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Our Approach to Zoning Calculations

Written by Chris | Feb 15, 2025 11:36:50 PM

Summary

Our goal is to show the best and most relevant zoning information for each lot, in a format that you are used to, and that allows you to understand the possible massing.

Since the zoning code is so complex, we do not attempt to parse every nuance. Instead, we aim to cover the large majority of common scenarios, explain our calculations, and alert you to possible issues that could affect the results.

Example

Let's take an example lot at 373 E 46th St in Brooklyn, which has an R5 zoning district:

  • The zoning code gives us a FAR of 1.5 for standard lots and 2.0 for qualifying residential sites. 
  • We calculate (see details) that this lot is a qualifying residential site, thus has an FAR of 2.0
  • This lot is not in a special district.

For now, this is the extent for FAR calculations, so we stop here. We are actively working on expanding this and including more conditions and scenarios. We then present these calculations in the app:

As we calculate values, we keep track of the reasons for this decision. In this case, we use two forms of evidence (QRS definition and FAR table), and we allow you to go directly to the sources to understand this in details.

Status of the zoning parsing

Last updated: Feb 18, 2026

Concept Status Notes
FAR Completed (basic and QRS) Some simplification in QRS calculation
Height Basic values completed (max height and base), QRS in progress  
Attic Bulk Completed  
Commercial Districts Completed for Residential Bulk (equivalent residential districts and overlays)  

Dwelling Unit Factor

Yards: (Front, Side, Back)

Lot Coverage

 

Simplified Not yet updated with changes from City of Yes
Sky Exposure Plane + Tower Regulations Not Started  
Parking Regulations Summarized in blog post, not yet encoded  
Special Bulk rules: Affordable housing or Senior Housing Not Started  
Special Bulk rules: Special Districts Not started