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FAR (Floor Area Ratio) is the ratio of a building’s total floor area to the size of the plot — functionally the same idea as FSI in most Indian planning contexts.
Planning & regulations · Also: Floor Area Ratio
FAR (Floor Area Ratio) is the ratio of a building’s total floor area to the size of the plot — functionally the same idea as FSI in most Indian planning contexts.
Plain-language explanations for planning and learning. Local codes, consultant advice and contract documents take precedence over glossary summaries.
FAR = total covered floor area ÷ plot area. Authorities publish base FAR and may allow premium FAR, TDR or incentives. What counts as “floor area” (whether balconies, basements, parking floors are included) is defined locally. Homeowners should treat online FAR calculators as approximate; sanctioned plans from a licensed professional are the source of truth.
Example: FAR 2.0 on a 150 sq m plot suggests up to 300 sq m total floor area across storeys — still subject to height, setback and parking constraints.
| Unit | Notes |
|---|---|
| ratio | Same dimensional logic as FSI |
FSI
FSI (Floor Space Index) is the ratio of total built-up floor area allowed on a plot to the plot area — it caps how much you can construct.
Built-up area
Built-up area is carpet area plus the area occupied by walls (and often other enclosed utility spaces), used widely for construction cost planning.
Plinth area
Plinth area is the built-up covered area measured at the floor level of the plinth (the platform above ground on which the building stands), including walls.
Each Varnarc glossary term includes a simple definition, a technical explanation, a worked example, units where relevant, and links to calculators or materials so you can take the next action. Thin one-line dictionary stubs are not published.
Glossary 2026.08.1
Use the term in your city’s development control regulations. Conceptually they align; inclusions may differ slightly by code.