Discussion:

What is Pink Zoning?

Pink Zoning refers to the process of lightening the “red tape”, a term used to define the rules regulating development. Pink Zoning is both a program and an incentive package that strives to streamline smaller local developments that are often restricted due to legal compliance issues. In many jurisdictions, these developments undergo the same process as larger development applications that require intensive review to permit.

It should be noted that “Pink Zoning” and “Pink Codes” are distinctive terms. Pink Codes refer to the specific regulation that relieves traditional hard “red tape” codes while Pink Zoning refers to the act of overlaying or placing down Pink Codes onto targeted sites.

Analysis

Pink Zoning is a relatively new concept and manifests differently depending on the context. Research conducted by Administration has determined that it is primarily found in American cities only and that it is seldom utilized. Factors such as the Pink Code regulations, the barriers restricting development, the site context, as well as the tools used to implement and maintain Pink Zoning’s functionality and efficiency all contribute to the wide range of variability in constructing Pink Code regulations and its resulting effects.

Provincial legislation and policy including the Planning Act and the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS 2014) provide municipalities in Ontario with planning tools to regulate land use planning matters. This is in contrast with American local governments which often do not have such legislation and policies.

Current Policies and Incentives

The City of Windsor has a number of existing processes and mechanisms in place that facilitate and promote local developments. These resources work to achieve many of the benefits that Pink Zoning/Pink Code strive to deliver, such as targeting specific areas for improvement. The general purpose and intent of the City’s current processes and specific incentives are highlighted in the following:

1. Streamlining Development Applications

Pre-consultation and pre-submission applications are available to anyone who is considering a development proposal. The property owner does not need to retain an agent to make the submission.

Pre-consultation: The process intends to inform the proponent of the potential deficiencies and advantages of their proposal/intent regarding their lot and provide options to proceed. Applicants are also made aware of the range of financial incentives that the City offers at this stage of the process.

Pre-submission: The process is intended to clearly identify what types of studies may be required as part of a proposed development. Some examples include storm and