An Exploratory Analysis of Infill Strategies for Achieving Higher Dwelling Densities in the Yellowbelt

Toronto’s Yellowbelt, defined as areas zoned for predominantly single-detached housing typologies, is exclusionary and contributes to a housing supply shortage. This, in turn, increases the cost of housing. This exploratory study aims to simulate and examine the implications of higher-density infill in the Yellowbelt. This is achieved through the simulation of Edmonton, Ottawa, and Portland’s infill zoning reform, along with Toronto’s traditional R zoning, onto two neighbourhoods. The two neighbourhoods are zoned for single-detached dwellings, but reflect different urban fabrics. This research paper evaluates the tools used to control for density and explores their implications within the context of Toronto. This research concludes with a proposal to reconceptualize the Yellowbelt. Three categories are created to reflect three different opportunities for higher dwelling density infill, based on lot size. Zoning reform in the Yellowbelt will greatly increase Toronto’s housing supply, and may increase housing affordability depending on the specific types of regulation implemented.