If it is not possible to reserve designated parking spaces close to the main entrance for LE and FE vehicles, comply by offering discounted rates for parking through coupons, vouchers, or other similar incentive programs.
In a parking-garage, look to the location of disabled parking spaces for guidance on what is “preferred.” This may be on the lowest floor, or it may be closest to stairwells or elevators spread out over multiple floors.
“Preferred parking” refers to parking spaces near the building entrance or to discounted parking rates (minimum 20% discount), which must be offered to all eligible parking customers. Preferred parking is separate from, and should not be confused with disabled parking. Preferred spaces should be broken out evenly for the various types of parking spaces that are provided in the project—automobiles, trailers, compact cars, etc. Spaces for vehicles integal to the facilities process such as fleet or "inventory" vehicles can be excluded from calculations.
Hybrid and electric vehicles are not the only ones considered low-emitting and fuel-efficient. Many common gasoline vehicles with mileage efficiency of 21 mpg and above also meet that description depending on their make, model, fuel efficiency and emissions.
Refer to the California Air Resources Board Zero Emission Vehicles (ZEV) list and to the American Council for an Energy Efficiency Economy (ACEEE) annual vehicle rating guide to determine which vehicles are classified as low-emitting and fuel-efficient. (See Resources.)
Mixed-use projects such as apartments over street-level retail, have two options to earn this credit, determine which option is best appropriate for your project:
Option 1: If the project is less than 10% commercial, follow the options for residential projects. If the project has more than 10% commercial space, the commercial space should follow the options for non-residential compliance and the residential portion should follow the options for residential compliance.
Determine which of the two options for residential projects is most appropriate:
Option 1: Do not exceed minimum zoning requirements for parking capacity, and provide infrastructure and programs to encourage carpooling and vanpooling.
If you’re not careful, limiting parking capacity could be frustrating for occupants, and not behavior-changing. Consider strategies that go above and beyond the credit requirements such as carpooling incentives and providing information on public transit options. This could also help projects earn an Exemplary Performance point for a Comprehensive Transportation Management Plan.
