Richmond regulates development through minimum open space ratios and landscape surface ratios rather than a single lot coverage cap, with residential ratios from zero to 40 percent and commercial ratios from one to 25 percent.
UDC Section 7.1.106 defines lot coverage as the area on a horizontal plane covered by buildings, structures, driveways, walkways, parking lots, and pools. Table 3.1.101 sets minimum Open Space Ratios that effectively cap coverage: SR Standard Suburban Estate requires zero percent open space, Planned Suburban 1 requires 10 percent, Planned Suburban 2 requires 40 percent, GR Standard requires 10 percent, and Planned General 2 requires 25 percent. Nonresidential parcels must meet a minimum Landscape Surface Ratio (LSR) of 1 to 25 percent depending on district under Table 3.1.201A. Driveways, pools, and other non-elevated structures count toward lot coverage.
Site plans that fail to meet open space or landscape surface ratios cannot be approved, and post-construction violations require restoration or removal of impervious areas.
See how other cities in Fort Bend County handle lot coverage limits.
See how Richmond's lot coverage limits rules stack up against other locations.
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