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NC-v4 EQc1:Enhanced indoor air quality strategies

Entrances Requiring Smoking Signage (EQp2) and Entryway Systems (EQc1)

Hello!

We would like to seek clarification regarding the entrances that require installation of smoking signage under EQp2 and entryway systems under EQc1.

We have heard differing interpretations suggesting that entryway systems may also be required at underground levels.

  1. Do the applicable “entrances” include not only the primary ground-level building entrances, but also:
    • Doors leading from rooftop terraces into the building?
    • Doors connecting the underground parking garage to elevator halls (EV lobbies)?
  2. Are smoking signage and entryway systems also required at auxiliary doors (e.g., narrow rear doors installed for secondary or occasional use, other than the primary building entrances)?

We are currently planning to install entryway mats at all entrances. However, at rooftop and underground levels, it is not feasible to provide the required 3-meter entryway system due to space constraints.

Thank you in advance for your clarification.

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Profile picture for user JJKelly
Joyce Kelly
Architect - Cx Provider - Building Performance Specialist
GLHN Architects & Engineers
LEEDuser Premium Member
25 thumbs up

Tue, 02/24/2026 - 09:27

Yes, I believe entryway systems are required in both locations. The purpose is to reduce the amount of contaminants that are brought in from the outside. Occupants can track dirt from roof or garage. If door to roof uses panic hardware as fire exit and roof qualifies as an Area of Refuge, it may be  exempt. Depends on how you've depicted roof in plans. Roll up mats with a cleaning program are always an option. Some manufacturers offer specialized, high-performance, and sustainable carpet tile solutions designed for entryway (walk-off) areas that contribute to LEED certification. 
Profile picture for user tristanroberts
Tristan Roberts
Founder & Community Director
Metricorps
LEEDuser Expert
7780 thumbs up

Tue, 02/24/2026 - 10:26

Agreed -- there has never been an exception that I've heard of for any entrance from the outside, unless it is truly seldom-used.
Profile picture for user friedhoff
Grace Friedhoff
Sustainability Consultant | Senior Project Manager
Re:Vision Architecture
LEEDuser Premium Member
9 thumbs up

Tue, 02/24/2026 - 16:14

Agreed with the comments above. Some nuance on the different between Entrances Requiring Smoking Signage (EQp2) and Entryway Systems (EQc1) to consider:
  • Entrances Requiring Smoking Signage (EQp2) - Applies to EVERY SINGLE door that allows entry - no matter how popular it is. To Joyce's point, and based on experience, you can avoid providing signage IF the door is emergency exit only and/or has no door hardware on the exterior. Essentially - those are exits and not entrances.
    • Entrances, include terraces / balconies /etc - anywhere that a person might be tempted to sneak out for a quick smoke break and then come right back into the building.
    • v4.1 is a bit more flexible on signage requirements
  • Entryway Systems (EQc1) - Applies to regularly used exterior entrances
    • There are arguments to be made on a case-by-case basis that some entrances can be excluded or are ancillary.
    • I have found that both garage entrances and rooftop terraces are considered regularly used.
      • I would be curious if people think it is acceptable to finesse WHERE the 10' of walk off mat is placed in relation to the door. Perhaps as long as it is present PRIOR to entering a regularly occupied space? So perhaps there is some flex within that elevator lobby you have?
    • You can always consider going for v4.1 of this credit, if you still want points but want more of a mix and match approach to strategies.
    • Don't forget that you can put the 10' (3m) of walk off mat at the exterior IF it is covered. So there is also some flexibility in the exact location. The main point is to stop particulate matter and such from polluting the indoor spaces. 

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