Homeowners in Toronto considering a backyard pool this year may face significant new hurdles. A recent report to the city’s planning and housing committee proposes changes that could dramatically increase the cost and complexity of installing a swimming pool, potentially impacting thousands of residents.
New Regulations Prioritize Trees
Currently, swimming pools are considered “soft landscaping” and exempt from the city’s 50 per cent “hard landscaping” rule – a limit on non-permeable surfaces like decks and sheds. The proposed changes would remove this exemption. This means homeowners wishing to install a pool would need to apply for a “minor variance” from the local committee of adjustment.
Etobicoke Centre Coun. Stephen Holyday characterized the potential impact as severe, stating, “It essentially makes pools illegal on many, many lots across the city.” City staff, in an email, explained the changes are intended to protect and enhance backyard trees, noting that pools “may result in the need to injure existing trees and conflict with root zones.”
Increased Costs and Uncertainty
Urban planner Sean Galbraith of Sean Galbraith and Associates warns the variance process is both expensive and uncertain. He estimates the cost of hiring a professional planner to represent homeowners at the committee could range from $6,000 to $8,000, with no guarantee of approval. “You’re adding risk because the committee could just say no,” Galbraith said.
Peter Brown, owner of BonaVista Pools, who installs approximately 18 pools annually in Toronto, expressed concern for his business. With a minimum pool installation cost of $75,000, the added $7,000 expense for a variance could prove prohibitive for some clients.
What’s Next?
The report was presented to the planning and housing committee on January 22. If approved by city council, the new rules would apply to both in-ground and above-ground pools. Homeowners may then need to consider smaller pool sizes or forgo other backyard features, like decks or sheds, to remain within the 50 per cent hard landscaping limit. It is possible the committee will amend the proposal before it goes to council, or that council will reject the changes altogether.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “minor variance”?
A minor variance is a request to the local committee of adjustment for an exception to existing zoning bylaws. In this case, it would allow homeowners to exceed the 50 per cent hard landscaping limit to accommodate a swimming pool.
How much does a pool currently cost in Toronto?
According to Peter Brown of BonaVista Pools, the minimum cost to install a backyard pool in Toronto is $75,000.
What do city staff say about the impact on trees?
City staff state that pools “may result in the need to injure existing trees and conflict with root zones in a way that precludes the planting of new trees.”
As Toronto homeowners begin planning for warmer weather, will these proposed changes alter their backyard visions?
