Enabling Four Units

The City of Kitchener is growing and more homes are needed to meet the needs of existing and future residents.

In March 2023, the City of Kitchener made a Municipal Housing Pledge to build an additional 35,000 homes by 2031. A key component of this pledge includes enabling more housing that will support gentle intensification of our existing low rise residential areas.

'Enabling Four Units' will explore the creation of zoning regulations that will permit up to four dwelling units on any lot that allows a single-detached dwelling, semi-detached dwelling or street fronting townhouse dwelling, subject to regulations. These additional dwelling units could be located in:

• existing buildings
• additions to new buildings
• new buildings either as the main building or in the backyard

(image credit: rehousing.ca)

Why is this being considered?

Housing Demands: With our community growing, there is a need to explore innovative solutions to accommodate the increasing demand for housing and promote a variety of housing options.

Urban Development: Enabling four units can contribute to a more efficient use of existing spaces and infrastructure, promoting sustainable and thoughtful urban development.

We want to hear from you!

This project includes opportunities for community input. Your comments will help us to determine the appropriate permissions to include in a proposed four-unit dwelling by-law, for example:

• lot width, area and setbacks
• building height and form
• driveways and parking provisions

If you would like to get email updates on this project and notices of upcoming engagement opportunities, add your email to the Stay Informed box and click 'Subscribe'.