To earn credit for a permeable lot under Surface Water Management, where should a paved driveway be directed?

Directing a paved driveway to a vegetated swale is an effective strategy for managing surface water runoff. A vegetated swale is designed to collect and convey stormwater, allowing it to infiltrate into the ground while improving water quality. The natural vegetation and soil structure within the swale help filter pollutants from the runoff, which is essential in achieving the goals of sustainable surface water management outlined by LEED.

Using a vegetated swale helps mimic natural drainage patterns, reducing flooding and erosion while promoting groundwater recharge. This method is particularly beneficial in urban areas where impermeable surfaces are prevalent, ensuring that the runoff is managed effectively and sustainably.

Choosing a rain garden, underground cistern, or retention pond might not be as directly suitable for directing driveway runoff. While these options also manage stormwater, each has specific applications and design criteria that may not align with the requirements to earn credit for a permeable lot in the context of a paved driveway. Hence, a vegetated swale is the optimal solution for effective stormwater management in this scenario.