How to Calculate Floor Area Ratio This handout has been prepared to provide applicants with the method to calculate Floor Area Ratio (FAR) and to help ensure consistency in its calculation. Placing limits on FAR, which is the ratio between the building size and lot size, controls the bulk of buildings. FAR is calculated by dividing the gross floor area of the building(s) by the total area of the lot: Total area of the lot FAR is usually expressed as a decimal fraction (for example, 0.5 or 1.7) The table below lists maximum FAR in selected zones at Big White. Zone FAR Medium Density Residential (R4) 08 Intermediate Density Residential (R4A) 1.25 High Density Residential (R5) 17 Village Core (VC6 & VC6A) 2.0 Call the Planning Deparment to ensure This information is current GROSS FLOOR AREA is the sum of the plane surface area of each storey, measured between the exterior walls of a building. Those portions of each storey located above the ground surface prior to any manipulation or grading are included. The following areas are included in Gross Floor Area: * Portion of parking garages situated aboveground (based on ground surface prior to manipulation or grading); * That portion of lofts with a ceiling height over 1.8m (6’); and * Stairway openings, elevators, storage areas, and mechanical rooms. ded from Gross Floor Area: The following areas are * Portion of parking garages situated underground (based on ground surface prior to manipulation or grading); * Basements (based on ground surface prior to manipulation or grading); * Decks; * Walkways; and * Carports. Regional District of Kootenay Boundary — Planning Department February 2004 Call 1.800.355.7382 if you have questions