Common Ground Consulting

What is FAR in Real Estate Development?

Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is a key metric in real estate development that determines how much buildable space is allowed on a given parcel of land. It is an essential zoning tool used by municipalities to regulate density and ensure balanced urban growth. Understanding FAR FAR is calculated by dividing the total floor area of […]

Proposed Pilot Program for “Excavation Only” Building Permits for Multi-Family Housing

City of Surrey December 6, 2024 In a bid to address the growing demand for new housing, the City of Surrey is launching a pilot program designed to expedite the construction of larger multi-family housing projects. This initiative allows developers to commence excavation work before receiving final adoption of rezoning and obtaining a development permit. […]

New Provincial Housing Legislation: Official Community Plan Amendments 2025 Work Plan

City of New Westminster The proposed work plan to update the OCP is grouped into five areas of work: 1. Updating land use designations and Development Permit Area boundaries for properties within a Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Area or properties impacted by the Small-Scale Multi-Unit Housing legislation; 2. Integrating the findings and 20 year housing […]