Over the summer, staff evaluated three program options to select one or more of the most impactful approach(es) for long-term housing outcomes. The draft program is now developed and we want to hear from you!

Based on public input, and our technical and background review, we are proposing a focus on Incentives for Additional Dwelling Units (ADUs).

The draft program details include:

• Up to $80,000 in Development Charge (DC) waivers to help offset upfront cost of developing Additional Dwelling Units
• Program to be applied across the city, accounting for varying DC rates.
• Structured and incremental Incentives:
  • 50% DC waiver for 4th unit
  • +25% for sustainable features (e.g., heat pumps, solar panels, water conservation technologies)
  • +25% for units committing to an affordability period (e.g. commit to 5, 10, 15 years of keeping rent affordable).

We are still working on program development including eligibility criteria and process details. We look forward to hearing your questions and feedback to help us refine the program and develop these details. The program will be finalized later this year. The program launch is anticipated early next year. The application process may look like this:

• The City will publish a document that outlines program information including eligibility criteria
• The application may ask you to fill out a description of your project and site, and the length of time it will take to complete it
• City staff will evaluate if the project qualifies for grant funding and the amount of Development Charges grant will depend on the proposed project
• If your project qualifies, you move forward with the building permit stage and construction can commence!

Share your thoughts on this option and help us determine if there are any considerations to be made as the program is finalized. We can accept comments until October 15, 2025. Reach out to us through the project email address at PlanningPM@Kitchener.ca