Open Space Ratio
Definition of "Open space ratio"
When talking about the open space ratio we are referring to a term that is used in zoning laws and regulations. The open space ratio is a term used to measure open space on a developed land or zoning lot. The open space ratio is calculated in the percentage of open space in the building's square footage. For example, a housing subdivision containing 100 acres has devoted 10 acres to open space. Therefore, the open space ratio is 1/10 or 10 percent (10/100). Or an office building of 10,000 square feet with an open space ratio of 20% will have 2,000 square feet designated to remain open space.
Open Space Ratio in Residential Real Estate
The term open space ratio is a concept that applies to residential developments, and it usually refers to commonly used open space. While not necessarily a way to determine the ratio of “green” open space on lots of land proposed for residential development. The term open space ratio can refer to two types of open space:
- Allowable Areas
Allowable open space are the areas that are required common areas to be maintained and remain undeveloped for the benefit of those living or working on the lot parcel: parking lots, yard requirements, floodplains, recreational areas, stormwater management systems, etc.
- Prohibited Areas
Prohibited open space areas are privately owned sites that are not accessible for those living or working on the lot parcel and that are also available for further structural developments.
How is Open Space Ratio Calculated?
The open space ratio is a zoning law used by municipalities to be able to control the types of buildings built, their height, and their ratio of open space. It is a means for municipalities to ensure that the open space available on a developed land makes up a certain percentage of the lot developed. In most cases, that requirement is of a 20% open space ratio.
Open Space Ratio Formula:
Open Space Ratio (OSR) = Commonly-owned Open Space / Total Area Proposed for Development
So if you have 12 acres available for residential development and you have 6 acres of commonly-owned open space (ponds, recreation area, parking area, buffers, etc) you will have an open space ratio of 50%.
Popular Real Estate Terms
An accounting methodology for separately depreciating individual parts or elements of a building or improvement qualifying as business use or a depreciable asset under the IRS tax code. ...
Property taken over by the government because the owner has failed to pay taxes on it. The property may revert back to the owner when the taxes are paid. If not, the government may sell the ...
Neighborhood square somewhat resembling a park. It is often owned by town or row house owners situated near the square. ...
Covering studs on the outside. ...
(1) The exposed trim and molding surrounding a door or window. (2) Woodwork which encases a pipe or structural member. (3) Method of creating a form for the pouring of concrete. ...
percentage of land that may be used productively to the total square footage of the land. For example, if total square footage is 40,000 but only 30,000 square feet may be built upon ...
Same as term access right: The right of a property owner to freely go to and return from an adjoining highway without interference." rollover;"Same as term: Tax-free exchange that allows ...
The maximum pre-approved amount that an individual or business can borrow without preparing a new credit request. It is a safety buffer in the event funds are needed for unexpected ...
Every borrower has his own definition of amortization schedule in mind. An amortization schedule is a table that reveals how the debt is going to be paid back and at what cost. For most ...
Have a question or comment?
We're here to help.