Pittsburgh, PA Building Safety: Green Building Code (2026)

Green buildings improve air and water quality, reduce solid waste, conserve natural resources, reduce operation costs, optimize life-cycle economic performance and minimize the strain on local infrastructure. Given that buildings are responsible for a large portion of the city's energy and resource use, the provisions of this Section are intended to promote sustainable developments that reduce the impact of the built environment in the City of Pittsburgh.

B. Applicability. The following bonuses for sustainable development may be permitted in all non-residential zoning districts. These bonuses may not be applied in addition to any other height or FAR bonus or exception. These bonuses may not be applied in addition to any additional height or FAR variances or special exceptions granted by the Zoning Board of Adjustment.

C. Special Definitions. LEED CERTIFIED BUILDING shall mean a building certified, under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program of the United States Green Building Council, that meets LEED standards for either New Construction and Major Renovation Projects or Core and Shell Projects.

D. Floor Area and Height Bonuses. If floor area ratio and density bonuses are permitted pursuant to Section 915.04.E, the maximum floor area ratio and height may exceed the amounts specified for the applicable base zoning district, but shall not exceed an additional twenty (20) percent of floor area ratio and height.

E. Review Process.

1)