSPZs (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate VSPZs).
Protect all listed animals and plants from damage or removal. Construction activities for
minimal impact site development and maintenance activities within VSPZs shall only
occur during seasons when the animal species is not present. Restoration activities may
occur within this zone to increase the quality of the habitat.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and details the process for avoiding negative impacts to
threatened and endangered species and their habitats during site maintenance.

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Section 1: Site Context

Recommended strategies
During the site selection process, channel development to sites that do not include
habitat for threatened or endangered plant and animal species.
Design the site to minimize disruption to existing habitats.
Design to allow species connectivity (habitat corridors) through the site and to adjacent
sites.

Sites v2 Rating System

P1.4

10

Section 1: Site Context

Credit 1.5:
Redevelop degraded sites

C1.5

3 6 points
Intent
Protect ecosystem function, reduce pressure on undeveloped land, reduce resource
consumption, and restore ecosystem services to damaged sites by channeling
development to urban and previously developed areas.
Requirements
Case 1: Previously developed sites
3 points
Redevelop a previously developed site.
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and documents the percent of total site area that is
previously developed.
Case 2: Brownfield sites
6 points
Redevelop a brownfield site and remediate site contamination such that the controlling
public authority approves the protective measures or cleanup process as effective, safe,
and appropriate for the planned use of the site. All investigations and evaluations must
be conducted by an environmental professional, as defined by the U.S. EPA 40 CFR
312.10 b (or local equivalent for projects outside of the United States).
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and documents the sites status as contaminated or
defined as a brownfield.
Recommended strategies
During the site selection process, give preference to previously developed or brownfield
sites.
Coordinate site development plans with remediation activity, and use of existing
infrastructure and materials where appropriate.
Consult available local and state government brownfield databases to find brownfield
properties.

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Section 1: Site Context

Credit 1.6:
Locate projects within existing
developed areas

C1.6

4 points
Intent
Reduce development impacts, support local economy, and improve human health and
well-being by selecting sites within existing developed areas.
Requirements
Locate the project on a site that meets all of the following criteria:
An infill site within 500 feet (152.4 meters) of existing publicly provided water and
wastewater infrastructure
Close proximity to basic services so that at least one entrance to the project is within
a 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometers) walking distance of at least seven publicly available basic
services. (Refer to the list of basic services in the Glossary):
--Each basic service must have a separate exterior entrance, and no more than half
of the minimum number can be situated in a single building or under a common
roof.
--No more than two basic services of each type may be counted (e.g., if five
restaurants are within walking distance, only two may be counted).
--A single retail store of any type may be counted only once even if it sells products
associated with multiple-use types.
Recommended strategies
During the site selection process, give preference to sites that are close to existing
water and wastewater infrastructure, or properties within developed areas that have
pedestrian access to a variety of existing services.
For pedestrian safety along urban roads with speeds of 40 miles (64.37 kilometers) per
hour or higher, design a buffer between the road and the sidewalk.
--The width of a sidewalk depends primarily on the number of pedestrians who are
expected to use the sidewalk at a given time; high-use sidewalks should be wider
than low-use sidewalks.
--A sidewalk width of five feet (1.52 meters) is needed for two adult pedestrians to
comfortably walk side-by-side. This measurement should be the minimum width
of all planned sidewalks.

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Section 1: Site Context

Credit 1.7:
Connect to multi-modal
transit networks

C1.7

2 3 points
Intent
Improve human health and reduce pollution by selecting a site that connects to pedestrian,
bicycle, and mass-transit networks.
Requirements
Option 1: Pedestrian and bicycle network
2 points
Locate the project on a site that is accessible to pedestrians with the following planned
or existing features:
--Continuous sidewalk and crosswalk network, trail network, or a combination
that extends at least one mile (1.61 kilometers) in radial distance from a project
entrance
And, locate the project on a site that is accessible to bicyclists with one of the following
planned or existing features:
--A street with bicycle lanes or shared lane markings (SLMs) on both sides that
connect directly to a project entrance
--A bicycle network located no further than a 0.75-mile (1.2-kilometer) bicycling
distance from a project entrance and spanning at least five continuous miles (8.05
kilometers) in length
In the case of planned facilities, show that the relevant agency has committed to provide
the designated facility within two years of project completion.
Option 2: Transit network
3 points
Locate the project on a site with existing or planned transit service so that:
--At least one project entrance is within a 0.25-mile (0.4-kilometer) walking distance
of bus or streetcar stops, or within a 0.5-mile (0.8-kilometer) walking distance of
rapid transit stops, passenger rail stations, or ferry terminals
--Transit service at those stops in aggregate meets the needs of the site users
In the case of planned service, show that the relevant transit agency has committed to
provide the transit service within two years of project completion.
Recommended strategies
During site selection, give preference to areas that are served by existing pedestrian,
bicycle, and transit networks.
Examine transportation and transit agency plans for new facilities or services within two
years of project completion. Establishing relationships with agencies responsible for
pedestrian, bicycle, and transit systems early in a projects planning often can help with
documentation required for SITES certification.
Perform a transportation survey of future site users to identify transportation needs.

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SECTION 2

PRE-DESIGN
ASSESSMENT +
PLANNING

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

Pre-Design P2.1

Use an integrative design process

Required

Pre-Design P2.2

Conduct a pre-design site assessment

Required

Pre-Design P2.3

Designate and communicate Vegetation and Soil

Protection Zones (VSPZs)

Required

Pre-Design C2.4

Engage users and stakeholders

3 points

Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Prerequisite 2.1:
Use an integrative design process
Required

P2.1

Intent
Optimize site performance by identifying and executing synergistic opportunities across
different disciplines throughout all phases of design and construction.
Requirements
Projects must complete all of the following steps for prerequisite achievement:
1. Form an integrated design team
The integrated design team should include, at minimum, the following roles:
--Owner and/or client
--Professionals knowledgeable in design, construction, and maintenance
--Professionals knowledgeable in sustainable practices
--Professionals with expertise in vegetation, water, soils, landscape ecology,
materials, and human health and well-being, selected to meet the unique
constraints and opportunities of the project and its site
2. Develop a collaborative communication process
Develop an agreed upon communication method for team members. The method
should be collaborative and allow the viewpoints and perspectives of all members
to be fully considered in the decision-making process.
Designate a team facilitator to be responsible for overseeing and ensuring a
collaborative communication process.
3. Identify project sustainability principles and performance goals (see O+M P8.1:
Plan for sustainable site maintenance)
Identify the principles and performance goals of the project (both short- and longterm). Include an associated timeline and specific performance measures for each
goal to determine when it has been achieved.
Designate specific team members to track project goals throughout the
development process.
4. Incorporate the sustainability principles and performance goals into a program
plan
Develop a program plan that at minimum includes the following information:
--The unique characteristics, opportunities, and constraints of the site
--General project parameters, such as the scope, budget, implementation
schedule, purpose, and design intent of the project
--A diagram or description of the intended function, arrangement, and
relationship of desired features and their approximate dimensions
Describe how the sustainability principles and performance goals will be
incorporated into the design.
5. Identify stakeholders and site user groups
Identify project stakeholders.
Identify the full range of potential site users. List the primary and secondary user
groups.

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Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

6. Plan for construction oversight
Designate a team member, other than the contractor, who will be responsible for
verifying the site is built per the construction specifications and drawings.
Meet with the contractor (see Construction P7.1: Communicate and verify
sustainable construction practices) prior to construction to review construction
specifications, submittal requirements, and drawings and to convey the projects
principles and performance goals.
Describe the agreed upon method whereby changes can be made in the field
during construction.

P2.1

7. Develop a strategy for preparing a site maintenance plan

Include all team members in the development of the site maintenance plan (see
O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site maintenance).
Recommended strategies
Form a diverse team of qualified professionals as early as possible; team members will
coordinate with one another throughout the life of the project. For optimal interaction
and communication, ensure the project team has multiple face-to-face meetings.
Discuss available resources (e.g., budget, staff, volunteers, equipment, materials)
as part of the site maintenance plan. Determine short- and long-term maintenance
principles and performance goals. Identify present and potential invasive species, and
integrate a pest management plan into the performance goals.
From the project onset, engage the client in participating in and ideally leading a design
charrette process with the assistance of the project design team leadership. The design
team should embrace a systems thinking design approach.

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Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Prerequisite 2.2:
Conduct a pre-design site
assessment

P2.2

Required
Intent
Maximize the opportunities for beneficial site performance by conducting an accurate and
detailed assessment of site conditions and exploring options for sustainable outcomes
prior to design.
Requirements
With the integrated design team (see Pre-Design P2.1: Use an integrative design process),
collect and assess information about the site to help identify opportunities to protect
and improve ecosystem services and use sustainable strategies to guide the design,
construction, operation, and maintenance of the site:
Map and assess existing site conditions and resources according to the outline in the
Submittal documentation section.
--Not all topics in the outline apply to every site, and each site may contain
additional important unique elements that are not explicitly addressed here.
Include additional topics not listed, if any, and provide reasons for not addressing
certain topics.
Collect additional information on the site and surrounding areas to assess opportunities
for sustainable site outcomes, including all non-physical influences that may affect the
site design, and potential effects of the design.
Explain how the identified site conditions and resources will influence the sustainable
design of the site.
Note: For potential Rating System implications regarding the following site assessment
topics, see the associated prerequisites and credits listed in the right-hand column of the
outline.

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Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Prerequisite
or Credit #

Topic

Description

1. Site Contextcommunity
and connectivity
(mapped information)

Existing or planned pedestrian, bicycle, or transit including:

2. A. Water
(mapped information)
(continued)

100-year floodplain, as determined by FEMA (or local

equivalent for projects outside the United States)

P1.2

Delineated aquatic ecosystem, including isolated wetlands

P1.3

Wetland, shoreline, or riparian buffers

P1.3, C3.6

Artificially modified streams, wetlands, or shorelines (e.g.,

buried, piped, drained, channelized, bulkheaded, armored)

C3.6

Nearby transit routes and stops

Bicycle lanes and shared lane markings
Bicycle racks/storage
Bicycle network

C1.7, C6.5,
C6.9

P2.2

Determine existing conditions, dimensions, and historic

extent.
Overland water flow on site
Determine topography, direction, and effects on the
watershed, including natural rates of erosion.
Pollution sources
Existing and potential
Point and nonpoint sources
Health hazards, both on-site and in adjacent areas
2. B. Water
(narrative information)

Precipitation
Average annual precipitation
Average monthly precipitation
Watershed conditions
Common stormwater pollutants
Specific pollutants of concern
Local, regional, or state watershed plans
Artificial modification of natural hydrology
Water sources
Potable and non-potable water sources for the site
Opportunities to capture, treat, and reuse rainwater and
graywater

3. A. Soils
(mapped information)

Farmland

P3.1, C3.3,
C3.6, P7.2
C1.5, C3.3,
P7.2

P3.1, P3.2,
C3.3, C3.4,
C3.5
P1.2, P3.1,
C3.3, C3.5,
C3.6

P3.2, C3.3,
C3.4, C3.5

P1.1

Soils defined by U.S. Natural Resources Conservation

Service (or local equivalent for projects outside the United
States) as prime farmland, unique farmland, farmland of
statewide importance, or farmland of local importance.
Healthy soils

P4.1, C4.4, P7.3

Soils disturbed by previous development

C7.4

Degree of disturbance (disturbed or severely

disturbed soils)

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Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Topic

Description

3. B. Reference Conditions
for Soils and Vegetation
(narrative information)

Reference soil (test results or verified allowable ranges)

Organic matter (required)
Compaction (field test or undisturbed core sample only)
OR
Infiltration (field test only)
Soil chemical characteristics
OR
Soil biological function
EPA level III ecoregion

Prerequisite
or Credit #
P4.1, C6.7,
P7.3, C7.4

P2.2

C4.6, C4.7

Major native plant community types of the ecoregion based

on the U.S. EPA (or local equivalent for projects outside
the United States), www.epa.gov/wed/pages/ecoregions/
level_iii_iv.htm
Terrestrial biome

C4.8

Use the World Wildlife Fund Wildfinder,

www.worldwildlife.org/science/wildfinder/
On-site food production

C6.7

Follow local, state, and federal regulations to ensure

existing and imported soils are healthy for food production
and are safe for physical contact by general public.
For previously developed sites, brownfield sites, or sites
that have been subject to application of chlorinated
pesticides and herbicides, the following actions may
need to be conducted to ensure soil safety:
--Certified environmental professional assessment
--Soil contamination reports (follow local, state, and federal
regulations)
--Tests for lead, arsenic, other heavy metals or chemicals
of potential concern that may be found in the site area
either on site or from airborne pollutants (via certified
environmental labs)
--Potential plant requirements (e.g., exposure, irrigation)
--Community involvement possibilities
4. A. Vegetation
(mapped information)

Habitats for threatened or endangered species

P1.4, P2.3

Existing and potential habitats for threatened or

endangered plant and animal species
Federal or state threatened or endangered lists
International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of
Threatened Species
Total existing vegetated area

C4.4, C4.6,
C4.7, C4.8
continued

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Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Topic

Description

Prerequisite
or Credit #

4. A. Vegetation
(mapped information,
continued)

Invasive plants

P4.2

Listed by regional, state, or federal entities

Native plants and native plant communities

C4.6, C4.7

P2.2

For trees, note diameter at breast height (DBH).

Appropriate plant species

P4.3, C4.4

Special status plants

C4.5

For trees, note DBH.

Risk of catastrophic wildfire

C4.11

On-site areas and adjacent landscapes at risk

4. B. Materials Inventory
(mapped information)

Existing materials and site elements

4. C. Materials, Plants, Soils,

and Labor Procurement
(narrative information)

Potential suppliers of salvaged or reused materials

Note materials, structures, and paving that could be safely

retained, salvaged or reused, or recycled.

C5.2, C5.4,
C7.5, C7.6
C5.4

Local sites or suppliers that may have materials and

appropriate vegetation
Potential suppliers of recycled materials

C5.5

Potential suppliers of regional and local materials

C5.6, C6.11

Materials, plants, and soils that are extracted,

manufactured, or grown within the region
Potential suppliers of sustainable extracted materials

C5.7

Materials that are responsibly extracted from the earth

in ways that protect ecosystems, respect cultural and
community values, and improve land use
Potential suppliers of safer alternative materials

C5.8

Materials that have disclosed chemical inventories,

chemical hazard assessments, or use safer chemical
alternatives
Potential sustainable materials manufacturers

C5.9

Materials manufacturers that actively implement better

business practices to reduce negative impacts on human
health and the environment
Potential sustainable plant producers

C5.10

Plant nurseries that actively implement better business

practices to reduce negative impacts to human health and
the environment
Potential local workforce and businesses

Sites v2 Rating System

C6.11

20

Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Topic

Description

Prerequisite
or Credit #

5. Human Use of Site

(mapped information)

Access to basic services

C1.6

Nearby shops, services, and facilities that have pedestrian

access
Walking distances from planned project entrance
Historic buildings, structures, objects, and cultural
landscapes

P2.2
C6.1

Note whether these are listed in a historic register.

Note significance to local culture and history.
Unique or interesting site features
View corridors
Site landmarks
Large shade trees
Water features (natural or created)
6. A. Climate and Energy
(mapped information)

Microclimate considerations
Positive sounds or excessive noises
Wind direction
Sun exposure (sun angles) and shading opportunities
Any other unique microclimate factors that may affect site
design decisions, building orientation, and plant selection
Passive or active energy generation opportunities

C6.2, C6.4,
C6.5, C6.6

C4.10, C4.11,
C6.4, C6.5,
C6.6

C8.6

e.g., wind, solar, geothermal, low-impact hydro

6. B. Energy
(narrative information)

Renewable energy source contract opportunities

C8.6

Green power contracts

Carbon offsets

7. Additional Considerations
(any site-specific conditions
not included above)

Recommended strategies
Consult with local experts and the community to evaluate existing site conditions and
identify sustainable strategies prior to design.
Evaluate the impact a design approach may have on sustainability during construction,
operations, and maintenance (e.g., pruning requirements, deadheading to maintain
formalized designs and uses of plants, water use requirements).

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Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Prerequisite 2.3:
Designate and communicate
Vegetation and Soil Protection
Zones

P2.3

Required
Intent
Maximize the benefits of ecosystem services by designating and communicating to
project team members a site development plan that protects healthy vegetation, soils,
and sensitive environmental features.
Requirements
Identify, map, and protect critical and sensitive existing on-site features in Vegetation
and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs).
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and describes the on-going management activities to protect
the integrity of VSPZs.
Note: Not all sites will contain a VSPZ.
VSPZ Mapping Requirements
Refer to the table below for relevant prerequisites (required) that may have VSPZ
implications:
Prerequisite #

Prerequisite Name

VSPZ Requirement

Context P1.1

Limit development on farmland

Case 2: Sites with farmland soils

95 percent of all healthy soils

designated as prime farmland,
unique farmland, farmland of
statewide importance, or
farmland of local importance

Context P1.2

Protect floodplain functions

Case 3: Greenfields within
floodplain

90 percent of 100-year floodplain

area

Context P1.3

Conserve aquatic ecosystems

Case 2: Sites with naturally
occurring aquatic ecosystems

Entire delineated buffer,

according to aquatic ecosystem
classification

Context P1.4

Conserve habitat for threatened

or endangered species
Case 1: Brownfields/previously
developed sites

Full extent of identified habitat

Case 2: Greenfield sites

Soil+Veg P4.1

Sites v2 Rating System

Create and communicate a soil

management plan

Healthy soils that will be retained

in placeshow VSPZs on SMP
map

22

Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Refer to the table below for relevant optional credits that may have VSPZ implications.
Only include those credits that the project intends to pursue:
Credit #

Credit Name

VSPZ Requirement

Soil+Veg C4.4

Conserve healthy soils and

appropriate vegetation

Minimum of 50 percent of total

site area containing healthy soils
and appropriate vegetation

Soil+Veg C4.5

Conserve special status

vegetation

One foot (0.30 meter) radius for

each inch DBH for special status
trees; for shrubs, perennials, see
below

Soil+Veg C4.6

Conserve and use native plants

Percentage of existing
native plants on site

Soil+Veg C4.7

Conserve and restore native

plant communities

Percentage of existing
native plant communities
2,000 square feet (185.81
square meters)

P2.3

VSPZs can encompass one plant or can include several plants in a group.
VSPZ boundaries for trees should extend out from the trunk, to a minimum distance
of a one foot (0.30 meter) radius (measured at ground level) per inch (2.54 centimeters)
of diameter at breast height (DBH) or the full lateral extent of the actual root system as
determined by ground-penetrating radar or by using the Clark-Matheny method (see the
Resources section).
VSPZ boundaries for shrubs should extend out from the stem to twice the radius of the
shrub.
VSPZ boundaries for herbaceous vegetation should extend to encompass the diameter
of the plant.
VSPZ Requirements:
Soils and vegetation within VSPZs must not be disturbed or compacted during
construction.
Management activities within VSPZs must not reduce the function and resiliency of
wetlands or aquatic ecosystems.
Invasive species present within VSPZs must be treated using equipment that can be
carried in and out of the zone on foot or will not otherwise detrimentally affect soil
compaction.
Only minimal impact site development is allowed within VSPZs. No more than 10
percent of the total area of all VSPZs can contain minimal impact site development.
Construction impacts from overall site development must not decrease the capacity of
VSPZs to support the desired vegetation. For example, construction activities outside of
a VSPZ should not change drainage patterns and microclimate effects within the VSPZ.
Protect VSPZs from equipment parking and traffic, storage of materials, and other
construction activities with a fence or other physical barrier that cannot be easily
moved. (Use a wildlife-permeable barrier as appropriate).
Communicate the locations and protective measures of VSPZs to construction and
maintenance personnel. Outline consequences to contractors if they do not respect
VSPZ boundaries.

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Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Recommended strategies
The number of roadways crossing through VSPZs should be minimized and constructed
only when necessary, such as when a significant portion of the site can be reached only
by crossing a VSPZ.
Structures that must cross a VSPZ should be designed to minimize their impact on
terrestrial and aquatic habitat connectivity.
Additional planting within VSPZs must be done with care, because tree roots typically
are located at the surface (sometimes to a depth of 2 to 3 inches, or 5.08 to 7.62
centimeters, at most).
Perennial plantings within VSPZs should be done manually and without power
equipment.
Annual plantings are strongly discouraged within VSPZs.
Additional planting within the one foot (0.30 meter) radius per inch (2.54 centimeters)
DBH should be avoided. Planting here runs a high risk of damaging tree roots and soil
chemistry and creating negative impacts due to excessive irrigation.
--Planting should be limited to 25 percent of the area under the tree canopy or the
area within a one-foot (0.30 meter) radius per inch (2.54 centimeters) DBH and
must be done in consultation with a certified arborist or other appropriately
qualified professional.
Protect the root zone of trees found on site.
--Try to protect groups rather than individual trees.
--Design utility access away from the soil and roots of trees.
--Reduce the need for utility trench work through strategic placement of utilities.
--Where utility trench work is necessary, use air excavation to expose tree roots
without damaging them (according to ANSI A300 Part 5).
--If applicable, consider using directional boring technology (e.g., mole,
Ditch-Witch).
--For trees, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) or air excavation can be used to
determine the location of tree roots.
Consult with local experts qualified in plant health and safety to determine recommended
special protection measures.
Minimal impact site development should not require power equipment or wheeled
vehicles and should not go beyond the necessary footprint of construction activity. Low
impact construction is critical and essential to maintaining the integrity of VSPZs (e.g.,
construction attributes such as concrete slab foundations are strongly discouraged,
permeable surfaces rather than impervious are strongly encouraged).

