How many people fit.
Room size in, guest count out, for the layout you plan.
Guests
0
Usable area
0 sq ft
Space per guest
0 sq ft
Planning estimate only. The fire marshal's posted occupancy limit always wins.
How it works
The math, in the open.
Subtract the space taken by anything guests cannot stand or sit in (stage, bar, buffet line, dance floor), then divide by the space each guest needs for your layout. These are planning ratios, not a legal limit: the posted occupancy from your local fire authority caps any room.
| Step | Formula |
|---|---|
| Usable area | length × width − reserved space |
| Capacity | usable area ÷ sq ft per guest, rounded down |
| Sq ft per guest | standing 8 · cocktail 10 · theater 8 · banquet 12 · classroom 18 |
Example: A 50 × 40 ft room with 200 sq ft reserved has 1,800 sq ft usable, enough for 150 guests at banquet rounds.
FAQ
Questions people ask.
How many square feet per person for a wedding reception?
With round tables, plan about 12 square feet per guest plus separate space for the dance floor, bar and buffet.
Is this the legal capacity?
No. The legal limit is the occupancy load set by the fire code and posted in the room. Ask the venue for it.
How big should the dance floor be?
Reserve it as part of the "space for stage, bar…" input so it is taken out of the seated area.
Related
Keep planning.
Estimates for planning, not quotes or legal advice. Formulas tested Oct 8, 2026.