LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

What constitutes the development footprint?

1. Total area covered by vegetative landscaping

2. Total land area covered by buildings and impermeable surfaces

3. Area designated for parking only

4. Land surrounding a building's foundation

The correct answer is: Total land area covered by buildings and impermeable surfaces

The development footprint refers specifically to the total land area that is covered by buildings and impermeable surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and other structures that do not allow water to percolate into the ground. This concept is essential in land use planning and sustainable design because it helps assess the environmental impact of a project, including factors such as stormwater runoff and habitat disruption. By focusing on buildings and impermeable surfaces, the development footprint provides valuable insights into how much of a site is being utilized in a way that affects natural land cover and ecosystems. This understanding is crucial when aiming for projects that minimize environmental impact and maximize efficiency in land use, which aligns with the goals of LEED and other green building certifications. The other options do not encompass the complete definition of the development footprint. For instance, the total area covered by vegetative landscaping does not contribute to the footprint as it implies a preservation of natural vegetation. An area designated for parking only and the land surrounding a building's foundation represent specific components but do not comprehensively define the overall footprint, which aims to capture all impermeable surfaces and built structures collectively.