Why aren’t we seeing more multiplexes in Canadian cities—even after zoning reforms? In this episode of The Missing Middle, Sabrina Maddeaux and Mike Moffatt dig into the surprising roadblocks holding back infill housing. From bizarre bedroom caps to height limits that make 10-plexes impossible, they unpack how cities say "yes" to housing... and then quietly say "no." They call out the red tape, NIMBY politics, and why it might be time for provinces to take the wheel. If you're wondering why the housing crisis isn’t getting better, this one’s for you. (Full disclosure: This episode was recorded on Friday June 18th, before the Toronto city council watered down sixplex legalization, but the conversation remains entirely relevant.)
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:51 Push-back to multi-unit buildings
03:46 Bedroom limits
06:07 Ron Butler episode
06:34 The rooming-house factor
08:14 Height restrictions and Ottawa story
10:40 Restrictions make good architecture difficult
12:13 Infil is always harder so restrictions make that even worse
14:02 Solutions
research/links:
City staff recommend permitting sixplexes in residential areas
City staff recommend allowing sixplexes across all Toronto neighbourhoods
Reddit discussion on the above 👆
Toronto wrangles with a simple question: What is a multiplex?
We recommend you read the City Hall Watcher Substack by Matt Elliott
Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina Maddeaux
Produced by Meredith Martin
This podcast is funded by the Neptis Foundation and brought to you by the Smart Prosperity Institute.
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