Toronto Seeks Public Input on New Guidelines for Below-Grade Residential Construction

Toronto is set to hold discussions about proposed changes to its Official Plan. These discussions aim to address the growing trend of “iceberg homes.” You might wonder, what exactly are iceberg homes? They are single-family houses with a much larger underground space compared to what’s above ground. This often results in multi-storey basements that serve as luxury amenities like pools and home theaters.

The Planning and Housing Committee discussed these concerns in May 2023. They noted that current zoning laws don’t manage the below-ground footprint of these homes effectively. As a result, many iceberg homes can negatively affect the environment. For instance, they usually use more concrete, which has a significant carbon footprint compared to other building materials.

In 2021, the idea of regulating iceberg homes gained traction when city council looked into the issues they create. Councilor Jaye Robinson highlighted that building deeper can lead to problems like soil erosion, damage to nearby trees, and drainage issues. These homes can even put nearby foundations at risk.

Recent data shows that urban areas are facing significant challenges related to water drainage and green space maintenance. According to a report from the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, urbanization has led to increased stormwater runoff, which poses risks during heavy rains. Iceberg homes can exacerbate these issues by reducing the permeability of the soil.

In December 2023, council further discussed the need to protect the city’s tree canopy and green spaces while managing new housing developments. The aim is to strike a balance between enabling growth and preserving the environment.

As these stakeholder consultations unfold, experts emphasize the importance of finding solutions that support both housing needs and environmental sustainability. Creating guidelines for iceberg homes could set an example for other cities grappling with similar urban challenges.

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