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P2.3

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Section 2: Pre-Design Assessment + Planning

Credit 2.4:
Engage users and stakeholders
3 points

C2.4

Intent
Identify specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely project goals by
engaging site users and stakeholders during the design process to supplement
professional expertise with local knowledge.
Requirements
Engage potential site users and stakeholders during the following design phases:
1. Site assessment process and program plan
Engage site users and stakeholders in identifying specific, measurable, attainable,
realistic, and timely project goals.
Identify the programmatic and functional needs of the various site user groups.
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site
assessment) is complete and describes the process of engaging site users and
stakeholders (see Pre-design P2.1: Use an integrative design process). Incorporate
the knowledge gained about the site and local area to into the program plan.
Provide the site users and stakeholders with multiple schematic design alternatives
and associated outcomes using visual representations.
2. Design development presentation and review
Invite the site users and stakeholders to the design development presentation and
review.
3. Present the design to the public
Present the design to the public in at least two forms (e.g., website, community
meeting, newspaper article, civic display).
Recommended strategies
Solicit input and feedback in imaginative and flexible ways, such as through websites;
surveys; visual preference questionnaires; charrettes; focus groups; field visits and
tours; workshops; geographic information system (GIS) modeling and mapping; and
facilitated, interactive exercises.
Consider using a variety of approaches to garner more widespread public participation
and to present designs (e.g., web-based or town hall-style presentations).
Engage a wide variety of community members by providing food, childcare,
transportation, mediators, interpreters, and written translations during public meetings,
and take special effort to include less influential groups or individuals. Conduct
meetings at community development centers and other convenient local gathering
places.

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SECTION 3

SITE DESIGN
WATER

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

Water P3.1

Manage precipitation on site

Required

Water P3.2

Reduce water use for landscape irrigation

Required

Water C3.3

Manage precipitation beyond baseline

4-6 points

Water C3.4

Reduce outdoor water use

4-6 points

Water C3.5

Design functional stormwater features as amenities

4-5 points

Water C3.6

Restore aquatic ecosystems

4-6 points

Section 3: Site DesignWater

Prerequisite 3.1:
Manage precipitation on site
Required
Intent
Reduce negative impacts to aquatic ecosystems, channel morphology, and dry weather
base flow by replicating natural hydrologic conditions and retaining precipitation on site.
Requirements
Retain the precipitation volume from the 60th percentile precipitation event as defined
by the U.S. EPA in the Technical Guidance on Implementing the Stormwater Runoff
Requirements for Federal Projects under Section 438 of the Energy Independence and
Security Act (or local equivalent for projects outside the United States).
Retain precipitation volume through on-site infiltration, evapotranspiration, and reuse.
--Implement runoff-reduction strategies (e.g., biofiltration through plants, soil) that
also improve water quality.
--Cisterns, if used, must be implemented in combination with other approaches to
meet the requirements of this prerequisite.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and includes the maintenance activities used to ensure
long-term effectiveness of stormwater features.

P3.1

Note: On sites where the retention of the precipitation volume from the 60th percentile
precipitation event is not feasible due to site constraints (such as clay soils, high
groundwater elevations, geotechnical issues, below-ground contamination, underground
utilities or transportation systems, watershed water balance considerations, low
evapotranspiration rates, or lack of water use potential), retain the maximum precipitation
volume possible on the site up to the 60th percentile precipitation event.
Recommended strategies
Ensure that discharge volumes and rates do not increase the natural rate of erosion in
receiving water channels or negatively affect a receiving channels ecological flows or
natural groundwater replenishment rates and volumes.
Implement strategies to reduce precipitation runoff volumes, peak flows, and pollutant
discharges.
Implement strategies to increase evapotranspiration, filtration and infiltration, and
mitigate elevated water temperatures caused by contact with impervious surfaces. Use
the following strategies and design approaches:
--Design to minimize impervious surfaces; specify permeable materials for hard
surfaces, including permeable concrete, asphalt, and pavers.
--Design hard surfaces to drain into localized, on-site landscape areas, and design
landscape areas to accept precipitation runoff from hard surfaces.
--Provide infiltration opportunities in the landscape that use plants and healthy
soils as filters, such as bioswales, raingardens, water quality ponds, constructed
wetlands, or vegetated buffers, that filter, infiltrate, evapotranspirate, and retain
precipitation, recharge groundwater, and reduce pollutant loadings, runoff
volumes, and rates.
--Where runoff conveyance systems are needed, use vegetated channels when
possible. Where vegetated channels are not practical, the use of hard non-erosive

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Section 3: Site DesignWater

materials to convey surface water should take precedence over using pipes,
culverts, or underground channels.
--Create living landscapes using soil and vegetation features, such as vegetated
roofs, walls, or facades; raingardens; or tree canopies.
--Select appropriate vegetation features that can tolerate periodic inundation and
soil saturation without harming the growth or vigor of the plant.
--When selecting vegetation for managing precipitation runoff, select plants that are
resistant or less susceptible to pollutants commonly found in precipitation runoff.
--Where possible, select plants appropriate for the site and climate based on their
capacity to reduce pollutant loadings for specific pollutants of concern in the
receiving watershed.
Improve the water-retention capacity of the soil by increasing the organic matter content
of the soil through the addition of compost or other organic soil amendments.
Use rainwater-harvesting systems to reduce precipitation runoff volumes and rates.
Design rainwater harvesting and use systems to maintain the ecological flows of
receiving waters and historical groundwater recharge rates.
Avoid or minimize the use of materials used in buildings, hardscape, and landscape
construction that can be a source of pollutants in stormwater, such as:
--Copper and zinc roofs, roof gutters, downspouts, and siding
--Galvanized materials (e.g. fences, fence posts, guardrails, signposts)
--Treated lumber
Use integrated pest management (IPM) practices to control pests
Minimize the use of fertilizers on site and implement practices to reduce nutrient runoff
(e.g., slow-release fertilizers, optimized application timing for plant uptake).
Plan for and implement maintenance activities designed to reduce the exposure of
pollutants to stormwater, such as:
--Minimizing exposure of stored materials to precipitation to minimize the chance of
pollutants running off the site or entering groundwater both on and off site
--Developing and implementing a contaminated/chemical spill response plan
--Minimizing the use of salt or other potentially harmful de-icing chemicals
--Avoiding on-site maintenance of construction equipment to reduce pollutant
loadings of oils, grease, or hydraulic fluids
--Avoiding on-site fueling of vehicles to the maximum extent practicable
Where appropriate, implement systems of practices in a treatment train to provide
multiple pollutant removal processes (e.g., runoff reduction through evapotranspiration
and infiltration, sedimentation, filtration, adsorption, biological degradation or uptake)
to reduce the concentrations of pollutants in precipitation runoff and to provide
redundancy in the system.
Use soil and vegetation-based controls based on their capacity to reduce precipitation
runoff and pollutant loadings through evapotranspiration and phytoremediation.
Maintain infiltration rates, and regenerate the adsorption capacity of the soils.

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P3.1

28

Section 3: Site DesignWater

Prerequisite 3.2:
Reduce water use for
landscape irrigation
Required
Intent
Conserve water resources and minimize energy use by reducing the use of potable water,
natural surface water, and groundwater withdrawals for landscape irrigation after the
establishment period.

P3.2

Requirements*
This prerequisite applies only to long-term water use for the final vegetated area beyond
the establishment period.
Reduce or eliminate the use of potable water, natural surface water, (e.g., lakes, streams)
and groundwater withdrawals for landscape irrigation (beyond the establishment
period).
Use the U.S. EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool (or local equivalent for projects
outside the United States) to identify the baseline case and water savings (www.epa.
gov/watersense/water_budget/application.html).
--Reduce water usage by at least 50 percent from the baseline case beyond the
establishment period.
>>If the water source does not come from a potable water source, local health
standards must be met.
>>Install water meters to record and measure water usage to compare to the
established baseline.
OR
--Design the landscape to not require a permanent irrigation system.
Ensure the sections of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) are complete and describe the anticipated watering schedule as well
as the process for maintaining non-potable irrigation water sources.
Exemptions:
Water volume used for the following purposes may be included or excluded from
irrigation calculations at the project teams discretion:
--Water used during establishment period
--Water used to irrigate non-commercial food production gardens. Irrigation used on
edible plants should not harm human health. (See HHWB C6.7: Provide for on-site
food production.)
--Water used as required by local regulations in fire-prone areas for fire suppression
systems
--Water used for athletic fields (if vegetated)

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v4 WE Prerequisite 1: Outdoor water use reduction

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Section 3: Site DesignWater

Recommended strategies
Reduce potable water use with any combination of the following items and methods:
Design the site to maximize the use of captured stormwater for landscape elements
Design the plantings, soils, and other features to be self-sustaining with natural
precipitation only. Limit water use to time of planting only.
Plant at the optimal season for your region to reduce or eliminate the need for watering
for establishment.
If turfgrasses are to be used, they should be regionally appropriate and minimize
post-establishment requirements for irrigation.
Improve water-retention capacity of soil by increasing organic matter (e.g., adding
compost)
Design irrigation systems in such a way that trees, shrubs, and ground cover are
irrigated in separate hydrozones. This way, watering can be discontinued by zone as
plants become established.
Use high-efficiency equipment (e.g., drip irrigation) and climate-based controllers for
irrigation systems
Reuse graywater, captured rainwater, HVAC blowdown, or condensate water for
irrigation to decrease potable water use for irrigation and to create a net benefit to the
local watershed by making the landscape part of the natural water-treatment process.
If graywater or wastewater is to be recycled for landscape irrigation, consider
conducting chemical tests to determine suitability for reuse on intended vegetation.
Use water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for non-potable uses

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P3.2

30

Section 3: Site DesignWater

Credit 3.3:
Manage precipitation
beyond baseline
4 6 points
Intent
Maintain site water balance, protect water quality, and reduce negative impacts to aquatic
ecosystems, channel morphology, and dry weather base flow by replicating natural
hydrologic conditions and providing retention and treatment for precipitation on site.

C3.3

Requirements*
Through on-site infiltration, evapotranspiration, and harvest use, retain or treat the
maximum precipitation volume possible beyond the required baseline precipitation
volume of the 60th percentile precipitation event described in Water P3.1: Manage
precipitation on site.
These requirements pertain to the entire area within the SITES project boundary.
Retain or treat precipitation volume for the following percentile precipitation
events:
--80th percentile precipitation event
4 points
--90th percentile precipitation event
5 points
th
--95 percentile precipitation event
6 points
Retain or treat the maximum precipitation volume on site for the percentile precipitation
event associated with the desired point total above, as defined by the U.S. EPA in
the Technical Guidance on Implementing the Stormwater Runoff Requirements for
Federal Projects under Section 438 of the Energy Independence and Security Act (or
local equivalent for projects outside the United States). Use daily rainfall data and the
methodology in the EPA document to determine the target percentile volume.
For treatment of any precipitation volume not retained from the selected percentile
precipitation event, listed above:
--Treat any volume of runoff using an appropriate technology.
--Ensure the entirety of the selected percentile precipitation event not retained is
treated, and that remaining runoff will be discharged at rates consistent with the
natural rate of erosion in the receiving water channel (i.e., discharge rate limit).
--BMPs must be scaled to account for the additional volume of runoff entering the
BMP from areas off site.
>>The treatment practices implemented must achieve, at a minimum, an average
discharge concentration of less than or equal to 25 milligrams per liter total
suspended solids for the volume treated.
>>In cases where receiving waters are impaired or threatened by specific
pollutants of concern, treatment must be provided for these pollutants.
Ensure the sections of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) are complete and detail the proper maintenance activities used to ensure
long-term effectiveness of stormwater features, including water quality treatment activities.
Recommended strategies
See Recommended strategies in Water P3.1: Manage precipitation on site.
* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v4 SS Credit 4: Rainwater Management
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Section 3: Site DesignWater

Credit 3.4:
Reduce outdoor water use
4 6 points
Intent
Conserve water resources and minimize energy use by encouraging alternative irrigation
methods and water conservation strategies that limit or eliminate the use of potable water,
natural surface water, and groundwater withdrawals for landscape irrigation and other
outdoor use.

C3.4

Requirements*
This credit applies to short- and long-term water use.
Reduce or eliminate the use of potable water, natural surface water (e.g., lakes, rivers
streams), and groundwater withdrawals for outdoor use, including landscape irrigation
and created water features. Ensure that water use will not negatively affect receiving
waters.
Exemptions: Water volume used for the following purposes may be included or excluded
from calculations at the project teams discretion:
Water used during establishment period (excluding Option 3)
Water used to irrigate non-commercial food production gardens. Irrigation used on
edible plants should not harm human health. (See HHWB C6.7: Provide for on-site
food production.)
Water used as required by local regulations in fire-prone areas for fire-suppression
systems
Option 1: Reduce outdoor water use
4 points
For landscape irrigation:
Reduce water use by at least 75 percent from a baseline case beyond the establishment
period. Refer to the U.S. EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool (or local equivalent for
projects outside the United States) used in Water P3.2: Reduce water use for landscape
irrigation (www.epa.gov/watersense/water_budget/application.html).
Install water meters to record and measure water usage to compare to the established
baseline.
For created water features:
Verify that 50 percent of annual make-up water for site water features comes from
non-potable water sources OR that site water features only require a total of 10,000
gallons (37,854.12 liters) or less of potable water annually. Note that initial filling may
be derived from potable water if less than 37,500 gallons (141,952.94 liters).
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete. Regarding the water features, the plan must describe
appropriate maintenance activities that do not use chemicals likely to harm aquatic life,
such as chlorine and bromine (except where required by local health code), and that
ensure habitat for mosquitoes will not be created.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v4 WE Credit 1: Outdoor water use reduction

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Section 3: Site DesignWater

Option 2: Significantly reduce outdoor water use
5 points
For landscape irrigation:
Use no potable water or other natural surface or groundwater withdrawal resources
for landscape irrigation beyond the establishment period. Refer to the U.S. EPA
WaterSense Water Budget Tool (or local equivalent for projects outside the United
States) used in Water P3.2: Reduce water use for landscape irrigation (www.epa.gov/
watersense/water_budget/application.html).
Install water meters to record and measure water usage to compare to the established
baseline.
Use temporary irrigation systems that rely on potable water during the establishment
period only if such systems will be removed or disconnected at the end of the period.
Use the following water for landscape irrigation only after the establishment period:
--Captured rainwater
--Reclaimed water
--Recycled wastewater
--Recycled graywater
--Air-conditioner condensate
--Blowdown water from boilers and cooling towers
--Water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for non-potable uses

C3.4

For created water features:

Site water features must total 5,000 gallons (18,927 liters) or less of potable water
annually.
OR
75 percent of annual make-up water for water features must come from non-potable
water sources.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete. Regarding the water features, the plan must describe
appropriate maintenance activities that do not use chemicals likely to harm aquatic life,
such as chlorine and bromine (except where required by local health code), and that
ensure habitat for mosquitoes will not be created.
Option 3: Eliminate outdoor water use
6 points
For landscape irrigation:
Eliminate long-term irrigation
Use the following water for landscape irrigation only during the establishment period:
--Captured rainwater
--Reclaimed water
--Recycled wastewater
--Recycled graywater
--Air-conditioner condensate
--Blowdown water from boilers and cooling towers
--Water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for non-potable uses
For created water features:
100 percent of annual make-up water for water features must come from non-potable
water sources.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete. Regarding the water features, the plan must describe
appropriate maintenance activities that do not use chemicals likely to harm aquatic life,
such as chlorine and bromine (except where required by local health code), and that
ensure habitat for mosquitoes will not be created.
Recommended strategies
See strategies listed in Water P3.2: Reduce water use for landscape irrigation.

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Section 3: Site DesignWater

Credit 3.5:
Design functional stormwater
features as amenities
4 5 points
Intent
Provide a connection to the local climate and hydrology by integrating aesthetically
pleasing stormwater features that are visually and physically accessible and manage
on-site stormwater.

C3.5

Requirements
The requirements apply to stormwater features that use precipitation as their sole
source of water and that function as stormwater management elements (e.g., bioswales,
raingardens, vegetated roofs). These features must be designed to be visually and
physically accessible to site users from proposed high-use portions of the site.
Ensure site precipitation is treated as an amenity in the way it is received, conveyed,
and managed on site for at least:
--50 percent of stormwater features
4 points
--100 percent of stormwater features
5 points
>>Percentages are based on total square footage (square meters) of the
stormwater features, including conveyance features.
>>Cisterns and vaults that are used for retention purposes and considered
amenities should be included in the percentage calculations. However, exclude
those used only for rainwater collection and reuse.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete. The plan must describe appropriate maintenance activities
that do not use chemicals likely to harm aquatic life, such as chlorine and bromine
(except where required by local health code), and that ensure habitat for mosquitoes
will not be created.
Recommended strategies
Design and maintain water features as natural ecosystems with water sources, native
plants and native plant communities, and other aquatic organisms appropriate for local
conditions.
Natural swimming pools or other water features intended for human contact may
require additional treatment such as ozonation or thermal treatment.
Employ artists and craftspeople to collaborate with the design team to create rainwater
systems that combine function and aesthetic appeal.
Employ low impact development strategies that emphasize site design and planning
techniques to mimic the natural infiltration-based, groundwater-driven hydrology of
historic landscapes.

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Section 3: Site DesignWater

Credit 3.6:
Restore aquatic ecosystems
4 6 points
Intent
Support healthy functioning of aquatic ecosystems for fish, other wildlife, and people by
restoring the ecological function, integrity, and resiliency of those ecosystems that have
been degraded, damaged, or destroyed.

C3.6

Requirements
The requirements apply to sites that contain only the following naturally occurring aquatic
ecosystems that have been degraded, damaged, or destroyed:
Marine/EstuarineTidal wetlands, mudflats, shorelines, reefs, seagrass beds
RiverineStreams, rivers (associated floodplains and their riparian buffer)
LacustrineLakes, ponds (associated shorelines and their riparian buffer)
PalustrineNon-tidal wetlands, seeps, springs, vernal pools, seasonal wetlands
Degradation, damage, or destruction may be a result of artificial modification (e.g.,
burying, filling, draining, piping, channeling, bulkheading, armoring, levees, water control
structures, illicit discharges); sea level rise; alteration of natural hydrology; loss of native
flora and fauna; invasive species; and alteration of biological processes, soils, geomorphology, and water quality.
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and shows the locations of any existing aquatic ecosystems on site that have been degraded, damaged, or destroyed.
Restore the geographic extent of the aquatic ecosystem within the SITES project
boundary for a minimum of:
--30 percent of the geographic extent
4 points
--60 percent of the geographic extent
5 points
--90 percent of the geographic extent
6 points
Develop a restoration plan based on the nine Attributes of Restored Ecosystems.
--Restoration plan must include a description of the reference site and its conditions,
including its native plant communities, appropriate aquatic habitat, water quality
improvements, and stable bank or shoreline conditions.
--Restoration of river and stream channels must also be inclusive of their respective
floodplain and riparian zone. Restoration of lakes and ponds must also be
inclusive of their respective shorelines.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and includes ongoing management activities to protect the
integrity of the aquatic ecosystems.
Attributes of Restored Ecosystems (From the Society for Ecological Restorations
International Primer on Ecological Restoration)
1. The restored ecosystem contains a characteristic assemblage of the species that
occur in the reference ecosystem and that provide appropriate community structure.
2. The restored ecosystem consists of indigenous species to the greatest practicable
extent.
3. All functional groups necessary for the continued development and/or stability of the
restored ecosystem are represented or, if they are not, the missing groups have the
potential to colonize by natural means.

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4. The physical environment of the restored ecosystem is capable of sustaining
reproducing populations of the species necessary for its continued stability or
development along the desired trajectory.
5. The restored ecosystem apparently functions normally for its ecological stage of
development, and signs of dysfunction are absent.
6. The restored ecosystem is suitably integrated into a larger ecological matrix or
landscape, with which it interacts through abiotic and biotic flows and exchanges.
7. Potential threats to the health and integrity of the restored ecosystem from the
surrounding landscape have been eliminated or reduced as much as possible.
8. The restored ecosystem is sufficiently resilient to endure the normal periodic stress
events in the local environment that serve to maintain the integrity of the ecosystem.
9. The restored ecosystem is self-sustaining to the same degree as its reference system
and has the potential to persist indefinitely under existing environmental conditions.

C3.6

Note: Projects restoring aquatic ecosystems as compensatory mitigation to meet

regulatory requirements may not be eligible for this credit. This credit does not apply to
stormwater management practices. This credit also does not apply to the creation of a
new aquatic ecosystem when none existed prior to current project development, except
when it can be justified to shift the geographic extent of the aquatic ecosystem to
compensate for projected sea level rise or changing hydrologic conditions.
Recommended strategies
Restoration prescriptions and strategies will vary, but base them on historic reference
conditions, natural processes, natural materials, and the reestablishment of native
vegetation communities.
Develop a set of restoration and management practices that permanently will remove
from the site stressors that are causing degradation or damage.
Reconstruct and reintroduce to the site the array of biotic, geochemical, hydrological,
morphological, and vegetative processes that will result in the aquatic ecosystems
being placed on a trajectory toward partial or full recovery.
Specific restoration methodologies and techniques should be in accordance with
the current science and practice of restoration as applicable for the specific aquatic
ecosystem being restored and within the context of its location.

