What is Property Frontage and How is it Measured?
Property frontage shapes how we interact with our homes and businesses. I've noticed many property buyers overlook this critical aspect until they run into issues with access or development. The width of your property along streets or waterways impacts everything from your daily convenience to your property's market value.
Frontage: Frontage refers to the width of a property where it faces or borders a street, waterway, or other access point. The measurement is typically expressed in linear feet, such as "75 feet of street frontage," and is an important factor in determining a property's accessibility and value.
Types of Property Frontage
Street frontage stands as the most common type, offering access to public or private roads. Your property might face a busy main street or a quiet private lane - each brings different advantages. Public road frontage typically offers easier utility connections and maintenance support from local authorities.
Water frontage creates unique opportunities and challenges. Lake frontage often comes with recreational rights and stunning views. Ocean frontage brings beach access but requires careful consideration of erosion and weather patterns. River frontage combines scenic beauty with potential seasonal flooding concerns.
Commercial frontage focuses on visibility and customer access. The right storefront can make or break a retail business. I've seen properties with great street exposure command higher rents and attract more foot traffic.
Measuring and Understanding Frontage
Measuring frontage seems simple - just grab a tape measure, right? Not quite. Professional surveys use precise methods to calculate linear feet, accounting for property boundaries and legal descriptions.
Irregular lots need special attention. Curved road frontage requires arc measurements, while corner lots might have frontage on multiple streets. Each municipality sets its own rules about minimum frontage requirements and how measurements should be taken.
Local zoning laws often dictate minimum frontage requirements. These rules exist to prevent overcrowding and ensure adequate access for emergency vehicles. A property might need 50 feet of frontage in one zone but 100 feet in another.
Impact on Property Value
Commercial properties live or die by their frontage. More visibility means more potential customers. Traffic exposure translates directly into higher property values, especially for retail locations.
For residential properties, frontage affects both practical use and curb appeal. Wide frontage allows for larger homes, better landscaping options, and easier driveway placement.
Waterfront properties command premium prices based on their water frontage. The length of shoreline often determines how much you'll pay, with wider frontages offering better views and more private beach or dock space.
Common Frontage Issues and Solutions
Limited frontage creates unique challenges. Flag lots - properties set back from the road with narrow access strips - can be cheaper but harder to develop. Shared driveways might solve access issues but require careful legal agreements.
Property owners must maintain their frontage areas, including sidewalks, driveways, and landscaping. Some areas have strict rules about snow removal or vegetation management along property frontages.
Access rights and easements can complicate frontage situations. Your neighbor's right-of-way might cross your frontage, or you might share access points with adjacent properties.
Frontage Considerations When Buying Property
Check zoning requirements before purchasing. Some areas require minimum frontages for building permits or future subdivisions. Your dream property might not support your development plans if it lacks adequate frontage.
Think about future needs. Will you want to add a second driveway? Build an addition? Subdivide? Your frontage might limit these options.
Utility connections often run along property frontages. Limited frontage might make it expensive or impossible to connect to public water, sewer, or other services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the typical minimum frontage requirement? A: Requirements vary by location and zoning. Residential areas often require 50-100 feet, while commercial zones might need more.
Q: Can a property have multiple frontages? A: Yes, corner lots and through lots have frontage on multiple streets. Each frontage might have different requirements.
Q: How do easements affect frontage? A: Easements might restrict how you use your frontage but don't typically change the measurement itself.
Making Informed Frontage Decisions
Understanding frontage helps you make better property decisions. Consider both current uses and future possibilities. Don't hesitate to consult professionals about specific frontage questions.
Find Your Perfect Property
Bellhaven Real Estate understands the importance of proper frontage in your property search. Our team can guide you through frontage requirements and help find a property that matches your needs.