Page 83 - The Engineering Guide to LEED-New Construction Sustainable Construction for Engineers

64 Cha pte r T w o

cases, greenfield sites or previously developed sites, the submittals should include both
an existing conditions map and a project site area map with the site area given and the
land areas of the project building footprint, developed portions, and undeveloped and/
or restored portions noted. A narrative should also be included that describes the
approach taken to obtain this credit with any special circumstances noted.

LEED 2009 CASE 1: Greenfield Sites For the greenfield sites, a grading plan should also
be submitted with the designated limits of disturbance highlighted. Note that site
disturbance includes any earthwork and clearing of vegetation, even if replanted
afterward. Figure 2.5.1 is an example sketch of a greenfield site development and limits
of disturbance plan.

LEED 2009 CASE 2: Previously Developed Sites The criteria for sites which were previously
developed are based on the building footprint, not on the development footprint. The
building footprint is the plan view of the site area covered by the buildings and
structures, including overhangs. Shade structures do not have to be included if they are
not part of the building. For sites that were previously developed, the total of the areas
that have been restored to native/adaptive vegetation should be submitted along with
a landscaping plan and schedule for the restored and protected areas. Any areas that
were previously graded or landscaped count as previously developed, as do active
agricultural uses. Fallow areas are sometimes considered undeveloped. Sports fields do
not count as native/adaptive vegetation. (Note that sports fields do count as open space
for SSc5.2.) When choosing native or adaptive vegetation, the distinction for appropriate
species is very localized. Even the definition of invasive is local as some species are
considered invasive in some areas of the country and are not considered invasive in
others. One example is the ice plant, a ground cover. It is used extensively in California
and is considered invasive there, but not in many other states.

FIGURE 2.5.1 Example maximum setbacks for disturbance at a former greenfi eld site.