Law Commons^™

Local Governments Weigh Green Building Standards, John R. Nolon, Jennie C. Nolon

Elisabeth Haub School of Law Faculty Publications

Through New York state legislation, localities are afforded broad authority adopt green building standards that reach beyond those imposed by state law. As localities begin to undertake the challenge of implementing green building initiatives, many legal questions arise. This article examines several instances of green local action and provides examples of successful local projects, as well as local mistakes. The municipalities mentioned include a broad spectrum of communities, from small municipalities such as Mount Kisko, to some of the larger cities in the state such as New York City and Syracuse.