Local Firms Reeling as Queen's Park Repeals Toronto 'Green Roof' Bylaw
The repeal of Toronto's green roof bylaw has caused significant disruption to the London-area green-roof industry, with some describing it as a “death knell” for their businesses.
Background of the Bylaw
Toronto's green roof bylaw, enacted in 2009 as the first of its kind in North America, required all new developments over 2,000 square metres to install green roofs—vegetated layers planted over waterproof membranes.
Provincial Repeal Announcement
Last week, during the presentation of Bill 60: Fighting Delays, Building Faster Act, 2025, the provincial government announced it would repeal this green roof bylaw, surprising industry stakeholders.
Industry Reaction
Woodstock resident Kees Govers of Liveroof Ontario, who sells green roofs for stormwater management, said the news “came out of the blue” to those in the industry.
This sudden policy change has left local green roof firms uncertain about their future, given the bylaw's previous role in driving demand for their products and services.
Newsletter Information
For buyers, sellers, renters, and dreamers, London's complex real estate market is explored in a dedicated newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email will be sent upon subscription; if not found, please check your junk folder.
Those interested in receiving more newsletters can sign up again if any issue arises during registration.
Would you like the newsletter information section to be shortened or removed for focus on the main topic?