Ottawa Construction News staff writer
The Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association (GOHBA) has released a new white paper calling on the City of Ottawa to make changes to its zoning bylaws to increase housing supply and affordability.
The white paper, titled “Zoning Bylaws to Successfully Implement the Housing Accelerator Fund,” proposes several amendments to the current bylaws including increasing density allowed in residential properties, streamlining the permitting process for home construction, and making changes to the parking requirements.
The changes are aimed at increasing the supply of housing by also making it easier and faster to build homes.
“Ottawa has the opportunity to be an example of progressive leadership in zoning,” GOHBA executive director Jason Burggraaf said in statement in . “The city’s bylaw amendments will not only shape the lives of the people who call this city their home today, but for generations to come.”
In addition, the white paper explores the historical use of exclusionary zoning practices in Ottawa and recommends reforms to align zoning regulations with density goals. It emphasizes the need for additional reforms beyond existing commitments to bolster the housing supply
The white paper is part of a broader advocacy for more housing supply and affordability in Ottawa. It is hoped that the changes proposed in the white paper will help to increase supply and affordability in the city.
GOHBA is an industry organization that represents more than 415 companies involved in new home construction and professional renovation across Ottawa. The GOHBA says it is committed to advocating for policies and regulations that support the growth and sustainability of the residential real estate industry in Ottawa.
