Boston’s Zoning Commission Approves Net-Zero Requirement

Boston is the latest city to pursue net-zero emissions on the development front, though not without controversy.

On Wednesday, Boston’s zoning commission approved a net-zero zoning proposal for the city, Bisnow reported. The commission voted in favor of the proposal 8-to-3, hitting the two-thirds majority that was absent last year.

Beginning in July, developers will be required to meet net-zero carbon emission standards upon opening their properties. The rule applies to projects planned for at least 20,000 square feet, multifamily developments with at least 15 units and 50,000-square-foot additions to existing buildings.

Lab buildings are exempt from the rule until 2035, while hospitals and general manufacturing facilities are exempt until 2045.

Those who fail to comply with the measure will be subject to fines.

Last year’s failed vote resulted in the ousting of the Boston Zoning Commission chair, at least according to Jay Hurley, who claimed he was removed because of the vote. Mayor Michelle Wu’s administration denied the accusation.

Proponents of the measure view it as an opportunity to create a more sustainable city. Several notable developers, including WinnCos., Samuels & Associates, Millennium Partners and Tishman Speyer, supported the proposal.

Opponents, however, fear the chilling effect the proposal could have on development, particularly on smaller developers that aren’t as well-capitalized as the bigger businesses in the field. Concern about affordable housing developers led Boston Chief of Housing Sheila Dillon to reveal that the city will provide assistance and subsidies to developers to help those projects pencil out.

Additionally, members of the commission expressed concern about the potential cost and availability of renewable energy, pointing to policies being pushed by Donald Trump’s administration.

Boston’s policy has echoes of what is taking place in New York City, where enforcement of Local Law 97 is months away from beginning. In the spring, enforcers will start collecting and analyzing emissions reports and penalizing building owners who don’t hit carbon emissions goals; every ton of carbon dioxide over the limit is accompanied by a $268 penalty.

— Holden Walter-Warner