For credits SS 2 and WE 2, if more than 50% of the designed landscaped is non-vegetated natural groundcover, use the guidelines below. Non-vegetated natural groundcover is defined as a permeable, natural softscape such as bare mulch or pinestraw. Permeable paving material or synthetic groundcover (i.e. synthetic grass) does not qualify.
If more than 50% of the designed landscape area is non-vegetated natural groundcover, the following applies:
• The project may NOT use the outdoor water demand calculation (SS 2.5 / WE 2.3).
• Non-vegetated natural groundcover can be used to earn SS 2.3, if the landscape professional considers it final, and signs the Accountability Form confirming it as such.
• Non-vegetated natural groundcover cannot be used to meet SS 2.4, or to earn any credits under WE 2. /n
If less than 50% of the designed landscape is non-vegetated natural groundcover, the following applies:
• The project may use the outdoor water demand calculation (SS 2.5 / WE 2.3).
• Areas that are non-vegetated natural groundcover should be excluded from the calculation./n
Updated 10/1/13 for rating system applicability.