Zoning amendments to support Climate Emergency

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On April 29, 2020, City Council approved changes to the Building By-law to require one to three storey residential buildings to provide zero emissions space and water heating, and more roof insulation. More information on this change is available in the council report and the presentation to council. These changes are a part of ‘Big Move 4’ identified in the Climate Emergency Response.

At the same time, Council requested recommendations to ensure that installing energy efficient technology will not compromise interior space. The proposed changes to the Zoning & Development By-law for one to three residential storey buildings are:

  • An increase of about 0.15 metres (6 inches) in permitted height to accommodate additional roof insulation
  • An exclusion of about 2.3 square metres (25 square feet) in area for a mechanical room with zero emissions equipment

These zoning changes are intended to build better homes with purpose built mechanical spaces and ample head room for living spaces, while reducing carbon pollution and heating costs.

Thank you for your feedback on the proposed changes to the Zoning & Development By-law. Staff have made recommendations in a report to Council, which will be considered at a public hearing on December 8 or 10, 2020.


On April 29, 2020, City Council approved changes to the Building By-law to require one to three storey residential buildings to provide zero emissions space and water heating, and more roof insulation. More information on this change is available in the council report and the presentation to council. These changes are a part of ‘Big Move 4’ identified in the Climate Emergency Response.

At the same time, Council requested recommendations to ensure that installing energy efficient technology will not compromise interior space. The proposed changes to the Zoning & Development By-law for one to three residential storey buildings are:

  • An increase of about 0.15 metres (6 inches) in permitted height to accommodate additional roof insulation
  • An exclusion of about 2.3 square metres (25 square feet) in area for a mechanical room with zero emissions equipment

These zoning changes are intended to build better homes with purpose built mechanical spaces and ample head room for living spaces, while reducing carbon pollution and heating costs.

Thank you for your feedback on the proposed changes to the Zoning & Development By-law. Staff have made recommendations in a report to Council, which will be considered at a public hearing on December 8 or 10, 2020.