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36

SECTION 4

SITE DESIGN
SOIL + VEGETATION

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

Soil+Veg P4.1

Create and communicate a soil management plan

Required

Soil+Veg P4.2

Control and manage invasive plants

Required

Soil+Veg P4.3

Use appropriate plants

Required

Soil+Veg C4.4

Conserve healthy soils and appropriate vegetation

4-6 points

Soil+Veg C4.5

Conserve special status vegetation

4 points

Soil+Veg C4.6

Conserve and use native plants

3-6 points

Soil+Veg C4.7

Conserve and restore native plant communities

4-6 points

Soil+Veg C4.8

Optimize biomass

1-6 points

Soil+Veg C4.9

Reduce urban heat island effects

4 points

Soil+Veg C4.10

Use vegetation to minimize building energy use

1-4 points

Soil+Veg C4.11

Reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire

4 points

Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Prerequisite 4.1:
Create and communicate
a soil management plan
Required
Intent
Support healthy plants, biological communities, and water storage and infiltration
by planning for soil restoration in the design stage and limiting soil disturbance during
construction.
Requirements
Create a soil management plan (SMP) prior to construction that provides the following
information in a site plan and a worksheet (see Soil Management Plan Worksheet):
--Indicate locations of existing healthy soils on site and any Vegetation and Soil
Protection Zones (VSPZs) (See Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate
VSPZs) and steps taken to protect these from any disturbance during construction.
--Specify how construction activities are designed to minimize soil disturbance.
--Identify disturbed soils that will be re-vegetated (soil restoration treatment zones):
>>For soils disturbed during current construction activity (as required in
Construction P7.3: Restore soils disturbed during construction)
>>For soils disturbed by previous development (if pursuing Construction C7.4:
Restore soils disturbed by previous development)
Identify severely disturbed soils that will be re-vegetated.
--Describe in detail the planned treatment for each soil restoration treatment zone,
including, if applicable, how reference soil characteristics (as identified in
Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment) will be met for each
zone.
Communicate the SMP to site contractors through site drawings and written
specifications.

P4.1

Note: Imported topsoils, or manufactured soil blends designed to serve as topsoil,

may not be mined from the following locations (unless these soils are a byproduct of a
construction process):
Greenfield sites
Prime farmland, unique farmland, farmland of statewide importance, or farmland of local
importance as defined by the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service (or local
equivalent for projects outside the United States)
Areas with disturbed soils (as a result of current construction activities) must be restored
to a minimum 12-inch (30.48-centimeter) depth per the requirements of Construction
P7.3: Restore soils disturbed during construction.

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Recommended strategies
Before construction begins, the SMP prescribes soil restoration treatments that will be
used to restore all soil areas that will be disturbed during construction and re-vegetated
at the end of the project, as required by Construction P7.3: Restore soils disturbed
during construction.
Consider existing soil conditions during site design, identify VSPZs and soil restoration
treatments for soils that will be disturbed, and communicate clearly with all site contractors to ensure that soil protection and restoration goals are understood and achieved.
Install fencing or provide other effective physical barriers to protect VSPZs before
construction commences (as required by Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate
VSPZs).
Integrate the SMP with site erosion and sediment control planning (e.g., stormwater
pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) or erosion and sedimentation control (ESC) plan;
see Construction P7.2: Control and retain construction pollutants). For instance, use
compost blankets, berms, or socks for erosion and sediment control, and, at the end of
the project, reuse the same compost as a soil restoration amendment.
Limit disturbance during construction to minimize the need for additional restoration.
In areas that will be re-vegetated, restore soil characteristics necessary to support the
selected vegetation types. Example methods of restoring soils include the following:
--Stockpiling and reusing existing site topsoils, incorporating organic amendments
if needed
--Amending site soils with organic matter in place and mechanically correcting
compaction, if needed (e.g., by ripping or discing)
--Importing a topsoil or soil blend designed to serve as topsoil
When selecting a soil restoration strategy, consider the design, site use, and future site
maintenance expectation. Potential strategies are:
--Adding mature, stable compost to unscreened soil
--Many un-screened and un-amended soils will drain adequately
--Amending with other earth materials to modify a soils gradation/texture and
organic matter content
Best management practices include using soils for functions comparable to their
original function (e.g., topsoil is used as topsoil, subsoil as subsoil). In some cases,
subsoil can be reused and amended to become functional topsoil.

Sites v2 Rating System

P4.1

39

Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Prerequisite 4.2:
Control and manage
invasive plants
Required
Intent
Limit damage to local ecosystem services by developing and implementing an active
management plan for the control and subsequent management of known invasive plants
found on site, and by ensuring that no invasive species are brought to the site.
Requirements
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and evaluates and documents whether invasive species
are present on the project site.
During the project, use only plant species that are not currently listed as invasive on
any federal or qualifying regional lists (or local equivalent for projects outside the United
States), as described below
--State or local lists (when listing occurs through a vetted, transparent process and
has been accepted by regional stakeholders)
--The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service PLANTS Database
--Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States website
--State Noxious Weed laws
--Federal Noxious Weed laws
Begin removal of invasive species before or during the construction phase of the
project. Note that invasive species present within any Vegetation and Soil Protection
Zones (VSPZs) on site must be treated using equipment that can either be carried in
and out of the zone on foot or will not detrimentally affect soil compaction.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and includes a plan for active, multi-year invasive species
control and management of any plant species currently listed as invasive on the
above lists
--The following components for invasive species management must be included in
the site maintenance plan:
>>Integrated pest management (IPM) or plant health care (PHC) strategies
>>A procedure for identifying and monitoring for additional invasive species
that may colonize the site and new species as they are recognized by local
authorities
>>Initial treatment, follow-up treatments, long-term control including monitoring,
and methods of invasive plant material disposal to prevent spread

Sites v2 Rating System

P4.2

40

Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Recommended strategies
Contact local and state governmental agencies, consultants, and educational facilities
to learn the most appropriate and effective management techniques for invasive
species identified on site.
When removing invasive plants within VSPZs prior to construction, communicate
strategies that limit levels of disruptive activity within these protected areas to every
extent possible.
The U.S. National Invasive Species Councils 2008-2012 National Invasive Species
Management Plan recommends the following strategies to achieve long-term
objectives:
--Prevention is the first-line of defense. Prevention calls for preventing the
introduction and establishment of invasive species to reduce their impact on
the environment, the economy and health of the United States.
--Early Detection, rapid assessment and Rapid Response (EDRR) may act as a
critical second defense. EDRR calls for developing and enhancing the capacity to
identify, report, and effectively respond to newly discovered and localized invasive
species.
--Through control and management, the spread of widely established invasive
species can be slowed and their impacts reduced. Control and management calls
for containing and reducing the spread of invasive populations to minimize their
harmful impacts.
--Invasive species can severely undermine the ability of plants and animal
communities to recover. Restoration calls for the restoration of high-value
ecosystems to meet natural resource conservation goals by conducting
restoration efforts on multiple scales.
--Invasive species cross project boundaries, making coordination and collaboration
critical to success. Organizational collaboration calls for maximizing collaboration
on invasive species issues among federal, state, local and tribal governments,
private organizations, developers of neighboring sites, and individuals.

Sites v2 Rating System

P4.2

41

Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Prerequisite 4.3:
Use appropriate plants
Required
Intent
Improve landscape performance and reduce resource use by installing only plants that are
appropriate for site conditions, climate, and design intent.
Requirements
Use only appropriate plant species that are suitable for site conditions, climate, and
design intent. Both native plants and non-natives may qualify.
Use plants that are nursery-grown, legally harvested, or salvaged for reuse from on or
off site. All nursery-grown plants must use an applicable regional standard or regionally
adopted guidelines. If no regional standards or guidelines exist, nursery-grown plants
must use the ANSI Z60.1-2004 American Standard for Nursery Stock.

P4.3

Recommended strategies
Select plants that will thrive in the climate and conditions of the site. Avoid invasive
species that may jeopardize local ecosystems.
Refer to municipal lists of recommended appropriate and native plant species. Crosscheck with state and federal noxious weed and invasive plants lists (see Soil+Veg P4.2:
Control and manage invasive plants).
If turf grasses are to be used, select them to be regionally appropriate and minimize
post-establishment requirements for irrigation, pesticide, fertilizer, and maintenance.
Contact local and regional governmental agencies, consultants, educational facilities,
and native plant societies as resources for the selection of plants appropriate for
the site.
For tree plantings, use the ANSI A300 Best Management Practices for Tree Planting as
a guide.
Plant diversity provides resistance to insect and disease pests; as a general guide for
larger sites, plant no more than 10 percent of any species, no more than 20 percent of
any genus, and no more than 30 percent of any family. For smaller sites, select species
that contribute to the plant diversity of the community and region as a whole.

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Credit 4.4:
Conserve healthy soils and
appropriate vegetation
4 6 points
Intent
Maintain existing ecosystem services and landscape performance, reduce resource use,
and protect soil health by limiting the disturbance of existing appropriate plants and
healthy soils.
Requirements
Conserve existing healthy soils and plants that are appropriate for site conditions,
climate, and design intent in Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs) to equal at
least:
--50 percent of the sites existing vegetated area
4 points
--75 percent of the sites existing vegetated area
5 points
--95 percent of the sites existing vegetated area
6 points
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and describes and locates the healthy soils and
appropriate plant species found on site.

C4.4

Note: Limited restoration activities, including invasive species removal, are allowed within
VSPZs (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate Vegetation and Soil Protection
Zones (VSPZs)).

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Recommended strategies
Locate construction activities, including storage of materials, vehicular access and
parking, and placement of utilities, on areas of previously disturbed soils as identified in
the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment).
Limit grading to areas of previously disturbed soils.
Establish clear construction boundaries to minimize disturbance to healthy soils and
appropriate vegetation.
Limit construction to a tight envelope around development, which will reduce the area
of soil that needs to be restored in Construction P7.3: Restore soils disturbed during
construction.
Additional planting within the one foot (0.31 meter) radius per inch (2.54 centimeters)
diameter at breast height (DBH) should be avoided. Planting here runs a high risk of
damaging tree roots and soil chemistry and having other negative impacts due to
excessive irrigation.
--Planting should be limited to 25 percent of the area under the tree canopy or
the area within a one foot (0.31 meter) radius per inch DBH and must be done in
consultation with a certified arborist or other appropriately qualified professional.
Protect the root zone of trees found on site:
--Try to protect groups of trees rather than individual trees.
--Design utility access away from the soil and roots of trees.
--Reduce the need for utility trench work through strategic placement of utilities.
--Where utility trench work is necessary, use air excavation to expose tree roots
without damaging them (according to ANSI A300 Part 5).
--If applicable, consider using directional boring technology (e.g., mole,
Ditch-Witch).
--For trees, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) or air excavation can be used to
determine the location of tree roots.

Sites v2 Rating System

C4.4

44

Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Credit 4.5:
Conserve special status vegetation
4 points
Intent
Protect existing ecosystem services by identifying and conserving all vegetation on site
designated as special status by local, state, or federal entities.
Requirements
This requirement applies only to plants designated as special status by local, state, or
federal entities. These plants may include, but are not limited to, heritage or legacy trees,
specimen trees (as designated by a local tree board), rare and endangered species, rare
vegetation in a unique habitat, and unusual genetic variants of a particular species. Native
plant communities and cultural landscapes are addressed in other credits.
Establish Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs) to protect special status trees
and other plants (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate VSPZs).
Ensure the section of the site assessment (See Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and documents locations of trees or other plants with
special status designations.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (See O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and describes the ongoing management activities to
protect the integrity of the VSPZs, including a description of how the critical aspects of
the special status plants culture and habitat are being protected and maintained (e.g.,
hydrology, associated plant communities, exposure).

C4.5

Note: VSPZs can encompass one plant or can include several plants in a group (see
Pre-Design P2.3: Designate and communicate VSPZs).
Recommended strategies
Design the site to minimize harm to special status trees and other plants.
Consult with local experts qualified in plant health and safety to determine appropriate
special protection measures.
Additional planting within the one foot (0.31 meter) radius per inch (2.54 centimeter)
DBH should be avoided. Planting here runs a high risk of damaging tree roots and soil
chemistry and having other negative impacts due to excessive irrigation.
--Planting should be limited to 25 percent of the area under the tree canopy or the
area within one foot (0.31 meter) radius per inch (2.54 centimeter) DBH and must
be done in consultation with a certified arborist or other appropriately qualified
professional.
Protect the root zone of trees found on site.
--Try to protect groups of trees rather than individual trees.
--Design utility access away from the soil and roots of trees.
--Reduce the need for utility trench work through strategic placement of utilities.
--Where utility trench work is necessary, use air excavation to expose tree roots
without damaging them (according to ANSI A300 Part 5).
--If applicable, consider using directional boring technology (e.g., mole,
Ditch-Witch)
--For trees, ground-penetrating radar (GPR) or air excavation can be used to
determine the location of tree roots.

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Credit 4.6:
Conserve and use native plants
3 6 points
Intent
Foster habitat for native wildlife that is necessary for plant reproduction by conserving or
installing plants that are native to the sites ecoregion.
Requirements
Conserve existing appropriate native plants and/or install new native plants that,
according to the SITES Native Plants Calculator, equal a native plant score of
at least:
--20 percent total native plant score
3 points
--40 percent total native plant score
4 points
--60 percent total native plant score
6 points
Conserve a percentage of the sites existing appropriate native plants in
Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs) (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate
and communicate VSPZs).
--The requirements apply to existing appropriate native plants as identified in the
site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment).
This option is limited to conserving individual native plants in situ, not ones that
are growing within a preserved native plant community (see Soil+Veg C4.7:
Conserve and restore native plant communities).
--Conservation calculations are measured by surface area of existing native plant
area.
Install new appropriate native plants to equal a percentage of the sites final vegetated
area
--New native plant calculations are measured by surface area of final vegetated
area, using estimated vegetated cover within 10 years of installation.
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete, shows existing vegetated area, and distinguishes which
plants are existing native species.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and describes the on-going management activities to protect
the integrity of the VSPZs.

C4.6

Recommended strategies
Native plants can be used to express multiple styles of design.
On sites with existing native vegetation, design the site to preserve native plants, where
possible.
On previously developed sites, use local and regional governmental agencies,
consultants, educational facilities, and native plant societies as resources for the
selection of native plants appropriate for the site.
Consult qualified professionals (e.g., an arborist, biologist, environmental scientist) to
conduct a vegetation assessment and identify appropriate plant species for the site.

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Credit 4.7:
Conserve and restore native
plant communities
4 6 points
Intent
Contribute to regional diversity of flora and provide habitat for native wildlife by
conserving existing native plant communities and installing vegetation that contributes
to plant communities native to the ecoregion.
Requirements
Conserve existing native plant communities and/or restore native plant communities
that, according to the SITES Native Plant Communities Calculator, equal a native plant
community score of at least:
--20 percent total native plant community score
4 points
--40 percent total native plant community score
5 points
--60 percent total native plant community score
6 points
Conserve a percentage of the sites existing native plant communities in
Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs) (see Pre-Design P2.3: Designate
and communicate VSPZs).
--The requirements apply to existing native plant communities, as identified in the
site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment),
in which evidence of human disturbance is minimal and exotic and invasive
plants make up less than 10 percent of the total area of existing native plant
communities.
--Make conservation calculations by surface area. Each area conserved must be
contiguous and a minimum of 2,000 square feet (185.81 square meters).
Restore a percentage of the sites final vegetated area with native plant communities.
--Make restoration calculations by surface area of vegetated area, using estimated
vegetated cover within 10 years of installation. Each area restored must be
contiguous and a minimum of 2,000 square feet (185.81 square meters).
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and indicates the original area and characteristics of
existing native plant communities on site.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and describes the ongoing management activities to protect
the integrity of VSPZs.

C4.7

Recommended strategies
Native plants can express multiple styles of design.
On sites with existing native plant communities, design the site to minimize damage
to existing healthy native plant communities, especially those areas that provide
opportunities for wildlife habitat connectivity.

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Credit 4.8:
Optimize biomass
1 6 points
Intent
Support the water, nutrient, atmospheric gas, and climate regulation ecosystem
service benefits provided by vegetation on site by maintaining or establishing regionally
appropriate vegetative biomass.
Requirements
Conserve and/or restore vegetation biomass on site to a level appropriate to the sites
region.
--Determine the terrestrial biome for the site by using the World Wildlife Fund
Wildfinder, www.worldwildlife.org/science/wildfinder.
--Determine the existing site biomass density index (BDI) and planned site BDI.
--Determine the points earned in accordance with the sites terrestrial biome and the
difference in site BDI according to Tables 4.8 B-E in the Documentation guidance
section of the SITES v2 Reference Guide.

C4.8

Calculate existing BDI for the site as it stands prior to site design (see Pre-Design P2.2:
Conduct a pre-design site assessment). Planned BDI is calculated for the site as designed
and anticipated within 10 years of vegetation installation.
Recommended strategies
On greenfield sites, carefully design the site to minimize disruption to existing appropriate
vegetation.
On brownfield sites, carefully design the site to achieve planned BDI 10 years following
landscape installation. The long-term capacity of a site to deliver ecosystem services
is compromised by overplanting a brownfield site to achieve a target BDI level
prematurely.
Green walls can increase BDI without changing the overall development footprint.
Be careful to select shade-tolerant and sun-tolerant species that will adjust in the
understory as trees and shrubs mature.
Use trees, green roofs, or vegetated structures (e.g., trellises) to cover non-vegetated
surfaces such as walkways, roofs, or parking lots. Select vegetation-based methods to
achieve stormwater management goals for the site.
Before the design phase, examine the appropriate table for your biome (Tables B
through E) to make sure that you do not unnecessarily add more layered vegetation
than you can earn credit for. Many of the biome tables are limited at the upper end,
e.g. Table 4.8C ranging from <1 to >3 is the same point value as going from <1 to >5
planned BDI.

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Credit 4.9:
Reduce urban heat island effects
4 points
Intent
Minimize effects on microclimate and human and wildlife habitat by using vegetation and
reflective materials to reduce heat island effects.
Requirements*
Use any combination of the following measures to reduce urban heat island effects for
site paving and structures (including roads, sidewalks, courtyards, playgrounds, shelters,
and parking lots) according to the formula below:
area of
area of area of
non-roof high-reflectance vegetated
measures
roof
roof total site paving area + total roof area

+
+
0.5
0.75 0.5

C4.9

Alternatively, a solar reflectance index (SRI) and solar reflectance (SR) weighted average
approach may be used to calculate compliance.
Non-roof measures
--Use the existing plant material or install plants that provide shade over paving
areas (including playgrounds) on the site within 10 years of planting. Plants must
be in place at the time of certification application.
--Install vegetated planters. Plants must be in place at time of certification
application and cannot contain artificial turf.
--Provide shade with structures covered by energy generation systems that produce
renewable energy such as solar thermal heaters, photovoltaics, and wind turbines.
--Provide shade with architectural devices or structures that have an SR value at
installation of at least 0.33 OR a three-year old SR of at least 0.28, and incorporate
into the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) activities to ensure these surfaces are cleaned at least every
two years to maintain reflectivity.
--Provide shade with vegetated structures.
--Use paving materials with an SR of at least 0.33 at installation, OR a three-year
aged SR value of at least 0.28, and incorporate into the site maintenance plan
(see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site maintenance) activities to ensure these
surfaces are cleaned at least every two years to maintain reflectivity.
--Use an open-grid pavement system (e.g., concrete-grass lattice) that is at least 50
percent unbound.
High-reflectance roof
--Use roofing materials that have an SRI equal to or greater than the values in the
table below. Meet either the initial SR value, the three-year aged SR value, or both.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED BD+C v2009 SS Credit 7.1: Heat island effectnonroof
-- LEED BD+C v2009 SS Credit 7.2: Heat island effectroof
-- LEED BD+C v4 SS Credit 5: Heat island reduction

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Minimum Solar Reflectance Index Value, By Roof Slope
Slope

Initial SRI

3-Year Aged SRI

Low-Sloped Roof

2:12

82

64

Steep-Sloped Roof

> 2:12

39

32

Vegetated Roof
--Install a vegetated roof.
Shade calculations must be based on the arithmetic mean of the percent wall and roof
coverage at 10 a.m., noon, and 3 p.m. on the summer solstice.
Recommended strategies
Select strategies, materials, and landscaping techniques that reduce heat absorption by
exterior surfaces.
Reduce use of constructed impervious surfaces (e.g., roads, sidewalks, parking lots).
Increase use of vegetated surfaces and planted areas.
Use shade from appropriate trees, large shrubs, vegetated trellises, walls, or other
exterior structures.
Consider the use of new coatings and integral colorants for asphalt pavement to
achieve light-colored surfaces instead of traditional dark surface materials.
Position photovoltaic cells to shade impervious surfaces.
Neither permeable concrete nor permeable asphalt meet the definition of open-grid
paving system because both are more than 50 percent impervious. However, the SR of
permeable concrete may be greater than 0.33.
Consider placing parking under cover that complies with the above measures.

