Improving Design Quality and Neighbourhood Fit of As-of-Right Multiplex Housing - by Councillor James Pasternak, seconded by Councillor Vincent Crisanti

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The decision

2026-03-25 · Toronto City Council · amended

As filed

City Council on March 25 and 26, 2026, adopted the following: 1. City Council request the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, in consultation with the Chief Building Official and Executive Director, Toronto Building, as part of the forthcoming Multiplex Monitoring Program report to Council, to include a review of the planning design and construction of recently constructed multiplexes and to consider measures to encourage well-designed and contextually-appropriate multiplexes.

On the agenda

As the city filed it

Recent changes to provincial and municipal planning policy have enabled as-of-right multiplex housing across Toronto's low-rise neighbourhoods as part of the City's housing supply strategy. While these permissions support gentle density and housing choice, concerns have been raised by residents, Councillors, and City staff regarding the design quality and neighbourhood fit of some newly constructed multiplexes. City Planning staff have noted that current zoning regulations provide limited ability to regulate architectural design, materials, and façade treatment for as-of-right multiplexes, particularly where site plan control does not apply.

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At the same time, staff have identified opportunities to improve design outcomes through monitoring, guidance, engagement with builders, and programmatic measures that encourage higher-quality, contextually appropriate development.

Staff recommended

Councillor James Pasternak, seconded by Councillor Vincent Crisanti, recommends that: 1. City Council request the Chief Planner and Executive Director, City Planning, as part of the forthcoming Multiplex Monitoring Program report to Council, to include a review of the design of recently constructed multiplexes and to consider measures to encourage well-designed and contextually-appropriate multiplexes.

On the record

The item as the City filed it