Height Restriction Value Loss Calculator

Height caps prevent using all available FAR on a site.

Lot SF

Allowed FAR

Achievable FAR

Value per SF GFA

Value lost

$6,000,000

GFA lost

30,000

FAR utilization %

0.75%

How the math works

GFA lost = lot × (allowed FAR − achievable FAR). Value lost = GFA × value per SF.

20k × (6 − 4.5) = 30k SF lost × $200 = $6M value foregone due to height restriction.

How to Use

Enter lot SF.
Enter allowed FAR.
Enter achievable FAR at height cap.
Enter value per SF GFA.
Read value lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Height cap origins?

Historic preservation zones. Airport height limits (FAA). View preservation corridors. Neighborhood character (suburban context). Fire code access limits (high-rise). Structural limits (building code below 6 stories in some zones).

Economic impact?

When FAR allows 6.0 but height allows only 5 stories on a corner lot, you lose 30-40% of theoretical GFA. At $200-400/SF GFA, major value loss. Ground-floor commercial with residential above balances against height maximization.

Workarounds?

Variance or appeal to zoning. Design using stepped facades (reducing effective height). Building podium (larger ground floor, shorter upper). Split-level floors to maximize air rights. Each has tradeoffs — structural, aesthetic, cost.