Definition
Floor-Area Ratio (FAR) is a planning and zoning measure used to determine the allowable building size on a piece of land by calculating the ratio of a building’s total floor area to the size of the parcel of land it is built upon. FAR is regulatory tool used in growth management to control the density and impact of new developments on a community.
Examples
- Residential Development: If a FAR of 1.5 is specified for a residential area and the lot size is 10,000 square feet, the maximum allowable floor space for the building is 15,000 square feet.
- Commercial Zone: In a commercial zone with a FAR of 3.0 for a 20,000 square feet lot, a building can have up to 60,000 square feet of floor space.
- Mixed-Use: For mixed-use developments, FAR helps ensure balanced development, supporting infrastructure, and public services to avoid overcrowding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the primary purpose of imposing FAR restrictions?
The primary purpose is to control buildings’ height, bulk, and density, ensuring that land use aligns with the community’s vision for growth, impacting factors like infrastructure, transportation, and community aesthetics.
How is FAR calculation beneficial in urban planning?
FAR calculations help manage population density, provide guidelines for sustainable development, maintain open spaces, and ensure adequate light and air circulation through proportional building design.
Can exceptions to FAR limits be made?
Yes, exceptions, often called variances, may be granted through special approval processes if developers demonstrate specific benefits or necessities such as green building practices or affordable housing.
How does FAR affect real estate value?
Higher permissible FAR can increase the value of land by allowing for greater development potential, often leading to increased revenue opportunities for property developers.
How do different types of land use zones affect FAR?
Different zones (residential, commercial, industrial) have varying FAR limits to reflect the intended use and density appropriate for the region, supporting efficient land use and community development.
Related Terms
- Zoning: The regulatory framework for land use that considers FAR as a criterion for controlling development scale.
- Density: Refers to the number of people or residential units per unit of land area, often influenced by FAR.
- Setback: The distance a building must be set back from the property boundary, which, along with FAR, shapes a city’s spatial character.
- Urban Planning: The multidisciplinary practice that uses FAR among other tools to develop policies shaping the growth of urban areas.
Online References
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “The Zoning Game: Municipal Practices and Policies” by Richard F. Babcock
- “Urban Land Use Planning” by Philip R. Berke, David R. Godschalk, and Edward J. Kaiser
- “The Death and Life of Great American Cities” by Jane Jacobs
- “Site Planning” by Kevin Lynch and Gary Hack
Fundamentals of Floor-Area Ratio: Real Estate Development Basics Quiz
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