Ottawa's new Zoning By-Law must increase language clarity and permitting to support tree retention and space for planting.
This page outlines one of the three demands in Ecology Ottawa and Walkable Ottawa’s 15-minute neighbourhood petition.
Ottawa’s new draft Zoning By-Law proposes important steps to promote our tree canopy, but language on tree retention and space-making must be clarified and strengthened. Tree space provisions in zoning are critical to meeting the City’s tree canopy objectives. The City must hold firm on any pushback against these new provisions in favour of building more square footage or hardscaping.
Trees are crucial for a neighbourhood to transition into a walkable and complete community because they dramatically improve the pedestrian experience and the environment. Studies have shown that more shade trees align with increased pedestrian activities, and an increased likelihood of choosing a street for walking. Urban tree canopy cover plays another important role in improving the pedestrian experience by mitigating the urban heat island effect and increasing human thermal comfort. If we want people to walk, their walk to daily destinations must be pleasant. Trees encourage stormwater absorption, provide food and habitat for wildlife, and minimize noise pollution.
Space for tree planting is sometimes sacrificed for car parking. A neighbourhood transitional parking strategy must include off-site parking to increase residential densities and room for trees. Read more about this in the 1-Pager about parking, but it is important to note that these issues are interconnected.
Walking paths with trees like this one make walks more enjoyable (Sophie N., Unsplash).
Our Recommendations
- Clarify the Alternative Setbacks for Tree Retention
The draft Zoning By-Law proposes a new provision to make space for mature trees on development sites, but the application of this provision and the forestry department’s role is unclear. The application of this new provision leaves ambiguity between forestry enforcement and zoning rules. Ottawa’s Zoning By-Law must provide clarity so that tree protection and development around trees can proceed with certainty.
Alternative setback for the preservation of mature trees (Zoning By-Law draft Section 214)
- Increase landscaped areas for Trees
The draft Zoning By-Law proposes increased landscaped areas around parking in rear yards, which are ideal for tree planting. But on-site parking is still a significant constraint on tree roots. The draft Zoning By-Law proposes driveways to rear and side yard parking, which increases paved surfaces. Ottawa’s Zoning By-Law must prohibit rear yard parking and long driveways in neighbourhoods, to make more space for trees to grow and thrive.
Trees are essential for healthy, sustainable, and walkable communities. It is important that regulations to preserve them are strengthened and clarified to prevent conflicting interests.
Sign the petition to urge the City of Ottawa to commit to building 15-minute neighbourhoods. Together, we can create a greener, healthier, and more connected city. Follow us on social media (@ecologyottawa, @walkableottawa, #15MinuteNeighbourhood) for updates!