Resources for Building Sustainably

The Sustainable Building Program provides resources on sustainable building products, methods, and practices; a resource directory of regional businesses that provide local sustainable building services and supplies; as well as, a comprehensive listing of tax incentives for sustainable development and renewable energy. 

Draft Sustainable Development Educational Booklet for the Residential Checklist 

Sustainable Building Service Provider Directory

Incentives for Sustainable Building

Tiny House Permitting-

Sustainable Site Planning - Minimize negative impacts on sites by conserving and protecting natural systems including soils, plants, watersheds, and wildlife habitats. Maximize open space, accessibility, stormwater retention, community and transportation connectivity, and renewable energy opportunities.

Building Materials - There are many methods and materials available to improve the quality, durability, and energy efficiency of your home, as well as, reduce its impact on the environment. The County does not recommend any method over another, but we have provided some resources to help you better understand the different materials that are available.

 Energy (Conservation, Renewable)

Atmosphere/Climate - Building a new structure contributes significantly to carbon emissions- about 11% of human-caused carbon emissions worldwide are from building construction. Energy conservation seeks to address operational energy usage, but what about the emissions from producing the building materials and constructing the building itself? This is a separate aspect of sustainability to consider.

Water Conservation & Reuse - Northern Arizona has an arid climate with limited water resources. The depletion of groundwater is an especially critical issue. Of all the resources we use, water is one we truly cannot live without. It is therefore important to incorporate water conservation measures into building design. 

Low Flow Fixtures: Look for EPA's WaterSense Products for reduced flow fixtures

Rainwater Harvesting Resources:

Gray Water Resources:
Composting Toilet Resources:

Indoor Environmental Quality - Carpets, paints, particle board, detergents, insulation, sealants and household cleaners can contain toxins that are emitted into the indoor air of a home or building.
Other concerns with indoor environmental quality can include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, radon, pet dander, mold, dust and pollens. Minimizing toxins and maximizing ventilation strategies are effective approaches to incorporating good indoor environmental quality in new and existing buildings.

 Aesthetics 

Waste Reduction - Reduce, Reuse, & Recycle 

Other Resources

 Permitting Information