I’m writing to express my…

I’m writing to express my support for the proposed policy changes, particularly the removal of angular plane requirements and the simplification of rules around lot size and building placement. These adjustments are not only practical but also an important step toward addressing Ontario’s ongoing housing crisis.

Removing Angular Plane Restrictions
Ontario is facing a serious shortage of housing, and outdated rules like angular plane requirements are standing in the way of progress. These rules force homeowners and builders to design awkward, unattractive buildings simply to meet an imaginary angle, often resulting in structures that don’t blend with the neighborhood or make the best use of available space. In many cases, the only impact of angular planes is to limit the potential for adding much-needed housing units, without any real benefit to the community.
By removing these restrictions, homeowners will have the flexibility to design more functional and aesthetically pleasing homes. This change will also encourage the development of basement apartments, laneway suites, and other types of housing that can be built on existing lots, helping to create more rental options and housing for families without compromising on design or space.

Simplifying Lot Size and Building Placement Rules
The current restrictions on lot size and building separation are another barrier to solving Ontario’s housing crisis. Many homeowners have space available on their properties to add a small home extension or an additional unit, but they’re prevented from doing so by rigid rules about minimum lot size and building distance. The proposed changes, which set a reasonable 45% lot coverage and a 4-meter building distance, would make it easier for people to add these units and create more housing in established neighborhoods.
Allowing homeowners to build garden suites or laneway homes without needing a rezoning or minor variance will not only save time and money but also help to unlock the potential of existing residential areas. This is exactly the type of common-sense solution Ontario needs to help address the housing shortage while making efficient use of the infrastructure we already have.

With the province’s population continuing to grow, these changes are an essential step in increasing the supply of housing quickly and affordably. By removing unnecessary barriers like angular planes and outdated lot size rules, we can help more people find homes and ensure that Ontario remains a great place to live.