Sites v2 Rating System

C4.9

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Section 4: Site DesignSoil + Vegetation

Credit 4.10:
Use vegetation to minimize
building energy use
1 4 points
Intent
Place vegetation or vegetated structures in strategic locations around regularly occupied
buildings to reduce energy consumption and costs associated with indoor climate control.
Requirements
This credit only applies to sites with regularly occupied buildings or buildings that use
HVAC temperature regulation.
Option 1: Reduce energy use
Use vegetation or vegetated structures to reduce total annual building energy use for
heating and cooling by:
--5 percent
2 points
--7 percent
4 points

C4.10

Option 2: Provide shade structures

Use vegetation or vegetated structures to shade 100 percent of the exposed surface
area of all HVAC units within 10 years of installation.
AND
Shade a percentage of the surface area of west, southwest, southeast, and east
building faades and 30 percent of total roof area within 10 years of installation
as follows:
--30 percent
1 point
--60 percent
2 points
Option 3: Provide a windbreak
Use trees and dense shrubs to serve as a windbreak for the buildings as follows:
--One row of trees and dense shrubs that extends for the full length of
1 point
the buildings faades facing the prevailing winter wind
--Two or more rows of trees and dense shrubs in a staggered planting
2 points
formation, with rows planted 12 to 20 feet (3.66 to 6.10 meters) apart,
extending at least 50 feet (15.24 meters) longer than the buildings walls
facing the prevailing winter wind
The windbreak must:
--Be at least 60 feet (18.29 meters) and no more than 200 feet (60.96 meters) from
the building walls facing the prevailing winter wind (the windbreak provides ideal
wind protection at distances two to five times the mature height of the trees)
--Not cast shadows on the building
--Use densely branched trees and dense shrubs, or a combination of these,
branched to the ground in a row or rows to increase the density of the windbreak
--Use spacing guidelines in the resources listed below for trees and shrubs in the
windbreak to provide vegetation density that is adequate to protect the building.
Spacing between rows and within rows should allow for proper use of suitable
maintenance equipment.
Note: Projects can pursue both Option 2 and Option 3.
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Recommended strategies
Consult a local professional (e.g., arborist) for information on plant species that maximize
benefits appropriate to the climate. Select tree and shrub species that can provide
additional benefits to the site, such as food and habitat for wildlife or visual barriers
from highways.
In addition to trees, use shade trellises, green roofs, green faades, and green walls
to increase shading. Select deciduous trees that allow access to the sun in winter and
provide shade in summer.
Vegetated roofs and walls may be an appropriate technique in helping to insulate the
building envelope as well as providing ecosystem services such as water retention,
habitat, and mentally restorative views for building occupants.

C4.10

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Credit 4.11:
Reduce the risk of
catastrophic wildfire
4 points
Intent
Reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfire on site and in adjacent landscapes by designing,
building, and maintaining sites to manage fuels.
Requirements
Document that the project is in a fire-prone zone (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a
pre-design site assessment).
Design, build, and maintain the landscape and structures according to the techniques
listed in the Firewise Landscaping Checklist, which is Appendix E of Safer from the
Start: A Guide to Firewise-Friendly Developments, www.firewise.org/~/media/Firewise/
Files/Pdfs/Booklets and Brochures/BookletSaferFromtheStart.pdf.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and includes strategies to manage vegetative biomass
and fuel loads at responsible levels and to reduce accumulation of dead plant material
throughout the vegetated portions of the site. Use prescribed fires or other fuel
management techniques in frequencies and intensities similar to the natural fire regime
for the ecosystem.

C4.11

Note: SITES encourages projects to design for scaled resiliency to other catastrophic
natural events (e.g., flooding, earthquakes, drought, hurricanes, tornadoes) and
encourages projects to apply for Innovation C10.1: Innovation or exemplary performance
to earn innovation credit for such efforts.
Recommended strategies
Contact local fire departments or state forestry agencies for recommendations on plant
spacing, fire-resistant plant species, and fuel management practices appropriate to the
local area.
Use prescribed fires or other fuel management techniques in frequencies and intensities
similar to the natural fire regime for the ecosystem.

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SECTION 5

SITE DESIGN
MATERIALS
SELECTION

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

Materials P5.1

Eliminate the use of wood from threatened tree species

Required

Materials C5.2

Maintain on-site structures and paving

2-4 points

Materials C5.3

Design for adaptability and disassembly

3-4 points

Materials C5.4

Reuse salvaged materials and plants

3-4 points

Materials C5.5

Use recycled content materials

3-4 points

Materials C5.6

Use regional materials

3-5 points

Materials C5.7

Support responsible extraction of raw materials

1-5 points

Materials C5.8

Support transparency and safer chemistry

1-5 points

Materials C5.9

Support sustainability in materials manufacturing

1-5 points

Materials C5.10

Support sustainability in plant production

1-5 points

Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Prerequisite 5.1:
Eliminate the use of wood from
threatened tree species
Required
Intent
Minimize negative effects on ecosystems by purchasing wood products extracted only
from non-threatened tree species.
Requirements
This prerequisite applies to all new wood products purchased and installed on the
project (e.g., mulch, wood for site furniture, decks, railings, outdoor structures) as well as
temporary wood used during construction (e.g., formwork, pallets, scaffolding, sidewalk
protection, guardrails).
Do not use wood species that meet the following criteria (see Resources section):
--Listed by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) as
threatened with extinction (Appendix I)
--Listed by CITES as requiring trade controls in order to avoid utilization
incompatible with their survival (Appendix II)
--On the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of
Threatened Species as extinct in the wild (EW), critically endangered
(CR), and endangered (EN)
Threatened tree species are allowed if a recognized third-party sustainable forestry
management certification program has certified the wood product per Materials C5.7:
Support responsible extraction of raw materials.

P5.1

Recommended strategies
Identify suppliers who provide wood products from sustainably managed forests.
Consider using recycled plastic or composite lumber instead of wood.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.2:
Maintain on-site structures
and paving
2 4 points
Intent
Extend the life-cycle of building and infrastructure stock, conserve resources, and reduce
waste by maintaining existing structures and paving in their existing form.
Requirements*
Existing on-site structures and paving that are maintained in situ are eligible for this credit.
Regularly occupied buildings, which are outside of the scope of SITES, should not be
counted for this credit.
Surface area calculations should include any below-grade components such as foundations and footings, when determination of these elements is feasible. Exclude materials
hazardous to plants, animals, or humans from total surface area calculations.
Maintain existing structures and paving on site for at least:
--10 percent of the total existing built surface area
2 points
--20 percent of the total existing built surface area
3 points
--30 percent of the total existing built surface area
4 points
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and shows all existing on-site structures and paving.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete, details the processes used for maintaining structures and
paving to ensure site safety, and meets the needs of the intended uses of the site.

C5.2

Recommended strategies
Identify and inventory structures (including ones that are subgrade) that can be
refurbished and reused in place.
Clean, repair, and refinish existing structures and paving.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED BD+C v2009 MR Credit 1.1: Building reusemaintain existing walls, floors, roofs
-- LEED BD+C v2009 MR Credit 1.2: Building reusemaintain interior nonstructural elements.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.3:
Design for adaptability and
disassembly
3 4 points
Intent
Minimize materials use and waste flows over the life-cycle of site design projects by
increasing the efficient use of materials at construction, facilitating flexibility and adaptation, and increasing the reuse and recycling of materials resulting from renovation and
demolition.
Requirements
Percentages are based on cost or replacement value. In the case of mixed material
assemblies, determine the portion of the total weight that is reusable. Multiply the
portion of total weight by the total cost to determine the proportion of product
assembly that meets the requirements of this credit (Materials Worksheet automatically
does this). Plants, rocks, and soils are excluded from this credit.
Use material assemblies, products, or product components that are designed for
disassembly and facilitate reuse for at least:
--30 percent of total materials cost, excluding plants, rocks, and soils
3 points
--60 percent of total materials cost, excluding plants, rocks, and soils
4 points
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete, explains how to replace any deteriorating or damaged
components, and lists any proper maintenance techniques.

C5.3

Recommended strategies
Establish a project goal for future adaptation and renovation of the project and reusable
products, and identify material and product suppliers who can help achieve this goal.
Design construction details to facilitate disassembly without damage to the material:
--Use reversible connections (e.g., bolts, screws) and avoid the use of mortar,
adhesives, welded connections, or nailed connections that cannot be easily
removed.
--Use friction-fit and other mechanical connections that rely on compression or
lateral or vertical forces (e.g., mortar-less retaining walls, interlocking sand-laid
pavers).
--Avoid the use of coatings on products for which current industry practice prohibits
recycling of the material.
--Eliminate or reduce the use of composites for which current industry practice
prohibits recycling of the material.
--Use durable and high-quality materials that exceed minimum performance
standards.
--Document as-built drawings if outcome on site is different from design drawings.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.4:
Reuse salvaged materials
and plants
3 4 points
Intent
Conserve resources and avoid landfilling useful materials by reusing salvaged materials
and appropriate plants.
Requirements*
Percentages are based on cost or replacement value. Soils and new materials with
recycled content are excluded from this credit.
Reuse salvaged materials (including plants) for at least:
--10 percent of total materials cost, excluding soils
3 points
--20 percent of total materials cost, excluding soils
4 points
Recommended strategies
Establish a project goal for salvaged materials and identify material suppliers or local
projects that can help achieve this goal by supplying salvaged goods.
Salvaged plants should be disease-free and show no signs of stress prior to moving
Some native plant societies will rescue plants prior to construction and can also be a
resource for conserving plants off site until they are ready to be reinstalled.

C5.4

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v2009 MR Credit 3: Materials reuse.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.5:
Use recycled content materials
3 4 points
Intent
Reduce the consumption of virgin materials and avoid landfilling useful materials by
purchasing products with recycled content.
Requirements*
Percentages are based on cost or replacement value. Determine the recycled content
value of a material assembly by weight. The recycled fraction of the assembly is then
multiplied by the cost of assembly to determine the recycled content value.
Plants and soils are addressed in other credits and are excluded from this credit.
Salvaged or reused materials do not qualify for this credit.
Use materials with recycled content such that the sum of post-consumer recycled
content plus one-half of the pre-consumer content constitutes at least:
--20 percent of total materials cost, excluding plants and soils
3 points
--40 percent of total materials cost, excluding plants and soils
4 points

C5.5

Recommended strategies
Establish a project goal for recycled content, and identify material suppliers or local
products that can help achieve this goal.
Strategies that could be used to achieve this credit include:
--Specifying plastic lumber made with recycled content
--Using crushed concrete for aggregate bases
--Specifying new asphalt with recycled asphalt aggregate
--Specifying high recycled content steel
--Utilizing spent iron and foundry sand as fine aggregate in concrete

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v2009 MR Credit 4: Recycled content.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.6:
Use regional materials
3 5 points
Intent
Reduce energy use for transportation; increase demand for regional materials, plants, and
soils; and promote regional identity by supporting the use of local resources.
Requirements*
Percent calculations are based on cost or replacement value. If only a fraction of a
material is extracted, harvested, recovered, and manufactured within the specified
distances, then only that percentage (by weight) shall contribute to the regional value.
Use materials, plants, and soils that are sourced within the distances specified in the
table below such that they constitute at least:
--30 percent of total materials cost
3 points
--60 percent of total materials cost
4 points
--90 percent of total materials cost
5 points
Material Type

Distance Requirements

Soils, compost, and

mulch

Extraction, harvest or recovery, and manufacture must occur

within 50 miles (80.47 kilometers)

Boulders, rocks, and

aggregate

Extraction, harvest or recovery, and manufacture must occur

within 50 miles (80.47 kilometers)

Plants

All growing facilities and suppliers for the plant must be

within 250 miles (402.34 kilometers)

All other materials

Extraction, harvest or recovery, and manufacture must occur

within 500 miles (804.67 kilometers)

C5.6

Recommended strategies
Identify regional sources for plants, soils, and other landscape materials, including
those that are salvaged or reused or contain recycled content.
Confirm that plant re-wholesalers and retailers obtain their products regionally.
During construction, ensure that the specified local materials, plants, and soils are
installed or used.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v2009 MR Credit 5: Regional materials.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.7:
Support responsible extraction of
raw materials
1 5 points
Intent
Protect ecosystems, respect cultural and community values, and improve land use
through responsible extraction of raw materials for site design and construction.
Requirements*
The requirements apply to all materials purchased for the project excluding products
containing recycled content and salvaged, reused, or refurbished materials. Plants are
addressed in other credits and are excluded from this credit. If only part of a composite
material or assembly meets the requirements, count only that fraction, based on weight.
Option 1: Advocate for sustainable extraction of raw materials
1 point
Submit a letter to all raw materials suppliers and/or materials manufacturers asking
them to track and disclose sustainable extraction practices.
Option 2: Support raw material suppliers and/or manufacturers that
3 points
disclose data on environmental practices
Obtain five percent of the total materials costs (excluding recycled content, salvaged,
reused, or refurbished materials) from raw materials suppliers and/or materials
manufacturers that:
--Report annual environmental performance via the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI),
or equivalent, including the Mining and Metals supplement, if applicable
--Provide a publicly available sustainability statement that discloses efforts to
achieve sustainable practices

C5.7

Option 3: Support raw material suppliers and/or manufacturers that

5 points
meet or exceed standards for raw material extraction
Obtain five percent of the total materials costs (excluding recycled content, salvaged,
reused, or refurbished materials) from raw materials suppliers and/or manufacturers that
meet one or more of the following criteria:
--Have third-party verified corporate sustainability reports (CSRs), including
statements of environmental impacts of extraction operations and activities
associated with the manufacturers product and the products supply chain
--Meet responsible extraction criteria for the raw material sources listed below

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v4 MR Credit: 3: Building product disclosure and optimizationsourcing of raw materials.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Responsible extraction criteria:
Mined or quarried materials:
--Follow the Framework for Responsible Minings recommendations for Leading
Edge Issues
--Publicly declare a commitment to responsible mining
Bio-based materials (excluding hide products):
--Bio-based products must meet the Sustainable Agriculture Networks Sustainable
Agriculture Standard
--Bio-based raw materials must meet ASTM Test Method D6866 and be harvested
legally, as defined by the exporting and receiving country
New wood products:
--Be certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) (or local equivalent for
projects outside the United States)
Other extracted materials:
--Meet all applicable laws for exporting and receiving countries, including human
rights laws
--Make publicly available a third-party verified corporate sustainability report that
includes ALL of the following:
>>A commitment to long-term ecologically responsible land use
>>A commitment to reducing environmental harms from extraction and any
manufacturing processes
>>Evidence of economic and social support of adjacent communities
>>A voluntary commitment to meeting applicable standards or programs that
address responsible sourcing criteria
>>Labor practices
>>Governance structure

C5.7

Recommended strategies
Establish project goals for the use of responsibly extracted materials, and identify
suppliers early in the project process that can help achieve these goals.
Write standards into the project specifications that support the goals of this credit.
During construction administration, ensure that the responsibly extracted materials or
products are installed.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.8:
Support transparency and
safer chemistry
1 5 points
Intent
Decrease harmful health and environmental impacts and encourage the use of safer
alternatives by promoting the use of materials with available chemical inventories, lifecycle information, and hazard assessments.
Requirements*
This credit applies to all of the following product categories and must meet at least one of
the four options listed below:
Decking, railing, fencing, trellises, or lattices (wood and non-wood)
Pipes, hoses, and irrigation components
Conduit, wiring, and electrical equipment
Lighting
Membranes, liners, and geotextiles
Fabrics and canvas
Extruded, spray, or board foams
Paints and coatings
Adhesives, sealants, elastomers (e.g., flexible plastics), water proofing, weather stripping,
expansion joint filling, and flashing
Synthetic surfacing materials and associated products (e.g., crumb rubber, artificial turf)

C5.8

This credit excludes products that are salvaged or reused or refurbished.

Option 1: Advocate for transparency and safer chemistry
1 point
Submit a letter to all manufacturers for all materials specified in the product categories
asking them to develop and disclose chemical inventories or conduct chemical hazard
assessments according to the criteria outlined in Options 2 or 3.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED BD+C v4 MR Credit 2: Building product disclosure and optimization
environmental product declarations
-- LEED BD+C v4 MR Credit 4: Building product disclosure and optimization
material ingredients.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Option 2: Support manufacturers that disclose material chemistry and
3 points
hazards
Specify products for at least five percent of the total material costs (excluding
products that are salvaged, reused, or refurbished) for all materials included in the
product categories, from manufacturers who:
--Develop chemical inventories covering all chemicals, whether used intentionally or
otherwise known to be present, in all life cycle stages of the product
--In cases where the compilation of a complete chemical inventory is not feasible,
the inventory requirements should cover chemicals and their life cycle stages
thought to present the greatest hazards to workers, consumers, the general
population, and environmental species
--Report all known hazards and their concentrations regardless of whether the
chemicals presence in the product or process is intentional. This reporting
includes the identification of any impurities, byproducts, and emissions from
finished products or product curing steps.
Option 3: Support manufacturers that have completed chemical
5 points
hazard assessments
Specify products for at least five percent of the total material costs (excluding
products that are salvaged, reused, or refurbished) for all materials included in the
product categories, from manufacturers who conduct chemical assessments using
one of the following screening-level hazard assessment tools (see Resources section):
--BizNGOs Chemical Alternatives Assessment Protocol
--GreenScreen for Safer Chemicals
--U.S. EPAs DfE Alternatives Assessment Criteria for Hazard Evaluation
--U.S. EPAs Sustainable Futures tool suite (to be used only when measured data is
not available)
--An equivalent robust hazard assessment strategy using recognized and reliable
data sources.

C5.8

Recommended strategies
Use materials without finishes (e.g., dye, paint, gloss) or other chemical additives
whenever possible per performance requirements.
Utilize product certification systems (standards and ecolabels) that incentivize
transparency and safer chemistry.
Prioritize product categories based upon human and environmental risk of exposure.
Continue open dialogue with all suppliers about your current and future projects
transparency and safer chemistry goals and needs.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.9:
Support sustainability in
materials manufacturing
1 5 points
Intent
Support sustainability in materials manufacturing by specifying and using materials from
manufacturers whose practices increase energy efficiency, reduce resource consumption
and waste, and minimize negative effects on human health and the environment.
Requirements*
The requirements apply to manufacturers of new products purchased for use on site.
Rocks, plants, soils, salvaged or reused, or refurbished materials are covered in other
credits and are excluded from the calculations for this credit.
Option 1: Advocate for sustainable materials manufacturing
1 point
Submit a letter to all materials manufacturers asking them to perform, track, and disclose
sustainable practices.
Option 2: Support manufacturers that disclose data on sustainable
3 points
practices
Obtain 25 percent of the total applicable materials cost from businesses that complete
one of the following actions:
Report annual environmental performance via the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) or
equivalent
Conduct and publish a peer-reviewed full life-cycle assessment (LCA) or an
environmental product declaration (EPD) for the product
Set and publicly announce specific goals to reduce, by at least 25 percent (per unit
product or equivalent basis) over a five-year period, the companys performance
metrics in the following areas:
--Use of energy, water, and toxics
--Releases of key pollutants to air and water
--Disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous wastes

C5.9

Option 3: Support manufacturers that achieve significant improvements

5 points
in sustainable practices
Obtain 25 percent of the total applicable materials cost from businesses that employ and
document at least three of the five achievements below. Percentages are based on cost.
If multiple manufacturers are involved in the development of a product, the requirements
apply to the manufacturer responsible for producing or assembling the final product.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v4 MR Credit 2: Building product disclosure and optimization
environmental product declarations.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Sustainable manufacturing achievements:
1. Reduce emissions:
In at least two of the following three categories, document at least 50 percent
reduction (normalized, per unit product or equivalent basis) in the companys
direct environmental impacts over the most recent 10-year period where data are
available.
--Emission of hazardous air pollutants (per U.S. Clean Air Act or local equivalent
for projects outside the United States)
--Emission of toxic water pollutants (per U.S. Clean Water Act or local equivalent
for projects outside the United States)
--Generation of hazardous and non-hazardous waste (per U.S. Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act or local equivalent for projects outside the
United States).
2. Reduce or offset greenhouse gas emissions:
The product manufacturer demonstrates that the three lowest years for carbon
emissions (or global warming potential equivalent, per unit of product) in the
previous 10 years are at least 25 percent better than its corresponding 10-year
average (per unit of product) OR the product manufacturer purchases carbon
offsets from a legally binding trading system that provides independent third-party
verification for 25 percent of its carbon emissions (or global warming potential
equivalent).
3. Reduce energy consumption:
Demonstrate that the manufacturing process per unit of product consumes 25
percent less energy than the industry average. Consult the National Institute of
Standards and Technology Building for Environmental and Economic Sustainability
(BEES), National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) U.S. Life-Cycle Inventory
Database, or Commercial Buildings Energy Consumption Survey for industryspecific data (see Resources section).
4. Use renewable energy sources:
Use on-site renewable energy sources to meet 10 percent of electricity demands
OR engage in at least a four-year contract for the purchase of 20 percent of
electricity from renewable sources for the facility at which the product is made.
5. Reduce use of potable water:
Use potable or other natural surface or subsurface water resources for less than
25 percent of total water consumption during manufacturing for the product
line specified (i.e., non-potable sources are used to meet 75 percent of water
consumption).

C5.9

Recommended strategies
Identify and select materials from manufacturers that actively implement better
business practices to reduce negative impacts to human health and the environment.
For example, a site could meet the low point requirements for this credit by selecting
wooden benches (for 10 percent of total costs) from a manufacturer that meets the
requirements for reduced potable water and energy use, and selecting concrete (for 15
percent of total costs) from a manufacturer that has conducted a LCA and uses at least
10 percent renewable energy.

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Section 5: Site DesignMaterials Selection

Credit 5.10:
Support sustainability in
plant production
1 5 points
Intent
Support sustainable practices in plant production by purchasing plants, sod, and seed
from providers whose practices increase energy efficiency, reduce resource consumption
and waste, and minimize negative effects on human health and the environment.
Requirements
The requirements apply to the businesses from which plants, sod, and seed are purchased
for the site. If multiple businesses are involved in plant production, the requirements apply
to the business that grows the plant material until it is ready for sale (finishes the plant
material). Percentages are based on cost.
Option 1: Advocate for sustainable plant production
1 point
Submit a letter to all businesses from which plants, sod, and seed are purchased asking
them to perform, track, and disclose sustainable practices in plant production.

