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Thank you for taking the time to learn more! This website is your one-stop-shop for information about the project, timelines, updates and news about upcoming events.
Latest Update
The assessment report has been completed and presents negative viability results due to challenging market conditions. The report recommends a phased approach which will introduce the Inclusionary Zoning policy framework and transition policies that delay any requirements for affordable housing until an update assessment is completed. The report also recommends considering incentives for future implementation to support the development of affordable housing units.
Next Steps Staff are currently reviewing feedback on the proposed amendments for inclusionary zoning and a recommendation report will be presented to the Development Services Committee in February 2026.
Overview
The City of Markham is currently developing an Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) policy framework to require affordable housing units within new residential developments over the long term. This is one solution among a range of City initiatives to help address Markham's housing needs.
What is Inclusionary Zoning?
Inclusionary Zoning is a planning tool under the Planning Act that allows cities to require developers to include a certain percentage of affordable housing units in new multi-residential developments within Protected Major Transit Station Areas (PTMSAs). The City of Markham’s Inclusionary Zoning policy will be informed by the findings from the Housing Needs Assessment and aims to help address the housing needs of low and moderate-income households in our city. Inclusionary Zoning is a planning policy that can help the City meet its housing goals in its 2014 Official Plan to offer a wider range of homes available at affordable prices for both homeowners and renters.
Inclusionary Zoning is a valuable tool to assist in addressing Markham’s housing challenges. The City hopes to:
increase the supply and availability of affordable housing.
encourage the new supply of affordable units in identified growth areas near existing or planned rapid transit (i.e. GO stations, subway stations, and VIVA bus rapid transit stops).
provide long-term affordability for residents.
How does Inclusionary Zoning work?
In Ontario, Provincial regulation requires cities to conduct a detailed assessment of the potential impacts Inclusionary Zoning may have on the overall housing market within the City and financial viability of development. Provincial legislation requires that cities update this report every 5 years and be peer reviewed.
Inclusionary Zoning policies must be carefully designed by studying the potential market impacts to continue to encourage market housing developments. Inclusionary Zoning policies can include a range of measures to reduce the financial impact of providing affordable units on the private development industry. To help balance costs for developers, cities can offer support such as establishing more permissive planning regulations (e.g. reduced parking requirements), or financial incentives, ensuring both affordable and market-rate housing continue to be built.
Get Involved
We want to hear your ideas on how Inclusionary Zoning should be implemented to meet the housing needs of current and future Markham residents. To get involved:
Subscribe to receive project updates using the "Stay Informed" tab
Thank you for taking the time to learn more! This website is your one-stop-shop for information about the project, timelines, updates and news about upcoming events.
Latest Update
The assessment report has been completed and presents negative viability results due to challenging market conditions. The report recommends a phased approach which will introduce the Inclusionary Zoning policy framework and transition policies that delay any requirements for affordable housing until an update assessment is completed. The report also recommends considering incentives for future implementation to support the development of affordable housing units.
Next Steps Staff are currently reviewing feedback on the proposed amendments for inclusionary zoning and a recommendation report will be presented to the Development Services Committee in February 2026.
Overview
The City of Markham is currently developing an Inclusionary Zoning (IZ) policy framework to require affordable housing units within new residential developments over the long term. This is one solution among a range of City initiatives to help address Markham's housing needs.
What is Inclusionary Zoning?
Inclusionary Zoning is a planning tool under the Planning Act that allows cities to require developers to include a certain percentage of affordable housing units in new multi-residential developments within Protected Major Transit Station Areas (PTMSAs). The City of Markham’s Inclusionary Zoning policy will be informed by the findings from the Housing Needs Assessment and aims to help address the housing needs of low and moderate-income households in our city. Inclusionary Zoning is a planning policy that can help the City meet its housing goals in its 2014 Official Plan to offer a wider range of homes available at affordable prices for both homeowners and renters.
Inclusionary Zoning is a valuable tool to assist in addressing Markham’s housing challenges. The City hopes to:
increase the supply and availability of affordable housing.
encourage the new supply of affordable units in identified growth areas near existing or planned rapid transit (i.e. GO stations, subway stations, and VIVA bus rapid transit stops).
provide long-term affordability for residents.
How does Inclusionary Zoning work?
In Ontario, Provincial regulation requires cities to conduct a detailed assessment of the potential impacts Inclusionary Zoning may have on the overall housing market within the City and financial viability of development. Provincial legislation requires that cities update this report every 5 years and be peer reviewed.
Inclusionary Zoning policies must be carefully designed by studying the potential market impacts to continue to encourage market housing developments. Inclusionary Zoning policies can include a range of measures to reduce the financial impact of providing affordable units on the private development industry. To help balance costs for developers, cities can offer support such as establishing more permissive planning regulations (e.g. reduced parking requirements), or financial incentives, ensuring both affordable and market-rate housing continue to be built.
Get Involved
We want to hear your ideas on how Inclusionary Zoning should be implemented to meet the housing needs of current and future Markham residents. To get involved:
Subscribe to receive project updates using the "Stay Informed" tab
