LEED for Neighborhood Development
LEED for Neighborhood Development (LEED-ND) is a U.S. rating system that blends smart growth, urban design, and green building for neighborhood projects. It provides independent verification that a location and design meet high environmental standards.
LEED-ND was created through a collaboration of the U.S. Green Building Council, the Congress for the New Urbanism, and the Natural Resources Defense Council. It recognizes projects that protect and improve health, the natural environment, and quality of life, and it encourages smart growth and New Urbanism.
Who can use it? LEED-ND can certify whole neighborhoods, parts of neighborhoods, or multiple neighborhoods. Projects are typically mixed-use, though small projects that fit with surrounding uses can also qualify. It is not meant to replace local planning, but it can be a helpful tool in guiding sustainable land development when used with local codes and regulations.
How projects are evaluated: The neighborhood is defined by its boundary and the land inside and around it, and there are various acceptable site types. The rating includes multiple credit categories to assess performance.
Certification levels and timing: LEED-ND has three stages of certification tied to development phases. All LEED-ND projects must include at least one certified green building. In general, LEED-ND uses a points system: basic certification at 40–49 points, Silver at 50–59, Gold at 60–79, and Platinum at 80+ points. Points can also be earned for having certified green buildings within the development and for integrating green building and infrastructure practices. Credits cover areas like energy efficiency, reduced water use, building reuse, recycled materials, and heat island reduction.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 05:28 (CET).