The City of Toronto has approved a new policy allowing small shops and cafes to operate in certain residential neighborhoods, marking a significant shift from past regulations that restricted commercial activities in these areas. The decision, made by the City Council on Thursday, permits detached properties such as houses or multiplexes in specific wards to be converted into retail establishments upon request from local councillors.
Historically, small-scale retail businesses have played a vital role in the city’s heritage but were constrained by planning policies dating back to the mid-20th century. The wards now eligible for this change include Davenport, Parkdale-High Park, Spadina-Fort York, Toronto-Danforth, Toronto-Centre, Toronto-St. Paul’s, University-Rosedale, and Beaches-East York. However, councillors from suburban wards not included in the list opposed the proposal.
Councilor Gord Perks, representing Parkdale-High Park, expressed enthusiasm for the decision, highlighting the benefits for local residents in terms of increased access to services and neighborhood vibrancy without the need to travel long distances.
Under the new policy, businesses in residential zones must meet specific criteria to operate. These include being located on a corner lot on certain community streets, adjacent to a park or school, or next to a commercially zoned property. While food preparation involving substantial commercial kitchens will be restricted, the sale of off-site cooked food and beverages like espresso-based drinks will be permitted, paving the way for cafes to set up shop.
Jason Thorne, the city’s chief planner, emphasized that the policy change aims to support entrepreneurs in starting businesses and enhance the convenience for local residents by reducing the need to leave their neighborhoods for daily errands as the city’s population grows denser.
Additionally, the council approved the expansion of business allowances on major streets throughout the city, with exceptions in residential areas based on council decisions. Major streets with residential zones, such as Ossington Avenue and Bathurst Street, will now permit a broader range of businesses, including full-service restaurants, in designated areas.
While most councillors supported the measure, Etobicoke’s Stephen Holyday dissented, echoing concerns raised by homeowners associations about the potential negative impact of introducing businesses in residential settings. Holyday cautioned against the possibility of inappropriate businesses moving into these areas, citing the example of a disruptive “perpetual garage sale” as a potential consequence.