Toronto’s New Major Streets Bylaw: What Property Owners and Developers Need to Know
- ribhurampersad
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
Toronto’s housing supply challenges have driven policymakers to rethink how we build in the city. One of the most impactful changes is the introduction of the Major Streets Zoning Bylaw Amendment, approved in July 2024. This new zoning framework opens up key streets for increased residential density, paving the way for more townhomes, low-rise apartments, and mixed-use buildings along Toronto’s busiest corridors.
What Is the Major Streets Bylaw?
The Major Streets Bylaw is part of Toronto’s push for “gentle density,” enabling as-of-right development along designated arterial roads. It encourages the construction of townhouses, low-rise apartments, and mixed-use buildings in areas previously limited to single-family homes.
Key goals include:
Increasing housing supply
Supporting transit-oriented development
Promoting vibrant, mixed-use communities
Streamlining the permitting process
What the New Zoning Allows
If your property is on a major street, you may now be eligible to develop more units with fewer restrictions. Here’s what the updated bylaw permits:
Townhomes and apartment buildings in RS, RD, RT, and RM zones
No maximum FSI (Floor Space Index) for lots on major streets
No amenity space required for buildings with 30 units or fewer
Multiple buildings allowed per lot abutting a major street
Minimum 30 units or the value specified in the zoning bylaw map
Building height up to 19 metres (or the height allowed by your zone)
5 Key Advantages of the Major Streets Bylaw
1. Unlocking Development Potential
Many underutilized lots can now be transformed into higher-density residential or mixed-use buildings. This boosts land value and project ROI.
2. Expanding Affordable Housing Options
By allowing small apartments and multiplexes in formerly low-density areas, the bylaw supports affordability and housing diversity in high-demand neighbourhoods.
3. Encouraging Mixed-Use Communities
The bylaw promotes commercial-residential blends, supporting local businesses and walkable neighbourhoods near public transit.
4. Aligning With Transit Infrastructure
Increased density along TTC routes supports sustainable, car-light lifestyles, reducing reliance on vehicles and improving access to jobs and amenities.
5. Accelerated Development Timelines
As-of-right zoning significantly reduces development friction, cutting down on time, legal costs, and bureaucratic delays.
What Streets Are Included?
The City of Toronto has designated numerous arterial roads as Major Streets under this policy. These include corridors in:
East York
North York
Scarborough
Downtown Toronto
Midtown and beyond
What This Means for Property Owners and Investors
If your property sits on a major street, you could now be eligible to:
Convert a single-family home into a fourplex or sixplex
Add a small apartment building or townhouse without rezoning
Combine residential and commercial units for mixed-use value
Build multiple dwellings on a single lot
Qualify for alternative or CMHC-insured financing with higher LTVs
Financing Options for Major Streets Projects
With more units and higher density, traditional lenders may not be the best fit for your project. Whether you are planning a new build, conversion, or multiplex development, specialized mortgage solutions can help you:
Maximize loan-to-value ratios (up to 95% with CMHC)
Access extended amortizations (up to 50 years with MLI Select)
Secure construction-to-permanent financing
Leverage future rental income for qualification
Book a Consultation to Explore Your Options
If you want to understand how the Major Streets Bylaw affects your property or development plan—and how to structure your financing accordingly—reach out today.
📧 Email: ribhu@ribhurampersad.ca
📍 Based in Ontario | Serving investors, developers, and homeowners across Toronto
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