Green Policies - Central Valley/Mountains

In recent years, numerous local governments in California have implemented "green" building ordinances. These measures can increase energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and decrease other harmful environmental impacts. This document identifies the various approaches to green building ordinances that jurisdictions have taken and the most common features of the measures.

The City of Davis requires that every new single family dwelling, residential addition and remodel applicant submit a GreenPoint Rated checklist with the permit application. The Community Planning Department disseminates many original green building fact sheets and tools through their website.

The City of Rocklin has enacted a voluntary Green Building Initiative in which builders, developers and homeowners are encouraged to build according to the GreenPoint Rated guidelines. The Community Development Dept., Building Division hosts a wealth of resources for building green.

The City of Sacramento is creating green building standards for residential and commercial developments and remodels. Additionally, all civic projects over 5,000 sq. ft. must meet a LEED Silver rating.

The City of Stockton offers a wealth of information on energy-saving strategies for residential, commercial, industry and school sectors with links to PG&E programs and other resources.

SMUD offers rebates for residential customers to install efficient HVAC systems, plant shade trees, put in cool roofs and implement other energy-saving strategies.SMUD's Advantage Homes and SolarSmart programs provide developers with resources to incorporate greener technologies in new homes.

TDPUD has set up an energy conservation cash rebate program in which residential customers can receive discounts for conducting building leakage tests and installing energy-saving appliances and water-conserving fixtures. TDPUD staff offer technical assistance to home and business owners to implement energy-efficient technologies.