What is the difference between “gross” and “net” lot area?
“Gross lot area” is the total square footage of a lot. “Net lot area” is the gross lot area minus the square footage of all easements and of all areas of slope greater than 30%. • How do I find out what size my lot is? Gross lot area may be obtained from your official deed for the property or from the San Mateo County Tax Assessor Office in Redwood City. • How do I determine the slope on my lot? The slope of land is measured in percentage and is the ratio of the vertical change in grade elevation to the horizontal distance over which that change occurs. For lots with slopes covering more than 10% of the property, it is advisable to hire a licensed surveyor to measure the steepness and calculate the area of the slopes if that information will affect your construction project. • What is a building setback? A “building setback” is a line parallel to a property line which limits how close to the edge of the property a structure can be built. All setbacks are measured inward from all proper
