Parksmart Certification
Green Business Certification Institute
Parksmart certifies eco-friendly parking structures.
Key Strengths
- World's only certification system specifically designed for sustainable parking structures
- Covers management, programs, technology, and structural design holistically
- Reduces operational costs through energy efficiency and improved ventilation/lighting
- Supports EV infrastructure and alternative transportation promotion
- Backed by GBCI, the same organization behind LEED, lending strong credibility
- Compatible and stackable with LEED and SITES certifications
Ideal For
Parksmart is best suited for owners, developers, and operators of parking structures — including corporate campuses, universities, municipalities, and mixed-use developers — who want to demonstrate sustainability leadership in their facilities. It is particularly valuable for organizations seeking to reduce operational costs, support EV infrastructure, and align their parking assets with broader green building or ESG goals.
Target Audiences
Relevant Roles
Industries
Alignment & Recognition
Accrediting Body
Recognized By
- Parksmart Standard
Scope
Overview
Parksmart is a certification program for sustainable parking garages, developed by Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI). Launched in 2016, it emphasizes reducing environmental impact and enhancing efficiency. Parksmart focuses on three key areas: management, programs, and technology and structure design.
The program includes assessment protocols for new and existing parking structures aiming at energy efficiency, operational practices, and promoting alternative transportation. Major clients include corporate buildings, universities, and municipal facilities.
A certified project, rec1NBMPeRKnJcRbG, demonstrates excellence in various criteria. Parksmart collaborates with product manufacturers to ensure their materials meet sustainability standards. The program is backed by significant data showing reductions in energy use and operational expenses in certified facilities.
Statistics illustrate that certified garages improve air quality and support electric vehicle infrastructure. Through partnerships with major urban developers and city planners, Parksmart influences the evolving landscape of smart, green urban design.
Requirements & Verification
Evidence Requirements
Applicants must submit documentation demonstrating performance across Parksmart's credit categories: management practices, programs (such as alternative transportation incentives), and technology and structure design (including energy systems, lighting, and ventilation). Evidence typically includes operational records, design drawings, policy documentation, and data on energy use and transportation programs. A third-party review by GBCI verifies submitted documentation.
Prerequisites
Assessment Process
Parksmart uses a documentation-based review process rather than a traditional exam. Applicants submit evidence across credit categories covering management, programs, and technology/structure design. GBCI's technical reviewers evaluate all submitted documentation for compliance with the Parksmart standard. There is no on-site audit required, though documentation must be thorough and verifiable. Projects earn points across categories and must meet a minimum threshold to achieve certification.
Renewal & Compliance
Parksmart certifications are project-based and tied to the parking structure. Recertification is available to maintain recognition and reflect ongoing operational improvements. Certified projects are encouraged to recertify periodically to demonstrate continued performance, though specific renewal intervals may vary. Contact GBCI for current recertification requirements and fees.
Accountability Model
Consider Alternatives If...
Organizations seeking a quick or low-documentation certification may find Parksmart's evidence and audit requirements demanding. If your parking structure is a surface lot or does not meet minimum structural requirements, this certification is not applicable.
Alternative Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Facts
Certification
English
2016
Available
How to Display This Recognition
Certification Details
Assessment
Verification
Structure
Governance
Fee Structure
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Sources & Citations
Content on this page is AI-enriched from primary sources.
Green Business Certification InstituteLast verified Mar 10, 2026