Floor Area Ratio (FAR), Explained
The ratio that caps how much building you can put on a lot.
What is floor area ratio (FAR)?
FAR is the ratio of a building's total floor area to the size of the lot it sits on. If a lot allows an FAR of 2.0, you can build floor area equal to twice the lot's area — across one tall building or several shorter ones. FAR is the main tool zoning uses to control building size and density.
How FAR shapes a project
FAR effectively sets a cap on how much you can build, working alongside height limits and setbacks to define the buildable envelope. A developer sizing a project starts with the allowed FAR to understand how much rentable or sellable space the site supports.
FAR bonuses
Many districts and overlays let a developer earn additional FAR — a density bonus — in exchange for public benefits like affordable units, green features, or public space. Capturing a bonus can materially improve a project, but the requirements are specific and worth confirming.
How Nochumson P.C. helps
Nochumson P.C. helps developers maximize allowable density and pursue FAR bonuses through the approval process. Contact us to size up a site.
Related articles:
- Zoning Overlay Districts in Philadelphia
- Zoning Setback Requirements
- By-Right vs. Variance Development in Philadelphia
- Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) in Philadelphia
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