Ontario has rolled out a new regulation, Ontario Regulation 462/24, that promises to reshape the landscape of housing development, particularly for additional dwelling units (ADUs), garden suites, and laneway suites. This regulation is designed to tackle the housing shortage by making it easier and more economical to add residential units to existing properties.

Key Impacts of Regulation 462/24:

1. Removal of 45-Degree Angular Plane Constraints:

• The regulation has done away with the 45-degree angular plane restrictions, which previously limited how buildings could extend over their lots. This change allows for more vertical and horizontal expansion of ADUs, potentially increasing housing density without compromising the neighborhood's aesthetic.

2. Lot Coverage Increased to 45%:

• Owners can now utilize up to 45% of their lot for all buildings, including ADUs. This is a significant increase from previous restrictions, facilitating the construction of more substantial or multiple units on a single lot.

3. Reduced Separation Between Structures:

• The new rules lessen the required distance between primary homes and ancillary units, making it more feasible to build garden or laneway suites closer to existing structures, thus optimizing land use in urban settings.

Simplifying the Planning and Approval Process:

• No Rezoning or Minor Variances Required: One of the most significant changes is the elimination of the need for rezoning or minor variances for many ADU projects. This can drastically cut down on both time and financial costs associated with development, accelerating the addition of new housing units.
• Uniform Application Across Ontario: By superseding local zoning bylaws with provincial standards, Regulation 462/24 ensures that the process for obtaining approvals is consistent across serviced areas in the province where residential uses are permitted, reducing complexity for developers and homeowners alike.
• Boosting Urban Intensification: This regulation supports the government's push towards using existing infrastructure more efficiently, encouraging development within urban cores to curb sprawl and promote sustainable urban growth.

Conclusion:

Ontario Regulation 462/24 marks a pivotal shift in how additional housing units can be integrated into existing neighborhoods. By simplifying regulations, it opens up new opportunities for homeowners and developers to contribute to solving the housing crisis while also potentially increasing property values through strategic densification.

For those keen on diving deeper into this regulation, further information can be accessed through the Environmental Registry of Ontario with notice number 019-9210.

Note: As with any significant policy change, public consultation and ongoing adjustments are expected. This regulation aims to evolve with feedback to ensure it meets the diverse housing needs across Ontario while respecting community character and planning principles.