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PART C –
DESIGN
STANDARDS
These Design Standards have been prepared in order
to assist developers and their agents in preparing
development application submissions to the City of
Kitchener. These standards assume ideal conditions.
There will be sites where due to competing objectives
or the inherent limitations of the specific site, it will not
be possible to meet the standards. In such cases, the
reader/designer should consult with staff to discuss the
best method of achieving the optimum design for the
respective site.
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INFRASTRUCTURE,
STREETS AND SITE
DESIGN
One-way lane width - minimum 3.66 metres, maximum
4.57 metres
1.0
Two-way lane width - minimum 6.1 metres, maximum
9.1 metres
PARKING
STRUCTURES
Turning radius at street - 7.6 to 9.1 metres
o
Definitions
Angle of intersection at street and driveway – 70 to
o
110
Footcandles – The standard used to specify the
measured intensity of lighting.
Driveway entrance/exit shall be at grade with existing
or future sidewalk.
Illumination Level – The minimum level of illumination
for the specified area measured on a horizontal plane.
Grade of entrance/exit shall not be greater than 4% for
a distance of 7.62m from the nearest edge of the
street.
Standards
Design Criteria - Ramps:
Grade - maximum 12%
Transition Grade – applicable to all ramps regardless
of grade and must be ½ of the ramp grade for a
minimum distance of 3.66m centred on the transition
point, to a maximum of 6%
One-way Ramp Width - 3.04 metre minimum
The grade of the aisle ramp or driveway adjacent to a
parking control device (gate, cashier booth, ticket
dispenser) shall not exceed 4% for a minimum
distance of 9.1m on the approach to such devices.
Where a driveway entrance/exit intersects a street, an
unobstructed daylight triangle of 4.57m x 4.57m shall
be maintained behind the property line on both sides
of the driveway. No visual obstruction is allowed
greater than 1 m over the traveled portion of the
adjacent roads.
Two-way Ramp Width - 6.10 metre minimum
One-way Curved Ramp Width - 4.57 metre minimum
Pedestrian entrances/exits and elevators must be
barrier free accessible.
Two-way Curved Ramp Width - 9.10 metre minimum
Design Criteria - Traffic Circulation:
One-way Curved Ramp Radius - 5.5 metre minimum
(inside radius) - Two-way Curved Ramps shall include
a 0.50 metre centre median.
In areas where traffic circulation may require guidance
for directional movement and where painted arrows
are not adequate to direct traffic safely or in an
organized manner for optimum site circulation, traffic
signs, delineators, markings or other traffic control
measures or devices will be required.
Curved Ramp Super Elevation - 0.10 metres/metre
maximum (at the point of sharpest turning).
Design Criteria - Parking Areas:
Slope of parking area and aisles - 0.5% minimum, 5%
maximum – Refer to Section 3.0 for Surface Parking
design standards.
Design Criteria - Street Entrance/Exits:
Distance from signalized intersection - minimum 65
metres
Distance from unsignalized intersection - minimum 33
metres
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Design Criteria - Lighting:
Horizontal Illumination Levels (Footcandles)
from the centre of the arrow to the floor, with the
arrow pointing down.

Designated safe-exit routes.

10 Ramps and Corners
Small safe-exit arrows prominently displayed on
columns or walls 1.5 meters above the floor,
measured from the centre of the arrow to the floor,
and located:
20 Stairwell and Exit Lobbies

At least every ten metres along the safe-exit
route.

At all safe-exit route decision points along the
safe-exit route.

Wherever a safe-exit route crosses a traffic
aisle.
5 General Parking Areas
2 Roof and Surface * (see also Outdoor
Lighting Standards)
Uniformity Ratio
4:1 Average/Minimum
Lighting of parking structures shall:

Clearly illuminate the interior of the structure and
allow the visual inspection of the interiors of cars.

Provide uniform distribution to avoid dark areas
and shadows.

Provide closer spacing of lower wattage fixtures
rather than fewer fixtures of higher wattage.

Protect lighting fixtures from damage by using
wired glass or other suitable means of protection.

Maximize natural light penetration.

Provide vandal-resistant fixtures, easily
maintained, and repaired on a regular basis.

Locate fixtures in order to minimize glare.

Highlight pedestrian entrances with additional
secondary lighting fixtures.

Paint all walls and ceilings white for greater and
more even illumination.
Design Criteria - Signage:

Signs within the parking structure shall be well
illuminated, easy to read, and have a uniform
graphic design and include the following:

Large safe-exit arrows shall be displayed on safeexit doors 1.5 meters above the floor, measured
2010

Alert signs are to be prominently displayed on
columns or walls 2.1 meters above the floor,
measured from the top of the sign to the floor,
located every 25 parking stalls in the garage,
evenly distributed in the structure.

The following shall be coloured green:

The safe-exit door.

The frame of the safe-exit door and wall
adjacent to the safe-exit door to a distance of
one metre on either side of the frame, and to a
height of 3 meters above the floor or to the
soffit above the bulk head over the door.

Signs shall be used to notify users of the security
measures in place (monitoring by security patrols,
closed circuit TV, intercom systems) or to highlight
locations of emergency telephones, intercoms or
panic buttons.

All required traffic control signing (stop, yield,
crosswalks, etc.) shall be provided in accordance
with typical traffic engineering practice. The sizes,
shapes and colours of these signs shall conform to
standards specified in the Manual of Uniform
Traffic Control Devices (Ontario Ministry of
Transportation).
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Figure 1.1: Signage for Parking Structures
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
Information signs (entrance, exit, directional) and
regulatory signs (No Parking, Barrier Free
Parking, Fire Route) shall be clearly posted in
well-lit areas to enhance pedestrian and driver
safety and minimize confusion.

Parking regulation and fee structure signs shall be
placed near entrances and/or at cashier booths.

Colour-coding and unique graphics can help orient
users to locate parked vehicles quickly.
Design Criteria - Paint/Stain:

All new or redeveloped parking structures shall
have the ceilings and walls painted or stained
white to enhance light reflection and brightness.
Design Criteria - Sight Lines:

The garage shall be designed to minimize
obstructions to view. Glassed stairwells, elevator
lobbies and open ramps shall be used to enhance
visibility and minimize entrapment areas.
Design Criteria - Barrier Free Parking:

Barrier free parking is to be supplied in all parking
garages as per the standards contained in Barrier
Free Accessibility, Section 5.0.
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2.0
ACCESS TO ROADS
Definitions
Access – The means by which vehicles are provided
with ingress from a public or private property to the
roadway.
Commercial access – Provided access to a property
being used other than for a residential use of six units
or less or farm or field uses. A high volume
commercial access provides access to facilities which
generate higher volumes of automobile traffic and/or
heavy truck traffic, i.e. shopping centre.
Non-commercial Access – A non-commercial access
is one providing access to a residential use of six units
or less or to agricultural land, including field accesses.
Radius – The curved outer edge of an access
connecting the throat to the curb line.
Low Speed Roadway – One with a posted speed limit
of less than 70 km/h.
High Speed Roadway – One with a posted speed limit
of equal to or greater than 70 km/h.
Throat Width – Is identified by the minimum width
dimension at the intersection of the radius with the
parallel portion of the access.
Standards
The following chart indicates the number and location
of permitted accesses for City and Regional roads.
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Low
Speed
High
Speed
Low
Speed
High
Speed
Commerc
ial
High
Volume
Commerc
ial
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
65.0 m
N/A
300.0 m
65.0 m
110.0 m
300.0 m
300.0 m
33.0 m
55.0 m
15.0 m
150.0 m
One
One
One
One
N/A
N/A
55.0 m
28.0 m
One
33.0 m
(note 3)
33.0 m
(note 2)
(note 2)
Minimum
Dimensi
on from
Pedestri
an
Signals
16.0 m
Minimum
Dimension
from
Signalized
Intersectin
g Highway
Minimum
Dimension
from NonSignalized
Intersectin
g Highway
One
(note 1)
Numbe
r of
Access
Allowe
d
59.0 m
37.0 m
16.0 m
13.0 m
8.0 m
7.0 m
(note 4)
Minimum
Dimension
from
Adjacent
NonCommerci
al Access
115.0 m
69.0 m
24.0 m
20.0 m
16.0 m
13.0 m
(note 4)
Minimum
Dimension
from
Adjacent
Commerci
al Access
304.0 m
304.0 m
115.0 m
69.0 m
59.0 m
37.0 m
(note 4)
Minimum
Dimension
from
Adjacent
High
Volume
Commerci
al
Need must be demonstrated where multiple accesses are requested
Minimum dimension shall be measured from centreline of access to property line abutting an intersecting highway
Minimum dimension shall be measured from centreline of access to centre of crosswalk.
Minimum dimension shall be measured from centreline of access to centreline of adjacent access
Minimum dimension shall be measured from centreline of access to property line abutting railway right-of-way
Notes:
Low
Speed
High
Speed
Roadw
ay
Classification
NonCommerc
ial
Access
Classification
150.0 m
150.0 m
13.0 m
13.0 m
8.0 m
8.0 m
(note 5)
Minimum
Dimensio
n from At
Grade
Railway
Crossing
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
Varies
(note 6)
Varies
Minimum
Dimensio
n from
Abutment
or
Structure
on a
Highway
Number and Location of Access for City and Regional Roads
Variable
Variable
9.0 m
7.6 m – 9.0
m
4.6 m – 7.6
m
3.7 m – 6.0
m
Throat
Width
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Figure 2.1: Number and Location of Access Points
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Design Criteria - Parallel Parking:
SURFACE PARKING
FACILITIES

Width - 2.4 metres minimum

Length - 6.7 metres minimum, except the first and
last space in any row, which may have a minimum
length of 5.5 metres provided it is located a
minimum of 1.5 metres from any intersecting road,
lane or obstruction.

One-way Aisle Width - 3.7 metres minimum.

Two-way Aisle Width - 6.1 metres minimum,
except where such aisle is designated as a fire
route in which case the Emergency Services
Policy shall govern.

Where both parallel and angle parking are served
by one aisle, the minimum aisle width for angle
parking shall apply.
Definitions
Parallel Parking – The arrangement of parking spaces
in such a manner that the side of each vehicle is
parallel to the travelled portion of the aisle or driveway.
Angle Parking – The arrangement of parking spaces in
such a manner that the side of the vehicle when
parked is at an angle to the travelled portion of the
aisle, lane or driveway. Angle parking includes 90
degree parking layouts.
Standards
Parking Areas:

Slope of parking area and aisles – 0.5% minimum,
5% maximum.

Driveways – maximum gradient of 10%.
Design Criteria - Street Entrances/Exits:

Distance from signalized intersections – minimum
65 metres.

Distance from unsignalized intersection –
minimum of 33 metres.
Design Criteria - Traffic Circulation:
In areas where traffic circulation may require guidance
for directional movement and where painted arrows
are not adequate to direct traffic safely or in an
organized manner for optimum site circulation, traffic
signs, delineators, markings or other traffic control
measures or devices will be required.
Figure 3.1: Parallel Parking Dimensions
Design Criteria - Angle Parking:

The width of angle parking spaces shall not be
less than 2.6 metres. The length and standard
dimensions shall comply with the minimum
standards shown in the chart below.

All aisles serving angle parking shall be restricted
to one way traffic with the exception of 90 degree
angle parking layouts.

