American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What does Floor Area Ratio (FAR) measure?

1. The overall height of a building

2. The relationship between building size and lot size

3. Population density in a given area

4. Land use diversity in a neighborhood

The correct answer is: The relationship between building size and lot size

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is a critical zoning metric that measures the relationship between the total floor area of a building and the size of the lot on which it is built. This ratio is calculated by dividing the total building floor area by the area of the lot. For instance, a FAR of 1.0 indicates that the total floor area of a building is equal to the area of the lot, while a FAR of 2.0 means that the building’s total floor area is double that of the lot size. The importance of FAR lies in its ability to control density, bulk, and scale of development within urban areas, thereby influencing land use patterns and community aesthetics. By determining how much building area is permissible on a certain size of lot, planners can manage growth in a way that aligns with zoning laws and community objectives. The other options do not accurately reflect what FAR measures. The overall height of a building pertains to vertical scale but does not relate directly to FAR. Population density pertains to the number of individuals living in a given area, which is influenced by various factors beyond just building size and lot size. Land use diversity focuses on the variety of different uses in an area, which, while relevant in planning, is not