C5.10

Option 2: Support producers that disclose data on sustainable practices

3 points
Obtain 80 percent of purchased plants, sod, and seed from businesses that have a
publicly available sustainability statement that discloses efforts to achieve at least six of
the 10 practices listed below.
Option 3: Support producers that achieve significant improvements in
5 points
sustainable practices
Obtain 80 percent of purchased plants, sod, and seed from businesses that achieve at
least six of the 10 sustainable practices listed below.
Sustainable practices in plant production:
1. Reduce use of potable water or other natural surface or subsurface water resources:
Use non-potable water (e.g., captured rainwater, recycled graywater, reclaimed/
treated wastewater, water treated and conveyed by a public agency specifically for
non-potable uses) for 50 percent of the total annual irrigation volume or reduce total
irrigation volume by 50 percent.
2. Reduce runoff from irrigation: Capture and recycle all irrigation runoff water on site
(i.e., no dry-weather discharges).
3. Choose sustainable soil amendments and growing media: Use peat-free growing
media or other sustainable sources. Use cover crops and amend soils with compost,
manure, or other sustainable sources.
4. Recycle organic matter: Compost or recycle 100 percent of vegetation trimmings on
site for use in nursery operations or for sale to the public.
5. Reduce waste: Conduct a waste audit to identify the weight or volume of ongoing
consumables, and reuse, recycle, or compost 50 percent of the on-going
consumables waste stream.
6. Use integrated pest management (IPM): Employ a certified IPM practitioner OR use
an IPM-certified nursery.
7. Prevent use and distribution of invasive species: Demonstrate that invasive species
are managed and are not distributed.

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8. Reduce energy consumption: Demonstrate that the energy use during the three most
recent years is at least 25 percent less than the average energy use over the previous
10 years.
9. Use renewable energy sources: Use on-site renewable energy sources to meet 10
percent of electricity demands OR engage in at least a four-year contract for the
purchase of 20 percent of electricity from renewable energy sources.
10. Provide safe and fair working conditions: Develop nursery employment policies
in order to establish open communication with employees about issues such as
workplace safety and job satisfaction.
Recommended strategies
Identify and select plants from nurseries that actively implement better business
practices to reduce damage to the environment and conserve resources.
Contact state and regional nursery and other plant producer associations to identify
growers using sustainable practices in plant production. Also contact USDA extension
offices to help identify suppliers.

C5.10

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SECTION 6

SITE DESIGN
HUMAN HEALTH +
WELL BEING

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

HHWB C6.1

Protect and maintain cultural and historic places

2-3 points

HHWB C6.2

Provide optimum site accessibility, safety, and wayfinding

2 points

HHWB C6.3

Promote equitable site use

2 points

HHWB C6.4

Support mental restoration

2 points

HHWB C6.5

Support physical activity

2 points

HHWB C6.6

Support social connection

2 points

HHWB C6.7

Provide on-site food production

3-4 points

HHWB C6.8

Reduce light pollution

4 points

HHWB C6.9

Encourage fuel efficient and multi-modal transportation

4 points

HHWB C6.10

Minimize exposure to environmental tobacco smoke

1-2 points

HHWB C6.11

Support local economy

3 points

Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Credit 6.1:
Protect and maintain cultural
and historic places
2 3 points
Intent
Enhance a sites identity and meaning by protecting and maintaining significant historic
buildings, structures, and objects, as well as cultural landscapes.
Requirements*
Option 1: Historic buildings, structures, or objects
2 points
Identify and protect existing historic buildings, structures, and objects that are included,
or are eligible for inclusion, in one of the following:
--A local historic register
--A state historic register
--The U.S. National Register of Historic Places, which includes National Historic
Landmarks (or local equivalent for projects outside the United States)
--The Native American/American Indian tribal register
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete. It must outline long-term strategies and short-term tasks
to achieve preservation maintenance goals for the site or the sites cultural or historic
features.
Option 2: Historic or cultural landscapes
3 points
Identify and protect existing historically significant cultural landscapes that are included,
or are eligible for inclusion, in one of the following:
--A local historic register
--A state historic register
--The U.S. National Register of Historic Places, which includes National Historic
Landmarks (or local equivalent for projects outside the United States)
--The Native American/American Indian tribal register
--A conservation easement register
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete. It must outline long-term strategies and short-term tasks
to achieve preservation maintenance goals for the site or the sites cultural or historic
features.

C6.1

Recommended strategies
Communicate with the local community; local, state, federal, and Native American/
American Indian Tribal preservation agencies; educational facilities; and historical
associations to identify important cultural or historic landscapes to protect and
incorporate into site design.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED ND v2009 GIB Credit 6: Historic resource preservation and adaptive use
-- LEED ND v4 GIB Credit 6: Historic preservation and adaptive use

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Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Credit 6.2:
Provide optimum site accessibility,
safety, and wayfinding
2 points
Intent
Increase site users ability to understand and access outdoor spaces by incorporating
elements of accessibility, safety, and wayfinding into the site design.
Requirements
Enable site use by including the following elements in the project design:
--Accessibility*: Provide site access and usability as required by local and national
accessibility standards (e.g., Americans with Disabilities Act)
--Safety: Improve actual and perceived safety of site users by providing at least four
of the six components below:
>>Clear, defined spaces and access control
>>Natural surveillance with adequate lighting levels
>>Natural surveillance at entrances and walkways
>>Clear visibility and good sight lines
>>A variety of options for access
>>Site design elements that improve the effectiveness of policing and security
efforts
--Wayfinding: Create an environment that makes it easy and intuitive for users to
orient themselves and navigate from place to place, by providing at least five of
the eight components below:
>>Clear entrances and gateways
>>Viewpoints and sight lines
>>Landmarks
>>Decision points or nodes
>>Hierarchy of pedestrian and vehicular circulation
>>Distinct areas and regions
>>Orientation devices and systems
>>Maps and brochures

C6.2

* Note: This requirement does not apply to single-family residential projects.

Recommended strategies
To address safety and accessibility concerns during site design, identify techniques
appropriate to the site type and user groups.
Identify techniques to improve legibility and understanding of the sites layout and
intended uses.
Consider implementing the elements to enable site use without compromising sensitive
site features.
Adapt universal design practices to enable all users to participate equally in access and
enjoyment of site features and amenities.

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Credit 6.3:
Promote equitable site use
2 points
Intent
Provide economic and social benefits to the local community by providing publicly
available on-site events, facilities, amenities, or programming.
Requirements
Achieve Pre-Design C2.4: Engage users and stakeholders.*
Achieve two of the following four SITES credits:
--HHWB C6.4: Support mental restoration
--HHWB C6.5: Support physical activity
--HHWB C6.6: Support social connection
--Education C9.1: Promote sustainability awareness and education
Provide free public site access to four specific, equitable site elements (which may
include some combination of amenities, activities, facilities, programs, or events) in the
first three years of operation. Elements must be associated with the above credits that
have been identified by the local community as a need or desirable element.
* Note: This requirement does not apply to single-family residential projects.
Recommended strategies
Actively engage with the local community to identify needs and develop options to
generate or share the economic and social benefits of the site.
Permanent elements and temporary installations may promote benefits for different user
groups. Select options that allow use of the site to benefit and engage a wide range of
local residents, beyond the primary user groups.

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Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Credit 6.4:
Support mental restoration
2 points
Intent
Improve human health and well-being by providing visual and physical connections to
restorative outdoor spaces.
Requirements
Provide accessible, quiet outdoor spaces that include:
--Seating for five percent of total site users
--Visual and physical access to vegetation
--Elements that reduce noise and mitigate negative distractions
--Elements that address microclimate and other site-specific conditions (e.g., sun,
shade, wind)
For sites with regularly occupied buildings, provide unobstructed views of vegetation
from 50 percent of common spaces (e.g., office spaces, classrooms, waiting rooms,
living areas, dining rooms).
Note: A project cannot achieve this credit for the same space that is submitted for HHWB
C6.6: Support social connection. SITES encourages the development of multiple types of
spaces to serve the intents of both credits; therefore, submit two separate spaces in order
to achieve both credits.
Recommended strategies
During the site assessment process, identify areas that are quiet and could optimize the
mental health benefits for site users. Look for shade trees, views, or site landmarks as
well as potential stressful factors on or off site.
During site planning and design, meet with stakeholders and potential site users to
identify needs and techniques appropriate to the site type and user groups. Work
with designers to design the project so that buildings can optimize views and deflect
surrounding noise.
Design a variety of smaller, mentally restorative spaces conveniently located throughout
a site rather than one large space. If possible, consider integrating these outdoor
spaces with interior public spaces to enhance the connection to nature throughout
a site.
Design the outdoor mental restoration spaces away from distractions, such as noise
from mechanical systems, building and facility operations, and traffic. To minimize
noise, incorporate multiple solutions such as quieter pavement or road surfacing, dense
foliage, earth berms, and barriers or screens. Schedule maintenance activities when site
users are not present.
To create a sense of enclosure, define seating areas with low walls, fences, vegetation,
or topography. Walls, fences, and vegetation can also break, guide, deflect, or filter the
wind and thereby alter its effects.
Provide a variety of seating options within defined spaces. Consider providing comfortable, moveable seating in both sun and shade.
Design the site with protective windbreaks, awnings, and other sources of shade where
necessary. Use vegetation, green walls, or barriers to minimize or buffer excessive wind,
sunlight, traffic, or unsightly features.
Provide amenities or vegetation that enhance a multi-sensory aesthetic experience,
such as a grove of trees, water features, scents from flowers or foliage, tactile variation,
or art.
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Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Credit 6.5:
Support physical activity
2 points
Intent
Improve human health by providing on-site opportunities that encourage outdoor physical
activity.
Requirements
Estimate the total number of site users and the peak times of use.
--Identify, describe, and list the four largest user groups.
Develop and implement a functional plan that encourages outdoor physical activity for
the largest four distinct user groups identified.
Provide services to support site users during physical activity (e.g., drinking fountains,
bicycle racks, emergency call boxes).
Provide at least two of the following five outdoor physical activity features:
--On-site trail or bicycle path that is a minimum of one mile (1.61 kilometers) in
length, and is either a closed loop or has a turn-around at both ends.
>>If connecting to either an off-site bicycle lane or multi-use trail that meets the
local minimum standards, the on-site trail or bicycle path must be a minimum
of 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers) in length.
--Playgrounds that are physically challenging and engaging
--Fitness courses (e.g., pull-up bars, disc golf, steps, inclined surfaces)
--Physical activity programs (e.g., yoga classes, tai chi, regular sports programs) to
be established within six months of project completion
--Scheduled events that support physical activity (e.g., tournaments, races)

C6.5

Recommended strategies
Identify potential site users and the physical activities preferred by intended user groups.
Locate desirable and accessible spaces on site to enable and encourage physical
activity.
For small sites, creatively design meandering pathways to maximize on-site physical
activity opportunities.
If public sidewalks are used as part or all of a trail or pathway, conduct a walkability
audit to assess the safety and desirability of the walking routes.
If a private site provides access to the public, consider pedestrian level lighting as part
of the design.
For larger sites, provide a variety of opportunities for active living that may physically
challenge the users and offer seating at key nodes of activity.

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Credit 6.6:
Support social connection
2 points
Intent
Strengthen community and encourage social connections by providing outdoor gathering
spaces to support people gathering, eating, working, and playing together.
Requirements
Provide outdoor spaces to encourage social connection that include:
--Seating for a minimum of 10 percent of the total site users that accommodates a
variety of group sizes and is appropriate to the site
--Elements that address microclimate and other site-specific conditions (e.g., sun,
shade, wind)
--Amenities, services, or activity spaces (e.g., games, wireless access, food
concessions, picnic or dining areas, outdoor auditoriums, playgrounds, farmers
markets)
Note: A project cannot achieve this credit for the same space that is submitted for HHWB
C6.4: Support mental restoration. SITES encourages the development of multiple types of
spaces to serve the intents of both credits; therefore, submit two separate spaces in order
to achieve both credits.
Recommended strategies
During the site assessment process, identify areas that could accommodate moderate
and large groups. To find areas that may encourage social connection, look for shade
trees or views.
During site planning and design, meet with stakeholders and potential site users to
identify needs and appropriate techniques.
Design a variety of smaller social spaces conveniently located throughout a site rather
than one large space.
Moveable seating is preferred, if possible. Enclose and define seating areas with low
walls or vegetation. Provide comfortable seating in sun and shade.
Consider the needs of a variety of user groups. Provide seating, games, and spaces
specifically designed for children, such as a tot-lot playground.

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Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Credit 6.7:
Provide on-site food production
3 4 points
Intent
Improve human health and well-being, community involvement, and education about food
production and nutrition by designing and managing food production on site.
Requirements
Provide for on-site food production including vegetable gardens or edible nut and
fruit-bearing plants appropriate to the site (see Soil+Veg P4.3: Use appropriate plants).
Option 1: Food production
3 points
Dedicate a minimum of 10 percent of the sites final vegetated area to food production.
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and describes how site conditions are appropriate for food
production.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and details practices for maintaining a food-producing
garden.
Option 2: Food production and regular distribution
4 points
Dedicate a minimum of 10 percent of the sites final vegetated area to food production
(e.g., community gardens) and distribute or sell food produced to site users and the
community (e.g., farmers market, local food sources, restaurants, schools, hospitals,
and community supported agriculture).
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and describes how site conditions are appropriate for food
production.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and details specific practices for maintaining a foodproducing garden.

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Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Recommended strategies
Research historical uses of the site and surrounding context to determine the
potential for in-ground and airborne contaminants. If needed, consult environmental
professionals for acceptable databases.
Contaminated soils can negatively affect the healthfulness of food crops. Sites should
be evaluated regarding their safety for food production (e.g., be aware of previously
developed sites, including those previously used as orchards for nut or fruit production,
and brownfield sites that may have contaminated soils). To certify the sites soils and
plants produced in them do not pose a health risk, it is recommended that only a
qualified environmental professional determine the safety of the site for food production.
Contact local or county cooperative extension offices to determine which soil tests are
available to check for potential contaminants harmful to human health. Recommended
soil tests and sampling protocol must meet local, state, and federal regulatory
standards.
Use organic gardening methods to reduce human consumption of harmful chemicals.
Use various gardening methods (e.g., greenhouses, raised beds, container gardens) to
provide alternative spaces for food production and reduce risk if contaminated soils are
present and not remediated.
Harvest rainwater or use another sustainable water harvesting method that minimizes
the use of potable water.
If food waste and vegetation trimmings are generated on site, incorporate this waste
material into composting strategies.
Practices in animal husbandry may be considered for credit in Innovation C10.1 Innovation in site design, with adequate documentation proving the design meets state and
local regulations.

C6.7

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Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Credit 6.8:
Reduce light pollution
4 points
Intent
Minimize negative effects on nocturnal environments and human health and functioning,
reduce sky-glow, and increase nighttime visibility by reducing light trespass on site.
Requirements*
In order to reduce light pollution:
Meet uplight and light trespass requirements for all exterior luminaires located inside
the project boundary (except those listed under Exemptions) using one of the two
methods below, based on:
--The photometric characteristics of each luminaire when mounted in the same
orientation and tilt as specified in the project design
--The lighting zone of the project property (at the time construction begins). Classify
the project under one lighting zone using the definitions provided in the Illuminating
Engineering Society and International Dark Sky Association (IES/IDA) Model
Lighting Ordinance (MLO) User Guide.
Note: Projects may use different methods for uplight and light trespass (backlight and
glare).
For internally illuminated exterior signage within the project boundary:
--Do not exceed a luminance of 200 candelas per square meter (nits) during
nighttime hours and 2,000 candelas per square meter (nits) during daytime hours.
Illumination for front-lighted signage is considered faade or landscape lighting
and must comply with uplight and light trespass lighting requirements.

C6.8

Method 1: BUG rating method

Do not exceed the luminaire backlight, uplight, and glare (BUG) ratings (see Tables 6.8-A
through C) for the projects MLO lighting zone, based on the specific light source installed
in the luminaire. Backlight and glare ratings are also based on the mounting location and
distance from the lighting boundary. For guidance on determining ratings for luminaires,
refer to the Documentation guidance section below.
The lighting boundary is the SITES project boundary. The lighting boundary can be
modified under the following conditions:
When the lighting boundary abuts a public area that is a walkway, bikeway, plaza, or
parking lot, the lighting boundary may be moved to five feet (1.5 meters) beyond the
property line.
When the lighting boundary abuts a public roadway or public transit corridor, the
lighting boundary may be moved to the center line of that roadway or corridor.
The lighting boundary may be expanded to include additional properties contiguous
to the SITES project if the additional property is owned by the same entity and has the
same or higher MLO lighting zone designation.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit: LEED
BD+C v4 SS Credit 6: Light pollution reduction.

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Orient all luminaires located at a distance that is less than two mounting heights from the
lighting boundary such that the backlight points toward the nearest lighting boundary line.
The backlight rating requirement excludes building-mounted luminaires with the backlight
oriented toward the building.
Backlight ratings
Table 6.8-A
MLO
lighting zone

Allowed BACKLIGHT ratings for luminaire mountings

> 2 mounting
heights from
lighting
boundary

1 to 2 mounting heights
from lighting
boundary
and properly
oriented

0.5 to 1 mounting height

to lighting
boundary
and properly
oriented

< 0.5 mounting

height to lighting boundary
and properly
oriented

LZ0

B1

B1

B0

B0

LZ1

B3

B2

B1

B0

LZ2

B4

B3

B2

B0

LZ3

B5

B4

B3

B1

LZ4

B5

B4

B3

B2

Refer to Table 6.8-G in SITES v2 Reference Guide to determine lumen requirements for backlight ratings B0B5.

Uplight ratings
Table 6.8-B
MLO lighting zone

Luminaire UPLIGHT rating

LZ0

U0

LZ1

U1

LZ2

U2

LZ3

U3

LZ4

U4

C6.8

Refer to Table 6.8-H in SITES v2 Reference Guide to determine lumen requirements for uplight ratings U0U4.

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Glare ratings
Table 6.8-C
MLO lighting
zone

Allowed GLARE ratings for luminaire mountings

Buildingmounted >
2 mounting
heights from
any lighting
boundary

Buildingmounted 12
mounting
heights from
any lighting
boundary

Buildingmounted
0.5 to 1
mounting
heights from
any lighting
boundary

Buildingmounted
< 0.5
mounting
heights from
any lighting
boundary

All
other
luminaires

LZ0

G0

G0

G0

G0

G0

LZ1

G1

G0

G0

G0

G1

LZ2

G2

G1

G0

G0

G2

LZ3

G3

G1

G1

G0

G3

LZ4

G4

G2

G1

G1

G4

Refer to Table 6.8-I and Table 6.8-J in SITES v2 Reference Guide to determine lumen requirements for glare
ratings G0G5.

Method 2: Calculation method

Uplight
Do not exceed the following percentages of total lumens emitted above horizontal:
Table 6.8-D

MLO lighting zone

Maximum allowed percentage of total

luminaire lumens emitted above horizontal

LZ0

0%

LZ1

0%

LZ2

1.50%

LZ3

3%

LZ4

6%

C6.8

Light trespass (backlight and glare)

Do not exceed the following vertical illuminances at the lighting boundary. (Use the
definition of lighting boundary in Method 1). Calculation points may be no more than
five feet (1.5 meters) apart. Calculate the vertical illuminance on vertical planes running
parallel to the lighting boundary. The normal to each plane should be oriented toward the
property and perpendicular to the lighting boundary, extending from grade level to 33 feet
(10 meters) above the height of the highest luminaire.

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Table 6.8-E
MLO lighting zone

Maximum vertical illuminance at the lighting boundary

LZ0

0.05 footcandles

LZ1

0.05 footcandles

LZ2

0.10 footcandles

LZ3

0.20 footcandles

LZ4

0.60 footcandles

Exemptions from uplight and light trespass requirements

The following exterior lighting is exempt from the requirements, provided it is controlled
separately from the nonexempt lighting:
Specialized signal, directional, and marker lighting for transportation
Lighting that is used solely for faade and landscape lighting in MLO lighting zones 3
and 4, and is automatically turned off from midnight until 6 a.m.
Lighting that is integral to other equipment or instrumentation that has been installed by
the equipment or instrumentation manufacturer
Lighting for theatrical purposes for stage, film, and video performances
Government-mandated roadway lighting
Hospital emergency departments, including associated helipads
Lighting for the national flag in MLO lighting zones 2, 3, or 4
Internally illuminated signage
Recommended strategies
Adopt site lighting criteria to maintain safe light levels while avoiding off-site lighting and
night sky pollution.
Control the direction and spread of light by choosing the correct type of light fixtures.
Consider using Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) full cut off or fully shielded
designated fixtures, which means that no light is visible above the lowest light emitting
part of the fixture.
The Dark Sky Society recommends Top-mounted sign lightingwith RLM (dish) type
shields, provided that the light falls entirely on the sign and is positioned so that the
light source (bulb) is not visible from any point off the property or into the roadway.
Consider hiring a professional lighting designer to strategically place lighting over
15,000 lumens or accent and wayfinding lighting.

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Section 6: Site DesignHuman Health + Well-Being

Credit 6.9:
Encourage fuel efficient and
multi-modal transportation
4 points
Intent
Reduce emissions and promote a healthy lifestyle by encouraging and supporting efficient
and adaptable modes of transportation.
Requirements*
Provide at least three of the following options:
--Preferred parking for vehicles that have reduced emissions and/or high fuelefficiency for three percent of the total vehicle parking capacity of the site
--Preferred parking for carpools or vanpools for three percent of the total vehicle
parking capacity
--Parking capacity that is reduced by 20 percent from the base ratios, as
recommended by the Parking Consultants Council (shown in the Institute
of Transportation Engineers Transportation Planning Handbook, 3rd Edition,
Tables 18-2 through 18-4)
--Site amenities at structured bus shelters (e.g. appropriate weather protection
structures, seating, waste and recycling receptacles)
--Electric re-charge stations or alternative fuel stations
--Short-term bicycle parking for no less than six bicycles within 50 feet (15.24
meters) of each primary entrance of a building and long-term bicycle parking,
either enclosed and secured or within 200 feet (60.96 meters) of inhabited
buildings, for seven percent of the buildings total users
--Infrastructure, facilities, or incentives to promote shared usage such as carpool
drop-off areas, car-share programs, bicycle-share programs, and shuttle services
to mass transit
Ensure the section of the site assessment (see Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design
site assessment) is complete and includes locations of the existing or planned
pedestrian, bicycle, or transit routes and any existing parking.

