Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN BIDDULPH – Dan FitzGerald MPl MCIP RPP, Manager of Planning, presented several reports to council at the most recent meeting (February 17) outlining proposed zoning by-law amendments connected to the federal Housing Accelerator Fund, aimed at expanding housing options and supporting future growth in Lucan Biddulph.
The proposed changes focus on modernizing zoning standards while helping the municipality move forward with Housing Accelerator Fund initiatives designed to support housing development. Planning staff said the amendments are intended to increase flexibility in residential zoning, encourage a broader mix of housing types and reduce barriers that can slow new construction.
A key element of the proposal involves allowing a wider range of housing forms in residential zones, subject to existing zoning requirements. In practical terms, this includes permitting additional housing formats in areas that have traditionally been limited to single detached homes. These may include townhomes and small multi-unit dwellings, where lot size, servicing capacity, parking standards and other zoning requirements can be met. While permissions would broaden, developments would still be required to comply with height limits, lot coverage standards, setbacks and servicing provisions.
Council heard that the updates form part of ongoing planning work tied to the Housing Accelerator Fund program, which encourages municipalities to review zoning rules that may limit housing supply. The program links financial support to the implementation of planning measures intended to help increase housing availability and improve certainty in the approvals process.
Another significant component of the amendments includes clearer and more detailed provisions for Additional Residential Units (ARUs), such as secondary suites within a dwelling or units located in accessory structures. Staff explained that the updated framework provides direction on how ARUs may be established on serviced and unserviced properties, including limits designed to address practical considerations such as parking and building scale.
The zoning update also proposes adjustments to certain development standards, including minimum lot areas, lot frontages, setback requirements and parking provisions. Officials noted that some of these standards have frequently required minor variances in the past, and the proposed changes aim to reflect more current building practices while maintaining appropriate controls over development form and intensity.
Planning staff described the amendments as part of the normal evolution of a zoning by-law, which is periodically reviewed to ensure it aligns with provincial policy, municipal growth objectives and changing housing needs. Council emphasized that zoning standards will continue to regulate how development occurs within neighbourhoods.
