The Current Situation: Encampments in Toronto
Encampments have become a visible and pressing issue in Toronto, with 355 encampments currently reported across the city. Of these, 199 (56%) are located within 200 meters of a school, playground, or daycare. As encampments are often associated with anti-social behaviour, including open drug use, it is understandable why parents may be concerned by the proximity of some encampments.
Encampments often arise as a result of systemic issues such as housing affordability, mental health challenges, and addiction. While the City has made progress in reducing the number of encampments and moving individuals into shelters or permanent housing, the process is complex and requires a coordinated, compassionate approach.
Key Statistics:
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Total Encampments (2025, to date): 355
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Encampments in Parks: 255 across 92 parks
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Encampments within 200 meters of sensitive sites: 199 (~56% of total)
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Encampments within 50 meters: 18
The City’s current approach to encampments is guided by a rights-based protocol adopted in 2024, which prioritizes connecting individuals to shelter and housing. However, as the City Solicitor emphasized, legal rulings such as the Regional Municipality of Waterloo v. Persons Unknown and to be Ascertained (2023 ONSC 670) require that individuals in encampments be offered shelter space before removal. This legal framework ensures that the City respects the charter rights of individuals experiencing homelessness.
A New Phased Approach to Addressing Encampments
At the past November City Council meeting, Council approved a phased approach to addressing encampments near sensitive areas like playgrounds and schools. This approach prioritizes immediate action within a 50-meter radius of these spaces, gradually expanding to 100 meters and beyond. By focusing on the most critical areas first, we can ensure that our efforts are both effective and manageable.
Key changes to the Encampment Protocol:
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Immediate Action: Initiate removal efforts within 24 hours for encampments within 50 meters of schools, playgrounds, and daycares.
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Three Offers of Shelter: Individuals in encampments would receive up to three offers of shelter before removal.
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Councillor Notification: Local Councillors will be informed immediately when encampment removal efforts are initiated in their wards.
It’s important to recognize that encampments are not just a public safety issue—they are a symptom of deeper social challenges. Many individuals living in encampments are facing significant hardships, including mental health struggles and a lack of affordable housing.
Our City’s encampment protocol emphasizes a rights-based approach that prioritizes connecting individuals with shelter and housing. This protocol has been effective in reducing the number of encampments and ensuring that our actions are aligned with legal and ethical standards.
However, we must also address the concerns of parents and residents who feel that their local parks and playgrounds are no longer safe or accessible. By taking a phased, targeted approach, we can address these concerns while continuing to support those experiencing homelessness.
One of the most critical factors in resolving encampments is the availability of shelter and housing. Without adequate shelter space, the City cannot legally or ethically remove individuals from encampments. Over the past year, the City has moved approximately 700 individuals from encampments into shelters and another 115 into permanent housing.
To sustain this progress, we need continued investment in affordable housing and shelter spaces. This includes expanding our shelter capacity, providing wraparound services for individuals with complex needs, and advocating for additional funding from other orders of government. Join me in calling on provincial and federal governments to invest in affordable housing and mental health and addiction treatment services.
Together, we can create a city where everyone has a safe place to call home and where our public spaces are welcoming for all.
Join me on Saturday, February 7, from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM