Multiple By-Right Dimensional Regulations

In addition to absent dimensional regulations, we occasionally encountered zones with multiple by-right dimensional regulations. In these cases, the dimensional regulations reported in the Atlas correspond with the maximum density allowed on all parcels by-right. For residential development, we assessed the maximum density using Maximum Dwelling Units per Acre, and for mixed-use or non-residential development, we used FAR. This means that the values recorded in the Atlas for Minimum Lot Size, Percent Lot Coverage, Maximum Height, Maximum Floors, and Land Area per Dwelling Unit are not necessarily the highest allowable values in the zone but are those associated with the highest allowable density.

Image 3: Industrial District with Multiple Dimensional Regulations

This distinction is a factor mostly in reported Minimum Lot Size, as a larger minimum lot size does not always correspond with greater density. In the example below, the greater density use (Mixed residential/business) in the General Business District has a smaller minimum lot size (3,000SF) than the lower density use (Multi-family, Multi-family Residential Development), which has a minimum lot size of 5,000SF. In this instance, MAPC recorded 3,000SF as the minimum lot size.

Image 4: Smaller Minimum Lot Size

In the example below, the greater density use (Two-family) in the Rural Residence District has a larger minimum lot size (130,680SF) than the lowest density use (Single-family), which has a minimum lot size of 87,120SF. In this instance, MAPC recorded 130,680SF as the minimum lot size.

Image 5: Larger Minimum Lot Size