All angle parking spaces shall be plainly marked in
accordance with the approved site plan.
In commercial areas, right-of-ways connecting
adjacent properties will be encouraged.
Design Criteria - Barrier Free Parking:

Barrier free parking is to be supplied for all parking
facilities as per the standards provided in the
Barrier Free Accessibility section, Section 5.0.
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Design Criteria – Curbing:

In industrial areas, poured concrete curbing is
required to define entrances and where required
by the Storm Water Management Scheme.
Curbing will also be required to maintain the
integrity of the pavement due to drainage or
grading concerns and along all passenger vehicle
parking and circulation routes. Driveways for truck
traffic will have poured concrete curbing to a
minimum of 3 metres behind the property line
and/or at the start of the turning radii behind the
property line, whichever is greater, only when the
street is curbed.

Figure 3. 2: Angle Parking Dimensions
Angle Parking Dimensions:
AN0
W
L
A
M
C
90
2.6m
5.5m
7.3m*
18.3m
2.6m
85
2.6m
5.7m
6.7m
18.1m
2.6m
In all other types of development continuous
poured concrete curbing (15 cm high) is required
in the following locations:
80
2.6m
5.9m
6.1m
17.8m
2.6m

75
2.6m
6.0m
5.8m
17.7m
2.7m
Around traffic islands minimum of 2.6 metres
wide (measured from back face of curb to
back face of curb).
70
2.6m
6.0m
5.6m
17.7m
2.8m

65
2.6m
6.1m
5.5m
17.6m
2.9m
Adjacent to vehicular parking stalls and
landscaped areas.
60
2.6m
6.0m
5.5m
17.6m
3.0m

Defining vehicular ingress and egress.
55
2.6m
6.0m
4.6m
16.6m
3.2m

Sidewalks adjacent to vehicular parking stalls
and internal traffic routes.
50
2.6m
5.9m
4.0m
15.8m
3.4m
45
2.6m
5.7m
3.4m
14.8m
3.7m
40
2.6m
5.5m
3.4m
14.4m
4.0m
Legend:

Barrier free drop-off zones and parking spaces are
to be flush with the adjacent sidewalk.
Design Criteria - Surface Treatments:
Hot-mixed asphalt, concrete or equivalent is required
for all areas on site except:
0
AN - Angle of Parking

Portions of industrial sites which are behind the
front facade and are not used for passenger
vehicle parking or circulation.
A - Width of Aisle

Parking lots for City parks use.
M - Width of Parking Module

Fire access routes as per the Ontario Building
Code.
W - Width of Stall
L - Length of Stall
C - Stall Width Parallel to Aisle
* - 6.7 m for Single Parking Row
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Loading Docks and Vehicle Repair in the Huron
Business Park:

Loading/unloading areas and transfer areas shall
have asphalt or concrete surfacing together with a
collection system to collect all oils, vehicle fuels or
spilt chemical products for all vehicle
servicing/repair and storage associated with
vehicles undergoing repair.

The design and grading of all loading docks
should accommodate the anticipated size of truck
and required turning movements.
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4.0
OUTDOOR LIGHTING
Definitions
Footcandle -The standard used to specify the
measured intensity of lighting.
Glare - The discomfort or impairment of vision
experienced when parts of the visual field are
excessively bright in relation to general surroundings.
Disability Glare - Glare which impairs the ability to see
detail without necessarily causing visual discomfort.
Discomfort Glare - Glare which causes visual
discomfort without necessarily impairing the ability to
see detail.
Direct Glare - Glare caused when excessive bright
light sources in the visual field are seen directly, e.g.:
lamps which are inadequately shielded.
Reflected Glare - A term used to describe various
visual effects, such as reduction of contrast, discomfort
or distraction, produced by reflection of light sources or
other bright areas in glossy or semi-matt surfaces.
Illuminance - (Unit: Lux) The luminous flux density at a
surface i.e., the luminous flux incident per unit area.
(This quantity was formerly known as the “illumination
value” or “illumination level”.) One Lux is equal to one
lumen per square metre. One footcandle is equal to
one lumen per square foot. One footcandle = 10.76
Lux. Vertical illuminance is measured at 1.5 metres
above ground level.
Lumination Level - The minimum level of illumination
for the specified area measured on a horizontal plane.
Luminance - The physical measure of stimulus which
produces the sensation of luminosity (brightness) in
terms of the intensity of the light emitted in a given
direction (usually towards the observer) by unit area of
a self-luminous or transmitting or reflecting surface. It
is measured by the luminous intensity of the light
emitted or reflected in a given direction from a surface
element divided by the area of the element in the
same direction. The SI unit is the candela per square
metre (cd/sq.m.)
2010
Standards
Effective outdoor lighting improves visibility, increases
safety, provides security and enhances the City’s
night-time environment. Improperly installed lighting
can be extraordinarily powerful and create problems of
excessive glare, light trespass, high energy use and
skyward light pollution.
This lighting standard recognizes the benefits of
outdoor lighting and provides clear guidelines to help
maintain and compliment the City of Kitchener’s
character and contribute to the safety and security of
its citizens and visitors. It is intended to reduce the
problems associated with improperly designed and
installed outdoor lighting.
Design Criteria - Glare Control:
Glare is excessive brightness that causes discomfort
or impairment of vision. Outdoor lighting must be
aimed, located, designed, fitted and maintained so as
not to present a hazard to drivers, pedestrians or
adjacent users by impairing their visibility or create a
nuisance by projecting or reflecting objectionable light
onto neighbouring properties. All outdoor lighting
equipment and fixtures shall be properly shielded and
directed downward. Lighting sources are not to be
visible from adjacent properties or on-site residential
units. Glare control must be achieved through the use
of cutoff fixtures, shields and the appropriate
application of the fixture mounting height, wattage,
aiming angle and fixture placement.
Design Criteria - Light Pollution, Night Sky
Controls:
Light pollution is considered undesirable and many
people feel that it reduces the enjoyment of the night
sky. Effective lighting systems must be designed to
eliminate direct and indirect skyward lighting. The City
of Kitchener requires the use of full cutoff luminaries
that direct no light above the horizontal plane.
Shields, hoods and other devices to redirect light
should be used. Flat lenses rather than sag or drop
lenses are required.
Design Criteria - Light Trespass:
Light trespass is the unnecessary illumination of
adjacent property. The City of Kitchener requires that
the illumination levels at all property lines not exceed
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0.5 footcandles. Lighting complaints are frequently
due to nuisance glare or excessive brightness in the
normal field of vision even though there may be no
measurable light at ground level, there is the complaint
that, “light is shining in my window.” Such concerns
can be addressed by containing light within the design
area and carefully selecting, locating and mounting
well-shielded luminaires.
brightness. All light fixtures mounted on canopies
must be recessed or flush with the bottom surface of
the canopy. Areas away from the pumps used for
parking or vehicle storage should be designed in
accordance with the Outdoor Parking Area Lighting
Requirements.
Area Around the Pump and Under the Canopy:
Measurement
Horizontal
Illumination
(footcandles)
Minimum
5
Average
20
Maximum
25
Design Criteria - Illuminance:
Illuminance determines the amount of light incident on
a surface, measured in lux or footcandles. Illuminance
levels provide an effective method of measuring the
performance of a lighting design. Illuminance
uniformity is measured by the ratios Maximum to
Minimum and Average to Minimum. These ratios
provide a measure of the consistency of lighting
across a site and provide assurance that the
illuminance is within a range that the human eye can
properly discern all objects in its field of view.
The following charts indicate the required illuminance
levels and uniformity ratios for various types of use.
Outdoor Parking Area Lighting Requirements for
Residential, Industrial, Commercial and
Institutional:
Uniformity
Maximum:Minimum
5:1
Average:Minimum
4:1
Driveway and Laneways:
Measurement
Illumination
(footcandles)
Horizontal
Vertical
Illumination
Illumination
Average Horizontal
0.5 – min. 0.2
(footcandles)
(footcandles)
Average Vertical
0.5 – min. 0.2
Minimum
0.5
0.5
Average
2.0
2.5
Maximum
7.5
10
Uniformity
Horizontal
Vertical
Maximum:Minimum
15:1
20:1
Average:Minimum
4:1
5:1
Measurement
Gas Stations:
Uniformity
Maximum:Minimum
10:1
Car Dealership Lighting:
Automobiles are typically placed on display adjacent to
the roadway and lighting of this area should meet the
needs of the business without producing excessive
brightness. Lighting should not compromise motorists'
visibility on the roadway or that of the customer
viewing the merchandise. Fixtures should be placed
between the property line the display area.
Light levels for gas stations should be adequate to
facilitate on-site activities without producing excessive
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Mounting height for wallpaks should also be noted
and coordinated with Building Elevations.
Car Dealership Display Areas:
Measurement

Manufacturer’s catalogue information and detail of
the fixture.

Pole foundation details.
Display Areas
All Other
Adjacent to
Internal

Full cutoff details.
Public Right-
Display

Shielding methods (where applicable).
of-Way
Areas

Aiming direction and angle of light source.
10

The identification of any light sources which would
be visible from 1.5 m elevation (above ground
level) at the property line.
10:1

The following chart indicating illumination levels
and uniformity ratios should be included as shown
below:
Maximum Horizontal
20
Illumination (fc)
Uniformity
Maximum:Minimum
5:1
Landscape, Façade and Sign Lighting:
Vertical surface illumination and accent lighting can
provide a sense of security and mitigate shadows and
provide important aesthetic benefits. All building
facades, landscaping and sign lighting should be
designed to eliminate direct up lighting from reaching
the sky and prevent glare onto neighbouring properties
and roadways.
Illumination Level
Measurement
Horizontal
Illumination
(footcandles)
Vertical
Illumination
(footcandles)
Minimum
Average
Submission Requirements for Outdoor Lighting
Plans:
Maximum
Uniformity Ratios
For each site plan requiring the submission of an
Outdoor Lighting Plan, all of the following must be
included to be accepted for review:
Measurement

Location of all buildings, structures, property lines,
parking, loading and amenity areas.
Maximum:
Minimum

Location of all lights, poles and transformer units.
Average:
Minimum

Illumination levels for all proposed fixtures
illustrating ISO footcandle curves at a maximum
interval of 0.50 footcandles.

For a final submission, five copies of the Outdoor
Lighting Plan are required and folded to legal size
or smaller

The outdoor lighting design professionals are
responsible for ensuring no additional outdoor
lights are planned for the project or are illustrated
on other drawings (such as electrical drawings

Power (in watts).

Type of light source.

Mounting height – Maximum of 5-8m for area
lighting and 3-4m for pedestrian scale lighting.
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showing wall pack lighting attached to the
building).

The following statement must be included on the
Outdoor Lighting Plan and signed by the design
professional responsible for the plan:
This drawing indicates all existing and proposed
outdoor lighting fixtures for this development. The
proposed lighting distribution pattern will not cause
veiling luminance (disability glare) and there will be no
significant encroachment of light (0.5 footcandles or
greater) or objectionable glare upon any adjacent
property. Visibility of the proposed light sources from
any nearby residential sites has been minimized so as
not to create a nuisance.
Signature of Design Professional
Design Criteria - Design and Maintenance:
All approved outdoor lighting is to be maintained
for the life of the proposed development.

NOTE: Variations from the standards shown may
be appropriate in some situations, provided that it
can be demonstrated through the preparation of a
comprehensive lighting design strategy having
clear objectives and a demonstration of how the
proposed design meets the intent of these design
guidelines and the goals and objectives found in
Part A of the Urban Design Manual.
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Designated barrier free parking must be designed to
achieve the following criteria:
5.0
BARRIER FREE
ACCESSIBILITY

Type A Barrier-Free Accessible Parking Spaces
must have a minimum width of 3.4 metres and a
minimum length of 5.5 metres.