C6.9

Recommended strategies
Provide transportation facilities such as alternative fuel refueling stations.
Provide fuel-efficient vehicles for employee use during the workday.
Support for bicycle riders may include access to bicycle racks, on-site showers,
enclosed parking lockers, and flexible work scheduling to avoid rush hour traffic
congestion.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED BD+C v2009 SS Credit 4: Alternative transportation
-- LEED BD+C v4 LT Credit 6: Bicycle facilities
-- LEED BD+C v4 LT Credit 7: Reduced parking footprint
-- LEED BD+C v4 LT Credit 8: Green vehicles

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Credit 6.10:
Minimize exposure to
environmental tobacco smoke
1 2 points
Intent
Improve human health by minimizing site users exposure to environmental tobacco
smoke (i.e., secondhand smoke).
Requirements*
Option 1: Designate smoke-free zones
1 point
Develop and implement a smoke-free policy to prohibit smoking outdoors within 25 feet
(7.62 meters) of all regularly occupied building entries, operable windows, air intakes,
bus stops, parking for persons with disabilities, patios, overlooks, playgrounds,
recreational fields, and other outdoor gathering areas where people could inadvertently
come in contact with tobacco smoke when occupying, entering, or leaving the site.
Clearly designate outdoor smoking areas that meet the above requirements and provide
adequate waste disposal. Permanent signage indicating the smoke-free policy must be
installed within 10 feet (3.05 meters) of all building entrances.*
Ensure employees, contractors, and visitors will be informed and asked to comply with
the smoke-free policy.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and outlines the long-term strategies to monitor the smokefree policy for compliance by all employees, contractors, and visitors to the site.

C6.10

Option 2: Prohibit smoking on site

2 points
Develop and implement a smoke-free policy to prohibit smoking within the entire site.
Install permanent signage indicating the smoke-free policy.*
Ensure employees, contractors, and visitors will be informed and asked to comply with
the smoke-free policy.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and outlines the long-term strategies to monitor the smokefree policy for compliance by all employees, contractors, and visitors to the site.
* Note: This step is not required for single-family residential projects.
Recommended strategies
In locating exterior smoking areas, take into account prevailing winds and microclimate
effects.
To limit the effects of tobacco smoke on site users, consider innovative techniques such
as placing filters near air intakes or creating outdoor smoke rooms.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED BD+C v2009 EQ Prerequisite 2: Environmental tobacco smoke control
-- LEED BD+C v4 EQ Prerequisite 2: Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS) control

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Credit 6.11:
Support local economy
3 points
Intent
Provide economic and social benefits to the local community during site construction by
providing employment opportunities and purchasing local materials and services.
Requirements
Hire a local workforce and support local businesses during the construction phase by
doing two or more of the following steps:
--Commit to employing no fewer than 75 percent of workers at or above a living
wage requirement during construction of the site.
--Employ local individuals for 75 percent of new hires during the construction phase.
--Employ low-income individuals for 75 percent of new hires during the construction
phase.
--Support on-the-job training by hiring individuals from government-sponsored,
union, or accredited educational programs such as GreenCorps, Jobcorps, VISTA
or AmeriCorps.
--Purchase materials and construction services equal to 10 percent or more of the
construction budget from locally owned and operated businesses.
Recommended strategies
Actively engage with the local community to identify and develop options for sharing
the economic and social benefits of the sites development.
Select options that allow the sites development to benefit a wide range of local
residents, beyond the primary user groups.
Contact union and other worker organizations to identify potential workforce hires for
the project.

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SECTION 7

CONSTRUCTION

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

Construction P7.1

Communicate and verify sustainable construction

practices

Required

Construction P7.2

Control and retain construction pollutants

Required

Construction P7.3

Restore soils disturbed during construction

Required

Construction C7.4

Restore soils disturbed by previous development

3-5 points

Construction C7.5

Divert construction and demolition materials from disposal

3-4 points

Construction C7.6

Divert reusable vegetation, rocks, and soil from disposal

3-4 points

Construction C7.7

Protect air quality during construction

2-4 points

Section 7: Construction

Prerequisite 7.1:
Communicate and verify
sustainable construction practices
Required
Intent
Ensure site performance by communicating and verifying the implementation of
sustainable practices throughout the construction process.
Requirements
Designate an integrated design team member (see Pre-Design P2.1: Use an integrative
design process), other than the contractor, who will be responsible for verifying the site
is built per the construction specifications and drawings.
Before construction starts, hold a meeting that includes at least one person from each
discipline from the integrated design team, plus the major subcontractors.
--Review construction specifications and drawings and convey the projects
sustainability principles and performance goals to the contractor and
subcontractors.
--Review the steps needed to achieve all the prerequisites and pursued credits.
--Hold additional meetings as necessary when additional subcontractors are hired.
Prior to construction, create a SITES Punchlist that assigns responsibility for each
prerequisite and desired credit in a worksheet (see SITES Punchlist Worksheet) to a
member of the integrated design team. That person will sign off on each assigned item
as it is implemented.
Recommended strategies
Provide SITES Punchlist Worksheet for distribution to contractor prior to the beginning
of construction. Update and re-issue it as construction progresses.
Encourage the site contractor to designate a staff person to track SITES-related work
and communicate with the integrated design team as needed from design phase
through maintenance period.
To increase awareness of critical path items, coordinate with construction sequencing
to produce and distribute a graphic timeline for SITES Punchlist items.
Discuss resources (i.e., budget, staff, volunteers, equipment, and materials) available
during the construction process. Determine short- and long-term sustainability
principles and performance goals.

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Section 7: Construction

Prerequisite 7.2:
Control and retain construction
pollutants
Required
Intent
Protect receiving waters (including surface water, groundwater, and combined sewers
or stormwater systems), air quality, and public safety by preventing and minimizing the
discharge of construction site pollutants and materials.
Requirements*
Create and implement an erosion, sedimentation, and pollutant control plan, commonly
referred to as a stormwater pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) or erosion and
sedimentation control plan (ESC) for all construction activities associated with the
project.
--Regardless of project size, the plan (SWPPP or ESC) must conform to erosion
and sedimentation requirements of the most current version of the U.S. EPA
Construction General Permit (or local equivalent from projects outside the United
States) or local erosion and sedimentation control standards and codes, whichever
is more stringent. The plan must list the best management practices (BMPs)
employed and describe how the BMPs accomplish the following objectives:
>>Prevent loss of soil during construction by stormwater runoff or wind erosion,
including protecting topsoil by stockpiling or covering for reuse.
>>Prevent and reduce sediment discharges into storm conveyances, receiving
waters, or other public infrastructure components or systems.
>>Prevent polluting the air with dust and particulate matter.
>>Prevent runoff and infiltration of other pollutants from construction sites (e.g.,
thermal pollution, concrete wash, fuels, solvents, hazardous chemical runoff,
high or low pH discharges, pavement sealants) and ensure proper disposal of
all construction related materials.
>>Protect any Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs) and other areas of
vegetation that will remain on site from construction activities.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and describes the on-going management activities to protect
the integrity of VSPZs.

P7.2

Note: The construction phase of the project is considered complete when the site is
stabilized, a notice of termination is filed, or a notice of substantial completion is issued.
The construction general permit (CGP) outlines the provisions necessary to comply with
Phase I and Phase II of the U.S. EPA National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) program (or local equivalent for projects outside the United States). Although
the CGP applies only to sites greater than one acre (0.40 hectares), its requirements are
applied to all projects for the purposes of this prerequisite.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credit:
-- LEED BD+C v2009 SS Prerequisite 1: Construction activity pollution prevention
-- LEED BD+C v4 SS Prerequisite 1: Construction activity pollution prevention

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Section 7: Construction
Recommended strategies
Employ strategies such as a combination of temporary and permanent seeding,
mulching, earth dikes, sediment traps, sediment basins, filter socks, compost berms
and blankets, secondary containment, spill control equipment, hazardous waste
manifests, and overfill alarms.
Implement post-construction stormwater management with construction sequencing
(e.g., infiltration systems constructed or rehabilitated at the end of the project). Account
for weather conditions during construction activities to minimize unintended chemical
dispersal or other adverse effects on and off site (e.g. apply pavement sealers and
perform mass-grading operations only when no rain is predicted).

P7.2

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Section 7: Construction

Prerequisite 7.3:
Restore soils disturbed during
construction
Required
Intent
Support healthy plants, biological communities, water storage, and infiltration by restoring
soils disturbed during construction.
Requirements
Restore all soils on site that have been disturbed by current construction activities and
that will serve as the final vegetated area (regardless whether the pre-construction soil
condition was classified as healthy or disturbed):
Locate reference soils to guide performance criteria that are appropriate for the sites
vegetation, intended program, and site elements.
--If identified reference soils are not appropriate for the design intent, explain why
and describe the soil characteristics that will guide soil restoration treatment
efforts. (See Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment and Soil+Veg
P4.1: Create and communicate a soil management plan.)
Restore soils to a minimum depth of 12 inches (30.48 centimeters).
--Where planting trees, restore soils to a greater depth and volume to support
(biologically, structurally, hydrologically, and geotechnically) the intended mature
tree canopy.
Test restored (final) soil conditions to ensure the following soil restoration criteria are
met:
1. Organic matter (required):
Achieve appropriate organic matter for plant growth, water storage, and infiltration.
Amend soils with mature, stable compost such that, at minimum, the top 12
inches of soil (30.48 centimeters) contain at least three percent organic matter or
organic matter levels and depths that are comparable to the sites reference soil
and appropriate for vegetation and program needs. Do not use sphagnum peat or
organic amendments that contain sphagnum peat.
Acceptable test methods for determining soil organic matter include the most
current version of ASTM D2974 Test Methods for Moisture, Ash, and Organic
Matter of Peat and Other Organic Soils and TMECC 05.07A Loss-On-Ignition
Organic Matter Method.
2. Compaction (field test or undisturbed core sample only):
Ensure bulk densities within 100 percent of the root zone do not exceed the
maximum values given in Figure 7.3-A or Figure 7.3-B in the Documentation
guidance section of the SITES v2 Reference Guide.
OR
Infiltration (field test only):
Achieve infiltration rates (inches or centimeters per hour) or saturated hydraulic
conductivity (millimeters per second) comparable to the sites reference soils and
appropriate for vegetation and program needs.
Note: This test must only be done in the field.

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Section 7: Construction
3. Soil chemical characteristics:
Restore appropriate soil chemical characteristics for plant growth. The minimum
basic profile that must be tested includes:
--pH
--Soluble salts (electrical conductivity)
--Cation exchange capacity (CEC)
--Extractable phosphorus
--Potassium
--Calcium
--Magnesium
--Sodium (in semi-arid and arid climates)
The pH, cation exchange capacity, and nutrient profiles should be comparable
to the original undisturbed soil or the sites reference soil and appropriate for
vegetation and program needs. Salinity must be suitable for regionally appropriate
plant species.
OR
Soil biological function:
Ensure that soil biological function is restored in remediated soils. Soil biota
assays are complex and vary regionally, making potentially mineralizable nitrogen
serve as a proxy assessment of biological activity.
Required tests per project area:
Restored Vegetated Area

Minimum Number of Soil Tests Required

0.5 acre (0.20 hectares)

1 set for each soil restoration treatment zone

type (see Soil+Veg P4.1)

> 0.5 acre (0.20 hectares) to 1 acre

(0.40 hectares)

2 sets for each soil restoration treatment

zone type

> 1 acre (0.40 hectares) to 2 acres

(0.81 hectares)

3 sets for each soil restoration treatment

zone type

> 2 acres (0.81 hectares) to 20

acres (8.09 hectares)

1 set per acre for each soil restoration

treatment zone type

> 20 acres (8.09 hectares)

1 set per 3 acres for each soil restoration

treatment zone type

P7.3

Note: If multiple soil restoration treatment zones have the same soil restoration methods, treat them as one type.

Structural or engineered media:

These specialized media are exempt from meeting the soil restoration criteria above when
used for applications such as the following. However, all other requirements must be met
and documentation submitted accordingly:
Athletic fields
Green roofs
Raingardens
Vertical green walls
Trees in paving
Bioswales
Green vehicle easements
Steep slopes
Food gardens
Constructed wetlands

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Section 7: Construction
Note: Neither imported topsoils nor manufactured soil blends designed to serve as topsoil
may be mined from the following locations (unless soils are a byproduct of a construction
process):
Greenfield sites
Prime farmland, unique farmland, farmland of statewide importance or farmland of local
importance, as defined by the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service (or local
equivalent for projects outside the United States)
Recommended strategies
Limit disturbance during construction to minimize the need for additional restoration.
In areas that will be re-vegetated, restore soil characteristics necessary to support the
selected vegetation types. Below are sample methods to restore soils:
--Stockpiling and reusing existing site topsoils, incorporating organic amendments,
if needed
--Amending site soils in place with organic matter and mechanically correcting
compaction if needed (e.g., by ripping or discing)
--Importing a topsoil or soil blend designed to serve as topsoil, avoiding prime
farmland sources or greenfield sites unless soils are a byproduct of a construction
process
When selecting a soil restoration strategy, consider the design, site use, and future site
maintenance expectations. Consider the following possibilities:
--Adding mature, stable compost to unscreened soil can be a sustainable strategy.
--Many un-screened and un-amended soils will drain adequately.
--Amend with other earth materials to modify a soils gradation, texture, and organic
matter content.
Select organic materials for on-site amendment or for blending of imported soils from
sources that are renewable within a 50-year cycle:
--Mature, stable compost is recommended as the best source of organic matter, for
its stability, biological activity, and soil structure building qualities. If mature, stable
compost is not locally available, look for locally available organic residuals that can
be composted on or off site to produce a mature composted organic amendment.
--Involve a qualified horticultural or soil professional in selecting and balancing
amendments for healthy plant growth.
Guidelines for compost include these qualitative measurements:
--Has a carbon to nitrogen ratio (C:N) below 25:1. Higher C:N ratios may be acceptable if specified by a qualified professional to be more appropriate for the type of
vegetation to be established.
--Does not exceed pollutant concentration limits established by the U.S. EPA in the
40 CFR Part 503 Biosolids Rule, section 503.13 table 3 Pollutant Concentrations
(or local equivalent for projects outside the United States) or any applicable state
or local regulations
--Does not contain viable weed seeds or invasive plant propagules
--Results in final soil conditions conducive to growing the type of vegetation to be
established
Before placing stockpiled or imported topsoils, consider scarifying any areas of
construction-compacted subsoil, except where this process will damage existing tree
roots. Ideally, the first lift of replaced soil is mixed into this scarification zone in order to
improve the transition between the subsoil and overlying soil horizons.

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Section 7: Construction
Most planting soil should be installed in 12-inch (30.48-centimeter) lifts at compaction
between 78 to 85 percent of maximum dry density per the Standard Proctor Test.
Understand that installed soil, even when correctly installed, will settle slightly after the
completion of work. Set final grades slightly higher than the desired long-term grades
(10 to 15 percent of the installed soil depth) to account for this settlement. Where there
is a low tolerance for settlement or slope stability issues, use sandier soils and compact
soil in eight-inch (20.32-centimeter) lifts to 80 to 84 percent maximum dry density per
the Standard Proctor Test.
Engineered growing media* (e.g., soils specified for green roofs, street trees, wetlands,
environmental restoration sites) should meet the intent of this prerequisite, follow the
requirements to the greatest extent practical, and follow current best available science
and practical standards for the engineered growing media and application.
* Note: There is no current standard for engineered growing media, but if growing media
are used on-site, the rough guidelines described here are recommended.

P7.3

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Section 7: Construction

Credit 7.4:
Restore soils disturbed by
previous development
3 5 points
Intent
Support healthy plants, biological communities, water storage, and infiltration by restoring
soils in areas disturbed by previous development.
Requirements
Restore soils on site disturbed by previous development. These requirements apply
only to previously disturbed areas that will be re-vegetated. Areas with soils that were
previously developed and restored per requirements in Construction P7.3: Restore soils
disturbed construction may also be included here.
To count towards this credit, restored soils must cover a minimum of 500 square feet
(46.46 square meters) or five percent of the total project area. Credit point values are
based on the surface area of soil disturbed by previous development that will be revegetated and the degree of disturbance of those soils (disturbed or severely disturbed).
See Point Value Table 7.4-A below.
Locate reference soils to guide and determine performance criteria that are appropriate
for the sites vegetation, intended program, and site elements.
--If identified reference soils are not appropriate for the design intent, explain why
and describe the soil characteristics that will guide soil restoration treatment
efforts. (See Pre-Design P2.2: Conduct a pre-design site assessment and Soil+Veg
P4.1: Create and communicate a soil management plan.)
Restore disturbed existing soils to a minimum depth of 12 inches (30.48 centimeters)
--Where planting trees, restore soils to a greater depth and volume to support
(biologically, structurally, hydrologically, and geotechnically) the intended mature
tree canopy.
Test restored (final) soil conditions to ensure the following soil restoration criteria are
met (see Construction P7.3: Restore soils disturbed during construction for details):
1. Organic matter (required)
2. Compaction (field test or undisturbed core sample only)
OR
Infiltration (field test only)
3. Soil chemical characteristics
OR
Soil biological function

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Section 7: Construction
Required tests per project area:
Restored Vegetated Area

Minimum Number of Soil Tests Required

0.5 acre (0.20 hectares)

1 set for each soil restoration treatment zone

type (see Soil+Veg P4.1)

> 0.5 acre (0.20 hectares) to 1 acre

(0.40 hectares)

2 sets for each soil restoration treatment

zone type

> 1 acre (0.40 hectares) to 2 acres

(0.81 hectares)

3 sets for each soil restoration treatment

zone type

> 2 acres (0.81 hectares) to 20

acres (8.09 hectares)

1 set per acre for each soil restoration

treatment zone type

> 20 acres (8.09 hectares)

1 set per 3 acres for each soil restoration

treatment zone type

Note: If multiple soil restoration treatment zones have the same soil restoration methods, treat them as one type.

TABLE 7.4-A: Point Value Table

Percent or total site area that will be re-vegetated
500 sq ft to 0.5
acres (46 square
meters to 0.20
hectares) OR at
least 5%

0.5 acres to 5
acres (0.20 to 2.02
hectares)
OR 10% or more

More than 5 acres

(2.02 hectares)
OR 30% or more

Disturbed

3 points

3 points

4 points

Severely disturbed

3 points

4 points

5 points

Note: Soils must be reused for functions comparable to their original function (i.e., topsoil is used as topsoil,
subsoil as subsoil, or subsoil is amended to become functional topsoil).

Structural or engineered media:

These specialized media are exempt from meeting the soil restoration criteria above when
used for applications such as the following. However, all other requirements must be met
and documentation submitted accordingly:
Athletic fields
Green roofs
Raingardens
Vertical green walls
Trees in paving
Bioswales
Green vehicle easements
Steep slopes
Food gardens
Constructed wetlands

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Section 7: Construction
Note: Imported topsoils, or manufactured soil blends designed to serve as topsoil, may
not be mined from the following locations (unless soils are a byproduct of a construction
process):
Greenfield sites
Prime farmland, unique farmland, farmland of statewide importance or farmland of local
importance, as defined by the U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service (or local
equivalent for projects outside the United States)
Recommended strategies
Please see detailed recommended strategies for soil restoration in Construction P7.3:
Restore soils disturbed during construction.

C7.4

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Section 7: Construction

Credit 7.5:
Divert construction and demolition
materials from disposal
3 4 points
Intent
Support a net-zero waste site and minimize down-cycling of materials by diverting,
reusing, or recycling construction and demolition materials to avoid disposal in landfills or
combustion in incinerators.
Requirements*
Percent calculations may be based on weight or volume (tons or cubic yards), but
must be submitted consistently throughout. The requirements apply to non-hazardous
construction and demolition materials.
Calculations in this credit exclude land-clearing materials generated during all phases of
design and construction and structures and paving reused on site in their existing form.
Develop and implement a construction waste management plan that, at a minimum,
identifies the materials to be diverted from disposal and whether they will be sorted on
site or comingled.
Divert materials from disposal by recycling, salvaging or reusing structural materials
(e.g. bricks, steel, wood), and road and infrastructure materials (e.g., pavement,
drainage structures) for at least:
--50 percent of structural materials and 95 percent of road and
3 points
infrastructure materials
--75 percent of structural materials and 95 percent of road and
4 points
infrastructure materials
Recommended strategies
Inventory existing materials on site and use the results to establish project goals for
salvaged materials.
Reuse existing materials on site or recycle them for on-site use when possible.
Develop a construction waste management plan to specify and communicate the
expectations and requirements of the project.
If materials are to be reused as soil amendments (e.g., gypsum, lime), soils tests should
be conducted first to determine that the material is appropriate for use with the site
soils.
--Non-composted and non-organic materials should not be added to soil as an
amendment unless these materials can be demonstrated to benefit site soils and
planned vegetation.

