Living space debate

[By your Builder]

While not a CA concern I am having a difference of opinion with a local architectural review board here in Virginia when it comes to calculating square foot living area. Most of our plans have a lot of open areas ( lofts with overlook's ), (Two story foyers) ect. we have in the past for permitting and general specifications used half of the square footages of these areas as the number entered into the total living space . We left in all the area of the stairs & stairwell.... After 22 years I am now wondering if what we have been doing is correct or if its a gray area,, Any and all comments will be much appreciated ..

Thanks in advance for your thoughts....