Toronto’s Development Charges Are Skyrocketing, Slowing Housing Construction

Development charges in Ontario municipalities have increased nearly 400% over the past decade, significantly impacting new housing construction and affordability. In Toronto, charges for semi-detached homes have reached $140,000, while two-bedroom condos now cost $80,690 in fees. These high charges deter new projects and raise home prices, particularly affecting first-time buyers and young families. Despite some municipalities like Burlington and Vaughan reducing their charges, most continue to increase fees, contributing to a 17% decline in housing starts in the province.