C7.5

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED BD+C v2009 MR Credit 2: Construction waste management
-- LEED BD+C v4 MR Credit 5: Construction and demolition waste management

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Credit 7.6:
Divert reusable vegetation, rocks,
and soil from disposal
3 4 points
Intent
Support a net-zero waste site by diverting from disposal vegetation, mineral and rock
waste, and soils generated during construction.
Requirements
The requirements apply to all on-site plant material, mineral and rock waste, and soils
generated during the land-clearing activities of the site during all phases of design and
construction.
Contaminated soils and diseased or invasive plant materials should not be included in
calculations of land-clearing materials totals. Salvaging plants is a technique that can be
used to meet the requirements of this credit.
Soils must be reused for functions comparable to their original function (i.e., topsoil is
used as topsoil, subsoil as subsoil, or subsoil amended to become functional topsoil).
Retain 100 percent of land-clearing materials:
--For use within 50 miles (80.47 kilometers) of the site
3 points
--On site
4 points
Recommended strategies
Inventory salvageable plants existing on the site and use the results to establish project
goals for salvaged vegetation, rocks, and soils.
Use existing vegetation, mineral and rock materials, and soils as resources in site
design.
Recycle excess vegetation generated during land-clearing to produce compost, mulch,
erosion-protection measures, or other site amenities.
Where possible, balance cut and fill volumes, and reuse existing soils and rocks in the
proposed site design instead of specifying and importing new materials for the project
Manage and prevent spread of diseased and invasive plant materials found on site
using methods such as hot composting.
Divert reusable vegetation, rocks, and soils that exceed the amount that can be used on
site to local outlets such as soil blenders and mulch and compost producers.

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Section 7: Construction

Credit 7.7:
Protect air quality during
construction
2 4 points
Intent
Protect air quality and reduce pollution by using construction equipment that reduces
emissions of localized air pollutants and greenhouse gasses.
Requirements
These requirements apply to all diesel engines used on site during construction. Delivery
vehicles are not covered in this credit; exclude them from calculations.
Establish a policy to reduce diesel emissions from idling construction equipment. Limit
unnecessary idling to no more than five minutes in any 60-minute period.
Implement a preventative maintenance plan for all equipment according to engine
manufacturer specifications.
Use ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel that meets American Society of Testing and Materials
(ASTM) specifications with sulfur less than or equal to 15 ppm for all non-road diesel
equipment.
Use no construction equipment with Tier 0 engines.
50 percent of the total run-time hours of construction equipment meets one of the
following criteria:
--Tier 2 or higher engines
2 points
--Tier 3 or higher engines
3 points
--Tier 4 or higher engines
4 points
Recommended strategies
Select construction contractors who are committed to reducing diesel emissions from
construction equipment and vehicles.
Reduce construction emissions by reducing idling; enhancing maintenance practices;
using cleaner fuels; retrofitting engines with technologies designed to reduce emissions;
and replacing older equipment with newer, cleaner engines and equipment.
Use GPS devices to provide data that track machinerys run time and idle time.

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98

SECTION 8

OPERATIONS +
MAINTENANCE

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

O+M P8.1

Plan for sustainable site maintenance

Required

O+M P8.2

Provide for storage and collection of recyclables

Required

O+M C8.3

Recycle organic matter

3-5 points

O+M C8.4

Minimize pesticide and fertilizer use

4-5 points

O+M C8.5

Reduce outdoor energy consumption

2-4 points

O+M C8.6

Use renewable sources for landscape electricity needs

3-4 points

O+M C8.7

Protect air quality during landscape maintenance

2-4 points

Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Prerequisite 8.1:
Plan for sustainable site
maintenance
Required
Intent
Ensure long-term site sustainability by developing a site maintenance plan outlining the
projects strategies and required implementation tasks.
Requirements
With the integrated design team (see Pre-Design P2.1: Use an integrative design
process), prepare a site maintenance plan according to the outline below.
Explain the short-term tasks and the long-term strategic plan (i.e., 10-year desired
outcome) to achieve sustainable maintenance goals.
Ensure the maintenance contractor or site manager commits to educating maintenance
personnel on the goals and implementation of the site maintenance plan.
Note: For additional information and resources regarding the following maintenance
topics, see the associated prerequisites and credits listed in the right-hand column of the
outline.
Topic

Description

1. Water

Stormwater features and BMPs effectiveness

Proper maintenance activities (including anticipated maintenance
schedule) used to ensure continued effectiveness of stormwater
features and BMPs (e.g., replacement of vegetation, removal of
accumulated sediment load)
Water treatment
Process used for treating any water features (e.g., avoid
chlorine, bromine)
Water quality
Appropriate maintenance activities designed to reduce:
--Exposure to pollutants
--Mobilization and transport of pollutants in runoff
Irrigation allotment and schedule

Prerequisite
or Credit #
P3.1, C3.3,
C3.5

C3.3, C3.4,
C3.5
C3.3, C3.4,
C3.5, C3.6

P8.1
P3.2, C3.4

Anticipated watering schedule (frequency and duration) that

allows the site to meet annual volume requirements and
restrictions
Irrigation water source

P3.2, C3.4

Process used for maintaining non-potable irrigation water

sources (e.g., rainwater harvesting, graywater systems)
Temporary irrigation

C3.4

Process used for disconnecting or removing any temporary

irrigation systems after the plant establishment period
continued

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Topic

Description

2. Soil stewardship

Soil amendments
Process used for identifying soil deficiencies, including
conducting soils tests prior to adding amendments
--Specify use of least harmful amendments (such as compost)
when necessary.
Use of fertilizers
Process used for applying fertilizers (only if needed) to ensure
that application is effective and prevents harm to environmental
and human health
Erosion and compaction
Process used for alleviating soil erosion or compaction (due to
site use or maintenance) that is detrimental to plant health

3. A. Vegetation
(Plant stewardship)

Plant health care (PHC)

Process used for maintaining vegetation according to long-term
plans for the site, including food producing gardens
Recognized standards of professional horticultural practices
used
Process used for monitoring plant health to prevent problems
List of potential appropriate, noninvasive plants to be used for
plant replacement
--When replacing plants, consider maintenance needs and
design consistency.
Healthy plant material management
Process used for managing excess organic plant material
generated on site (e.g., composting, recycling)
Plan and schedule for harvest of food producing gardens
Diseased and invasive plant material disposal
Process used for disposing of organic plant materials generated
on site that are not suitable for composting or recycling (i.e.,
dead diseased, invasive, or pest-infested vegetation) in a manner
that does not increase the likelihood of spread.
Site Safety
Process used for maintaining vegetation to ensure site safety and
that meets the intended uses of the site
Prevention of wildfire
Process used for managing vegetative biomass to reduce risk of
catastrophic wildfire
--If prescribed fires are to be used, describe burn plan that is
similar in technique, frequencies, and intensities to natural fire
regimes in the ecosystem.
Pest management
Integrated pest management (IPM) techniques used to control
pests, diseases, and any unwanted species of plants and animals
on site

Sites v2 Rating System

Prerequisite
or Credit #
P4.1, C6.7,
P7.3, C7.4,
C8.4

P4.1, P4.3,
C6.7, C8.4

P4.1, P7.3,
C7.4
C3.5, C3.6,
P4.3, C4.4,
C4.5, C4.6,
C4.7, C4.8,
C4.9, C4.10,
C4.11, C6.7,
C8.3, C8.4

C6.7, C8.3,
C8.4

P4.2, C7.6,
C8.3

C4.11, C8.3,
C8.4

P8.1

P4.2, C6.7,
C8.4

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Topic

Description

Prerequisite
or Credit #

3. B. Vegetation
(Invasive species
management)

Invasive species list

P4.2

List of invasive plant species identified in the area according to:

--Regional lists (when listing occurs through a vetted, transparent
process and has been accepted by the regional stakeholders)
--State Noxious Weed laws
--Federal Noxious Weed laws
Invasive management plan

P4.2, C8.4

Active multi-year plan for control and subsequent management

of any plant species included above, including:
--IPM strategies
--Procedure for identifying and monitoring for additional invasive
species that may colonize the site
--Procedure for adding new species as they are recognized by
local authorities
--Initial treatment, follow-up treatments, and long-term control
including monitoring
--Methods to dispose of invasive plant materials
4. Materials
management

Materials replacement
List of preferred characteristics for replacement materials (e.g.,
materials from local and regional sources, recycled content
materials, certified wood, energy-efficient lighting)
Functionality and extended use
Process used for repairing and maintaining structures and paving
in a way that reduces harm to environmental and human health
and ensures the effectiveness of the material (e.g., clean
permeable surfaces, low-emitting sealants)
Process used for maintaining structures and paving to ensure site
safety and that meets the needs of the intended uses of the site
Site safety
Process used for repairing and maintaining structures and paving
that reduces harm to environmental and human health and
ensures the effectiveness of the material (e.g., clean permeable
surfaces, low-emitting sealants)
Process used for maintaining structures and paving to ensure site
safety and that meets the needs of the intended uses of the site
Process used for properly disposing of harmful materials
Historic buildings, structures, objects, and cultural landscapes
Process for maintaining the integrity of historic buildings,
structures, and cultural landscapes, including:
--Detailed specifications related to the repair or replacement
of features and any maintenance work to be documented for
records
--Process for determining how conflicts between historic and
environmental concerns will be addressed

P5.1, C5.4,
C5.5, C5.6,
C5.7, C5.8,
C5.9, C5.10,
C6.8, C8.5
C4.9, C5.2,
C5.3, C5.4,
C5.8

C5.2, C6.2,
P8.2, C8.3,
C8.4

P8.1
C4.5, C5.2,
C6.1

continued

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Topic

Description

Prerequisite
or Credit #

4. Materials
management
(continued)

Recyclable materials

P8.2

Process used for managing and recycling all paper, glass,

plastics, and metals generated on site
On-site food waste

C6.7, C8.3

Process used for on-site collection of compostable organics to

prevent them from entering the municipal solid-waste stream
5. Sensitive site
features

Conserve aquatic ecosystems

Maintenance and monitoring techniques that will ensure proper
aquatic ecosystem function
Conserve habitats for threatened and endangered species

P1.2, P1.3,
C3.5, C3.6
P1.4, C4.7

Process used for avoiding impacts during site maintenance to

threatened or endangered species and their habitats
Maintain Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs)
Ongoing management activities to protect the integrity of VSPZs

6. Landscape
maintenance
equipment

Equipment maintenance

Maintenance schedule that minimizes users exposure to noise,

localized air pollution, and other disturbances
Managing snow and ice
Process (including stockpiling) used for managing snow and ice
in ways that limit degradation of water quality and surrounding
plants and soil health
Process used for stockpiling areas and managing any snow-melt
that will be used as a water source on site
8. Adaptive
Management

P4.2, C8.7

Types of equipment (i.e., manual, electric, low-emitting, or

gasoline powered) to be used on site
Process used for maintaining equipment
Process used for cleaning equipment to remove invasive species
to prevent transport to other sites
Site user experience

7. Snow and ice

P1.1, P1.2,
P1.3, P1.4,
P2.3, P4.1,
C4.4, C4.5,
C4.6, C4.7

Update site maintenance plan

C6.4, C8.4,
C8.7
P1.2, P1.3,
P1.4, P3.1,
C3.3, C3.5,
C3.6, C6.2

P8.1

Process used for reevaluating the maintenance plan on an annual

basis and revising as needed to adapt to future conditions and
unforeseen changes

9. Other
MaintenanceRelated Topics

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Prerequisite 8.2:
Provide for storage and collection
of recyclables
Required
Intent
Facilitate recycling and reduce waste generation and disposal in landfills by providing
space for recyclable materials collection in outdoor areas.
Requirements*
Conduct a waste stream study to estimate the amount of recyclable materials generated
in outdoor areas, including:
--Paper
--Glass
--Plastics
--Metals
Co-locate collection containers for recyclables next to all trash receptacles
Ensure that service is provided for collection of recyclable materials, or advocate for
implementation of a local recycling program.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and includes the processes for collecting recyclable materials
on site.
Recommended strategies
Coordinate the size and function of the recycling areas with the anticipated collection
services for glass, plastics, paper, and metals to maximize the effectiveness of the
dedicated areas.

P8.2

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED BD+C v2009 MR Prerequisite 1: Storage and collection of recyclables
-- LEED BD+C v4 MR Prerequisite 1: Storage and collection of recyclables

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Credit 8.3:
Recycle organic matter
3 5 points
Intent
Support nutrient cycling, improve soil health, and reduce transportation costs and materials
going to landfills by recycling vegetation trimmings or food waste to generate compost
and mulch.
Requirements
Conduct a waste stream study to estimate the amount of vegetation trimmings and
food waste, if applicable, that will be generated.
Compost and/or recycle:
--100 percent of vegetation trimmings off site within 50 miles
3 points
(80.47 kilometers)
--100 percent of vegetation trimmings on site
4 points
--100 percent of vegetation trimmings AND compostable food waste
5 points
on site
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and demonstrates anticipated strategies for composting or
recycling any vegetation trimmings and food waste.
Recommended strategies
Collect excess vegetation generated during site maintenance to divert to a composting
facility on or off site.
Consider using a mulching mower when trimming grass and leaving plant materials in
situ.
Sites with limited space for composting can utilize neighborhood facilities and programs
to process organic matter.
If generating food waste, capitalize on the results of waste stream study to determine
source reduction opportunities (e.g., alter purchasing practices, join food donation
programs).

C8.3

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Credit 8.4:
Minimize pesticide and
fertilizer use
4 5 points
Intent
Reduce stress on plants, decrease negative effects on human health, and have the lowest
possible negative ecological and environmental impacts by promoting practices based on
observation and planning to minimize or eliminate synthetic pesticide and fertilizer use.
Requirements
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and provides non-toxic maintenance measures for
ecologically sensitive areas (e.g., streams, drains, surface waters, wetlands, wells,
groundwater, grassed waterways, existing buffers, areas sensitive to erosion, sensitive
wildlife habitat) and human use areas (e.g., areas for children and pets, food production
areas) that exist within or in proximity to the SITES project boundary.
Option 1: Plant health care plan
4 points
Include all of the following policies and practices and adapt them to the specific plants,
pests, ecologically sensitive areas, and human use areas on site.
Pesticides and Fertilizers
Ban all weed and feed type fertilizers.
Set and enforce buffer zones where fertilizers and pesticides may not be applied.
--Buffer zones should be applied around areas such as:
>>Water bodies, wetlands, and other aquatic ecosystems
>>Drains, conveyance features, and areas where runoff can directly impact water
quality (e.g., near curbs and on sidewalks and driveways)
>>Human use areas (e.g., playgrounds, seating areas, places of respite, food
production areas)
--Minimum buffer zones should be set at 10 feet (3.05 meters) but may need to be
larger depending on local regulations and conditions (e.g., slope, habitat)
Develop written safety requirements for proper storage, mixing, labeling, transporting,
application, and disposal of fertilizers, pesticides, leftover mixtures, and containers.
Refer to appropriate local, state, and federal regulations.
Outline procedures and list contacts for handling accidental spills of pesticides and
fertilizers.
Require detailed record keeping for the application of any fertilizers or pesticides,
including substance used, concentration, total volume applied, area treated, target
species, weather, and environmental conditions.
Communicate policies to all facilities operators, maintenance contractors, and other
relevant parties.

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Pesticides
Establish action thresholds that define pest population levels and approved management
strategies that may be used to reduce them. Physical and mechanical controls should
be implemented first, then biotic controls; targeted chemical controls should be a last
resort.
Require prior notification to all site users and to the public when chemical pesticides will
be applied. Define how and when communication will be given (e.g., size, location, and
number of posted signs; office memo).
Specify the use of third-party certified (e.g., EcoWise, Greenshield, or equivalent)
integrated pest management (IPM) service providers, when pest control services are
contracted out.
Fertilizers
Outline the need for the use of fertilizers.
Require soil or plant tissue testing in order to determine the type and amount of fertilizer
needed.
Define thresholds and set levels for fertilizer concentrations and frequency of application
according to testing results.
Define how much water should be applied after fertilizer applications. Explain the
choices made by referring to regional climatic conditions, soil data (e.g., type, texture,
composition) and fertilizer concentrations.
Specify the use of service providers that have current certifications in fertilizer best
management practice (in cities or states where certification is offered) when fertilization
services are contracted.
Option 2: Best management practices for plant health care
5 points
Fulfill all requirements for Option 1 and incorporate four of the seven additional policy
options listed below:
Pesticides and Fertilizers
1. Incorporate vegetative and grading components into the site design that help
mitigate the spread or migration of pesticides and fertilizers in the landscape (e.g.
buffer zones, vegetative filter strips, berms, swales).
Pesticides
2. Ban the use of all pesticides for cosmetic purposes.
3. Ban the use of all pre-emergent herbicides.
4. Create a list of herbicides, insecticides, and fungicides approved for use when
physical, mechanical, and biotic control methods for pests have been ineffective.
Specify chemicals that are the least toxic (i.e., biodegrade quickly and do not threaten
human health, water quality, ground water, or aquatic species).

C8.4

Fertilizers
5. Develop a list of organic or slow-release fertilizer products that are approved for use
on the site.
6. Ban the application of all fertilizers during rainy seasons, before predicted heavy
rainfall events, and during summer months.
7. Ban the use of all fertilizers after the establishment period, except for periodic
applications of mature stable compost or other soil amendments as indicated by
soil or plant tissue tests.

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Recommended strategies
Use appropriate plant species.
During the planning and design stage, incorporate a variety of plant types in the
landscape to avoid planting too many of one species. Low species diversity can create
problems such as pest outbreaks.
If using plants susceptible to pest infestation, learn to identify pest life stages.
Incorporate this information into the monitoring schedule.
Use practices that rely on observation and planning (e.g., IPM) to reduce synthetic
inputs that may have short and long-term deleterious impacts on human health and the
environment.
Comply with any local, state, and federal regulations or ordinances (e.g., groundwater
protection zones) that govern applications of fertilizers and pesticides.

C8.4

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Credit 8.5:
Reduce outdoor energy
consumption
2 4 points
Intent
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by minimizing energy consumption and costs
associated with site use and operations.
Requirements
Select outdoor lighting and other site equipment (e.g., aerators, ceiling fans, water
pumps, transformers) to achieve an annual energy reduction from the estimated baseline energy use for at least:
--30 percent reduction from baseline energy use for those products
2 points
--60 percent reduction from baseline energy use for those products
3 points
--90 percent reduction from baseline energy use for those products
4 points
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and includes details for repair and replacement materials
(e.g., energy-efficient lighting).
Note: The baseline energy use is calculated using that of the lowest-cost comparable
item.
Recommended strategies
Research various alternatives for each type of outdoor appliance to be installed on the
project, in order to identify those options that are most energy efficient.
When possible, look for solar-powered alternatives to conventional products.

C8.5

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Credit 8.6:
Use renewable sources for
landscape electricity needs
3 4 points
Intent
Reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with site operations and minimize air
pollution, habitat destruction, and pollution from fossil fuel-based energy production by
supporting a renewable energy market.
Requirements*
Option 1: On-site renewable production
Use on-site renewable energy sources to generate outdoor site electricity for at least:
--50 percent of annual outdoor site electricity
3 points
--100 percent of annual outdoor site electricity
4 points
Calculate the electricity generated by quantity (e.g., kilowatts), not cost.
The use of a community renewable energy system, such as a solar garden, is allowed if
the following requirements are met:
Actual ownership in the system or a signed lease agreement for a period of at least 15
years
The system is located within the same utility service area as the facility claiming the use
The percentage of credit will be determined as a percentage of ownership or percent
utilization assigned in the lease agreement, or other written and signed document, as it
applies to the projects total annual outdoor site electricity use.
Option 2: Green power
Engage in a contract for the delivery of green power or offsets from qualified resources
that have come online since January 1, 2005. Contracts should be for a minimum of five
years to be delivered at least annually. The contract must specify the quantity, not the
cost, of the projects energy that comes from green power, carbon offsets, or renewable
energy certificates (RECs).
--50 percent of annual outdoor site electricity
3 points
--100 percent of annual outdoor site electricity
4 points

C8.6

Note: Carbon offsets may be used to mitigate Scope 1 or Scope 2 emissions on a metric
ton of carbon dioxide-equivalent basis. They must be certified by Green-e Climate or an
equivalent program.

* Components of this credit were adapted from the U.S. Green Building Councils LEED credits:
-- LEED BD+C v2009 EA Credit 2: On-site renewable energy
-- LEED BD+C v2009 EA Credit 6: Green power
-- LEED BD+C v4 EA Credit 5: Renewable energy production
-- LEED BD+C v4: EA Credit 7: Green power and carbon offsets

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Green power and RECs must be certified by Green-e Energy certified or an equivalent
program. RECs can only be used to mitigate the effects of Scope 2.
For U.S. projects, the offsets must be from greenhouse gas emissions reduction projects
within the United States.
Recommended strategies
Assess the project for non-polluting and renewable energy potential, including solar,
wind, geothermal, and low-impact hydropower.
Determine the energy needs of the site, and investigate opportunities to engage in a
green-power contract.

C8.6

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Section 8: Operations + Maintenance

Credit 8.7:
Protect air quality during
landscape maintenance
2 4 points
Intent
Protect air quality and reduce pollution by minimizing the use of powered landscape
maintenance equipment that exposes site users to localized air pollutants and generates
greenhouse gasses.
Requirements
These requirements apply to all powered equipment used for landscape maintenance on
site. Sites that require no powered maintenance equipment are eligible for this credit.
Option 1: Scheduled maintenance
2 points
Plan for the use of powered maintenance equipment only during hours when the site is
closed for use or during periods when the lowest percentage of site users are potentially
exposed to landscape maintenance emissions
For sites with constant use (e.g., college and university settings), designate times
for powered maintenance equipment use to occur when the number of site users is
typically at its lowest.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete. It must describe how the use of powered maintenance
equipment will be limited to hours when the site is closed for use or during periods
when the lowest percentage of site users are present.
Option 2: Low-emitting equipment
3 points
Specify a 50 percent reduction in hydrocarbon (HC) and nitrogen oxide (NOx)
emissions and a 75 percent reduction in carbon monoxide (CO) emissions from
baseline conditions.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable
site maintenance) is complete and specifies equipment allowed for use on site.
Option 3: Manual or electric powered maintenance equipment
4 points
Use only manual and/or electric-powered maintenance equipment.
Ensure the section of the site maintenance plan (see O+M P8.1: Plan for sustainable site
maintenance) is complete and specifies equipment allowed for use on site.

