Item - 2026.MM43.10

City Council on July 29 and 30, 2026, adopted the following:

1. City Council request the City Manager, in consultation with the Executive Director, Municipal Licensing and Standards, and the Chief Building Official and Executive Director, Toronto Building, to report back to City Council in January 2027 on the effectiveness of the changes implemented through the Property Standards By-law: Phase II Review, including:

a. an assessment of whether the updated property standards framework is effectively addressing concerns related to vacant and inactive development sites, including sites where construction has not commenced following planning approval;

b. identification of any additional amendments, policies, or enforcement tools required to address development site-specific property standards concerns, including issues related to site maintenance, security, waste accumulation, fencing, landscaping, and other impacts on surrounding communities;

c. a review of training, guidance, and operational procedures provided to Municipal Licensing and Standards enforcement officers responsible for investigating property standards complaints involving vacant and inactive development sites, to ensure consistent application of existing standards and enforcement tools; and 

d. an assessment of jurisdictional gaps or limitations that may prevent the City from effectively enforcing appropriate property standards on development sites, including a review of the legislative authorities available under the City of Toronto Act, 2006, and other applicable legislation.

2. City Council request the City Manager, in consultation with relevant City divisions, to explore opportunities to improve the appearance, safety, and security of inactive development sites awaiting construction, including options for enhanced site management requirements, improved fencing or screening standards, and other measures that can be implemented within the City’s existing authority.

3. City Council request the City Manager to include, as part of the report back, recommendations for any necessary by-law amendments, policy changes, operational improvements, or legislative advocacy required to ensure that inactive development sites are maintained to appropriate standards while respecting approved development permissions and the City’s objectives for housing and growth.