News & Updates

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Toronto now has a City-Wide Dog Off-Leash Strategy

I am happy to share that after years of advocacy and a year and a half since my motion was adopted by Council, we now have a comprehensive City-Wide Dog Off-Leash Strategy in place. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Toronto Dog Park Community, Paws for Parks, and the residents of Toronto Centre for their persistent advocacy and input throughout this process.


2025 CaféTO Grant Open for Patio and Café Upgrades

The City of Toronto’s CaféTO Grant provides restaurant, bar and café owners with a matching grant of up to a maximum of $7,500 covering 50 per cent of the cost of eligible improvements to patios in the curb lane, on sidewalks and on private property. The deadline for applications to the 2025 CaféTO Grant is Wednesday, June 4 or when all grant funding has been exhausted. 

Cherry Blossom Season is Coming!

Cherry blossoms (Sakura trees) will be appearing at locations across the city over the coming weeks. Cherry blossoms typically last four to 10 days and blooms are expected to peak this year in late April to early May, depending on weather and neighbourhood conditions. There are more than a dozen locations to enjoy this annual rite of spring, many of which are easily accessible by public transit. Learn more on the City’s Cherry Blossoms webpage. 

New Rental Renovations License Bylaw

Coming into effect on Thursday, July 31, landlords in Toronto must obtain a Rental Renovation Licence before asking tenants to move out of a rental unit for renovations that require vacant occupancy. The new bylaw, which aims to curb bad faith evictions and protect tenants from the practice of “renovictions,” outlines clear requirements for licensing, tenant notification and temporary accommodation or compensation. Landlords are encouraged to review the full requirements and prepare in advance. Find more information on the City’s Rental Renovation Licence Bylaw webpage. 

 

New Rules for Multi-Tenant Housing

In March 2023, City Council introduced a new set of regulations for multi-tenant houses (also known as rooming houses) to create safer and more affordable housing options while ensuring uniform standards city-wide. With the new rules now in effect, it’s important to remind residents what they mean in practice. These changes impact tenants, landlords, and communities alike, so staying informed is key.

Addressing Excessive Indoor Temperatures in Rental Properties

Last December, City Council amended to Toronto Municipal Code Chapter 497 to require landlords to ensure a minimum temperature of 21C between October 1 and May 15, and a maximum indoor temperature of 26C between June 1 to September 30 for dwelling units equipped with air conditioning. These amendments were made to try and protect tenants from excessive heat. Implementation of this policy and consideration for next steps will be outlined in a staff report coming to council in the Winter of 2025. 

Need Housing Help? Attend a Spring Housing Clinic!

If you, a friend, or a relative is on the Rent-Geared-to-Income (RGI) Housing Centralized Waiting List or need help applying for RGI housing, we have great news for you! We're collaborating with Access to Housing and Housing Help Centres to host MyAccesstoHousingTO Sign-Up Clinics for Ward 13 residents from April 22 to May 5 to provide information and assistance for online navigation.

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