C8.7

Recommended strategies
Design the site to minimize requirements for gasoline-powered maintenance equipment.
Select plants that require minimal maintenance or can be maintained with hand tools.
Select equipment that minimizes emissions of air pollutants and meets or exceeds U.S.
EPA standards (or local equivalent for projects outside the United States). Focus on
reducing the use of 2-stroke engine equipment (e.g., line trimmers, blowers).
Convert turf areas to ground cover or shrubs in areas that adjoin walks and curbs. Large
lawn areas can be converted to meadows or naturalized into restored habitats.

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SECTION 9

EDUCATION +
PERFORMANCE
MONITORING

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

Education C9.1

Promote sustainability awareness and education

3-4 points

Education C9.2

Develop and communicate a case study

3 points

Education C9.3

Plan to monitor and report site performance

4 points

Section 9: Education + Performance Monitoring

Credit 9.1:
Promote sustainability awareness
and education
3 4 points
Intent
Promote understanding of sustainability in ways that positively influence user behavior by
interpreting on-site features and processes.
Requirements
Educational content and elements must relate to SITES prerequisites or the credits a
project is pursuing.
Option 1: Educational and interpretive elements
3 points
Provide a minimum of three educational or interpretive elements that draw attention
to and explain sustainable features or processes of the site design, construction,
operations, or maintenance. Demonstrate how the educational elements represent
environmentally responsible behavior.
Option 2: Additional education
4 points
Complete Option 1 and one of the following:
Interactive educational or interpretive elements
--Design a minimum of 30 percent of educational elements on site to be interactive.
Programming
--Provide programming that welcomes, encourages, and expands sustainability
learning and understanding on the site.
Partnerships
--Create partnerships to extend sustainability education to local community groups.

C9.1

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Section 9: Education + Performance Monitoring

Recommended strategies
Follow these guidelines for educational or interpretive elements:
--Deliver one focused message.
--Make educational messages compelling.
--Use visual illustrations to convey the educational message.
Design educational and interpretive elements with potential audiences in mind.
Provide information in a variety of formats (e.g., maps, models, brochures, electronic
kiosks, MP3-based or cell phone tours).
Use natural elements provided to improve environmental conditions and include
opportunity for user education and understanding. For example, raingardens for
stormwater management can be designed to provide a restorative setting, or a roof
garden can serve as a break room.
Identify those sustainability features that can be easily applied to off-site situations and
design interpretative elements based on these applications.
Tie programming to state standards and local school district goals and learning
initiatives.
Consider including interpretative descriptions in multiple languages to meet a broader
audience based on visitor and population demographics.
Incorporate interactive elements that encourage site users and visitors to integrate
understanding of on-site examples of sustainability practices with experiences and
behaviors that extend beyond the site. Signage is not considered interactive.
Design activities and programs to welcome diverse participants.

C9.1

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Section 9: Education + Performance Monitoring

Credit 9.2:
Develop and communicate
a case study
3 points
Intent
Inspire and educate the public on the value of sustainable landscapes by describing and
communicating a thoughtful and informative summary of the SITES project.
Requirements
Use the SITES project to clearly and effectively illustrate the approaches, strategies,
and benefits of implementing sustainability at the site scale. Work with the projects
integrated design team to develop a case study that, at a minimum, addresses the
following criteria:
--Project details (e.g., name, size, project type, former land use, terrestrial biome,
budget for landscape and site portion only)
--Project summary
--Project team
--Site context (i.e., location, climate, pre-design site constraints and opportunities)
--Challenges and solutions
--Sustainable features
--Environmental, social, and economic performance benefits
--Cost comparison of sustainable vs. conventional strategies
--Lessons learned
--Maintenance and monitoring (i.e., description of how the project promotes longterm sustainability)
Share the completed case study and project images with the public in at least two
locations by making them available to the Sustainable Sites InitiativeTM and other related
organizations and conferences for the purposes of increasing the knowledge base on
site sustainability.
Recommended strategies
Capture many before photos of the site prior to construction in addition to after
(completed) photos.
Communicate the case study needs to the entire team early in the design process.
Provide guidelines for setting sustainability principles and performance goals.
Develop and communicate methodologies that help to define performance benefits
(economic, social, and environmental). Consult with related disciplines to identify the
most appropriate metrics.
Derive quantifiable benefits from tools such as monitoring data, post-occupancy
evaluations, and design calculations.
Describe limitations and lessons learned to advance the knowledge base of site
sustainability.

Sites v2 Rating System

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Section 9: Education + Performance Monitoring

Credit 9.3:
Plan to monitor and report
site performance
4 points
Intent
Improve the body of knowledge on long-term site sustainability by monitoring and
documenting sustainable design practices to evaluate their performance over time.
Requirements
Develop a plan or policy to demonstrate ongoing performance monitoring and reporting
of at least three SITES prerequisites or credits included below.
--Monitoring must be done by a third party or qualified person on the design team
for independent peer review.
--Achievement is based having a monitoring plan or policy in place to report the
performance monitoring evaluation; negative findings will not affect achievement
of this or other prerequisites or credits.
Provide proof of initial start-up funding (25 percent of total funding requirements) and
staffing needs to begin the monitoring. Provide a plan for raising funds for the entire
monitoring timeline as stated in the plan or policy.
Develop three separate summary reports, including one for each of the prerequisites or
credits that include the following components:
--Describe the site feature or program that was implemented for the selected
prerequisite or credit, and define the performance or outcome that is being
evaluated.
--Describe the methodology used to assess performance (i.e., sampling, measures
or instruments, frequency, procedures).
--Describe the corrective action to be taken if the design does not perform as
intended.
Develop a plan to increase the body of knowledge on long-term site sustainability
by widely communicating the results in a discipline-wide professional magazine
(e.g., Planning, Landscape Architecture Magazine), peer-reviewed scientific journal,
professional national or international conference, or national or international public
database (e.g., Landscape Architecture Foundations Landscape Performance Series).
Note: A separate summary report is not necessary if monitoring results are submitted to
the U.S. National Stormwater BMP Database (or local equivalent for projects outside the
United States).

C9.3

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Section 9: Education + Performance Monitoring

Eligible Prerequisites / Credits for Performance Monitoring*
Water P3.1: Manage precipitation on site
Water P3.2: Reduce water use for landscape irrigation
Water C3.3: Manage precipitation beyond baseline
Water C3.4: Reduce outdoor water use
Water C3.6: Restore aquatic ecosystems
Soil+Veg P4.2: Control and manage invasive plants
Soil+Veg C4.7: Conserve and restore native plant communities
HHWB C6.2: Provide optimum site accessibility, safety, and wayfinding
HHWB C6.4: Support mental restoration
HHWB C6.5: Support physical activity
HHWB C6.6: Support social connection
Construction P7.3: Restore soils disturbed by construction
Construction C7.4: Restore soils disturbed by previous development
Education C9.1: Promote sustainability awareness and education
*Note: If a project seeks to monitor SITES prerequisites or credits not listed in Table 9.3-A,
a proposal must be made to SITES outlining any planned monitoring requirements and a
timeframe.
Recommended strategies
Communicate early in the design process that monitoring is a goal of the project.
Set aside additional funding to ensure that monitoring will be conducted.
Research peer-reviewed journals and professional magazines to understand
requirements for submission and associated time frames.

C9.3

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118

SECTION 10

INNOVATION OR
EXEMPLARY
PERFORMANCE

PREREQUISITE / CREDIT

TITLE

POINTS

Innovation C10.1

Innovation or exemplary performance (bonus points)

3-9 points

Section 10: Innovation or Exemplary Performance

Credit 10.1:
Innovation or exemplary
performance
3 9 bonus points
Intent
Encourage and reward innovation and exemplary performance in site design, construction,
and maintenance by providing examples and performance criteria outside the current
SITES v2 Rating System.
Requirements
This credit allows for up to three innovations or exemplary performance achievements (9
points total) for projects that successfully complete the following steps:
Option 1: Exemplary performance
3 points
Achieve significant, measurable exemplary performance above requirements outlined
in the SITES v2 Rating System. An exemplary performance point is typically earned for
achieving double the credit requirements or achieving the next incremental percentage
threshold of an existing credit in SITES.
Option 2: Innovation outside the SITES v2 Rating System
3 points
Apply and document innovative site practices and performance benefits in areas not
specifically addressed by the SITES v2 Rating System.
--Develop a new credit based on the proposed innovations including the following
components:
>>Intent
>>Requirement for compliance
>>Submittal documentation to demonstrate compliance
>>An approach or strategy that might be used to meet the requirements
>>Relevant resources and associated benefits
Recommended strategies
Substantially exceed a SITES performance credit that addresses water, soils,
vegetation, materials selection, or human health and well-being.
Apply strategies or measures that demonstrate a comprehensive approach and
quantifiable environmental or human health benefits.
Consider how the performance of a particular set of strategies can greatly exceed
the intent of two or more credits in combination.

C10.1

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Glossary
A basic service includes, but is not limited to: a
bank, child-care facility (licensed), community or
civic center, convenience store, farmers market,
food store with produce, hair care establishment,
hardware store, health club or recreation facility,
laundromat or /dry cleaner, library, medical
or dental office, museum, park, stand-alone
pharmacy, place of worship, police or fire station,
post office, restaurant, school, senior-care facility,
social services center, supermarket, and theater.
C1.6, P2.2

Biomass density index (BDI) is the density of

plant layers covering the ground. It is calculated
by summing the existing or proposed biomass
value as a proportion of total site area (not
including water or invasive species) for all on-site
structural vegetation types.
C4.8

A reference soil falls into at least one of the

following categories:
Soils native to a site as described in Natural
Resources Conservation Service Soil Surveys
(refer to soils within the region if the site soils are
not mapped or labeled as Urban Land Complex,
Urban Fill, etc.)
For sites that have no undisturbed native soils,
use undisturbed native soils within the sites
region that have native vegetation, topography,
and soil textures similar to the site.
For sites that have no existing soil, use undisturbed native soils within the sites region that
support appropriate native plants or appropriate
plant species similar to those intended for the
new site.
P2.2, P4.1, P7.3, C7.4

A soil restoration treatment zone is any area

of the site that is not protected in a Vegetation
and Soil Protection Zone (VSPZ); not covered at
projects end by buildings or pavement; and is
re-vegetated as part of the project. Soil restoration
treatment zones must be shown on the soil
management plan (Soil+Veg P4.1: Create and
communicate a soil management plan) and must
be restored as required by Construction P7.3:
Restore soils disturbed during construction.

Solar reflectance (SR) is the fraction of solar

energy that is reflected by a surface on a scale
of 0 to 1. Black paint has a solar reflectance
of 0; white paint (titanium dioxide) has a solar
reflectance of 1. The standard technique for
its determination uses spectrophotometric
measurements, with an integrating sphere to
determine the reflectance at each wavelength.
The average reflectance is then determined by
an averaging process, using a standard solar
spectrum, as documented by ASTM Standards
E903 and E892. (LEED v4.)
C4.9

Solar reflectance index (SRI) is a measure

of a materials ability to reject solar heat, as
shown by a small temperature rise. Standard
black (reflectance 0.05, emittance 0.90) is 0 and
standard white (reflectance 0.80, emittance 0.90)
is 100. For example, a standard black surface has
a temperature rise of 90F (50C) in full sun, and a
standard white surface has a temperature rise of
14.6F (8.1C). Once the maximum temperature
rise of a given material has been computed, the
SRI can be calculated by interpolating between
the values for white and black. Materials with
the highest SRI values are the coolest choices
for paving. Because of the way SRI is defined,
particularly hot materials can take slightly negative
values, and particularly cool materials can exceed
100. (LEED v4.)
C4.9

Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs)

are areas identified during the pre-design phase
that will be protected from all disturbances
throughout the construction process to prevent
damage to vegetation, soil structure, and function.
Pre-design P2.3 Designate and communicate
Vegetation and Soil Protection Zones (VSPZs)
describes the requirements for VSPZs.
P1.1, P1.2, P1.3, P1.4, P2.3, P4.1, P4.2, C4.4, C4.5,
C4.6, C4.7, P7.2, P8.1

P4.1, P7.3, C7.4

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121

Acknowledgments

Executive Committee
Susan Rieff
Executive Director
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The University of Texas at Austin
Holly Shimizu
Executive Director
United States Botanic Garden

Nancy C. Somerville, Hon. ASLA

Executive Vice President / CEO
American Society of Landscape Architects
Fritz Steiner, Ph.D., FASLA
Dean, School of Architecture
Center for Sustainable Development
The University of Texas at Austin

Technical Core Committee

Jos Almiana, FASLA, LEED AP
Principal
Andropogon Associates, Ltd.
Nina Bassuk, Ph.D.
Professor and Program Leader
Urban Horticulture Institute, Cornell University
Steve Benz, P.E., LEED Fellow, Hon. ASLA
Partner/ Director of Green Infrastructure
Services
Olin
Jacob Blue, RLA, ASLA
Landscape Architect/ Ecosystem Services
Project Manager
SAA Design Group
Meg Calkins, ASLA, LEED AP
Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture
Ball State University
Jenny Carney, LEED Fellow, LEED AP O+M
Principal
YR&G
Michael Clar, P.E., DWRE, CFM
Principal Engineer, President
Ecosite, Inc
Sandy Dymale, ASLA, LEED AP BD+C
Associate Principal
Mithun
Nora Goldstein
Executive Editor
BioCycle Magazine
Robert Goo
Environmental Protection Specialist
Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds,
Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency
Liz Guthrie, ASLA
Manager, Professional Practice Programs
American Society of Landscape Architects

Sites v2 Rating System

Frances (Ming) Kuo, Ph.D.

Associate Professor and Director
Landscape and Human Health Laboratory
Department of Natural Resources
and Environmental Sciences Department of
Psychology
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
David McDonald
Resource Conservation Planner
Seattle Public Utilities
Ray Mims
Conservation & Sustainability
United States Botanic Garden
Danielle Pieranunzi, LEED AP BD+C
Director, Sustainable Sites Initiative
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The University of Texas at Austin
Mark Simmons, Ph.D.
Director, Research and Consulting
Ecosystem Design Group
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The University of Texas at Austin
Jerry Smith, FASLA, EDAC, LEED AP
Principal
SMITH | GreenHealth Consulting, LLC
John C. Swallow, Ph.D., LSP
President and Director of Environmental
Sciences
Pine & Swallow Environmental
Steve Windhager, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
David J. Yocca, RLA, FASLA, AICP, LEED AP
Principal Landscape Architect/Planner
Conservation Design Forum

122

Acknowledgments
Human Health + Well-Being Technical Subcommittee
Len Hopper, RLA, FASLA LEED AP,
BSCP, ISA
Director of Production and Construction
Services
Mark K. Morrison Landscape Architecture, PC
Frances (Ming) Kuo, Ph.D.
Associate Professor and Director
Landscape and Human Health Laboratory
Department of Natural Resources and
Environmental Sciences Department of
Psychology
University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
Karen R. Nikolai, M.P.H., M.C.P.
Health Community Planning Manager
Housing, Community Works and Transit
Development
Hennepin County (MN)

Robert Ryan, Ph.D.

Professor of Landscape Architecture
University of Massachusetts, Amherst
Jerry Smith, FASLA, EDAC, LEED AP
Principal
SMITH | GreenHealth Consulting, LLC
Rodney Swink, FASLA, PLA
Office of Rodney Swink
Kathleen L. Wolf, Ph.D.
Research Social Scientist
College of the Environment
University of Washington

Materials Technical Subcommittee

Meg Calkins, ASLA, LEED AP
Associate Professor of Landscape Architecture
Ball State University
Stephen Cook, ASLA, LEED AP+
Senior Landscape Architect
VIKA Maryland, LLC
Nora Goldstein
Executive Editor
BioCycle Magazine

Bradley Guy
Assistant Professor
School of Architecture and Planning
The Catholic University of America
Alison Kinn Bennett
Senior Advisor
Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Soils Technical Subcommittee

Fred Cowett, Ph.D.
Department of Horticulture
Cornell University

David McDonald
Resource Conservation Planner
Seattle Public Utilities

Susan D. Day, Ph.D.

Assistant Professor of Urban Forestry
Department of Forestry & Environmental
Conservation
Department of Horticulture
Virginia Tech

John C. Swallow, Ph.D., LSP

President and Director of Environmental
Sciences
Pine & Swallow Environmental
James Urban, FASLA
Consultant, Lecturer
Owner, Urban Trees + Soil

Vegetation Technical Subcommittee

Nina Bassuk, Ph.D.
Professor and Program Leader
Urban Horticulture Institute, Cornell University

Melanie Sifton
Vice President, Horticulture & Facilities
Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Jacob Blue, RLA, ASLA

Landscape Architect/ Ecosystem Services
Project Manager
SAA Design Group

Mark Simmons, Ph.D.

Director, Research and Consulting
Ecosystem Design Group
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
The University of Texas at Austin

Nick Kuhn
Community Forestry Coordinator
Missouri Department of Conservation
Chris Martin, Ph.D.
Professor
Science and Mathematics Faculty
School of Letter and Sciences
Arizona State University
Sites v2 Rating System

John Peter Thompson

Bioeconomic Policy Analyst
Horticulture & Invasive Species Consultant
National Agricultural Research Alliance
Valerie Vartanian
Natural Resource Specialist
United States Navy (Ventura County)
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Acknowledgments
Water Technical Subcommittee
Michael Barrett, Ph.D., P.E., D.WRE
Research Professor
Center for Research in Water Resources
The University of Texas at Austin
Steve Benz, P.E., LEED Fellow, Hon. ASLA
Partner/ Director of Green Infrastructure
Services
Olin
Keith Bowers, RLA, PWS
Landscape Architect/ Restoration Ecologist
President and Founder
Biohabitats, Inc.
Michael Clar, P.E., DWRE, CFM
Principal Engineer, President
Ecosite, Inc.
Robert Goo
Environmental Protection Specialist
Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds
Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency

Tom Liptan, RLA, FASLA

Landscape Architect/ Environmental Specialist
Edward MacMullan
Senior Economist
ECONorthwest
Michael Ogden, P.E., LEED AP
Principal Engineer
Biohabitats, Inc.
Eric Strecker, P.E., BCEE
Principal Engineer
Geosyntec Consultants
Megan Turnock, M.S., MLA
Associate
Lees & Associates Landscape Architects
Steve Windhager, Ph.D.
Executive Director
Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
David J. Yocca, RLA, FASLA, AICP,
LEED AP
Principal Landscape Architect/Planner
Conservation Design Forum

Special thanks to pilot projects and other technical advisors, committee members, and former
staff that contributed time and expertise to the development of the Sustainable Sites Initiative and
the SITES Rating System: Eliot Allen, J. Amy Belaire, Jan Burton, Kimberly Cochran, Richard
Dolesh, Robert J. Dolibois, Aaron N. Durnbaugh, Marni J. Evans, Joanna Frye, William S.
Garvey, Deon Glaser, Debra Guenther, Sabeena Hickman, William Hunt, Karen C. Kabbes,
Darcy Nuffer, James Patchett, Emily Scarfe, Jean Schwab, Les Shepherd, Theodore Shierk,
Laura Solano, Janice Thies, Barbara Tulipane, Heather Venhaus, Clark Wilson, Aubrey Weeks
and Lynne Westphal.
Additional thanks to Kurt Culbertson, Barbara Faga, Ron Henderson, Allan W. Shearer, and
Wei-Ning Xiang for their review of the SITES Overview section of this document.
STAFF
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
at The University of Texas at Austin
Danielle Pieranunzi, LEED AP BD+C
Director, Sustainable Sites Initiative
Lisa Storer, LEED AP BD+C
Senior Program Coordinator, Sustainable Sites
Initiative
Lana Denkeler, MLA, Associate ASLA
Program Coordinator, Sustainable Sites
Initiative
Jonathan Garner, MLA, ASLA
Program Coordinator, Sustainable Sites
Initiative

Michelle Bright, MLA, Associate ASLA

Research Assistant, Sustainable Sites Initiative
Regina Ramos
Research Assistant, Sustainable Sites Initiative
American Society of Landscape
Architects
Liz Guthrie, ASLA
Manager, Professional Practice Programs
ASLA Staff Liaison, Sustainable Sites Initiative
United States Botanic Garden
Ray Mims
Conservation & Sustainability
USBG Staff Liaison, Sustainable Sites Initiative

Design and layout by Yellowfin Creative

Site Plans of Project Examples (Sumac Nature Center and Live Oak Place) developed by
Susan Grantham
Proofreading/Copyediting services by Kim McCormick

Sites v2 Rating System

124

The Sustainable Sites Initiative (SITES) is a program dedicated to

fostering resiliency and transforming land development and management
practices towards regenerative design. The SITES v2 Rating System is a
voluntary set of guidelines and performance benchmarks for assessing
sustainable site design, construction, and maintenance. The central message
of the SITES program is that any projectwhether the site of a university
campus, large subdivision, shopping mall, park, commercial center, or even
a homeholds the potential to protect, improve, and regenerate the natural
benefits and services provided by healthy ecosystems. The SITES program
is a collaborative effort led by the United States Botanic Garden, the Lady
Bird Johnson Wildflower Center at The University of Texas at Austin, and the
American Society of Landscape Architects.