What is MDA/MFA with respect to Los Altos Hills real estate?

Posted on February 22, 2010 by Connie Miller 
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Understanding the constraints of remodeling and new construction in Los Altos Hills should be considered before you buy a house in Los Altos Hills.  The Town relies extensively on calculations commonly known as MDA and MFA in determining the maximum size house you can build and also how much impermeable space (hard scape) you can have on your property. 

Controlling the MDA, or maximum development area lets the town protect the hillsides against too much run off and erosion and also helps to retain the rural natural setting for which the town is revered.  Typical MDA for the standard one acre lot is 7,500 square foot.  This varies depending upon the slop of the lot and other factors.  Items that are included in MDA include concrete walk ways, paved driveways, tennis courts, pools and patios.   You can get an allowance for more MDA by using pavers that have holes in them through which grass can grow or gravel or other means. 

MFA stands for maximum floor area ratio.   Like MDA, MFA can be pretty complicated.  Floor area, as per the official town document, “shall be defined as the gross horizontal area of the several floors of all buildings, including garage and carport spaces, measured to the outside of exterior walls.”  Basements, if they fit the town definition of basements , are not included.  Typical MFA on a standard acre lot is 5,000SF.  This can be complicated and usually requires a survey to determine the exact MDA and MFA. 

It is best to reference the town documents and work with a planner to be certain of your constraints.  For more information see the Town’s worksheet and info at http://www.losaltoshills.ca.gov/doc-browse/doc_details/144-mfa-mda-worksheets

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