This prerequisite requires teams to design water-efficient landscapes, and encourages a multi-faceted and integrated approach. Outdoor water use is impacted by vegetation type, vegetation density, overall planted area, and irrigation efficiency, so consider all of these variables in approaching prerequisite compliance. 

Minimizing turf grass, installing native and drought-tolerant plants, and using efficient irrigation systems will typically align with meeting the prerequisite requirements. 

A landscape design that does not require permanent irrigation is the most straightforward way to earn this prerequisite, as long as programming and operations and maintenance practices align with a non-irrigated landscape.

What’s New in LEED v4

• This is now a prerequisite, rather than just a credit.
• The U.S. EPA WaterSense Water Budget Tool is now the required calculation tool.