More Learning & Tools
Resources to inform, empower, and amplify your neighbourhood voice
Section 1: Understand Zoning Bylaw 20001
What is Zoning Bylaw 20001?
In 2024, the City of Edmonton passed Zoning Bylaw 20001, a sweeping overhaul of how our neighbourhoods are planned and built.
On the surface, it’s about simplifying zoning. But in reality, it removes many long-standing protections and allows for rapid, high-density development—including multi-unit buildings—on lots that were traditionally reserved for single-family homes.
The biggest concern?
These changes were made without meaningful public consultation, and they’re already reshaping mature neighbourhoods across Edmonton—often in ways that don’t reflect the character, scale, or needs of those communities.
What it means for you:
Eight-plexes and row housing can now be built next to any single-family home and can be built on any fifty-foot lot
Trees, green space, parking, and privacy will be impacted
No requirement for new infrastructure (e.g., schools, transit, drainage) to support rapid densification
No requirements for developers to provide parking
Neighbourhood voices were largely left out of the process
Why it matters:
This isn’t just about buildings. It’s about how we grow as a city—and whether that growth respects the people already living here.
At Edmonton Neighbourhoods United, we believe in thoughtful, community-led infill that strengthens, not erodes, the heart of our communities.
Become a Neighbourhood Liaison
Edmonton Neighbourhoods United (ENU) is looking for dedicated volunteers to represent their own communities. As a liaison, you’ll help bridge the gap between ENU and your local residents by:
- Sharing important updates and information
- Distributing lawn signs and flyers
- Engaging your neighbours and spreading the word
Help us grow a city-wide movement—starting right on your street.
(application to include their full name, email and phone number, along with their neighbourhood)
Section 2: How to Contact Your Councillor
Quick tip: Write from the heart. Share how this affects you personally.
Section 3: Neighbourhood Advocacy Sites
New Articles:
Published in the Journal, this is an excellent overview of the problem with the city’s planning process, Zoning Bylaw, Rezoning, and public engagement that is an oxymoron.
1)When Is zoning not zoning? When the city supports all changes
2)David Ley: Vancouver Housing Policy: A Faustian Bargain
3) Blanket Rezoning: Democracy Doesn't Work Anymore?
This article discusses the negative impacts of blanket rezoning, including the loss of affordable homes and the erosion of community character.
Blanket Rezoning: Democracy doesn’t work anymore? — Every Day Tourist
4) THE UNASSAILABLE CASE AGAINST BLANKET REZONING
A detailed PDF outlining the arguments against blanket rezoning, highlighting how such policies can undermine community engagement and lead to unintended consequences.
the-unassailable-case-against-blanket-rezoning.pdf
5) City Planning and Neighbourhood Design Case Studies
UN-Habitat presents diverse case studies on urban planning and neighborhood design, offering insights into successful community-led initiatives.
6) The Rumble Over Rezoning in Calgary
An exploration of Calgary's citywide rezoning efforts, examining the potential impacts on established communities and the importance of public hearings.
https://www.sprawlcalgary.com/blanket-rezoning-inglewood
7) The Five-Minute City: Inside Denmark’s Revolutionary Neighbourhood
An in-depth look at Copenhagen's Nordhavn district, showcasing a model for sustainable, community-focused urban development.
https://www.pressreader.com/australia/the-guardian-australia/20241211/282011857944342
8) 'Absolute mess': Public put on hold as city council wades through marathon zoning session
https://edmontonjournal.com/news/local-news/absolute-mess-public-on-hold-city-council-zoning
Videos
A False Prosperity: The Hidden Cost of Suburban Sprawl
This video delves into the economic and environmental costs of suburban sprawl, emphasizing the need for thoughtful urban planning.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=he7zlSYT0Jc&ntb=1&msockid=3847d74f20c311f0bee0291df470f3de
Is Urban Planning Hurting Your Wallet? | Zoning P.II
An analysis of how zoning laws can impact housing affordability and economic diversity within cities.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7J8SN5hvP0
What If the Poor Were Part of City Planning? | TED Talk
Smruti Jukur Johari discusses the importance of including marginalized communities in urban planning processes to create more equitable cities.
https://www.ted.com/talks/smruti_jukur_johari_what_if_the_poor_were_part_of_city_planning/transcript
Designing for Inclusion: How Urban Planning Can Make or Break a City
A discussion on the role of inclusive design in urban planning and its impact on community well-being.
Section 4: Flyers & Graphics to Share
Coming soon. We're creating flyers, infographics, and posts you can share online or print for neighbours.
Want to contribute materials? Send us a message.
enu.graphics@gmail.com
eTransfer funds and purchase minimum of 5 (and coordinate with their neighbors).