Denver voters passed one of the strictest green roof mandates of any city in the world earlier this month.
Initiative 300, passed with about 54% of votes cast, creates a new building code that requires vegetative roof systems or solar panels for most buildings 25,000 sf or larger constructed after Jan. 1, 2018. The measure is more stringent than other green roof codes because it also requires many existing buildings to be retrofitted with green roofs when a roof needs replacement.
Older buildings that cannot support the load of a vegetative roof can get an exemption. The measure is intended to help keep the outdoor air cooler, reduce stormwater runoff, reduce the amount of energy consumed by air conditioners, and, in the case of PVs, generate clean energy.
Opponents of the referendum were concerned that it would be costly and hurt nonprofits and affordable housing programs. Advocates conceded that green roofs cost more, but argued that they would pay for themselves in about six years.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Apr 18, 2016
ASHRAE releases proposed energy standard for historic buildings
Designed to balance with preservation requirements.
Codes and Standards | Apr 13, 2016
Canadian city fines itself for failing to get a building permit for building renovation
Guelph, Ontario, will pay a $1,125 fine to the province.
Codes and Standards | Apr 12, 2016
Construction trade groups sue OSHA over silica rule
Cite concerns about technological and economic feasibility.
Codes and Standards | Apr 11, 2016
New LEED 2009 projects will have to meet increased minimum energy performance
New requirements went into effect April 8.
Wood | Apr 8, 2016
New LEED Pilot ACP designed to help eliminate irresponsibly sourced materials
Illegal wood is primary target to restrict illicit material in the supply chain.
Lighting | Apr 5, 2016
Lighting requirements for high-rise dwellings proposed for energy standard
The requirements would effectively eliminate incandescent and halogen bulbs.
Steel Buildings | Apr 4, 2016
AISI publishes Cold-Formed Steel Framing Design Guide, 2016 Edition
Updates 2007 edition; includes five comprehensive design examples.
Data Centers | Apr 1, 2016
ASHRAE releases publication on the impact of IT equipment on data center design
The book offers advice for designing structures in the fast-changing data center industry.
Codes and Standards | Mar 28, 2016
Occupant egress simulations that impact codes fall short, researchers say
Building evacuations in emergencies are too dangerous as a result.
School Construction | Mar 28, 2016
National report on school buildings reports $46 billion annual funding shortfall
Millions of students said to be learning in obsolete facilities.
