Would a frequent maintenance plan for multi-family projects be acceptable if it keeps plantings trimmed or retained from the building at a distance of at least 24"?
Generally, this would not be allowed - the credit requires plants to remain 24" away from the home at maturity. This does not apply to tree branches hanging over the building. Homes with a greenhouse are also elligible for this credit. Part (d) cannot be earned if the porch includes plants that are at or near the ground level, even if they are in planter boxes. Project-specific requests may be considered, but the project team would need to provide details on the type and location of plants, how the plantings will be managed, etc.
Updated 10/1/13 for rating system applicability.