Boulder building owners:

What is the Building Performance Ordinance?

Boulder’s Building Performance Ordinance (Ordinance No. 8071) entails new rating, reporting, and energy efficiency requirements for existing commercial and industrial buildings. The requirements move beyond current voluntary programs to require actions that reduce energy use and improve the quality of Boulder’s commercial and industrial building stock. The ordinance was adopted in 2015 and reporting deadlines began in 2016.

Purpose

The ordinance’s goal is to ensure the long-term vitality of the community. Energy use represents a key focus in the city’s climate efforts, and commercial and industrial buildings account for 53% of Boulder’s total greenhouse gas emissions. Beyond contributing to the city’s climate goals, the requirements provide valuable information that can help building owners improve the performance of their properties in ways that benefit their bottom line, as well as enhance the comfort of work and living spaces for tenants.

Does it impact me?

If you own or manage government buildings above 5,000 square feet, existing buildings above 50,000 square feet, new buildings above 10,000 square feet, or large industrial campuses, you must track and report your energy consumption according to the City’s compliance deadlines.

What are the deadlines?

• In 2019, all commercial and industrial privately-owned buildings 30,000 square feet and larger, and new buildings 10,000 square feet and larger, are required to rate and report. The deadline is every June 1st thereafter.
• June 1, 2020 for existing 20,000 square feet and over non-residential buildings. The deadline is every June 1st thereafter.

What are the fines?

The instances of noncompliance will result in fines of $0.0025 per square foot per day (up to $1,000 per day).

How do I comply?

Building owners must report their energy usage data to EPA’s Portfolio Manager, a reporting tool that allows building owners to compare their building’s energy efficiency with similar buildings.