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Architecture/Building Footprint

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Expert: - 10/21/2008


Question
I have come across various definitions of building footprint and am now quite confused.  Below are the two main but different definitions of it which I have either read on a published material or heard in conversation with architects.

My understanding is that a building’s footprint is the horizontal projected area of the built structure from the roof down to ground level.  Others say that the footprint is only the area covered by the structure at ground level or at grade.

Could you please clarify which of this is correct or closer to the actual definition?  Does building footprint refer only to grade level (like a man’s footprint) or does it take consideration also of the projections from the upper floors and/or roof?

Thank you for your response.


Answer
Strictly speaking building footprint is the first floor projection at grade only to the edge of built area including conditioned and non conditions spaces: living area, decks, garages, porches, etc.

On a sloping lot or where decks and balconies closest to the first floor may project above grade over their structural supports, these could also be considered part of the footprint.

Local jurisdictions will have their own interpretations and must be checked because in some areas roof overhangs and second floor balconies should not project into the setbacks.

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