Zoning Analysis

02.2

Zoning Analysis to confirm property regulations involves a detailed examination of the zoning ordinances and regulations pertaining to the size, scale and massing of a building within a specific zoning district.

Zoning Analysis report:

Review Zoning Ordinances: The process begins with a thorough review of the relevant zoning ordinances and regulations governing the property's location. These regulations often include provisions related to building height, floor area ratio (FAR), lot coverage, setbacks, and other parameters that collectively define the bulk of development allowed on a property.

Identify Zoning District: Determine the zoning district(s) in which the property is located. Zoning districts often have different bulk regulations tailored to the character and objectives of each zone. Understanding the specific regulations applicable to the property's zoning district is essential for accurate analysis.

Assess Building Height: Zoning regulations typically specify maximum allowable building heights, either in absolute terms (e.g., 40 feet) or as a ratio relative to lot size or neighboring buildings. The zoning analysis involves measuring the proposed or existing building height against these regulations to ensure compliance.

Evaluate Floor Area Ratio (FAR): FAR regulations control the ratio of total floor area to the size of the lot. Architects calculate the floor area of the proposed or existing building and compare it to the maximum FAR permitted by zoning regulations. This comparison helps confirm compliance with FAR restrictions.

Consider Lot Coverage: Lot coverage regulations limit the percentage of the lot that can be covered by buildings and other structures. The zoning analysis involves calculating the total area of all buildings on the property and comparing it to the maximum allowable lot coverage specified by zoning regulations.

Check Setback Requirements: Setback regulations establish minimum distances that buildings must be set back from property lines, streets, and other boundaries. Architects review the proposed or existing building's setbacks to ensure they meet or exceed the minimum requirements prescribed by zoning regulations.

Verify Other Bulk Regulations: Depending on the jurisdiction, there may be additional bulk regulations governing aspects such as building setbacks, building coverage, open space requirements, and building articulation. The zoning analysis includes verifying compliance with these regulations as well.

Document Compliance or Non-Compliance: Based on the findings of the zoning analysis, the architect documents whether the proposed or existing development complies with the applicable bulk regulations. Any instances of non-compliance are identified, along with potential strategies for addressing them, such as seeking variances or redesigning the project to achieve compliance.

Provide Recommendations: Finally, architect provides recommendations to the property owner or developer based on the zoning analysis findings. This may involve suggesting modifications to the design to ensure compliance with bulk regulations or exploring alternative development scenarios to achieve the desired project objectives within the confines of zoning constraints.

In summary, zoning analysis to confirm property bulk regulations involves a systematic assessment of zoning ordinances and regulations related to building size and scale, ensuring that proposed or existing developments comply with applicable requirements and identifying strategies to address any non-compliance issues.