Type B Barrier-Free Accessible Parking Spaces
must have a minimum width of 2.6 metres and a
minimum length of 5.5 metres.

Where an even number of barrier-free accessible
parking spaces are required, an equal number of
parking spaces that meet the requirements of
Type A and Type B Barrier-Free Parking Spaces
must be provided.

Where an odd number of barrier-free accessible
parking spaces are required, an equal number of
parking spaces that meet the requirements of
Type A and B Barrier-Free Parking Spaces must
be provided, where the additional barrier-free
parking space may be a Type B Barrier-Free
Parking Space.

Access aisles, that is the space between parking
spaces that allows persons with disabilities to get
in and out of their vehicles, must be provided for
all parking spaces for the use of persons with
disabilities in off-street parking facilities.

Access aisles may be shared by two parking
spaces in an off-street parking facility and must
meet the following requirements:
Definitions
Barrier Free Access refers to the continuous
unobstructed access, connecting all elements and
spaces of a building or facility. Exterior accessible
routes may include parking access aisles, ramps,
crosswalks at vehicular ways and barrier free
accessible doorways at all entrances and exits.
Standards
These standards have been developed to ensure that
barrier free access is provided for all new
developments and redeveloped sites. The Cities of
Kitchener and Waterloo are committed to promoting
and encouraging developments that are designed for
all users. These guidelines were originally developed
by the K-W Barrier Free Advisory Committee, who has
provided preferred dimensions based on their personal
working experiences.
Designated Parking Requirements:
Designated barrier free accessible parking spaces for
persons with disabilities shall be provided at the
following rates according to the City of Kitchener
zoning by-law 85-1, Section 6 and rounding up to the
nearest whole number:
Off-Street Parking
Spaces Required
2010
Barrier–free
Accessible Parking
1 -12
1

The access aisles must have a minimum width of
1.5 metres.
13 - 100
4% of total required
parking

The access aisle must extend the full length of the
parking space.
101 - 200
1 + 3% of total required
parking

201 - 1000
2 + 2% of total required
parking
The access aisles must be marked with high tonal
contrast diagonal lines, which discourages parking
in them, where the surface is asphalt, concrete or
some other hard surface.
1000+
11 + 1% total required
parking

Adjacent to the barrier free entrance(s) of each
building and connecting with the barrier free path
of travel.
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
Provide sufficient clearance around vehicles, light
standards and site furnishings.

Provide a level, non-slip, non-glare, textured, hard
surface.

Located away from designated fire routes,
intersections or commercial loading zones.


Located such that persons do not need to travel
behind parked vehicles.
Landscaping and other design features shall be
used to prevent vehicles from protruding over
barrier free paths of travel

For shopping malls, large complexes or where
multiple buildings exist on a site, the required
number of designated spaces should be evenly
distributed to ensure available parking at all public
entrances.
Incorporate required designated parking signage
1.2 m above grade, 0.6 – 2.0 m from curb edge, or
on a building face within 2.0 m of curb. Signs
mounted on moveable bases are unacceptable
(see Figure 5.4).

Ensure that signage does not obstruct pedestrian
flow to adjacent areas.

Provide directional signage in large parking areas
or for hidden parking spaces (see Figure 5.2).

Signage may be obtained through the City of
Kitchener 519-741-2345.


The entrance nearest the designated parking
spaces must be equipped with a power door
operator.

Located as close as possible to a required
passenger elevator.

Provide a minimum vertical clearance of 2.75 m
(see Figure 5.1).

Asphalt within designated parking spaces should
be benched / ramped flush with the adjacent curb
or sidewalk.
Parallel Parking Space Size:
Parallel parking spaces - minimum length of 6.7 m and
minimum width of 3.9 m when adjacent to a flush
curb/sidewalk (adjacent sidewalk is to be a minimum
width of 1.8 m).
Figure 5.1: Vertical clearance at passenger loading zone
2010
Figure 5.2: Sign pointing to designated parking spaces
for persons with disabilities
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or seating to the side of pedestrian routes so that
persons can see and be seen while waiting to be
picked up or dropped off.
Figure 5.3: Sign Location for Multiple Parking Bays
Designated Interior Parking Space Requirements:

Where indoor parking facilities are provided,
designated parking spaces for persons with
disabilities must be provided on at least one
parking level with barrier free access to the
passenger elevator lobby through a door equipped
with a power door operator. The designated
spaces should be located as close as possible to
the barrier-free accessible elevator and have a
vertical clearance of 2.75m for use with personal
modified vans (see Figure 5.1).

Located so that persons do not need to travel
behind parked cars and/or across a traffic lane.

Located away from designated fire routes,
intersections or commercial loading zones.

At building entrances, overhead protection such as
canopies or other structures shall be provided
where possible and have a vertical clearance of
2.75 m to allow for specialized transit use.

Provide a level, non-slip, non-glare, textured, hard
surface having a slope of between 1% and 3%.

Identify passenger loading areas with proper
signage so that motorists are not confused with
parallel parking spaces.

Provide directional signage in large parking areas
or for hidden passenger loading areas (see
Figures 5.2).
Note: Also see the Ontario Building Code for fire
access route design requirements.
Passenger Loading Areas:
Pedestrian loading areas or drop-off zones should be
provided at all main barrier-free entrances and connect
with the barrier-free path of travel. See Figures 5.4 and
5.5. Pedestrian loading areas or drop-off zones must
be designed to achieve the following:
Design Criteria:

Minimum dimensions of 5.2 m width and 7.0 m
length. Where the passenger loading area is
adjacent to a flush grade sidewalk, the width of the
loading space may be decreased to 3.9 m (see
Figure 5.5).

A minimum vertical clearance of 2.75 m (see
Figure 5.1).

Passenger loading areas must be visible from the
main barrier-free entrances and provide benches
2010
Figure 5.4: Sign Indicating Parking Spaces for Persons
with Disabilities
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Figure 5.5: Passenger Drop-off and Entrances – Minimum Standards
Figure 5.6: Building Entrance, Parking and Drop-off Standards
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Sidewalks:

Sidewalks also refer to walkways and pathways for
this document. Sidewalks, curbs and grading are to
be designed in a manner that provides maximum
assistance for persons with mobility disabilities without
creating hazards for persons who are visually
impaired.
Provide non-slip, non-glare surfaces for sidewalks.
Do not include exposed aggregates or ridges
which allow water or ice accumulation; poured in
place concrete with a broom finish perpendicular
to the path of travel (preferred) or asphalt.

Provide textured surface at key locations (sidewalk
edges, road intersections) to indicate changes in
the path of travel.

Flush curbs are required at all intersecting
roadways.

Asphalt within parking areas must be benched /
ramped flush with the adjacent curb or sidewalk

Where barrier free parking spaces or loading
zones are provided not immediately adjacent to a
main entrance, flush curbs must be provided along
the barrier free path of travel.
Ensure that all grading of the barrier-free path of travel
is less than 5% and that the landing areas adjacent to
curbs do not exceed 2% in any direction. All
transitional grade changes on sidewalk areas shall be
less than 3% wherever possible (see Figure 5.7).
The minimum width for a sidewalk is 1.5 m. This
allows enough width for two people in wheelchairs to
pass and also for the piling of snow along the edges
without obstructing pedestrian traffic flows during the
winter months.
Sidewalks must be designed to achieve the following:
Design Criteria:

Provide barrier-free walkways between all barrierfree entrances, parking, passenger loading areas,
municipal sidewalks and outdoor amenities i.e.
telephone seating areas, playgrounds, parks.

Be a minimum of 1.5m in width and provide
sufficient additional space to accommodate
expected site furnishings, equipment and signage
so as not to restrict the required clear path of
travel.

Where two sidewalks meet, they shall meet at the
same grade (i.e. no steps).

Continuous slope shall be between 0% and <5%
with a cross-slope between 1% and 2%.

Eliminate or minimize cross-slope on walkways
where the grade is greater than 3%.

Where sidewalks have a slope of between 2% and 5%, provide level resting areas every 30 m.

Rest areas are to be a minimum of 1.8 m wide and
2.2 m long.

Slopes greater than 5% must be designed as a
ramp with handrails on both side (see Figure 5.9).
2010
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Figure 5.7: Sidewalk Grades and Flush Curbs
2010
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Ramps:
In circumstances where there is a grade change of 5%
or greater, ramps with handrails are necessary to
ensure a barrier-free path of travel. Ramps must be
located as close as possible to the most direct barrierfree path of travel and designed in a manner which
compliments the overall design of the building and site.
Ramps must be designed to achieve the following:
(see Figure 5.8) and shall have a slip-resistant,
continuous and even surface.

Provide colour and texture contrast at the top and
bottom of ramps.

Ramps and landings which are not at grade or
adjacent to a wall shall have protected edges,
possibly combined with the railing design.
Design Criteria:

Ramps shall have a maximum internal clear width
of 1.1 m.

Provide a level area at the top and bottom of a
ramp of at least 1.67m x 1.67 m.

If a door is provided, the landing shall be extended
at least 0.6 m beyond the latch of the door
opening.

Provide a minimum vertical clearance of 2.1 m.

Avoid obstacles intruding into ramps (i.e. sandwich
board signs, overhanging shrubs/trees, etc.).

Preferred maximum slope of 6%.

Provide handrails on both sides of ramps.

A handrail is always required at an elevation
change of 0.6 m.

Provide landings where there is an abrupt change
in direction and at intervals not more than 9 m
along the horizontal length of the ramp (see Figure
5.9).

Provide non-slip, non-glare surfaces. Do not
include aggregate or ridges which allow water or
ice accumulation.

Provide poured in place concrete (preferred),
asphalt or wood.

Poured in place concrete ramps should have a
broom finish which is perpendicular to the path of
travel.

Surfaces of ramps that form a barrier-free path of
travel shall have no opening that will permit the
passage of a sphere more than 13 mm in diameter
2010
Figure 5.8: Grate Openings
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Figure 5.9: Ramp Design
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Steps:
In circumstances where there is a change in grade,
steps are often necessary. In such instances the steps
should be located as close as possible and
perpendicular to the most direct barrier-free path of
travel. The stairs should be designed in a manner
which compliments the overall design of the building
and its site.
Design Criteria:

Provide a minimum clear width of 1.8 m.

Treads and risers shall have a uniform rise and
run throughout a flight of steps. Rise shall be a
minimum of 125 mm and a maximum of 200 mm.
Run shall be a minimum of 255 mm and a
maximum of 355 mm.

Flights of steps should not exceed 1.5 m in height
between changes in level without a landing.

Provide a minimum vertical clearance of 2.1 m.

A cross-slope of 1% is recommended to ensure
that steps are well drained and do not allow ice
formation.



Provide a level non-slip, non-glare textured, hard
surface. Do not include exposed aggregate or
ridges which allow water or ice accumulation.
Provide poured in place concrete (preferred),
wood or concrete pavers. Poured in place
concrete steps should have a broom finish which
is perpendicular to the path of travel.
Provide colour and texture contrast at the top and
bottom of flights of stairs and on stair nosings.
(See Figure 5.10) Use a colour/lightness
contrasted strip, a maximum of 50 mm deep on
the leading edge on the tread and vertical face of
the nosing. Steps must be illuminated to a
minimum level of 10 foot candles.
2010
Figure 5.10: Stair Design

Nosing should not project. If a ‘shadow line’ is
proposed for decorative purposes, it should not
have a height exceeding 12 mm or a radius
exceeding 13 mm (See Figure 5.11).
Handrails:
Handrails are common site elements and should be
provided on both sides of ramps and stairways and
must be designed to achieve the following:
Design Criteria:

Handrails should be provided at a height between
865 mm and 965 mm as measured vertically from
a line drawn through the surface of the ramp.

