702 - From Second Units, to ADUs, and Beyond: History, Process, and Future of Accessory Dwellings in Windsor

October 20, 2021

11:45AM - 12:45PM

Additional dwelling units (also known as an ADUs, second units, accessory or basement apartments, secondary suites, carriage houses, laneway suites, and in-law flats) are becoming a popular small-scale infill option for cities across Canada, and tiny homes are ubiquitous on HGTV. But how can planners implement successful strategies to bring these housing options to their communities? How did Windsor get from an illegal use in 2018 to issuing building permits for 53 ADUs in 2020?
 
Municipalities in Ontario were mandated to have policies permitting second units in 2011 under Bill 140, the Strong Communities Through Affordable Housing Act. In the summer of 2019, the Province of Ontario passed Bill 108, the More Homes, More Choice Act, which amended parts of the Planning Act to require municipalities to establish official plan policies and zoning that authorize the use of additional residential units.
 
During this interactive 60-minute session, the presenters provide overview and insight into the legislative background, policy development process, and challenges implementing ADUs in the City of Windsor. The session includes a review of the history of developing and implementing second unit policies and regulations in response to Bill 140 and the subsequent process to update those for Bill 108. It also explores the policy development process, debates at committees, and how implementation was designed to integrate a new dwelling type in existing planning and building permit processes to facilitate uptake by the community. Some examples of development plans seen in Windsor will be provided, including how the final product looks on the ground and in the neighbourhood.

Speakers