On November 5, Council approved a report in principle on the Social Housing Initiative. The proposed Initiative introduces new zoning relaxations and a Social Housing Rezoning Policy to streamline the delivery of 100 percent non-profit, co-operative, and government-owned housing. 

Major Components 

• Zoning and Development By-law Amendments: 
  • Introduces a new Schedule K identifying areas (Villages and Neighbourhood Centres) where social housing can be developed via a development permit; 
  • Allows low-rise (up to 6 storeys) and high-rise (up to 20 storeys) buildings for 100 percent social housing; 
  • Requires at least 30 percent of units below Housing Income Limits (HILs) and long-term affordability secured for 60 years; 
  • Maintains ground-floor commercial uses in mixed-use zones to support local amenities; 
• Social Housing Rezoning Policy: 
  • Provides a rezoning pathway for large or unique sites (8,000 m² and above) and First Nations-led projects that do not fit standard zoning; 
  • Permits consideration of greater height or density, inclusion of childcare or cultural spaces, and limited market housing where it increases the number of affordable units; 
• Tenant Protection: 
  • The Tenant Relocation and Protection Policy (TRPP) applies to all affected projects. 

More information can be found in the full report by City staff.