The Green Audit phase of CodeGreen USA's mission is a review of project zoning and/or land
development codes. Our planners have developed a detailed review protocol which analyzes
each code within a framework of Location, Design, Green, Energy and Process factors.  Each
of these five factors includes multiple subject areas.  Our systematic review notes if each
subject area is addressed, if positive intentions are expressed,  identifies specific standards
that advance or hinder green/sustainable development and whether incentives are available.

Location - Under the location factor we review a myriad of subject areas including
connectivity, infrastructure requirements and redevelopment incentives.

Design - This factor involves the most detailed review and addresses mixed uses,
accessory uses, density/FAR/impervious ratios, lot and unit size, setbacks and
height limits, parking, street sections, bicycle standards and other design issues.

Green - Often the impetus for a Green Audit is concern for the subject areas within
this factor.  Among them are green space, open space, preserves/conservation areas, landscape
requirements, green buildings, roofs and walls, shade, green infrastructure and community gardens.

Energy - For many jurisdictions, this factor will be the most deficient.  Renewables are often not addressed
at all and inadvertently precluded because of deficiencies in code definitions and land use descriptions.  

Process - Review under the process factor addresses submittal requirements, electronic access to codes,
forms, projects under review, public notice, outreach and meetings, expedited intake and review.

Our Green Audits are staged to provide for stakeholder input and adjustment to our standard
review worksheets prior to initiating our review.  Debriefing and/or public meetings are held at
Green Audit's conclusion to review our matrices and working paper summarizing results,
challenges, opportunities, common regulatory practices and recommendations.
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Recent News



Carron Day AICP participated on a panel at the
Rail-Volution conference in Boston (Oct 29-Nov 1)
"Going Green with Transit: Macro and Micro"









Carron Day AICP presented at the Pennsylvania
chapter of the American Planning Association
conference (Oct 4-6) "Energy & Climate Change -
Planners' Role & Challenge"

CodeGreen USA exhibited at the recent National
League of Cities  Green Cities Conference in
Portland Oregon.