Assessing inequity in zoning bylaw: a case of Edmonton, Canada

Figures & data

Table 1. Summary of inequities and possible remedies in Edmonton’s zoning bylaw.

Distributional equity	Recognitional Equity	Procedural Equity	Regulatory Equity
Aims to establish the fair distribution of social advantages, including equitable allocation of material and social goods.	Acknowledges and dignifies citizens’ social and cultural diversity.	Recognizes equity-seeking groups in the decision-making process.	Embeds ‘substantial equality’ in local government’s regulations.
Equity issues Limits on available housing Classification of multiple housing types as discretionary uses restricted access Overlays demand “excessive” public notifications, impeding diversification of housing DC zones do not allow supportive housing	Equity issues The zoning bylaw does not explicitly acknowledge the Indigenous ways of appropriating spaces	Equity issues Lacks wider community participation in the decision-making process The public consultation elicits underlying prejudices and biases. Appeal board’s technical and legal nature limits community access to the appeal process The legalese involved in the board’s process makes it less approachable or welcoming	Equity issues Language used in zoning is inaccessible to a lay person Too many residential zones with minor variations limit housing options and affordability Overlays restrict further access to and diversity of housing Discretionary uses inhibit housing diversity Narrow and at times unclear definitions of uses lead to discriminatory outcomes Places of worship are restricted in many zones Zoning regulations are inconsistent with Indigenous perspectives on land use and management
Remedies adopted Zoning is amended to increase food security and local access to food. Developed the new class, use definitions and regulations for “urban garden.” Enabled more urban agricultural activities, including backyard chicken coops and beekeeping Infill policies allowed semi-detached and duplex housing in single-detached RF1 and RF2 zones.	Remedies adopted The city’s plan acknowledges Indigenous communities as the first inhabitants of the land and the existing ethnocultural diversity of the city.	Remedies adopted Appeal board’s decisions seemingly account for equity without explicitly expressing it	Remedies adopted Zoning amendments to allow infill developments Accommodations are made to allow Indigenous needs on a case by case basis.