On October 1, 2007, West Hollywood adopted one of the nation's first mandatory green building ordinance. The goal of this ordinance was to ensure that new buildings will be healthier for residents, and use energy and resources more efficiently. Applicants submitting for development review prior to January 1, 2020 may follow the 2007 Green Building requirements for their projects. All applicants submitting on or after this date must follow the updated requirements of the City’s Green Building Program.

The 2007 Green Building Ordinance focuses on the following:

• Establishes new development standards that apply to all development, including all new residential and commercial projects as well as remodels and tenant improvements
• Develops a point system [XLS] for new construction with incentives for projects that achieve "exemplary" status

The "green" development standards are green building requirements for remodels, tenant improvements, additions and new construction. These standards were incorporated into the Zoning Ordinance so that all projects incorporate elements such as drought-tolerant landscaping, low-flow plumbing fixtures, and energy efficient appliances. The City has created a Green Building Manual to help guide you through the process.

The green building point system will be incorporated in all new structures, with incentives for projects that go above and beyond minimum requirements. The requirements are structured as a point system to allow for maximum flexibility and the points allowed each reflect West Hollywood's unique opportunities and constraints. Specifically, the point system was designed to emphasize locally-available materials, encourage green elements to be incorporated early into project design and provide flexibility to alter green elements as the project evolves.