R4 Zoning - Building Extension Question

We are looking to buy a 3 family, 3 story house measuring 20 x 45 on a 20 x 153 lot. It’s zone R4\. We wanted to build an extension on it and am trying to figure out if we can and if we can qualify for “R4 Infill.” I can’t quite figure out what this is, but I can figure out that it would give us additional FAR. (I looked at the definition of “predominantly built-up area” and am not sure what to make of it. I also looked at Section 23-14 and still don’t think I know the answer.) Without buildable FAR we would not buy the house. Who do you ask a question like this to? Do you pay an architect to answer the question? Do an assessment? Thanks.

pneumatictubes

in Construction 10 years and 8 months ago

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arch111 | 10 years and 8 months ago

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First of all- go to DOB on Tues at 4pm for Homeowner’s night to speak with a plan examiner. I am guessing most of NYC is infill but have not investigated this. I am seeing 1.35 as the FAR for that zone, you will also need parking for 2 cars. http://nyc-dob.com

AnArchitect | 10 years and 8 months ago

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Quickly looking at the Zoning Resolution, it looks like the FAR range for R4 is 0.75-2.0, with 2.0 being allocated to a bldg with a “community facility”. If your total existing built sf = 20x45x3 = 2700sf, against 0.75x(20×153) = 2295sf then you are maxed out. If you do some kind of change of occupancy to have a “community facility” space, then the 2.0 FAR gives you plenty of additional buildable SF, and you’d seem to have the needed rear yard setbacks and height needed for the addition. Any interest in having a dr’s. office in the building? All best – www.agenciegroup.com