Toronto’s Major Streets Policy: Unlocking Midrise Housing Opportunities
A Big Step Toward the “Missing Middle” — But Will It Deliver?
Toronto has officially implemented its Major Streets Policy, marking a major milestone in the city’s efforts to expand housing options. This policy allows six-storey apartment buildings with up to 66 units on major streets across the city, even in areas previously reserved for single-family homes. It’s a bold move under the Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods (EHON) program and could reshape how Toronto grows.
At UTES Design & Build, we see this as a game-changer for homeowners, developers, and investors looking to build smarter, denser, and more sustainable housing in prime locations.
What the Policy Does
- Permits midrise apartments (up to six storeys) on major streets, close to transit, shops, and social services.
- Targets the “missing middle”, housing types between single-family homes and high-rise towers.
- Moves beyond incremental solutions like garden suites and triplexes to enable housing at a meaningful scale.
This approach aligns with global best practices: cities have long used midrise development along major corridors to meet housing demand efficiently.
Challenges Ahead
While the policy opens the door, construction realities remain a hurdle:
- High land costs make small-scale apartment projects financially challenging.
- Development charges in Toronto remain high compared to other GTA municipalities.
- Builders face regulatory constraints, such as requirements for multiple exit stairs and oversized elevators, which increase costs.
Industry experts suggest practical fixes like:
- Allowing single exit stairs for six-storey buildings (common internationally).
- Reducing mandatory amenity space requirements.
- Streamlining utility coordination with Toronto Hydro.
How Does This Affect You?
Homeowners
- If your property is on a major street, you may have new opportunities to redevelop or sell for midrise projects.
- Increased housing supply could stabilize rental markets, benefiting families and investors.
Builders & Developers
- New zoning flexibility creates opportunities for midrise projects in prime locations.
- Potential for mixed-use developments combining residential and commercial spaces.
- Need to navigate financing and regulatory challenges, UTES can help streamline this process.
Commercial Property Owners
- Major streets are ideal for retail and office spaces integrated with housing, boosting foot traffic and property value.
- Midrise projects can create vibrant, walkable communities, attracting businesses and residents alike.
Why UTES Design & Build Is Your Partner for Midrise Development
- Integrated Expertise: Architecture and structural engineering under one roof.
- Zoning Knowledge: We understand Toronto’s new policies and how to leverage them.
- Efficiency Focused: We design cost-effective solutions to make midrise projects viable.
- Client-Centered: From concept to completion, we guide you through approvals, design, and construction.
Ready to Build Toronto’s Future?
The Major Streets Policy is a turning point for housing in Toronto. UTES Design & Build is here to help you seize this opportunity, whether you’re planning a midrise apartment, a mixed-use development, or a custom project.
Contact us today to explore how this policy can unlock new possibilities for your property.
