To whom it may concern, I am…

To whom it may concern,

I am submitting this comment as a contributor to the planning and development technology space in Canada, with experience supporting architecture and design teams in streamlining planning applications.

While I recognize and support the Province’s goal of increasing housing supply and improving the predictability of development approvals, I am concerned by the proposal in Bill 17 to prohibit municipalities from requiring sun/shadow studies as part of complete planning applications.
This proposed change would eliminate a practical, evidence-based tool that plays a vital role in assessing how new developments will impact adjacent properties, public spaces, parks, and streets — especially in dense urban environments such as Toronto, Ottawa, and Mississauga.

Shadow studies are not a barrier to development. Many architects and planning teams use them proactively to refine proposals early and avoid delays or opposition during the review process. Thanks to digital tools and automation, the process has become significantly faster, more consistent, and cost-effective — with time savings of up to 92% reported by users.

I respectfully urge the Province to reconsider the proposed elimination of sun/shadow studies. A more balanced solution would be to standardize how and when these studies are required, rather than prohibit them — particularly in urban or intensifying areas where sun access and shadow impacts are critical to livability and the quality of the public realm.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide input and for considering this perspective in your review.