bouwvlakpercentage

Bouwvlakpercentage, often translated as “building coverage ratio” or “site coverage percentage,” is a planning indicator used in Dutch spatial planning and building regulations to express the proportion of a plot of land that may be occupied by the footprint of a building. The term combines “bouwvlak” (building footprint) with “percentage,” denoting the ratio of the built‑up area to the total site area. It is expressed as a percentage and is intended to control the intensity of development, preserve open space, and manage environmental impacts such as runoff and heat islands.

The calculation is straightforward: the sum of all ground‑floor areas that directly cover the site (including walls, foundations, and any attached structures) is divided by the total lot size, then multiplied by 100. For example, a 500 m² plot with a building footprint of 150 m² yields a bouwvlakpercentage of 30 %.

Local municipalities set maximum bouwvlakpercentages in zoning plans (bestemmingsplannen) according to the character of the area—higher limits in urban cores, lower limits in rural or heritage zones. The indicator works alongside other metrics such as floor‑area ratio (grondoppervlakte‑ratio) and height restrictions to shape the built environment.

Critics argue that overly strict bouwvlakpercentage limits can constrain housing supply and urban densification, while proponents stress its role in maintaining green spaces and minimizing infrastructure strain. Adjustments to the ratio are common during plan revisions, reflecting evolving policy goals and market pressures.