Tribunal troubles: an analysis of the potential effects of Bill 139 on housing affordability, and the transparency and efficiency of Ontario's land use planning and appeal system

This Major Research Paper (MRP) analyzes the potential effects of Bill 139 on housing affordability, and the transparency and efficiency of land use planning in the province of Ontario. Specifically, this MRP analyzes how changes to Ontario‘s Development and Land Use Appeals Process may impact the delivery of new housing supply to market, hence, impacting affordability. Additionally, this MRP evaluates changes in the appeals process in regards to increased transparency, an expected outcome of Bill 139. A qualitative analysis of the Bill 139 reforms finds that Ontario‘s land use planning and appeal systems require immediate assistance in regards to implementation, and further reform in terms of municipal autonomy, decision making power of the tribunal, and the nature of appeal hearings.