FAR
See Floor Area Ratio
Frequently Asked Questions about Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
What does FAR stand for in real estate?
FAR stands for Floor Area Ratio. It is a zoning metric used to determine the total building floor area permitted on a piece of land relative to the size of that land parcel.
How is Floor Area Ratio (FAR) calculated?
FAR is calculated by dividing the total floor area of all buildings on a lot by the total area of the lot. For example, if a 10,000 SF lot has a building with 20,000 SF of total floor area, the FAR is 2.0.
Why is FAR important in development?
FAR is a key tool used by city planners and developers to control building density and land use. It influences how much buildable space is allowed and can affect project feasibility, design, and financial modeling.
What types of developments use FAR limits?
FAR limits are commonly applied in residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments—especially in urban settings where managing building size and open space is critical.
Can FAR restrictions be modified or exceeded?
Yes, developers can sometimes request zoning variances or bonuses (e.g., for including affordable housing or public amenities) that allow for a higher FAR than the baseline zoning permits.
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