Forum discussion
NC-2009 SSc5.2: Site Development—Maximize Open Space
If our permeable paving has grass growing through it could that count as both hardscape for SSc7.1 and for vegetated open space in SSc5.2? We aren't achieving SSc2 so we cannot technically include hardscape in our SSc5.2 calculations.
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I'm confused about the difference between SSc5.1 and SSc5.2. Can I earn them both?
Can roof terraces contribute to SSc5.2?
How should I count planters and vegetation on balconies?
What if my local code has a landscaping requirement? Is this the same as an open space requirement?
Can permeable paving count as hardscape or vegetation towards SSc5.2 calculations?
Can interior courtyards contribute to vegetation requirements?
Devon Bertram
Sustainability ManagerYR&G
214 thumbs up
March 21, 2011 - 11:34 pm
Lauren,
This is a good question and I haven't come across it on a project to date. I would think you may have a case to use it to meet both credit requirements, but best to submit a CIR or LEED interpretation to GBCI to determine for sure.
David Posada
Integrated Design & LEED SpecialistSERA Architects
LEEDuser Expert
1980 thumbs up
March 25, 2011 - 5:49 pm
This sounds reasonable if the permeable paving is an open grid system that is more soil than grid, especially if you "discount" the area of vegetated area, since it won't exactly be a lush garden. If it was a 1000 sf open grid area that was, say, 75% open, maybe you count only 500 or 750 sf of vegetated area?
Tiombe Parrish
Sustainability Group LeaderJacobs
18 thumbs up
May 18, 2011 - 4:06 pm
Lauren,
I have the exact same question on a current project. We are no where near CIR time. I'm very curious as to the answer you get. Please post.
Lauren Sparandara
Sustainability ManagerGoogle
LEEDuser Expert
997 thumbs up
May 24, 2011 - 2:53 pm
Hi Tiombe,
Wish I could tell you that I had an answer but I don't yet. We haven't submitted a CIR. If anyone else has clarity on the matter and/or has submitted a CIR, I'd love their thoughts as well.
Manny Iglesia
LEED BD+C O+MCarde Ten Architects
121 thumbs up
December 15, 2011 - 2:17 pm
Lauren,
I think you can double dip on Ssc7.1 & Ssc5.2. Here's one thing though, SSc7.1 has to be 50% pervious and the remaining 50% has to be at least SRI 29. If you are able to quantify, you can include it. For SSc5.2, it has to be 25% (of total open spaces) vegetated and pedestrian oriented.
Maya Facciolo
Ecological Design ConsultantBio Studio
June 25, 2024 - 10:13 pm
Is there an update on this? Thanks!