Addressing the “Missing Middle” and allowing 4 units “By Right”
The City of Belleville has initiated a project to address “missing middle” housing options by permitting four-unit dwellings on urban services properties, among several other major changes to increase housing density in the city.
We attended the public information centre hosted by the city last week about this project and here’s what we learned:
Initiative 1: Align Zoning with Key Corridors
Proposed up-zoning from R1 to R2 in key corridors in the city to allow for higher density development. Specifically from only single family homes, duplex, townhouses in R1 to triplexes, 4plexes, and low rise apartment buildings allowed in R2.
Initiative 2: Expanded Permissions for ADU’s
This increases the city to permit 3 ADUs (up from 2 ADUs) by right to allow for total of 4 units on residential lots with municipal services.
Initiative 3: Reduced Barriers for Ground-Oriented Housing Options
Reduces proposed land use requirements for R1 and R2, eg. minimum lot area, min lot frontage, min side yard width for 2-4 unit development. Also expands R1 land use to include three-unit and four-unit dwellings as well.
The city is still in the feedback stage for this project, but based on the conversation with the city staff, it is expected to be voted on by the councillors in November and implemented shortly after.
What does this mean for you? Let’s chat!
