This bill, called the Protect Ontario by Building Faster and Smarter Act, 2025, aims to make changes to laws about building, transit, housing, and infrastructure in Ontario. It includes eight schedules, each changing different rules. The goal is to speed up building projects, improve transit, and support economic growth. The bill also simplifies approval processes and gives the government more control over development and infrastructure projects.
The bill could change how quickly buildings and transit projects are approved and built in Ontario. It might speed up new homes, schools, and transit systems, which can impact where new development occurs. Municipal governments will have less power to stop or control certain building and demolition rules. The bill also allows the government to request more information from cities and transit organizations to support large projects. Overall, the changes could lead to faster construction but may also reduce some local control over development and zoning.
The bill adjusts many laws but does not specify exact costs or savings. For example, it exempts long-term care homes from development charges, which might reduce local revenues. The bill aims to speed up project approvals, which could save time and money for developers and governments, but data unavailable on total cost or savings. The bill also revokes some existing regulations, possibly simplifying processes.
Supporters say the bill will help build homes, schools, and transit faster. They believe speeding up approval processes will create jobs and support economic growth. Exempting certain projects from charges might encourage more development, especially in health and transit sectors. They argue that giving the government more power to request information will make large projects easier to plan and complete.
Opponents worry the bill reduces local government's control over zoning and building rules. They believe it might lead to more rapid development without enough community input. Some say that speeding approvals could ignore safety or environmental concerns. Exempting certain projects from development charges may also reduce funding for local services and infrastructure. Critics argue that less oversight can affect community planning and quality of life.