Building for the future
- Across the country (and world) buildings are being constructed now that meet the criteria for net zero homes.
Net Zero Home Criteria (PDF) - If you are building or remodeling your home, look for universal design ideas to make it easier to live in - now and as you grow old.
Universal Design (PDF)
Sustainable building practices
Construction Code Services supports sustainable building practices on many levels. We recognize the need to support and promote Green technologies as an increasingly important part of our building future.
Construction Code Services has procedures for reviewing alternative building methods not found in the building code. We are here to help you build Green. Several staff members have attained Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accreditation.
Additional green training & education for staff is available
- Structural Concrete Design
- Structural Insulated Panel Systems
- Geothermal heat pump technologies
- Solar applications
- Wind energy
- Energy codes
- Ventilation methods
- Green building standards
- Radon mitigation.
Transforming your property into a green building
Green building ideas for existing commercial buildings
Commercial buildings are responsible for approximately 20% of the annual energy consumption in the US. That number can be improved upon not just by building new efficient buildings, but also by green retrofits of our existing buildings.
These handouts provide comprehensive information for transforming your commercial property into a Green building. (Many of the ideas apply to residential property too).
- Managing your building's energy
- Green your HVAC system
- Green plumbing
- Lighting options
- Roofs, windows and walls
- Alternative energy systems
- Gray water
- Resources
Other sites for green commercial buildings
- Center for Energy and Environment - 'demand charge' savings
- Tool-based services
- Whole building design guide
- US Green Building Council
- Alliance for Sustainability
- US Environmental Protection Agency
- US Department of Energy
Green building ideas for residential buildings
Many green options cost the same as conventional construction. Most of the ones that cost more will save you money in lower energy bills or lower maintenance bills over the lifetime of the investment.
- Green Building for Residential Property
- Green Building Ideas for New Construction-Residential
- Green Buildings Options Checklist Handout
- New Owners Energy Saving Tips
- Guide to Energy Efficient Appliances
City of Minneapolis green living information
- Commercial recycling ordinance
- Residential recycling program
- Minneapolis Transportation
- Farmers Markets
- Minneapolis Rain-Gardens
Green building-demolition, deconstruction and recycling of construction debris
Almost all portions of a house or building can be re-used or recycled. The following sites can direct you to where to take construction debris and salvage:
- Eureka Recycling Information on recycling and safe disposal guide for common items
- Rethink Recycling
- Minnesota Pollution Control Agency General info and construction debris recycling:
Financial incentives for building green
- City of Minneapolis Community Planning and Economic Development (CPED) Programs CPED Two Percent Loan Program
- Energy Efficiency Improvement Program Trillion BTU Program
- State of Minnesota Energy Information Center
- Minnesota Housing Finance Agency Home Improvement Loans for Homeowners Energy Savings Rebate
- Xcel Energy Rebates and Incentives Xcel Energy Rebates and Incentives
- Center Point Rebates and Incentives CenterPoint Energy Rebates and Incentives
- Center for Energy and the Environment with Center Point and Xcel - Home Energy Squad
- Other Incentives and Rebates
Solar energy and renewable energy
Solar Systems have specific code requirements when installed on commercial roofs.
Specific requirements can be found in the ICC Building Code Chapter 31 Special Construction.