Building Code and Policy Analysis.

Utilization of technologies incorporated in green construction requires that local building codes and policies be analyzed, to eliminate potential barriers to implementation. Local building officials may wish to support the efforts of builders and designers who build green, but adoption of local, state, and national building codes may hinder certain technologies.

For instance, local plumbing codes in Corvallis prohibit the recycling of graywater past the point where the water enters the drain orifice. Recycling gray water is an excellent means of reducing our overall water consumption, but health concerns inherent in the plumbing code do not allow the use of this technology.

SGBG is active in this respect by committing to the following:

Ensuring that local building officials have the most up-to-date information related to green technologies, and documentation related to their testing. SGBG will research and provide documentation related to Alternative Methods and Materials, for interested designers, builders, plan reviewers, and inspectors.
Working with local and state officials to update existing building codes, or craft new codes, which support the implementation of green building technologies.

If you have an interest in this area of our program, please feel free to contact us with your input.