At facilities used by children, a lower set of
handrails with a recommended height of 600 - 700
mm should be provided. Where handrails are
used extensively by both young users and adults,
a double set of handrails is suggested.

Handrails should be a minimum 30 mm in
diameter and a maximum of 40 mm.

Provide a clearance between every handrail and
any wall to which it is fastened. Minimum
clearance is 40 mm, preferred 60 mm (see Figure
5.12).
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Figure 5.12: Handrail Design

Extend horizontally not less than 300 mm beyond
the top and bottom of the ramp or stairway and
curve to the wall or post (see Figure 5.13).

A minimum clearance of 1 m is required between
handrails.

Handrails must terminate in a manner which will
not obstruct pedestrian travel or create a hazard
(see Figure 5.13).
Figure 5.13: Handrail Extensions
Figure 5.11: Stair Tread and Nosing Design
2010
Entrances and Automated Door Activators:
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All main barrier-free entrances must be located
prominently and designed to achieve the following:
Design Criteria:

A textured floor surface should be provided on
both sides of doorways to alert those with visual
impairment.

Barrier-free entrances should be sheltered from
the elements and located adjacent to designated
parking and passenger loading areas.

Grade level fire doors and exits must be
accessible and connect directly with accessible
exterior, as well as interior circulation routes.

Door openings should have a minimum clearance
width of 915 mm, with the door in the open
position (door handles, push bars, etc. must not
intrude into the clearance).

Thresholds are strongly discouraged. If required,
a threshold should be colour/brightness contrasted
and be a maximum of 13 mm in height.

Automatic door activators must be provided to
allow persons with a disability, parents with
children, shoppers with full hands and people with
strength limitations easy access and exit.

Automatic doors may be activated with either a
motion sensor, pressure plate or push button.

Motion sensors are the preferred automatic door
activators. They should allow a minimum of 15
seconds before closing from a fully open position
(see Figure 5.14).

Pressure plates should extend beyond the full
swing of swinging doors in a manner which does
not require persons using wheelchairs or scooters
to back up.

Large expanses of clear glass near entrances
must be marked with a colour/brightness
contrasted, continuous strip 100 mm wide, 1350
mm from the finished floor.
2010
Figure 5.14: Motion Sensor Detector Zones

Transitional illumination between exterior and
interior lighting conditions must be provided for
both day and night use.

Doors and door frames should be
colour/brightness contrasted from surroundings.
Door edges and jambs should not be excessively
sharp.

Where possible, entranceways should be covered
to keep snow, ice and rain off the front
entranceway platform.

Push buttons to activate doors should be placed
750 mm above grade on a wall, post or handrail in
a manner, which does not create pedestrian/door
conflicts. Push buttons should be able to be
located by vision or touch and be a minimum of
900 mm in front of the door(s). Push buttons
should be large square or round plates, at least
100 mm in diameter, with maximum colour
contrast for good visibility.

All automatic doors should be integrated into an
emergency backup system.

Automatic doors should be of lightweight
construction and easy to open in the event of a
power failure.

Automatic swing doors require guardrails on both
sides if opening towards the operator. Guardrails
should have a second rail not more than 680 mm
above grade and a rail or kick plate not more than
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75 mm above grade (see Figure 5.15) Guardrails
are to be colour contrasted to surrounding area.

Refuse and recycling receptacles should be
provided at appropriate waiting/rest areas.

Gates and doorways are to be a minimum of 920
mm in width and should not occur at corners, turns
or congested areas.
Figure 5.15: Required Guards at Out-swing


Automatic swing doors must have sensing devices
to stop and/or slow door movements when an
obstruction is encountered in the path of the swing
door.
Signage (i.e. international symbol of accessibility
for persons with disabilities) must identify all public
use accessible doors. It should be placed in a
prominent location indoors and outdoors,
preferably on both sides of the door(s), at a height
of 1.2 m to 1.5 m and be a minimum of 125 mm in
diameter.
Figure 5.16: Waiting and Rest Area

Playground equipment should be designed to
provide barrier-free opportunities that encourage
use by all children. Similarly, surfacing materials
should provide adequate cushioning abilities and
allow barrier-free travel.

All playground equipment must be approved by
the latest edition of the Canadian Standards
Association (CSA).

Play areas for children in public spaces must be
accessible to all children and their parents or care
givers. Whereas it may not be possible to have
complete accessibility to every item and piece of
play equipment in the play area, the play needs of
all children must be considered and design of play
areas must ensure access for both adults and
children in the play area.

When designing inclusive play areas, careful
consideration is to be given to barrier-free access
from the street into the play area and the
Amenities:
Amenities such as waiting and rest areas,
playgrounds, picnic areas, paths and trails are to be
constructed so that all users can equally utilize
facilities and be designed to achieve the following:
Design Criteria:

Waiting and rest areas should be provided at
regular intervals of 90 metres along barrier free
paths of travel, as well as at drop off areas, bus
stops and telephone booths.

Benches should be a minimum length of 1200 mm
and provide a space 1000 mm wide and 1200 mm
deep beside each bench for wheelchair or scooter
users (see Figure 5.16).
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

availability of rest stations and seating
opportunities.

Slopes are to be between 0% to 4% wherever
possible with a cross-slope between 1% and 2%.
In water play areas, avoid tripping edges and
raised curbs to allow access by people using
mobility devices and use by children and adults
with visual impairments. Utilize colour/brightness
contrast.

Slopes greater than 5% should be designed as a
ramp.

Where paths and trails are sloped 3% to 5%,
provide level resting areas every 30 metres.
Resting areas are to be designed according to
Figure 5.16.

Provide a continuous, hard, stable, non-slip, nonglare surface. It is recognized that in natural
areas, softer surface materials such as limestone
screenings are acceptable. Other acceptable
materials include asphalt, concrete and wood
decking (boards to be perpendicular to the
direction of travel with spacing not exceeding 13
mm).

Provide colour and texture contrast or a hand rail
to define path/trail edges and intersections,
changes in direction, building entrances, road
intersections and curb ramps .

Appropriate signage must be provided.
In water play areas, water-flow control devices
must be designed to be controlled, manipulated
and easily reached by preschool children and
children with disabilities.

Pathways should be free of joints that may cause
tripping or the “washboard” effect on mobility
devices such as manual and electric wheelchairs
or scooters. Joints should be flush, light and as
short as possible.

Acceptable pathway surfaces that do not soften
with heat or moisture include:

HL3 asphalt

Concrete

Well-compacted stone dust

Consideration should be given to adult care givers
who may also be persons with disabilities.

A minimum of 2 or at least 10% of picnic areas
within a site must be accessible.



An accessible approach to the picnic area must be
provided from an accessible parking space.
A hard surfaced path connecting the parking
space to the picnic areas and to other facilities (i.e.
washrooms, water etc.) should be provided.
Picnic sites should be within 30 metres of
accessible washroom facilities.

Accessible picnic tables should be on hard, level,
well-drained surfaces. The bottom edge of the
table top must be no lower than 680 mm above
ground level.

Trails should be a minimum of 3000 mm wide.
2010
Acknowledgements/Resources:

Queen’s University at Kingston

City of North York

City of Peterborough

Alberta Transportation and Utilities

C.N.I.B. (Canadian National Institute for the Blind)

Ontario Building Code

Canadian Standards Association

City of Mississauga

K-W Barrier-Free Advisory Committee
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International
Symbol of
Accessibility for
Disabled
International
Symbol of
Accessibility for
Visually Impaired
International
Symbol of
Accessibility for
Hearing Impaired
International Symbol of Accessibility
combined with Service Identification Signs
indicate those facilities which are accessible
Figure 5.17: International Symbols of Accessibility
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6.0

Avoiding bus bays.
PEDESTRIAN AND
TRANSIT SUPPORTIVE
DEVELOPMENT

Providing a temporary bus turnaround at the
end of partially constructed roads.

Ensuring that intersections of local roads are
spaced no more than 200 – 250 metres apart.

Spacing bus stops 200 – 250 metres apart.

Constructing collector and arterial roads with
standards for surface and subsurface
materials and depths that meet the needs for
bus traffic
It is important for all forms of urban development and
redevelopment to be made more accessible by public
transit. The design of our urban areas has a significant
impact on people’s ability/willingness to use public
transit. While the development of high intensity, mixed
use development at nodes and along corridors makes
transit use more attractive, there needs to be transit
and pedestrian orientations on the streets which feed
those transit services.
Both the City of Kitchener and the Regional
Municipality of Waterloo have sidewalk policies which
may require either the installation of or the contribution
of funds towards the construction of public sidewalks
across the frontage of property subject to a
development proposal. Please see current City and
Regional policies for criteria and Engineering staff for
current rates.
Grand River Transit staff should be contacted in the
early stages of development to discuss what potential
routings would be considered appropriate.
Standards
Arterial and Collector Roads are to be designed
to be:

Continuous across neighbourhoods, i.e. grid
pattern.

As straight and direct as possible.

A maximum of 800 metres apart

Accommodate transit vehicles, including:


Accommodate all pedestrians by:

Designing barrier free intersections and barrier
free transit stops.

Ensuring a maximum distance of 200m to
250M between intersections.

Having sufficient, protected barrier free
pedestrian crossing points (signalized
intersections and crosswalks) where warrant
criteria have been met.

Eliminating reverse-lotted development.

Orienting buildings to the street and to
pedestrian traffic.

Locating buildings as close to the street as
possible.

Locating parking lots in the rear or side yards
of development sites.

Providing higher density and mixed uses along
arterial roads.

Improving access between arterial roads and
internal subdivisions by providing more local
road access and midblock pedestrian
walkways.

A minimum turning curve radius for a bus of
15 metres.

A minimum paved road surface of 9 metres.

A maximum road grade of 5%, (this standard
may not be achievable in all locations).

Supportive of the efficient design of transit routes
by:
Providing sidewalks in accordance with City
policy.

Provide pedestrian crossings in an alternate
high contrast material.

2010
Avoiding one way street systems.
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Nodes and Corridors are to be designed in the
following manner:
Shopping Centres with transit facilities are to be
designed to:

Develop compact pedestrian oriented nodes that
allow for the ease of use and access to transit by:

Facilitate barrier free pedestrian access and future
intensification.

Designing building entrances to be oriented
towards transit stops.

Have at least one building face or the main
entrance adjacent to an arterial road.

Designing arterial and collector roads to travel
directly into the interior of the nodes, allowing
transfers between transit routes where
appropriate.

Have barrier free pedestrian access from the
public sidewalk to the main building entrance.

Have on-site lighting to maximize pedestrian
safety.
Development should be oriented toward the street
and include:

Provide pedestrian connections between
buildings.



Location of buildings as close to the street as
possible.

Location of parking lots in the rear or side
yards of development sites.

Minimizing the number of mid-block vehicular
access points that cross sidewalks.

Minimizing long stretches of walls, berms or
solid fences along public roadways.
Subdivisions are to be designed to:

Facilitate barrier free pedestrian access to transit
stops.

Provide sidewalks along both sides of transit
routes and according to the City Sidewalk Policy.

