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
As a hopeful house hunter, renter, or seasoned real estate investor, you've probably come across baffling terms. One such term is "adhesion contract." It might sound complex, but don't ...
(1) Methods that involve discounting the future cash flows generated by an income property. These techniques are used primarily for valuation. (2) Methods of selecting and ranking ...
A recorded plat defines a subdivision map that you have to file in the county recorder’s office. It will show the location and boundaries of your parcels of land. Knowing this, we can ...
(1) Judgment against a defendant who does not respond to the plaintiffs lawsuit or fails to appear in court at the hearing or trial date. (2) Judgment issued by the court against the ...
Characteristic of a trust that prevents the invasion of its principal by the trustees while providing a lifetime income to its principal beneficiary with the rest going to the son's ...
Legal lien on property on behalf of an individual who has not been paid for material furnished in constructing property. The material enhanced the value of the property, and as such the ...
Homes with division of ownership or use of a resort unit on the basis of time periods. For example, a resort home may be divided into 25 time shares of two weeks each, with two weeks left ...
A reassessment or a reappraising is a decision or strategy made by the owner or the state or local authorities. The reassessment definition is a revision of an earlier assessment. Property ...
Underground pit or tank used to store sewage. ...
Have a question or comment?
We're here to help.