For the last few weeks I've being spending a lot of time with architects 
designing 20 apartments. We initially decided that for 6 of the 
apartments, there would be a 3.75 X 2.5 meter covered balcony. Large 
enough for two people to sit outside, even have a BBQ etc. Then when 
soundproofing and double glazing issues were considered, we decided to 
enclose the balcony with glass and make it a sun room. I was expecting 
the quote today, instead I was told "You can only have 3 instead of 6. 
The total floor space ratio to total property size can't exceed X%".

Ordinarily I'd have been happy to hear it, but apparently Japan does 
have some zoning laws afterall :-(

-- 
That's why I live in Japan. It sucks, but the alternatives seem to suck 
with a bit more authority - Ed, my kinda philosopher king.