Provide curb cuts at all intersections and
walkways including mid-block crosswalks and trail
crossings (where safe and appropriate).
Develop barrier free, pedestrian-supportive
amenities along streets as follows:

Have barrier free pedestrian links to transit stops
provided in either concrete or asphalt.

Locate retail stores, service shops and
restaurants at ground floor level.


Provide amenities to improve the microclimate
along streets with features such as: canopies,
arcades and landscaping.
Have the local road pattern provide direct
pedestrian access to transit stops and transfer
points.

Provide sidewalks sufficiently wide to
accommodate bus shelters and waiting areas,
street tree planters, through pedestrian traffic,
and an area adjacent to buildings to allow for
“window shopping”.
Provide for pedestrian safety and natural
surveillance of pedestrian links to transit stops
ensuring adequate lighting and year round
maintenance.

Have 95% of the residences, jobs and other
activities / uses within 450 m walking distance of a
transit stop.
Sidewalk ramps and curb ramps are to be
constructed as outlined in Section 5.0.

Have all multiple dwelling units (housing at a
triplex level and up) be within 300 metres walking
distance of a transit stop.

Integrate neighbourhood features and public
spaces with bus stop locations.


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Transit Stop Waiting Areas and Shelters are to be
designed to:

Provide direct, convenient and barrier free
connection from the sidewalk to the shelter/waiting
area and to the bus loading and unloading doors.

Provide sufficient lighting to allow for pedestrian
safety, surveillance and adequate site lines.

Maintain adequate distance to adjacent streets
and driveways.
Figure 6.1: Typical Nearside Transit Stop
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Figure 6.2: Typical Farside Transit Stop
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7.0
SCREENING OF
MECHANICAL AND
ROOFTOP EQUIPMENT
residential properties should be provided. Views
approaching the property along all public roads
should be illustrated and take into account grade
changes. For properties in low lying areas,
screening options integrated into the roof design
may be necessary.
This section outlines the requirements for the
screening of ground-based and rooftop equipment.
The primary goals of the guidelines are to provide for
the full screening of equipment from public view and to
ensure that screening methods contribute to the
building design and streetscape.
Definitions
Mechanical equipment – Includes heating, ventilation,
and air-conditioning units; compressors; pumps; and
other similar powered mechanical equipment.
Non-mechanical equipment – Includes flues; vents;
hoods; satellite dishes; communications equipment;
elevator and stair penthouses; access ladders; and
other similar non-powered equipment.
Figure 7.1: Locating this building’s rooftop equipment
away from the street and incorporating a continuous
parapet helps block the equipment from public view.
Design Criteria:

Buildings abutting residential properties or located
on corner lots, at the termination of view axes, or
at other prominent locations will be subject to
higher rooftop equipment screening standards.

Buildings shall have all rooftop mechanical
equipment screened from the view of vehicular
traffic.
Roof well – An open pit sunk below a building’s roof
surface.
Parapet – The portion of an exterior building wall
extended above the roofline.
Screening wall – An independent screen, separate
from a building wall.
Standards
Site Plan Requirements:

The locations and dimensions of all rooftop
equipment must be shown on building elevation
drawings.

Proposed methods of screening should be
provided. If independent or integrated screens are
proposed, material and construction details should
be provided.

Sight line diagrams are required with building
elevations. Diagrams should show multiple views
to proposed rooftop mechanical equipment from a
1.7 m height at the curb of the opposite side of the
road from the property. Additionally, sight lines
from the front or rear face of any surrounding
2010
Figure 7.2: Rooftop equipment on this building is
clustered near the centre of the roof, away from the
street and other public spaces

Rooftop equipment should be clustered and
located near the centre of the roof to minimize
visual exposure.
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
The preferred rooftop equipment screening
methods are roof wells, continuous parapets, or
articulated rooflines. If these methods are not
possible or appropriate, other methods, such as
partial parapets, screening walls, or dedicated
rooftop equipment rooms, may be used.
Figure 7.5: The peaked roof of this low-rise building
screens all rooftop equipment and helps define the
intersection where the building is situated.
Figure 7.3: Rooftop equipment screening methods used
on this building include parapets, an articulated
roofline, and centralized location of equipment.

For all mid-rise (4-8 storeys) and high-rise (above
8 storeys) buildings, rooftop mechanical
equipment shall be fully screened from the public
view at street level.

Rooftop equipment and equipment screening
should be integrated with the building form and
shall complement the building’s design, materials,
colours, and architectural style.

Rooftop equipment screening for mid-rise and
high-rise buildings shall contribute to an attractive
skyline and the view from surrounding mid- and
high-rise buildings must be considered.

The back sides of parapets, screening walls, and
raised rooflines should be coloured the same as
the front side when visible from public view.

Large mechanical equipment, including
refrigeration units for commercial, institutional and
recreational buildings should be incorporated into
the building design or, alternatively, screened with
the appropriate materials.

Significant heritage buildings shall have all rooftop
equipment fully screened and/or integrated into
the building in a way that respects and
complements the building’s heritage and
architectural features.

Civic buildings shall have all rooftop mechanical
equipment fully integrated into building design.
Figure 7.4: Rooftop mechanical equipment for this
building is hidden by a screening wall that is integrated
with the building design. The screening also articulates
the roof elevation.
Design Criteria for Various Building Types:

For low-rise buildings (3 storeys or less), rooftop
mechanical equipment shall be fully screened.
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Figure 7.6: The sloped roof of this civic building fully
screens rooftop mechanical equipment and creates an
attractive roofline.

Figure 7.8: Although the rooftop equipment on this gas
station is fully screened with materials matching the
building, the enclosure is not well-integrated with the
building form.
Commercial buildings including gas stations shall
have all rooftop mechanical equipment fully
screened. Parapets, detailed cornices, and/or
articulated rooflines that enhance the building
design should be incorporated, particularly for gas
stations located at major intersections.
Figure 7.9: The articulated roofline on this gas station
and car wash fully screens rooftop mechanical
equipment and helps create an attractive building
design.
Design Criteria for Screening Ground-based
Mechanical and Non-mechanical Equipment:
Figure 7.7: The rooftop equipment on this corner gas
station is not screened and is visible from public view.
2010

The location of all ground-based mechanical and
non-mechanical equipment must be illustrated on
the landscape plan and, if fencing is required, also
on the site plan.

Many types of ground based equipment will
require appropriate screening not only to address
views into the site from the public realm but also to
provide a buffer between uses within the site e.g.
screening communal ground-based air conditioner
units from private amenity spaces.

Solar panels and similar equipment are not subject
to screening requirements.
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8.0
PRIVATE STREET
NAMING AND
ADDRESSING
Naming of roadways within, for example, private
residential or commercial developments may be in the
in the interest of providing clear locational information
to emergency service providers and the general public.
Private roadway naming requests may be permitted
and will be evaluated on a case by case basis at the
discretion of the City’s Deputy CAO Community
Services.
Design Criteria for the Naming of Private Streets:
The policies which apply to the naming and addressing
of City streets will be used as a guideline for naming
and addressing of private roadways – see Council
Policy I-1147 Street Naming, Addressing, Multiple Unit
Identification Signs, Address / Street Name Change.
A reference plan illustrating the extents of the
proposed private roads and a by-law authorizing the
road naming will be required. The design and location
of all signage for any proposed private roadway will be
to the satisfaction of the City’s Director of
Transportation and the Manager of Site Development
and Customer Services in Community Services
Department at the sole expense of the developer.
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9.0
EMERGENCY SERVICE
POLICY – FIRE FLOW
ANALYSIS REPORT,
FIRE ROUTE PLAN,
MULTIPLE UNIT
IDENTIFICATION
The City of Kitchener has a Council approved
Emergency Services Policy in place which addresses
such issues related to site development as standards
for fire access routes, criteria for determining sufficient
water supply and specifications for multiple unit
identification signage. This policy is available on the
City of Kitchener website or through Planning
Services.
Emergency Service Policy
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
Separation distance between buildings - minimum
3.0 metres. (G)
MULTIPLE
RESIDENTIAL

Separation distance between the end of buildings
where walkways are located between - minimum
4.8 metres. (H)
Definitions

Separation distance between end of building block
having windows to habitable rooms and parking
areas - minimum 6.0 metres, and 1.5 metres
where there is no opening or window to habitable
room. (I)

Roadway width for multiple residential and cluster
townhouse projects - minimum 6.1 metres two way
traffic, minimum 3.66 meters one way traffic. For
these roadways a minimum centerline radius of
12.0m is required to accommodate emergency
vehicles (J)

Setback to rear property line for each private deck
having a height 0.6 m and greater - minimum 4.0
metres. (K)

Setback to rear property line for each private deck
having a height less than 0.6m - minimum 1.5
metres. (L)

Side yard setback between end of building and
curb or walkway - minimum 3.0 metres. (M)

The preferred number of dwelling units should
range between 4-6 units within a block. Additional
units to a maximum of 8 units per block may be
considered subject to providing appropriate
enhanced design details. (N)

Increase rear yard set-back to 10 metres for 3
storey units backing onto single detached
properties.
10.0
Cluster Townhouse – means a multiple dwelling
divided vertically into three or more townhouses by
common walls which prevent internal access between
units. This shall not include a street townhouse.
Multiple Residential – a building containing three or
more dwelling units.
Standards
Lot and Building Dimensions
Design Criteria:
The following dimensions are standards for cluster
townhouse and multiple residential developments
(letters refer to corresponding dimensions on Figure
10.1):

Rear yard depth - minimum 7.5 metres 1 and 2
storey 10.0 m for more than 2 storeys exposed.
(A)

Exclusive use of patio area - minimum 11.0 square
metres, including patios and decks but not
including stairs. (B)

Front yard depth - minimum 4.5 metres (from curb
or walkway edge). (C)

Driveway length - minimum 5.5 metres (between
garage and curb or walkway edge). (D)

Sidewalk - minimum width of 1.5 metres (1.8m
where parking is adjacent). Sidewalks will be
required along one side and possibly both sides of
the internal road and be fully accessible with flush
curbs. Internal walkways should connect to the
municipal sidewalk and be in an alternate, highcontrast material through the drive aisle. (E)

Refer to the following diagram illustrating the
specifications for designing cluster townhouse
developments.
Separation distance between end of building and
rear wall of closest adjacent building - minimum
10.0 metres. (F)
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Figure 10.1: Required Dimensions for Cluster Townhouse Development
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11.0
OUTDOOR AMENITY
AREAS - MULTIPLE
RESIDENTIAL AND
INSTITUTIONAL
DEVELOPMENTS

Provide a defined pedestrian access to the
amenity area to ensure safety from vehicular
traffic. Pedestrian crossings of the drive aisle
should be in an alternate, high-contrast material.

Provide barrier free parking for residents and
visitors adjacent to an accessible entrance.
Standards
An outdoor amenity area shall be provided for all
residential and institutional developments having a
residential component that contains more than either
20 residents or 20 dwelling units and provide a
minimum of 2.0 square metres of common outdoor
amenity space at ground level for either each resident
or each dwelling unit.
Notwithstanding the above, each residential or
institutional development having a residential
component shall have a minimum of 40.0 square
metres of outdoor amenity area.
Amenity Areas:
Design Criteria:

Outdoor amenity areas are to be in close
proximity, and have visual and barrier free access
to an interior common room(s) and barrier free
washroom(s) for easy access, safety and security.

Provide amenity areas adjacent to a street where
appropriate and within reasonable noise levels to
allow for viewing of street activities and natural
surveillance.

Provide a balance of sun, shade and shelter from
the wind.

