How rules quietly undermine legalization

Mike explains tactics like parking, setbacks, and other restrictions that render as-of-right permissions ineffective.

Play episode from 01:52

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Transcript

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Episode notes

Why aren’t we seeing more multiplexes in Canadian cities—even after zoning reforms? In this episode of The Missing Middle, Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt dig into the surprising roadblocks holding back infill housing. From bizarre bedroom caps to height limits that make 10-plexes impossible, they unpack how cities say "yes" to housing... and then quietly say "no." They call out the red tape, NIMBY politics, and why it might be time for provinces to take the wheel. If you're wondering why the housing crisis isn’t getting better, this one’s for you. (Full disclosure: This episode was recorded on Friday June 18th, before the Toronto city council watered down sixplex legalization, but the conversation remains entirely relevant.)

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:51 Push-back to multi-unit buildings

03:46 Bedroom limits

06:07 Ron Butler episode

06:34 The rooming-house factor

08:14 Height restrictions and Ottawa story

10:40 Restrictions make good architecture difficult

12:13 Infil is always harder so restrictions make that even worse

14:02 Solutions

research/links:

Edmonton Zoning Bylaw Renewal