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Green Building
More Information
Green Building is a “Whole-Systems” approach to designing and constructing buildings that use resources efficiently. Special consideration is given to a building's site, usage of water, energy and material resources, and indoor air quality.
Why build green?
Green buildings can save money on energy, water operation and maintenance costs. Green buildings often enhance residential health and result in greater worker productivity through improved air quality and day lighting.Is it more expensive to build green?
The increased cost of building green is 3-5% depending on design features, building types and location. In some projects, where green measures are considered early and fully integrated into the design, there is no increased cost.
Guidelines & Checklists
- LEED Rating Systems on a structure, whether residential or commercial, new or existing.
- Built It Green's checklists and guidelines for the remodeling or construction of a home.
Solar Panels
Are you considering adding a solar energy system to your home or business? Are you curious what level of energy cost and/or carbon savings your building could achieve? Get an estimate of your Solar PV rooftop potential.
When installing a solar energy system, the City allows the following exceptions:
A solar energy system may exceed building height limits in a given zone by up to 20%. Solar energy systems may also project into required front, side, and rear yard setbacks by up to four feet. For more information please see Section 17.60.040 (A, B7) of the City Code.
Solar PV and Solar Hot Water systems require building permits and may require planning review depending the location and age of a building that a solar energy system is being installed on. Read the City of Sacramento's Guide to Getting Solar Permits for more information and sample plans.
City Initiatives
- Sustainability Master Plan
- The City is pursuing a Green Building Program, Climate Action Plan, Bike Master Plan and many other measures to reduce our environmental footprint on the Earth.
- Sacramento Stormwater Quality Partnership
- This partnership, formed by the City with neighboring cities and the County of Sacramento, works to reduce storm water pollution into the environment.
- The City and County of Sacramento in collaboration with Valley Vision/Green Capital Alliance has convened a public stakeholder process to conduct research, gather input and work collaboratively to develop practical and innovative recommendations for our region.
Learn more about Mayor Kevin Johnson's Greenwise Sacramento Initiative.
Inside a Green-Built Home
An in-depth look at what is available to remodel a home, or build a new one. More...