Locate away from loading or service areas of the
building.

Provide a barrier-free walkway connection to all
ground level entrances including fire exits.

Provide a variety of seating arrangements and
activities.

Provide adequate site lighting.

Provide a usable configuration for the amenity
area.
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
12.0
OUTDOOR PLAY
AREAS FOR
CHILDREN
A Hard Surface Court - minimum 10.0 metres x
10.0 metres each (must be separated from
designated vehicular parking/driving areas by a
raised 15.0 cm poured concrete curb).
Design Requirements:
Definitions

Play Space – An area at ground level which must be
set aside and developed within a site as a coherent
part of the multiple residential development. A play
space is used by toddlers and preschoolers (tot lot)
and school-age children (play area), and teens (hard
surface court). Barrier free play spaces should be onsite, easily accessible to user groups and be separate
from City parks and sports facilities.
Outdoor play spaces are to be in close proximity,
and have visual and barrier free access to the
majority of dwelling units or an interior common
area for safety and security.

Locate tot lots and play areas contiguous to the
building, so as not to separate the play space from
the building with roadways or parking areas.
Play areas shall provide:
Standards
Play Space Requirements:

Adequate visibility into play spaces by reducing
landscape screening and locating play spaces
where acoustic barriers are not required.

Optimum sun/shade exposure and adequate site
lighting to all play spaces.

Seating and, where possible, shade adjacent to all
play spaces.

Barrier-free walkway connections into the play
space from all building entrances. Internal
walkways should be in an alternate, high-contrast
material through the drive aisle.

Barrier free accessible play equipment which is
appropriate to the identified user group.

Insure all related equipment and installation are in
accordance with the Canadian Standards
Association (C.S.A.) “A Guideline on Children’s
Play Spaces and Equipment.”

An adequate buffer between play areas and
vehicular traffic areas including loading and
service areas.

Usable play space configuration must be
conducive to the element of play.
Sufficient pieces of play equipment for the
expected demand.
Design Criteria:
Where outdoor play space is proposed for a multiple
residential development containing more than 20
dwelling units, the area and the play space must be
barrier free accessible. A minimum of 2.5 square
metres of outdoor play space shall be provided for
each bedroom which exceeds the total number of
dwelling units within the development. The required
play space will form a component of the overall
required landscaped open space, and shall be
provided as follows:
Total Play Space Requirements:
Total Play Space
Required
Facilities
Required
150 m2 or less
Tot Lot(s)
151 to 400m2
Tot Lot(s)
Play Area(s)
More than 400m2
Tot Lot(s)
Play Area(s)
Hard Surface Court
Dimensions:

A Tot Lot - minimum 5.0 metres x 5.0 metres each.


A Play Area - minimum 5.0 metres x 5.0 metres
each.
Equipment should allow creative play.
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13.0

Dominant species
LANDSCAPE AND
NATURAL
FEATURES

Significant species

Number of trees (relative abundance)

Canopy closure (%)

Community and tree health
TREE MANAGEMENT
POLICY

Community age
The complete City of Kitchener Tree Management
Policy may be obtained from the Community Services
Department. The following is a brief of the policy.

DBH and height (averages or categorized)

Location number on map or air photo

Definitions
General Vegetation Overview (GVO) – A complete
inventory, together with suitable mapping, of the
biological and physical characteristics of each
Vegetation Community submitted in support of the
draft plan of subdivision. This overview will identify
features which may require further analysis and will
establish the criteria used to evaluate a development
proposal.
Detailed Vegetation Plan – A detailed plan submitted
at the time of grading plan submission and prior to
registration. It is to be completed where the GVO has
determined that there are trees worth retaining and
development impacts are anticipated. A detailed
inventory of all trees greater than 10 cm DBH in
potentially affected residual areas must be carried out.
Tree Preservation Enhancement Plan – A detailed
plan used to identify all vegetation to remain on a site
after development and establish methods whereby this
vegetation can be protected and enhanced.
Standards
General Vegetation Overview:
Biological characteristics for isolated trees greater
than 10 cm in caliper indicating:

Species

Condition rating

DBH

Location number on map or air photo
Air Photo:
The scale should be one that clearly shows relevant
features of the subject property. Site boundaries to be
delineated on air photo shall encompass features
intercepting or outside the development area that may
affect the site vegetation or the adjoining site(s)
vegetation. Air photos shall show existing land use and
shall be dated.
Maps:
The scale should be appropriate to the subject
property and development application. Site boundaries
to be delineated on maps and maps shall include
features intercepting or outside the development area
that may affect the site vegetation or the adjoining
site(s) vegetation.
Maps 1 & 2 are to include the proposed Draft Plan of
Subdivision
A General Vegetation Overview will typically be
included as part of the formal submission of a Draft
Plan of Subdivision to the City of Kitchener.
Data Collection Form #1 - this form shall include the
date(s) when the Inventory was conducted and the
following:

Biological characteristics for each vegetation
community indicating:

2010
Species association or plant community

Map 1 - Physical Features

Topography and slope (locate accurately
relative to the property boundaries)

Drainage

Surface water
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

Ground water

Soils

Map 2 - Vegetation Communities



Showing the vegetation communities defined
through resolution and analysis of functional
associations in the subject environment
Vegetation communities (woodlands,
hedgerows, isolated clusters, single species)
to be accurately located relative to property
boundaries indicating driplines and trunk
locations and elevations
Example: maple-beech woods, ash-maple
woods on irregular topography, red pine
woods having near-surface ground water,
isolated rare species tree, hedgerow, Norway
Maple cluster, marsh, old field.
Analysis:
To include:
 Conclusions of Inventory and Analysis, this report
will identify and locate on Maps 1 and 2:

Problems

Priorities

Needs of vegetation communities

Where vegetation communities or isolated
trees are identified as being worthy of
preservation because of their significance, and
existing stable condition, but do not have the
ability to tolerate major changes to their
surrounding environment a buffer zone is to be
identified and a recommended width provided

Forestry maintenance access location(s) and
widths where required

Community trail location(s) guided by the
Urban Design Manual

Opportunities

Objectives

Recommendations that will shape plan of
subdivision.
2010
The rationale for the following decisions:
vegetation communities not requiring further
data and analysis in the Detailed Vegetation
Plan and vegetation communities requiring
further data and analysis in the Detailed
Vegetation Plan.
Note: The above recommendations should also be
symbolically shown on Map #2 Vegetation
Communities.
If there is an approved Subwatershed Master Plan for
lands contained within the proposed subdivision, the
required Environmental Implementation Report (and
Environmental Impact Statement if required) is to be
coordinated with the analysis and recommendations of
that required by the General Vegetation Overview.
This will permit the integration of the findings of the
General Vegetation Overview with the pertinent
hydrological/hydrogeological information.
Where a Subwatershed Master Plan provides no such
direction the analysis must address the impact of
changed hydraulics, hydrology, and/or hydrogeology
on specific vegetation communities.

Name, address, telephone number of Subdivider,
and Consultant(s) who completed the submission.
A complete description and explanation of the criteria
used to complete Data Collection Form #1 is included
in the City of Kitchener’s Tree Management Policy and
may be obtained from the Department of Development
& Technical Services.
Please see form on next page.
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ASSOCIATED VEGETATION COMMUNITIES
HEIGHT and DIAMETER
COMMUNITY AGE
COMMUNITY AND TREE HEALTH
CANOPY CLOSURE
NUMBER OF TREES
SIGNIFICANT SPECIES
1.
2.
3.
4.
SPECIES COMPOSITION
Shrub –
Herb –
Tree –
VEGETATION COMMUNITY NO.
TYPE –
TEXTURE –
MOISTURE –
SOILS:
GROUND WATER
EXISTING LAND USE
NAME –
(SKETCH SHOWING SIZE, DIRECTION OF FLOW, ENTRY AND EXIT POINTS)
SURFACE WATER TYPE –
SLOPE
TOPOGRAPHY
VEGETATION TYPE
NUMBER OF SPECIES
PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS
BIOLOGICAL CHARACTERISTICS
GENERAL VEGETATION OVERVIEW – DATA SHEET
_______
DATA COLLECTION FORM # 1
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Detailed Vegetation Plan:

This plan should be derived concurrently with the Lot
Grading Control Plan (and all other servicing etc.
plans) and the scale should be approximately 1:500.
The following information is required:
Accurate location of new woodland edges (truthed
in field) and location and species of recommended
plantings (if required) or transplantings.

Location and nature of recommended protection
measures (see Figures 13.1 – 13.4 of this
document and the City of Kitchener Tree
Management Policy).

Accurate location of all trees (10 cm DBH or
greater to be retained) and their driplines (truthed
in field).

Functional buffer zones around vegetation
communities and/or isolated trees.

Proposed lotting, street pattern, building envelopes
and building type (see Building Clearance Area
below and Appendix D, City of Kitchener Tree
Management Policy).
Data Collection Form #2 shall be completed and
include the date(s) when the inventory was conducted
and the following:

Tree tag number

Location of services (type, width and depth of
trench).

Location, lot or block number

Location(s) of Community Trail(s) consistent with
all guiding documents (Community Plans,
Subwatershed Master Plans (Greenspace
Management Plans), Environmental
Implementation Reports, General Vegetation
Overviews, Leisure Facilities Strategic Plan and
Urban Design Manual).

Species

Diameter at breast height (DBH in cm)

Crown class

Tree condition

Tree value and physical constraints

Impacts of proposed development

Recommendation

Name, address, telephone number of consultant
who undertook inventory

Locations of Forestry Maintenance Accesses (if
required).

Grading information:

Original grades (surveyed) and proposed
grades

Cut and fill areas

Potential disruption to ground water and
surface drainage
Please see form on next page.

Symbolized recommendations showing the
accurate location of the dripline for each isolated
tree or single species cluster identifying them as
‘save’, ‘remove’, ‘transplant’.

Symbolized recommendations showing the
accurate location of the dripline for treed areas to
be selectively thinned or transplanted.
2010
The submission of the Detailed Vegetation Plan to the
City will occur in concert with the submission of the Lot
Grading Control Plan.
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(1)
SPECIES
DBH
(cm)
CROWN
CLASS
(2)
TREE
CONDITION
(3)
IMPACTS OF
DEVELOPMENT
(5)
RECOMMENDATION
(6)
(3) Excellent – (E), Good – (G), Fair – (F), Poor – (P),
Very Poor – (V), or Dead (D)
(4) Comments based on tree value and existing physical
(5) From submission requirements and analysis of the DVP
(6) Recommendation: Save – (S), Remove – (R),
TREE VALUE
& PHYSICAL
CONSTRAINTS
(4)
(1) Trees recommended for saving shown in BOLD type
(2) Dominant – (D) – Emergent canopy (receives full sunlight)
Co-dominant – (C) – Not fully emergent (top of canopy receives sunlight)
Intermediate – (I) – Sub-canopy tree (receives partial sunlight)
Suppressed – (S) Completely overtopped (receives very limited sunlight)
Transplant – (T)
LOT/
BLK
NO.
DETAILED VEGETATION PLAN
DATA COLLECTION FORM #2
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This plan should be derived concurrently with the Lot
Grading Control Plan (and all other servicing etc.
plans) and the scale should be approximately 1:500.
The following information is required:

Ongoing conservation of vegetation
communities.

Ongoing conservation of watercourses/
wetlands.

Conclusion of inventory and analysis, including
summary of impacts

Location of ecologically appropriate public
access points.

