Commercial Green Building News and Analysis!

Energy Efficient Buildings: Lower Property Tax Assessments?

Question:


Can I get a lower property tax rate in Fairfax, Virginia if my commercial building is energy efficient?

Answer:


Yes, in March 2008, Virginia enacted legislation allowing local jurisdictions to assess property taxes of energy-efficient buildings at a reduced rate. Eligible energy-efficient buildings may be considered a separate class of property for local taxation purposes.

Accordingly, the City of Fairfax, by ordinance, may allow a special assessment of the property taxes for an energy efficient building.

By definition an "energy-efficient building" is any building that exceeds the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code's energy efficiency standards by 30%. Alternatively, the building may meet the performance standards of the Green Globes Green Building Rating System, the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) System or the EarthCraft House Program. The building may also meet the standard if it qualifies for the ENERGY STAR under federal Energy Star criteria.

For more information contact:
City of Fairfax Assessor's Office
Phone: (703) 385 7840

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