New Orleans encourages reflective cool roofing through Climate Action Plan guidance and partner rebate programs but does not mandate cool roofs citywide. Historic districts under HDLC and the Vieux Carre Commission tightly restrict roof colors and materials.
Cool roofs reduce attic temperatures and ease cooling loads, an important benefit in New Orleans's subtropical climate. The Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code, adopted by reference under City Code Chapter 26, includes the International Energy Conservation Code which addresses roof reflectance for low-slope commercial roofs but does not impose color requirements on most steep-slope residential roofs. Within local historic districts the Vieux Carre Commission and Historic District Landmarks Commission review roof replacements and typically require traditional materials such as slate, terra cotta, or standing seam metal in approved colors. Outside those districts, white or light-colored membranes and reflective shingles are permitted and incentivized.
Installing a non-approved roof color or material in a historic district without HDLC or VCC approval can result in stop-work orders, removal, and fines through the historic preservation process.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
New Orleans, LA
City Code Ch. 66, Art. IV defines nighttime quiet hours as 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and 10:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. on weekends. In residential receiv...
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans has no general city ordinance regulating residential lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays. However, the Vieux Carré Commission and His...
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential inflatable holiday displays. Inflatables are permitted on private property subject to r...
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans has no city ordinance specifying installation dates, removal deadlines, or brightness limits for residential holiday light displays. However, pro...
New Orleans, LA
Built-in outdoor kitchens in New Orleans require building, gas, electrical, and plumbing permits through the Department of Safety and Permits via the One Sto...
New Orleans, LA
New Orleans has no city ordinance specifically regulating residential backyard smokers, pellet grills, or wood-fired ovens. Operation is governed by general ...
See how New Orleans's cool roof requirements rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.