Impact analysis for Community Trail(s) and
Forestry Maintenance Access(es)

Compatible recreational uses including trail
locations (where appropriate).

Description of mitigation and protection measures:

Ongoing conservation of wildlife habitat.



Discussion of functional buffer zone(s) where
required to ensure ecological stability of
woodland edge or isolated tree(s).

Construction details: fence erection, hoarding,
signage.

Erosion control.

Pre-stressing treatments – i.e. crown thinning.

Post construction – i.e. pruning, fertilizer
program, irrigation program.

Tree transplants – i.e. timing, locations,
moving procedure, maintenance program.
Certification of Plans:
For Draft Plans of Subdivision, the grading consultant
will certify that the Detailed Vegetation Plan conforms
to the Lot Grading Plan. The environmental consultant
will certify that the Lot Grading Control Plan conforms
to the Detailed Vegetation Plan prior to approval of
said plans by the Development & Technical Services
Department.
Certification of Protection Measures:
Tree stewardship
Written certification is required from a qualified
professional that protection measures have been
installed as approved by the Development & Technical
Services Department.

Treatment of Lands to be Conveyed:
Written instructions in a standard format to be
developed by the Development & Technical
Services Department on site-specification
stewardship are to be prepared by the
Environmental Consultant and made available
to the first time home or building
owner/occupant of a treed property.
Examples of the types of information to be
provided are found in the complete Tree
Management Policy available from
Development & Technical Services.
Management strategy

2010
Prepare a Management Strategy in
consultation with the City for all natural areas
within the Draft Plan of Subdivision. Where
applicable, such strategy will include
recommendations for:
All lands to be conveyed to the City as Park are to be
free of any dead or hazardous trees (in locations
where there is a safety issue), dump sites, litter,
debris, remnant fences, barbed wire, wells, tree forts
and any unnatural material/disturbances that are
considered dangerous to the public or would be an
inherited liability. The above noted items are to be
removed or properly treated to the satisfaction of the
Department of Community Services in consultation
with the Director of Planning prior to final approval of
the Plan to be registered. Actions taken should be
documented in the Tree Maintenance report. Such
lands will continue to be free of construction debris for
a period of two years from the date of registration of
the subdivision.
All lands to be conveyed to the City as Open Space or
Hazard Lands are to be free of any dead or hazardous
trees (in locations were there is a safety issue), dump
sites, litter, debris, remnant fences, barbed wire, wells,
tree forts and any unnatural material/disturbances that
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are considered dangerous to the public or would be an
inherited liability. The above noted items are to be
removed or properly treated for a distance of 30
metres from any lot/block line and 10 metres on either
side of a proposed or existing community trail. Such
removals are to be to the satisfaction of the
Department of Community Services in consultation
with the Director of Planning prior to final approval of
the Plan to be registered.
Tree Maintenance Report:
The purpose of this report is to ensure initial and
continued compliance with the tree protection
measures as described in the approved Detailed
Vegetation Plan. This report is to be prepared by a
qualified professional (arborist, forester, environmental
consultant, or landscape architect), who has been
contracted by the Subdivider to provide direction and
supervision during grading and construction on the
subject lands.
The timing of the Tree Maintenance Report is to
coincide with the implementation of all tree protection
measures, and the completion of initial site grading.
All needs of trees to be maintained shall be assessed
immediately and a Tree Maintenance Report detailing
all recommended tree maintenance measures shall be
submitted to, and approved by, the Community
Services Department, prior to registration.
The following information is generally required in the
Tree Maintenance Report (some items may not be
pertinent to a particular project; other projects may
require additional information):

Assessment of damage to trees to be retained
during initial site grading and clearing.

Provide remedial recommendations for any
damaged trees that are to be retained using
current and accepted arboricultural practices.

Timing of remedial measures:


Before / during / after further construction.
Identify and provide value ($) of trees (Guide for
Plant Appraisal, Council of Tree and Landscape
Appraisers, Latest Edition) that were to be saved
according to the Detailed Vegetation Plan and/or
Tree Preservation/Enhancement Plan but have
been removed or damaged.
2010

Using this value of trees destroyed or damaged,
propose a plan indicating replacement trees of
equal or greater value ($) and proposed tree
planting locations (native species) for rehabilitation
of the disturbed area(s).

Identify planned tree removal not conducted.

Recommendation of further trees to be removed or
transplanted.
Note: In general, sources of information should be
identified and measurements should be in metric units.
Permanent Signage:
Install signage in accordance with the “BOUNDARY
MARKER” and “CITY BOUNDARY MARKER
LOCATIONS” drawings found in Appendix F of the
City of Kitchener Tree Management Policy. Such
signage is to be supplied by the Department of
Community Services (741-2600) at no cost to the
Subdivider. Signage is to be installed by the
Subdivider prior to final approval of the Plan to be
registered in which the conveyed lands are located.
However, temporary signage installed on protective
fencing must remain in good order until replaced by
permanent markers and signage.
Certification of Completed Site Work:
Prior to the City issuing the Final Grading Certificate
certification by both the grading consultant and the
environmental consultant must be received by the City
certifying that the Site Grading Plan and Detailed
Vegetation Plan have been implemented in
accordance with the approved plans.
Confirmation of Receipt of Site Grading Plan
Detailed Vegetation Plans and Tree Stewardship:
The Subdivider must confirm in writing that the firsttime home or building owner has received a copy of
the approved Site Grading and Detailed Vegetation
Plans along with written instructions on proper
stewardship for tree(s) on their Lot/Block or that the
Subdivider has provided the builder with the approved
grading and tree management plans along with written
instructions on proper tree stewardship for tree(s)
regarding the Lot/Block noted above, and advised the
builder that the builder is obligated to provide this
material to the first-time home or building owner in
accordance with Clause 1.22 of the Standard
Residential Subdivision Agreement prior to occupancy.
An example of written instructions on proper tree
stewardship is given in the City of Kitchener’s Tree
Management Policy. This is the type of information
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that is to be provided to the new home/building owner
of a treed property.
As an alternative to the above noted generic
examples, the Environmental Consultant can also
obtain brochures on many areas of tree stewardship
from the International Society of Arboriculture (I.S.A.).
The I.S.A. provides a series of published brochures as
part of its consumers’ information program.
Site Plan Approval / Plan Approval:

Lots Containing Trees Created by Consent Under
Section 52 of the Planning Act:

The City encourages personal delivery to, and
discussion of such written instructions with the first
time home owner/occupant as a means of educating
them on proper tree stewardship.
Monitoring and Maintenance Period:
For all wooded wetlands which are to be conveyed to
the City, the Environmental Consultant will monitor the
wooded wetlands as required by the City to ensure
compliance with the approved Subwatershed Master
Plan, Environmental Implementation Report, the
General Vegetation Overview, and/or the Detailed
Vegetation Plan.
If alteration of the quantity, quality, timing
(hydroperiod), or direction of flow of surface or
groundwater within or contiguous to the wooded
wetlands results in an adverse environmental impact
requiring any ecological restoration, any such
ecological restoration activities will be the
responsibility of the Subdivider to the satisfaction of
the City.
Any site development under Section 41 of the
Planning Act.
No building permit will be issued for such lot or
block until applicants for such a building permit
have submitted a Tree Preservation/
Enhancement Plan for the approval of the
Community Services Department. In the case of
lots or blocks which contain only trees to be
removed, all such trees shall be removed prior to
the issuance of a building permit for these lots or
blocks.
Submission Requirements:
The following information is required to be shown:

The true dimensions and bearings of the property.

The location of isolated trees or single species
clusters showing driplines and the species, size,
condition (excellent, good, fair, poor, very poor,
dead), and sensitivity of tree to development is to
be noted.

The location of woodland areas and showing:
Tree Preservation/Enhancement Plan:

The Tree Preservation/Enhancement Plan will be
required for:
Location of tree(s) to be removed for selective
thinning (marked in field).

Location of new woods’ edges (marked in the
field), edge driplines (ground truthed) and new
plantings if required.
Subdivisions:


Where the Detailed Vegetation Plan has identified
that there are trees to be retained.

Corner lots (where site service locations and
building type has not been pre-determined).
The locations, dimensions and setbacks of all
proposed buildings and structures.

The location of paving and driveway areas.

Walkway locations.

Existing and proposed grades (contours and spot
elevations).

Cut and fill areas.

Indication of ground-water and surface drainage.

Interior lots greater than 13.7 m (45 feet) of street
frontage.

Lots on which the Subdivider/Builder requests to
build a structure that is to be located deeper on the
lot than that approved on the Detailed Vegetation
Plan and/or the revised grading will have an
adverse effect on the Detailed Vegetation Plan.
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

Location and type of services and utilities (provide
required width and depth of trench including
offsets dependent on soil conditions or nature of
installation/equipment).
The location of proposed stockpiles of topsoil and
backfill.

Work zone requirements (area around the
proposed buildings required for excavation of
foundations and access during construction).

An outline of tree protection measures including:


Recommended buffers.

Construction details and location of fencing
and/or hoarding.

Erosion control measures.

