Toronto's new pre-approved multiplex designs make building fourplexes and sixplexes faster
The city released free building plans for fourplex and sixplex homes to streamline construction permits and increase housing supply.
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Toronto released free pre-approved building designs for fourplexes and sixplexes on October 2, meant to speed up the permitting process and make it easier for property owners to add more housing units.
The city's expanded Pre-Approved Building Plans Program provides designs tailored to Toronto's range of neighborhoods and lot sizes—both wide and narrow. The designs meet Ontario Building Code requirements and were developed with accessibility, climate resilience, cost and ease of construction in mind. They include options for sustainable features, bicycle parking and waste storage.
Fourplexes are permitted city-wide. Sixplexes are permitted in some locations, depending on zoning. If a multiplex design meets the zoning requirements for a property, owners can apply directly for a building permit without going to the Committee of Adjustment—a step that typically adds months to the process.
Property owners can use the new plans to prepare a building permit application, though they must still engage a qualified design professional to prepare site-specific drawings and information required for their property. All plans will undergo the city's standard review process before a permit is issued.
The initiative builds on the city's existing pre-approved plans for garden and laneway suites and complements the federal CMHC Housing Design Catalogue. An architectural firm was selected through a competitive procurement process to develop the designs.
How many properties might realistically use these designs, and will the city track uptake?
What was the cost to develop these plans, and are there plans to expand the program to other housing types?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
When did Toronto release these pre-approved multiplex designs?
Toronto released the free pre-approved building designs for fourplexes and sixplexes on October 2, 2026.
What types of multiplex designs did Toronto release?
Toronto released pre-approved designs for fourplexes and sixplexes, tailored to different neighborhoods and lot sizes, including both wide and narrow lots.
How can property owners use these designs to speed up permitting?
If a multiplex design meets the zoning requirements for a property, owners can apply directly for a building permit without going to the Committee of Adjustment, a step that typically adds months to the process.
Where are fourplexes and sixplexes permitted in Toronto?
Fourplexes are permitted city-wide in Toronto. Sixplexes are permitted only in some locations, depending on zoning.
