Residential Zones Project - Reimagining Neighbourhoods

Phase 2 of the Reimagining Neighbourhoods Project – Mid-Rise Residential Zones is anticipated to be completed in Fall 2025. This follows Phase 1 – Low Density Residential Zones, which was introduced in 2022.

Phase 2 – Mid-Rise Residential Zones introduces new housing opportunities and expanded permissions city-wide, with a focus on directing density along arterial streets. Planning staff have completed the public engagement process under the “Reimagining Neighbourhoods” project banner, as detailed in the Mid-Rise Residential Zones Consultation Update presented on March 18, 2025 (Report PED23069(a)).

Draft Zones Changes

The Mid-Rise Residential Zones will be introduced in phases. On October 3, 2025, three draft zones will be presented to Planning Committee for consideration as amendments to Zoning By-law No. 05-200. Draft changes are subject to changes.

• Draft Medium Density Low Rise Residential (R3) Zone
• Draft Mid-Rise Residential (R4) Zone
• Draft Mid-Rise Residential - Large Scale (R4a) Zone

View full set of maps, zone provisions, and Staff Report going to Planning Committee on October 3, 2025

Residential Intensification Work Plan
Planning staff will be submitting a report that summarizes City initiated projects and initiatives that support the increased residential intensification required to implement a firm urban boundary growth strategy. In addition, this report will present a work plan to undertake a review and update of the Urban Hamilton Official Plan’s high rise policies, focusing on the Neighbourhoods designation. The main objective of this review is to identify policies that should be amended, repealed or added to provide greater clarity / certainty on where high rise residential is directed. The review will include community engagement.

Secondary Plan Updates - Low Density Residential Designations and Medium Density Residential Designations (Phase One)
In addition to the Residential Intensification Work Plan, Planning Staff will also be presenting updates to the City's Secondary Plans that will permit a broader range of uses within Low Density Residential areas. The comprehensive updates will support the further application of new zoning through the Residential Zones Project. Further, the update will address existing ground oriented Medium Density Residential policies.

Get Involved

There will be additional engagement opportunities as projects supporting increasing housing supply and residential intensification move forward. Register for project updates by emailing reszoning@hamilton.ca.

Reimagining Neighbourhoods Explainer Videos

Watch the videos to learn more about what creating more housing choice within our neighbourhoods means.