Toronto is one step closer to legalizing sixplexes in residential neighbourhoods, after the city’s Planning and Housing Committee voted in favour of expanding multiplex permissions to allow five- and six-unit dwellings across low-rise areas.
If adopted by full council later this month, this change would allow detached houses across the city to be redeveloped or built as sixplexes, bringing what planners call “gentle density” to neighborhoods currently dominated by single-family homes.
The Goal: More Housing Variety in Low-Rise Areas
According to city staff, the proposal supports more housing options for families, seniors, young adults, and multigenerational households who are often priced out of traditional single-family areas.
“We’re trying to build more intermediate housing,” said Councillor Gord Perks, chair of the Planning and Housing Committee. “We need places for people getting their first apartment, for seniors who want to stay in their neighborhood but can’t maintain a full house, and for young families who need ground-level space. It’s important that we arrange to have a variety of housing types.”
Key Details of the Proposal
- Applies to detached houses only (not semi-detached or townhomes)
- Allows up to 6 units per building on low-rise residential lots
- Height limit increased from 10m to 10.5m to improve basement liveability and daylight access
- As-of-right zoning: Developers would no longer need individual zoning approvals for these builds
The proposal builds on Toronto’s previous approval of citywide fourplexes, and aligns with commitments under the federal Housing Accelerator Fund, which encourages municipalities to increase “missing middle” housing supply quickly.
Mixed Reactions From Residents
The June 13 committee meeting drew a large turnout from residents. Some voiced strong support, citing the need for affordable, flexible housing. Others raised concerns over potential issues like parking, flooding, privacy, and changes to neighborhood character.
Natalie Pihura, a resident from Martin Grove Gardens, shared a petition with over 500 signatures opposing the change. “A sixplex in a sea of bungalows sticks out like a sore thumb,” she told the committee. “Right-sized housing in the right areas is the right decision.”
Planning Experts Say It’s a Necessary Move
Housing experts and urban planners say the change is necessary to meet Toronto’s housing targets and support population growth.
“This is about housing equity and liveability,” said Blair Scorgie, a registered planner and urban designer. “Allowing up to six units in detached buildings will unlock ground-related homes for people who are too often excluded from neighborhoods built around a single housing type.”
Carolyn Whitzman, a senior researcher at the University of Toronto’s School of Cities, added that many cities across Canada are realizing they cannot meet housing demand without major zoning reforms.
What’s Next?
Toronto City Council will vote on the sixplex proposal during its meeting starting June 25, 2025. If passed, it will mark a significant milestone in the city’s plan to legalize a wider variety of low-rise housing options and meet its housing supply goals.
References
- CBC News. (2025, June 14). Toronto should allow sixplexes to bring ‘gentle density’ to city, council committee says.
Toronto should allow sixplexes to bring ‘gentle density’ to city, council committee says | CBC News
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