Ontario’s move to revoke Toronto’s green roof bylaw has raised alarm among the city’s mayor and opposition Members of Provincial Parliament (MPPs), who argue that the regulation enhances efficiency, cools urban areas, and mitigates flooding risks.
Toronto spearheaded the implementation of a green roof bylaw in North America, which was enacted in 2009 to mandate green roofs on new commercial, institutional, and residential developments exceeding 2,000 square meters in gross floor area.
The bylaw resulted in over 1,200 green roofs being installed across Toronto. However, the province has now shifted to a voluntary approach for green roofs.
Mayor Olivia Chow expressed her disappointment through her press secretary, Braman Thillainathan, citing the positive impacts of the bylaw on stormwater diversion, energy efficiency, and greenhouse gas reduction.
The city announced that it lost the power to enforce the bylaw effective Monday, following the province’s decision to repeal it through an order-in-council signed on Oct. 23.
The provincial government justified its action as part of an initiative to expedite infrastructure and housing development in Ontario. By making green roofs voluntary, the government aims to offer flexibility to builders and taxpayers while cutting unnecessary expenses and preserving job opportunities.
Opposition MPPs criticized the decision, alleging a lack of consultation with stakeholders and arguing that the bylaw supported around 1,600 jobs in the province, predominantly in rural areas.
Green industry advocates expressed dismay over the repeal, foreseeing negative repercussions on businesses and employment within the sector.
Environmental advocates emphasized the environmental benefits of green roofs, including water interception during heavy rainfall events, biodiversity support, and thermal insulation properties that help regulate temperature fluctuations.
Despite the repeal, the city affirmed its commitment to incorporating green roof standards in new constructions under its purview, underscoring Toronto’s ongoing dedication to sustainable development practices.