Definition
Floor area ratio (FAR) is basically a cap on how much building you can fit on a lot. It's zoning math: FAR of 1.0 means you can build a structure as large as your lot is wide. FAR of 0.5 means you can only build half that. It dramatically affects development density and feasibility.
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Find my pathAbout this term
FAR limits total floor area that can be built. FAR of 1.0 means building can equal lot size; 0.5 means maximum 50% of lot size. Affects density and building feasibility.
Pro Tip
Low FAR limits development potential significantly. Before buying land for development, understand the FAR in your zoning. A property that looks perfect might have FAR restrictions that make your project economically unfeasible.
Example
Zoning with FAR of 1.0 allows 10,000 sf building on 10,000 sf lot.