Skip to main content
Loading…
This section is included in your selections.

A. Floor area ratio (FAR) is defined as the floor area of all buildings on a lot divided by the area of that lot. Exception: The following site and floor areas are excluded from floor area ratio calculations:

1. Critical areas and required buffer areas.

2. Wetland mitigation areas.

3. Storm water ponds.

4. Above-grade structured parking facilities.

Fig. 12.48.140. Floor area ratio explained.

B. Minimum FAR Applicability.

1. Nonconforming structures in existence as of the effective date of this regulation that propose an increase in area are exempt from complying with the minimum FAR requirement of this section.

2. New structures proposed on parcels with existing structures are exempt from complying with the minimum FAR requirement of this section provided all of the following conditions are met:

a. The total FAR existing on the parcel is increased by the new structure.

b. The new structure is not part of a redevelopment project for the entire parcel.

3. Owners or developers of essential public facilities, as defined by state and local regulations, that have demonstrated the facility cannot feasibly or practicably comply with the minimum floor area ratio requirements of this chapter shall be permitted to develop such site with a floor area that is feasible and practicable for the proposed essential public facility. In this case, said owner or developer shall sever development rights through the recording of a TDR covenant and transfer or sell those development rights in accordance with the requirements of BMC 12.48.180 in an amount equal to the difference between the proposed floor area for the essential public facility and the gross floor area that otherwise would be required pursuant to the minimum floor area ratio requirements of this chapter. (Ord. 2398 § 2, 2023; Ord. 2341 § 5 (Exh. A), 2020).