A proposed amendment to the City of Toronto’s Zoning By-law 569-2013 under Item PH27.1 (“Growing Space for Trees”) was recently brought to the attention of our industry community. The proposal would have excluded swimming pools and hot tubs from qualifying as soft landscaping in residential rear yards.
Once this issue surfaced within our membership, PHTCC quickly shared the information and encouraged members to review the implications. Many responded by submitting thoughtful letters to City Councillors and the City Clerk outlining concerns about the unintended consequences of the proposed change.
We are pleased to share that the matter has now been referred back to City staff for further review, an important outcome for Toronto homeowners and the backyard industry as a whole.
This referral indicates that Council heard the concerns raised about how the original proposal could have restricted homeowners’ ability to build a swimming pool, renovate their backyard, or make meaningful outdoor improvements. Reclassifying pools as hardscape would have reduced usable yard space, created additional compliance challenges, and increased the likelihood of minor variance applications.
Community emails, calls, and public input made a measurable difference.
Importantly, letters can still be submitted. Continued feedback will help ensure that City staff fully understand the practical, economic, and homeowner impacts as they conduct their review. We encourage members who operate in Toronto, or whose clients reside in Toronto, to continue sharing professional and constructive input.
PHTCC will remain engaged in the review process and will keep members informed as further updates become available.
