Institutional Land Feasibility, Made Transparent

Mission

Our mission is to surface binding entitlement constraints early—before capital is committed—by translating zoning intensity controls into clear geometric and financial envelopes. We believe every feasibility memo should state not only a max GFA number, but which constraint produced it.

Analytical Methodology

LandFeas models the classic entitlement stack used in early-stage site planning:

1. Convert gross lot area to square feet; deduct R.O.W. dedications and easement exclusions to derive net buildable area.
2. Compute FAR-method maximum gross floor area as net area × FAR cap.
3. Compute coverage-method maximum footprint as net area × coverage percentage.
4. Construct the setback buildable envelope from lot width/depth (or a square-lot assumption) minus front, rear, and side yards.
5. Take the practical footprint as the minimum of coverage footprint and setback envelope; multiply by story limit for height-method GFA.
6. Report binding max GFA as the minimum of FAR-method and height-method results, with an explicit governing constraint label.

Civil Engineering Standards

Our formulas align with common municipal zoning constructs and survey practice (ALTA/NSPS-informed area deductions). They are intentionally conservative starting points—not sealed engineering calculations. Jurisdictions vary on whether FAR uses gross or net lot area, which structures count toward coverage, and which floor areas are excluded from GFA. Always validate against the applicable zoning ordinance and engage licensed civil, architectural, and land-use professionals for site plans, grading, utilities, and entitlement submissions.