The amendment also incorporates state language that does not force employees to eject smokers or ask them to stop smoking if there is risk of physical harm. SINGLE FAMILY HOUSES TO BE GREEN New construction of single family homes and duplexes will now fall under Santa Monica’s green building guidelines after the council approved a second reading of an ordinance adopting the changes.
The changes to the Green Building Design and Construction Standards will also include an increase in the required number of green building materials used on new construction from four to five.
New construction projects must now include at least one material from at least five of 10 categories that range from insulation to water efficiency to foundation.
Brenden McEneaney, the green building program advisor, said last week that when it comes to materials, developers should look beyond recycled content, including zero-VOC paint and water saving appliances, which will now qualify toward the minimum five green building materials.
The ordinance also changes landscaping requirements for new projects, limiting turf grass to 20 percent and encouraging the use of more drought-tolerant plants.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 24, 2008. Read the original PDF.