855773644-LEED-v5-BD-C-Reference-Guide-Launch-Edition - Page 021

Extracted Content

MINIMUM PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS (MPR)

The minimum program requirements (MPRs) are the minimum characteristics or conditions that make a project appropriate to pursue LEED certification. These requirements serve as the foundation for all LEED projects and define the types of buildings, spaces, and neighborhoods that the LEED rating system evaluates.

MPR 1. MUST BE IN A PERMANENT LOCATION ON EXISTING LAND

INTENT

LEED evaluates buildings, spaces, neighborhoods, communities, and cities in the context of their surroundings. A significant portion of LEED requirements depends on the project’s location; therefore, it is important that LEED projects are evaluated as permanent structures. Locating projects on existing land is important to avoid artificial land masses that have the potential to displace and disrupt ecosystems.

REQUIREMENTS

All LEED projects must have construction and operations at a permanent location on existing land. No project that is designed to move at any point in its lifetime may pursue LEED certification. This requirement applies to all land within the LEED project.

MPR 2. MUST USE REASONABLE LEED BOUNDARIES

INTENT

LEED evaluates buildings, spaces, neighborhoods, communities, cities, and all environmental impacts associated with those projects. Defining a reasonable LEED boundary ensures the project is accurately evaluated.

REQUIREMENTS

The project team must include all contiguous land that is associated with the LEED project boundary and supports its typical operations. This includes land altered as a result of construction and features used primarily by the project’s occupants, such as hardscape (parking and sidewalks), septic or stormwater treatment equipment, and landscaping. The LEED

U.S. Green Building Council LEED v5 Reference Guide for Building Design and Construction, April 2025 Launch Edition 11