City of Toronto Launches Pre-Approved Multiplex Designs
AI-generated image · Bay Street Wire
New permit-ready plans for fourplexes and sixplexes aim to accelerate residential construction by removing design costs.
The City of Toronto has expanded its Pre-Approved Building Plans Program to include new designs for modern fourplex and sixplex buildings, according to a City of Toronto news release. The initiative, which builds on previous plans for laneway and garden suites, provides free architectural designs intended to give homeowners a head start on the construction process.
As reported by BlogTO, the City contracted LGA Architectural Partners to create the permit-ready designs. LGA Architectural Partners stated the buildings are tailored to Toronto's typical residential lots and zoning, offering both wide and narrow configurations based on the city's four most common lot dimensions. The firm noted that the designs prioritize affordability, climate resilience, accessibility—including one accessible unit per building—and ease of construction, while incorporating bike and garbage storage.
According to the City of Toronto, fourplexes are currently permitted city-wide, though the availability of sixplexes varies by location. If a proposed multiplex meets existing zoning requirements, owners can apply for a building permit directly and bypass the Committee of Adjustment.
While the plans are provided at no cost to reduce planning hurdles, the City of Toronto specifies that applicants must still hire a qualified design professional. This professional is responsible for the design and for preparing the site-specific drawings and information required for the property's specific location. This initiative is designed to work alongside the Housing Design Catalogue from the Canadian Housing and Mortgage Corporation (CMHC).