Skip to main content
Example

Chicago’s Sustainable Development Policy

Chicago’s Sustainable Development Policy requires that applicable development projects earn at least 100 points by implementing select sustainable strategies.  Points can be earned in the following categories: health, energy, stormwater, landscapes, green roofs, water, transportation solid waste, work force and wildlife.

Green roofs will earn a project 10 points if 50% of the building’s net roof area is covered with vegetation, or 20 points if it covers 100% of the net roof area. The net roof area is the gross roof area with the exception of the area for mechanicals, maintenance pathways, window washing systems, swimming pools and skylights. More than 5 million square feet of green roofs have been implemented in Chicago to date as a result of its policy initiatives in support of green roofs.

Documents

  • Existing Laws

    Chicago Sustainable Development Policy webpage

    View
  • Existing Laws

    Chicago Zoning Code 17-8-0902 (assigning authority to the Dept. of Planning and Development to enforce the Sustainable Development Policy)

    View
  • Existing Examples

    Chicago Sustainable Development Policy Handbook

    Download

Related Resources

Resource

Report, Green Roof and Wall Policy in North America

Local Governments Example

San Francisco’s Better Roofs Ordinance

Local Governments Example

Denver’s Green Building Ordinance

Local Governments Example

Washington DC’s Green Area Ratio Rule

Local Governments Example

NYC’s Green Roofs Policy

Local Governments Example

Portland’s EcoRoof Requirements

Local Governments