What does FAR stand for in site planning?

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is a critical concept in site planning and zoning regulations. It is a numerical value that represents the relationship between the total floor area of a building and the area of the lot on which it is built. Specifically, FAR is calculated by dividing the total building floor area by the total lot area.

For example, if a lot has an area of 10,000 square feet and the building constructed on it has a total floor area of 25,000 square feet, the FAR would be 2.5. This ratio helps local governments control the bulk and density of buildings, ensuring that development aligns with urban planning goals and maintains neighborhood character.

FAR serves various purposes in site planning, including regulating building heights, promoting open space, and ensuring that infrastructure can support development levels. Understanding FAR is essential for architects and urban planners, as it influences design decisions, site layout, and the overall appearance of the built environment.