Draft zoning amendments now available
We are committed to gathering community input on proposed changes to zoning regulations. Throughout January 2024 we engaged with residents and industry stakeholders. This took place through various channels, including:
- virtual meetings
- workshops
- open houses
- online survey
- one-on-one conversations
Your valuable feedback was instrumental in shaping the proposed zoning by-law amendments. It ensured that the draft regulations align with and respond to community priorities.
We heard that community members support gentle density on existing residential lots. We also heard this is an important way we can help respond to the housing crisis. Community members identified the following benefits of allowing additional dwelling units:
- support multi generational households
- can be a source of revenue for homeowners
- increases choice for renters
- makes efficient use of infrastructure.
Areas identified as important for consideration included:
- servicing capacity
- site layout and functionality
- provision of an appropriate amount of parking
- protecting private backyard amenity spaces
- protecting trees and greenspace
- preserving neighbourhood character and streetscapes.
A draft of the proposed zoning regulations is now available for information. The draft regulations work to enable additional dwelling units on more lots. They also balance increased density with provision of parking, landscaping and green spaces.
Our staff report will provide further discussion and details. We expect that report to be available in mid-March.
On Monday, March 25, 2024, Kitchener Council unanimously approved new Official Plan and Zoning By-law Amendments. These enable up to four dwelling units on residential lots in Kitchener. They are only allowed where zoning permits single detached, semi-detached or street townhouse dwelling units. For more information, visit: About residential dwelling units
