City of Seattle - Sustainable Buildings and Sites Policy

June 24, 2024

Summary

Seattle’s Sustainable Building Policy was originally adopted in 2000 and significantly expanded in scope in October 2011. This policy calls for new City-funded projects and major renovations with over 5,000 square feet of occupied space to achieve a Gold Rating using the US Green Building Council’s (USGBC) LEED Rating System. In addition, these projects must meet additional energy efficiency, water, waste, and bicycle parking requirements.

Minor renovation and tenant improvement projects that impact 5,000 square feet or more and involve changes to mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems must also meet LEED Gold standards, as well as additional requirements for water and waste. Projects that are under 5,000 square feet or not eligible for LEED must complete the Capital Green checklist.

Program Overview

Implementing Sector:	Local
Category:	Regulatory Policy
State:	Washington
Incentive Type:	Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Web Site:	http://www.seattle.gov/environment/buildings-and-energy/city-facilities/sustainable-buildings-and-sites
Administrator:
Start Date:
Eligible Renewable/Other Technologies:	Comprehensive Measures/Whole Building Other EE
Energy Reduction Goal/Requirement:	Achieve a modeled energy use intensity performance that is a minimum of 15% more efficient than a baseline building meeting the 2009 Seattle Energy Code
Green Building Requirement:	new City-funded projects and major renovations with over 5,000 square feet of occupied space must achieve a LEED Gold Rating.

Authorities

Name:	City Council Resolution 31326
Date Enacted:	10/3/2011

Contact

Name:	Jessyn Farrell
Organization:	Sustainability and Environment
Address:	700 5th Avenue, #1868 Seattle WA 98104
Phone:	(206) 256-5158
Email:	OSE@seattle.gov

This information is sourced from DSIRE; the most comprehensive source of information on incentives and policies that support renewables and energy efficiency in the United States. Established in 1995, DSIRE is operated by the N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center at N.C. State University.