1. What is Lot Coverage Percentage?

Lot Coverage Percentage is a zoning measurement that determines what percentage of a lot is covered by buildings and impervious surfaces. It's used by municipalities to regulate development density and manage stormwater runoff.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• Building Area — Total footprint of all buildings on the lot (m²)
• Impervious Area — Non-building surfaces that don't absorb water (m²)
• Lot Area — Total area of the property (m²)

Explanation: The equation calculates what percentage of the total lot area is occupied by structures and impermeable surfaces.

3. Importance of Lot Coverage Calculation

Details: Lot coverage limits are crucial for urban planning, ensuring proper drainage, maintaining green spaces, and controlling neighborhood density. Many zoning codes specify maximum allowable coverage percentages.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all areas in square meters. Building and impervious areas should be less than the total lot area. Typical residential lot coverage ranges from 25% to 40% depending on local regulations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What counts as impervious area?
A: Driveways, patios, sidewalks, pools, and other surfaces that prevent water absorption into the ground.

Q2: How does this differ from Floor Area Ratio (FAR)?
A: FAR considers total building floor area across all stories, while lot coverage only looks at the footprint.

Q3: What's a typical maximum coverage percentage?
A: Residential areas often limit coverage to 30-40%, while commercial zones may allow up to 80-90%.

Q4: Are there exceptions to coverage rules?
A: Some jurisdictions allow greater coverage with special permits or if using permeable paving materials.

Q5: How should I measure irregularly shaped lots?
A: For accurate results, use professional surveying methods or GIS tools to calculate precise areas.