How is land use measured?

Land use in Pennsylvania is regulated through the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC). This code is designed to ensure a balance between public and private interests when it comes to land use. The MPC outlines how land use is measured in Pennsylvania by using zoning regulations. Zoning regulations are established by local municipalities and divide land into areas that are designated for specific uses. These uses may include residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural land. Within these zoning regulations, land use measurements are expressed as floor area ratio (FAR) or sometimes referred to as Floor Space Index (FSI). FAR is calculated by dividing the total square footage of the building and its related structures by the total square footage of the lot it is built on. This ratio must remain within the guidelines established by the local municipality in order to be approved for use. In addition to FAR, land use measurement may include setbacks, which is the required space between the building and the property line. This requirement helps to preserve views and reduce the impact of development on adjacent properties. Finally, lot coverage is another land use measurement, which is calculated as the percentage of a lot that is covered by the building or structures. Together, these land use measurements help to ensure that all development is done responsibly and in accordance with local ordinances.

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How is land use measured?

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