This credit comprehensively addresses practices for maintaining your project site. Because this credit covers so much ground, it’s important for teams to thoroughly review all requirements and get a clear understanding of who is responsible for overseeing the different operational areas.

In some instances, a single requirement may be especially challenging to meet, and may end up being a deal-breaker for pursuing the credit. For example, projects that experience harsh winters may have trouble meeting the deicer requirement.

Remember to lay the groundwork for this credit by developing a clear and actionable Site Management Policy for SSp1. The policy is an important guidance document for all projects that attempt this credit.

What’s New in LEED v4

• Similar to the related site management prerequisite, this credit is derived from two LEED 2009 credits: SSc2 Building Exterior and Hardscape Management Plan, and SSc3: Integrated Pest Management, Erosion Control, and Landscape Management Plan.
• Integrated pest management is no longer included in the SS credit category, and is now covered in the EQ credit category.
• The credit now includes soil testing, irrigation system monitoring, and materials/equipment storage requirements. There is also a new option for reducing emissions from site maintenance equipment.

Readiness Review Questions

• Do you have a mix of vegetation and turf area? If so, can you meet Option 1 by limiting turf area to 25% or less of the total vegetated area onsite?
• Can the use of manual or electric-powered equipment meet your site maintenance needs?
• If not, does your equipment meet the 50% emissions reduction threshold?
• Can you maintain documentation that verifies the requirements for all credit components were met over the performance period (e.g. erosion and sedimentation, landfill waste diversion, deicer usage, fertilizer usage, irrigation system monitoring, etc.)?