What do I need to know?
The Climate Mobilization Act includes initiatives and mandates that aim to turn New York City’s rooftops green – literally and figuratively. These new laws will make New York City among the most sustainable skylines in the world. Read below to find out what you need to know about the Climate Mobilization Act legislation, as well as other existing incentive programs for green roofs in New York City.
DEP Green Infrastructure Grant Program
NY Green Roof Tax Abatement Program
Climate Mobilization Act
What is it?
Passed on April 18, 2019 by the New York City Council, the Climate Mobilization Act aims to reduce New York City’s carbon emissions 40% by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. Over 70% of New York City greenhouse gas emissions come from buildings. Therefore, a major focus of the Climate Mobilization Act is regulating building carbon footprints, and a large part of the legislation deals with new green roof requirements. The Climate Mobilization Act contains eleven pieces of legislation, but the primary focus below the green roof and solar requirements under Local Laws 92 & 94.
Are all buildings required to have green roofs?
While the details of Local Laws 92 & 94 are getting ironed out, we understand that all new building projects and all major roof construction projects on both new and old buildings will be required to install either a green roof or solar panels on 100% of the usable roof space. However, there are a number of exceptions. If you cannot install solar photovoltaics (pv) due to shading or roof obstructions, you can install a green roof. If you are unable to install a green roof, you can install solar pv.
Where to get more information?
We will update this page as more information is available. Information is also available at the NYC City Council’s Climate Mobilization Act Page, though at present this page is more focused on details about the city’s existing carbon emissions than coming regulations. As always, give us a call to discuss your questions and potential project!
DEP Green Infrastructure Grant Program
What is it?
The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Green Infrastructure Grant Program reimburses private building owners up to 100% of the cost of installing a green roof on their property. The goal of the program is to reduce stormwater runoff into our city’s waterways. New York City operates on an outdated combined-sewage overflow system: the rain grates on our streets flow into the same system that transports our sewage. During heavy rain events, the system quickly reaches capacity, spilling raw sewage into our local waterways. As population growth has strained the city’s stormwater infrastructure and heavy rains have increased, sewage overflow has become a regular occurrence in the city. NYC DEP aims to reduce this overflow by funding green roofs which absorb rainwater before it flows off of buildings.
What will it fund?
Eligible green roof projects must cover a minimum of 5,000 square feet, have a total project cost of over $35,000, and manage at least 1″ of rainfall.
Where to get more information?
Highview Creations has been awarded numerous DEP GIGP projects, including the Bishop Loughlin Memorial High School in Brooklyn and the Lenox Hill Neighborhood House. We are tremendously enthusiastic about the DEP grant and always happy to investigate and discuss the feasibility of projects.
As always, reach out to us for more info!
NY Green Roof Tax Abatement
What is it?
The NYC Tax Abatement Program provides a one-time tax abatement of between $5.23 – $15.00 per square foot of green roof up to either $200,000 or the tax liability for the building. The abatement is for buildings in specific priority neighborhoods, as to be determined by a mayor-appointed agency. To qualify the tax abatement, the green roof must cover at least 50% of the eligible roofing area, have at least 4″of soil, and be covered with at least 80% live plant material (as opposed to mulch or another covering).
This tax abatement currently runs through 2024. Unfortunately, it cannot be combined with the DEP grant discussed above. However, for projects in which the DEP grant does not make sense the tax credit is an excellent alternative path.
Where can I learn more?
We are always happy to answer any questions about the process or necessary steps to qualify.