City of Boston - Green Building Standard

June 18, 2024

Summary

Boston is the first city in the nation to require a green building standard through municipal zoning requirements. By amending Article 37 of the municipal zoning code, the City requires that all large-scale projects meet the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED certification standards.

The purposes of this article are to ensure that major building projects are planned, designed, constructed, and managed to minimize adverse environmental impacts; to conserve natural resources; to promote sustainable development; and to enhance the quality of life in Boston. Any proposed project subject to the provisions of this article shall be LEED Certifiable under the most appropriate LEED building rating system.


Program Overview

Implementing Sector: Local
Category: Regulatory Policy
State: Massachusetts
Incentive Type: Energy Standards for Public Buildings
Web Site: https://www.bostonplans.org/planning/planning-initiatives/article-37-green-building-guidelines
Administrator: Environment, Energy, and Open Space Cabinet
Start Date:
Eligible Renewable/Other Technologies:
  • Comprehensive Measures/Whole Building
Green Building Requirement: LEED Certified Buildings

Authorities

Name: Article 37 of the Municipal Zoning Code
Date Enacted: 01/10/2007

Contact

Name: Brian Swett
Organization: Chief Climate Officer
Address: 1 City Hall Square, Room 709
Boston MA 02201
Phone: (617) 635-3850
Email: environment@boston.gov

This information is sourced from DSIRE; the most comprehensive source of information on incentives and policies that support renewables and energy efficiency in the United States. Established in 1995, DSIRE is operated by the N.C. Clean Energy Technology Center at N.C. State University.