Barriers to Housing Affordability in Land Use Planning Systems: What We Heard from a Cross-Canada Roundtable Series

CMHC commissioned this research to explore key barriers to affordable housing in land use planning systems. Participants in regional roundtables broadly defined affordable housing to include a range of attainable housing options.

The work was guided by an advisory committee of planners, housing organizations and researchers. It highlights perspectives from professionals across the affordable housing sector.

Key barriers identified include:

• NIMBYism (Not in My Back Yard)
• Exclusionary zoning practices
• Infill policies
• Housing needs assessments/data
• Development costs

This research provides insights into regional barriers and outlines potential solutions, including for Northern and Southern Canada.

Author:

CMHC

Document Type:

PDF

Date Published:

June 25, 2025