Des Moines addresses urban heat islands through tree planting, cool roof incentives in new commercial construction, and equity-focused canopy expansion in low-income neighborhoods identified in the 2024 Climate Action Plan.
DSM does not yet require cool roofs or reflective pavement, but the Climate Action Plan and Forestry Division coordinate planting in heat-vulnerable neighborhoods such as Capitol East, Drake, and parts of the south side that historically have low canopy cover. Iowa Energy Code adopted by Iowa State Building Code Bureau sets baseline roof reflectance for some commercial buildings. Public Works prioritizes shade trees on parkways and uses lighter-colored asphalt mixes in select repaving projects.
No mandatory standards beyond Iowa Energy Code; private property owners face no heat island specific penalties.
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines adopted a Climate Action and Adaptation Plan in 2024 committing the city to net-zero community greenhouse gas emissions by 2050, with interim 28% ...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Forestry Division regulates planting, pruning, and removal of trees in the public parkway between sidewalk and curb; residents must obtain a permi...
Des Moines, IA
Des Moines targets equitable urban canopy expansion, prioritizing low-canopy neighborhoods such as Capitol East and parts of the south side, with the Climate...
See how Des Moines's heat island mitigation rules stack up against other locations.
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