Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
Definition
The ratio of a building’s total floor area (GFA) to the size of the piece of land upon which it is built, expressed as a decimal number or multiplier. For example, a FAR of 2.0 means the total floor area is twice the size of the site area, which could be achieved through multiple stories or partial site coverage.
Purpose
Control building density and regulate development intensity in urban planning by providing a standardized measure of development capacity that accounts for both horizontal and vertical space utilization. FAR helps planners manage urban growth, infrastructure demands, and neighborhood character.
Examples of Use
- Zoning regulations and development control to manage building density.
- Urban capacity studies and master planning exercises.
- Property development feasibility analysis and land valuation.
- Infrastructure capacity planning and impact assessment.
- Urban design and massing studies for proposed developments.
Related Terms
Notes
FAR is a critical tool for urban planners to manage building mass and urban density. It provides flexibility in building design while maintaining control over development intensity. Different jurisdictions may have varying FAR requirements based on zoning districts, land use, and urban context. Bonus FAR may be granted for providing certain public amenities or meeting specific design criteria.
