The Ontario government is proposing to eliminate mandatory wind and shadow study requirements for land-use planning applications.
In a posting to the Environmental Registry of Ontario on Wednesday [May 14], the Province states:
We are consulting on proposed regulations that would, if Bill 17 is passed, limit the information and material that may be required by a municipality as part of an application for an official plan amendment, zoning by-law amendment, site plan control, plan of subdivision or consent.
Specifically, it is proposed that the following topics could not be required as part of a complete planning application:
- Sun/Shadow: information and material related to the impact of shadows cast by a proposed development on the subject land and on surrounding lands including streets.
- Wind: information and material related to the potential impacts of a proposed development on wind conditions in surrounding areas.
- Urban Design: information and material concerning the urban design of a proposed development, including how a proposed development aligns with municipal urban design guidelines or policies.
- Lighting: information and material related to lighting and lighting levels on the site, including the location and type of lighting fixtures proposed on the exterior of the building and on the site.
…
In cases where an exception is required to enable additional studies, municipalities may seek approval from the ministry
Hamilton Requires Wind and Shadow Studies Above Six-Storeys
The City of Hamilton requires wind studies for proposed developments taller than 20 metres (six storeys), and sun shadow studies above six storeys.
[One regulation states 20 metres, the other states six storeys.]
Hamilton’s Tall Building Guidelines state that shadow impacts shall be minimized. Public parks shall have a minimum of 50 percent sunlight during the day during spring and summer.
Wind impacts shall be mitigated by incorporating design features, including canopies, into new buildings. The policy aims to avoid creating wind tunnel effects such as those around Jackson Square in Downtown Hamilton.
Urban Design Requirements
Hamilton requires urban design reports for “individual sites proposed for development
or redevelopment with one or more buildings and related site features such as parking,
landscaping and loading/storage spaces or facilities.”
Developments within the Downtown, West Harbour, or along major streets must be reviewed by Hamilton’s Design Review Panel.
Public Comment Period Until June 26, 2025
The provincial public comment period is 45 days, with submissions accepted through the Environmental Registry of Ontario until June 26.
Production Details
v. 1.0.0
Published: May 15, 2025
Last updated: May 15, 2025
Author: Joey Coleman
Update Record
v. 1.0.0 original version