Green Building

Designing, building and operating a new generation of efficient, environmentally responsible, and healthy buildings in the City of Palo Alto.

    

"Defining the value of the home by cost efficiency standards or return on investment is practical, but doesn't do the idea justice.  So much of the value that comes from having a green building is from the improved quality of living in the home.  The real value of the house, depending on how you define your values, is the improved lifestyle, comfort, and health from living there."
-- Owner Lisa Benatar

Getting Started - Project Applications Are you working on a residential or non-residential project in Palo Alto? Get started here by reviewing Palo Alto's requirements by project type and download your application.

Green Building Program History, Ordinances & Performance
Click here to learn about the history of the Palo Alto Green Building Program and its current performance.

Green Building Incentives
Building green can save you money! Find financial incentives for green building features and/or strategies you are pursuing.

FAQ's and Resources
Find answers to frequently asked questions. What is green building? Why does the City think it is important? Where can I get more information to make building green a reality?

Green Building News and Events 
  • On December 13, 2010 the City Council adopted the California Green Building Code (CALGreen) with Local Amendments as the City's new Green Building Requirements.Residential projects will continue to use the Build It Green, GreenPoint Rated Program, while nonresidential projects will use CALGreen. Download the new requirements and the new applications here.
  • The new 2008 California Energy Efficiency Code, Title 24 Part 6, goes into effect January 1, 2010. Click here to review changes from the 2005 code. The California Energy Commission has unveiled a New Energy Education Center to assist with compliance and exceeding the code.

 

Last Updated: Aug 9, 2012