Can I build a 4 unit condo on this lot?

Hi everyone, I am considering bidding on a vacant lot in Crown Heights(Brooklyn) with the intention of building a 4 unit condo on it. I am concerned about the fact that I might not be able to do so given the size of the lot. Here are the facts about the parcel: Zoning: R6A/C2-4 FAR:3 Lot Size: 20? x 75? = 1,500 SF My understanding is that the lot needs to be at least 1,700 SF for it to be a standard size. I greatly appreciate anyone who can shed some light on this.

kevinye

in Construction 10 years and 10 months ago

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dazednconfused2 | 10 years and 10 months ago

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Happy to help. For an undersized lot, there’s actually a lot of potential. A 20′ wide lot is a lot of width to work with, and at FAR of 3 a 1500 sq ft lots gives you a 4500 sq ft building. Break that up into two and you’ve got two very comfortable 2,000 sq ft homes. The tricky part is the depth. A rear yard typically needs to be at least 30′ deep. On a 75′ lot, leaves you with a 45′ deep building. The depth may be limited further depending upon a front setback, but within a R6A zoning district, that’s not typically required. A 75′ deep lot is somewhat uncommon, so with that and the commercial overlay, I’m guessing you’re on an avenue, or at or near a corner. so I’m putting down some info that might be helpful in thinking about the rear yard. If you’re within 100′ of a corner, or if your rear property line hits the side property line of your neighbor, you don’t need a rear yard at all. I’m not advocating no rear yard, but it does allow you to have less than the required 30′, which means your building can be a bit longer. Feel free to call to discuss this. It could be a great project. Jim Hill, RA, LEED AP Urban Pioneering Architecture, DPC (646) 309-7259

kevinye | 10 years and 10 months ago

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Thanks Jim! Appreciate the comment.

dazednconfused2 | 10 years and 10 months ago

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Yes, a minimum lot size is 1700 sq ft. On a non-compliant lot like yours, you are allowed to build a one- or two-family residence. Jim Hill, RA, LEED AP Urban Pioneering Architecture, DPC

resident2 | 10 years and 10 months ago

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Probably not its best use, for the time & trouble for such a small lot. You can condo a dog Kennel, but will it sell?