Pre-stressing of trees.
Name, address and telephone number of:
o
Subdivider.
o
Builder.
o
Consultant who provided tree data and
recommendations.
Where a Tree Preservation/Enhancement Plan is
required the grading consultant will certify that such
plan conforms to the Grading Plan. The environmental
consultant will certify the Grading Plan conforms to the
Tree Preservation/Enhancement Plan prior to approval
of said plans by the Community Services Department.
This plan review and coordination will ensure that both
tree management and site engineering issues are
addressed before building commences. Such a
process will maximize the opportunity for the proper
implementation of all prior tree management
recommendations, and permit the Subdivider another
occasion to monitor the builders.
Appendix H of the City of Kitchener Tree Management
Policy.
Confirmation of Receipt of Site Grading Plan,
Tree Preservation/Enhancement Plan and Tree
Stewardship
The Subdivider must confirm in writing that the firsttime home or building owner has received a copy of
the approved Site Grading and Tree
Preservation/Enhancement Plans along with written
instructions on proper stewardship for tree(s) on their
Lot/Block or that the Subdivider has provided the
builder with the approved grading and tree
management plans along with written instructions on
proper tree stewardship for tree(s) regarding the
Lot/Block noted above, and advised the builder that
the builder is obligated to provide this material to the
first-time home or building owner in accordance with
Clause 1.22 of the Standard Subdivision Agreement
prior to occupancy.
This confirmation is to be completed using the form
provided below and also in Appendix I of the Tree
Management Policy.
An example of written instructions on proper tree
stewardship is provided in the City of Kitchener’s Tree
Management Policy. This is the type of information
that is to be provided to the new home or building
owner of a treed property.
As an alternative to the above noted generic
examples, the environmental consultant can also
obtain brochures on many areas of tree stewardship
from the International Society of Arboriculture (I.S.A.).
The I.S.A. provides a series of published brochures as
part of its consumers’ information program.
The City encourages personal delivery to, and
discussion of such written instructions with the new
property owner as a means of educating them on
proper tree stewardship.
Certification of Completed Site Work:
Prior to the City issuing the Final Grading Certificate
certification by both the Grading Consultant and the
Environmental Consultant must be received by the
City certifying that the Site Grading and Tree
Preservation / Enhancement Plans have been
implemented in accordance with the approved plans.
The above noted certification is to be completed in
accordance with the form provided below and also in
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BUILDING CLEARANCE AREA
(from Tree Management Policy Appendix D)
Interior Lots – Due to the number of site services entering a residential lot, the preservation of
trees within the front yard may be extremely difficult. It is especially unlikely that any tree(s) found
within the interior of a woodland could be singled out and saved on a narrow width lot of 13.7
metres (45 feet) or less. However, isolated trees, and edge trees of a woodland have some
chance of survival in a front yard. Only if the tree(s) in the opinion of the Arborist etc. in coordination with the Grading and Servicing Engineer, is worthy of saving should any attempt be
made in preserving front yard trees otherwise, the following will apply regarding the removal of
trees on an interior building lot:
For all lots 13.7 metres in width or less of frontage, the allowable area to clear of trees within this
lot will be: From Property Line to Building Line plus the depth of the building type plus 3 metres
(construction work zone).
DEPTH OF BUILDING TYPE
Building Type
Depth Metres (Feet)
Bungalow (Back or Raised)
13.7 (45)
Back Split
15.24 (50)
Two Storey
9.75 (32)
Free Hold Town House
13.7 (45)
Corner Lots – No trees that are worthy of further study are to be removed from corner lots. This
requirement is based on the assumption that there are many possibilities for location of services
within a corner lot, and the different types of buildings that can be built on a corner lot.
Corner lots may qualify for exemption to this requirement from the City if the site services location
and building type are determined at the time of submission of the Detailed Vegetation Plan.
Blocks – No trees that are worthy of further study are to be removed from blocks. Tree removal from blocks will not
occur until a Tree Preservation/Enhancement Plan and a Tree Maintenance Report is approved by the Community
Services Department as part of a Section 41 Development Agreement.
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Figure 13.1: Signage and Erosion Control
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Figure 13.2: Temporary Tree Protection Fencing
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Figure 13.3: Temporary Tree Protection Fencing and Erosion Control
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Figure 13.4: Required Tree Protection Signage
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LOT/BLOCK GRADING AND TREE MANAGEMENT
CERTIFICATION
Date: _________________________________
Lot #: _________________________________
Block #:________________________________
58M-__________________________________
I, _____________________________ of _______________________________, being the
Grading Consultant for the above noted Subdivision and I, _____________________________ of
_______________________________, being the Environmental Consultant for the above noted
subdivision certify to the City of Kitchener that the approved Site Grading Plan and the Detailed
Vegetation Plan and/or the Tree Preservation/Enhancement Plan have been implemented in
accordance with the City-approved plans.
Please note all deviations from the approved drawings below (additional tree removal, tree
replacements, grading changes, or any other item that has not been implemented in accordance
with the City-approved plans. Additional details may be required prior to the City accepting the
certification.
Grading Consultant
Environmental Consultant
____________________________________
______________________________________
Signature
Signature
Affix Seal (if applicable)
Affix Seal (if applicable)
Date ________________________________ Date __________________________________
cc.
Lot/Block Owner
Subdivider
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CONFIRMATION OF RECEIPT
Date: __________________________________
Lot #: __________________________________
Block #: ________________________________
58M-__________________________________
I, _____________________________ of _______________________________, being the
Subdivider for the above noted Subdivision confirm to the City of Kitchener that the first time home
or building owner has received a copy of the approved grading and tree management plans along
with written instructions on proper tree stewardship for tree(s) on their Lot/Block.
OR
I, _____________________________ of _______________________________, being the
Subdivider for the above noted Subdivision confirm to the City of Kitchener that I have provided
the builder with the approved grading and tree management plans along with written instructions
on proper tree stewardship for tree(s) regarding the Lot/Block noted above, and advised the
builder that the builder is obligated to provide this material to the first time home or building owner
in accordance with Clause 1.22 of the Standard Subdivision Agreement prior to occupancy.
Subdivider
________________________________________
Signature
________________________________________
Date
cc.
Lot/Block Owner
Builder
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14.0
STORMWATER
MANAGEMENT
FACILITIES
Definitions
Forebay - Storage area provided at the inlet for the
primary removal of suspended solids.
Dry Ponds- Least effective of the three pond types for
water quality treatment. No permanent pool required
for the treatment of runoff. Requires the largest
treatment volume due to the lack of a permanent pool.
Wet Ponds- More effective than Dry Ponds but less
effective than Wetlands Ponds due to the depth of the
permanent pool and the lack of aquatic plantings.
Treated volumes are less than the volumes required in
a Dry Pond.
Wetlands- Most effective type of water quality facility.
Shallow permanent pool allows for diversity of plant
material which aids in pollutant removal (nutrient
uptake) and entrapment of suspended solids
simulating the natural processes. Blends in well with
the surrounding natural areas making the facility more
aesthetically pleasing. Requires the smallest treatment
volume.
These principles were originally adopted by Kitchener
City Council for use within the City of Kitchener on
September 30, 1996.
In recognition of diverse development conditions,
consideration by the City of Kitchener will be given to
all innovative approaches and/or techniques that can
be demonstrated to meet its storm water management
objectives.

Stormwater management areas for subdivisions
will be on lands conveyed at no cost to the City in
addition to any lands required to be dedicated for
park purposes under the Planning Act.
Construction costs will be borne by the owner
while long term maintenance of the storm water
management facility will be borne by the City.

Stormwater management areas, subject to site
plan approval, will be on lands retained by the
owner. All costs associated with the construction
and continuing maintenance of stormwater
management facilities shall be borne by the
owner.

Stormwater management Dry Ponds shall be
designed to limit the maximum depth of water to
1.8m above the lowest point of the stormwater
basin. An additional 0.3m freeboard is required
above the maximum peak flow flood level. The
maximum depth of the extended detention zone
shall not exceed 1.0m above the lowest point of
the pond (see Figure 14.2).

A maximum 5:1 slope shall extend from the
bottom of the pond to the limit of maximum
extended detention, with a minimum horizontal
length of 3.0m. The minimum allowable gradient
on the bottom of the basin shall be 1.0% and the
maximum gradient shall be 5.0%.

Stormwater management Wetlands shall be
designed to limit the maximum depth of water to
2.1m above the lowest point of the stormwater
basin excluding micropools. An additional 0.3m
freeboard is required above the maximum peak
flow flood level. The maximum depth of the
Micropool- Storage area provided at the outlet as a
tertiary treatment before discharging to the receiving
water body.
Standards for Plans of
Subdivision and Site
Plans
The purpose of this section is to provide principles to
augment the MOEE “Stormwater Management
Practices Planning and Design Manual and to achieve
the highest level of utilization, aesthetics,
environmental benefits and ease of maintenance for
stormwater management facilities in our community.”
These principles have been prepared by a joint
committee of representatives from all municipalities
within the Region of Waterloo, City of Guelph and the
Grand River Conservation Authority in consultation
with the local development industry.
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
extended detention zone shall not exceed 1.0m
above the permanent pool elevation. Maximum
peak flow attenuation zone shall not exceed 1.8m
above the permanent pool elevation. The
permanent pool depth shall range between a
minimum depth of 0.15m to a maximum depth of
0.3m.


A maximum 5:1 slope below the permanent
pool level shall be permitted around the entire
stormwater management pond.

A maximum 5:1 slope above the permanent
pool level shall be permitted around the entire
stormwater management pond. The slope
shall extend from the permanent pool level, to
the limit of maximum extended detention. The
horizontal distance of this slope must be a
minimum of 3.0m.

Micropools shall not exceed an additional
maximum depth of 0.3m below the permanent
pool level. Micropools shall not exceed 5% of
the total wetland permanent pool surface area
(see Figures 14.2 and 14.3).
Stormwater management Wet Ponds shall be
designed to limit the maximum depth of water to
3.3m above the lowest point of the stormwater
basin. An additional 0.3m freeboard is required
above the maximum peak flow flood level. The
maximum depth of the extended detention zone
shall not exceed 1.0m above the permanent pool
elevation. Maximum peak flow attenuation zone
shall not exceed 1.8m above the permanent pool
elevation. The permanent pool depth shall range
between a minimum depth of 1.0m to a maximum
depth of 1.5m (see Figure 14.2).

2010
A maximum 5:1 slope below the permanent
pool level shall be permitted around the entire
stormwater management pond. The
horizontal distance of this slope must be a
minimum of 3.0m. A slope commencing from
this point to the lowest point of the stormwater
basin shall be a maximum of 3:1.
A maximum 5:1 slope above the permanent
pool level shall be permitted around the entire
stormwater management pond. The slope
shall extend from the permanent pool level, to
the limit of maximum extended detention. The
horizontal distance of this slope shall be a
minimum of 3.0m.

Forebays are required for all of the above
described stormwater management facilities. The
permanent pool depth shall range between a
minimum depth of 1.0m to a maximum depth of
1.5m in which a maximum depth of 0.5m shall be
used for sediment accumulation. Forebays shall
not exceed 33% of the total wet pond surface area
and 20% of the wetland permanent pool surface
area. All other aspects regarding the design of
forebays shall conform to the above Wet Pond
standards. Excluding maintenance access routes,
all access to forebays shall be discouraged
through shrub plantings (see Figures 14.2 and
14.4). Consideration should be given to provide a
liner and a means to draw the forebay via gravity
to facilitate maintenance.

From the point of maximum extended detention, to
the lower limits of the “safety separation” area or
property line where it abuts private property,
slopes shall vary between 2:1 to 6:1 and have a
maximum average slope of 4:1, not including the
maximum 10:1 maintenance access slope.

Native and non-invasive trees, shrubs, ground
covers and aquatic plants are required in a low
maintenance landscape design, which has regard
for the ecology of the site and the eco-region. See
plant lists at end of chapter.

For Wet Ponds and Wetlands, all slopes 5:1 and
steeper ranging from a minimum horizontal
distance of 3.0m from the permanent pool level to
the property line (not including walkways and
trails) shall be planted. For Dry Ponds, all slopes
5:1 and steeper ranging from a minimum
horizontal distance of 3.0m from the pond bottom
level to the property line (not including walkways
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and trails) shall also be planted. Incorporating a
wide range of slopes and ponding depths into
facility design that conform to the design principles
is strongly encouraged and desirable in order to
facilitate a wide range of flora and fauna habitat
conditions.

Where trees are to be planted, they must be
planted at a minimum rate of 1 tree (40mm cal.)
per 50 square metres. The density of shrub
plantings, for safety purposes, shall vary
depending on the degree of slope. Shrub
plantings shall prevent public access on all 2:1
slopes and discourage access on all 3:1 slopes.
100% density equals 1 shrub per square metre,
25% density equals 1 shrub per 4 square metres.
The purpose of the bar scale is not to encourage
repetitive landscape design but to act as a relative
guide to associate shrub plant densities with the
appropriate slope.

That in all cases, implementation of these
principles shall have regard for approved
Watershed, Sub-Watershed and Master Drainage
Plans.

Areas subject to the collection of contaminants or
spills shall be fitted with adequate oil/grit
separators.
For subdivisions only:
In addition to above requirements the following
principles shall apply to subdivisions only:

That a Landscape Plan of the storm water
management facilities be approved by the
Manager of Site Development and Customer
Services in Community Services Department and
the Supervisor of Design and Development in
Community Services prior to the registration of the
Plan of Subdivision. All landscaping of areas
above the 5 year storm level shall be installed at
the subdivider’s cost, in accordance with the
approved plan, during the first planting season
after occupancy of the first unit. The remainder of
the planting shall commence at such time as
required by the Manager of Site Development and
Customer Services in Community Services
Department and the Supervisor of Design and
Development in Community Services. The
subdivider shall maintain the planting for a period
of one year from the completion of final planting.
Landscape plans are to be prepared by an
Environmental Professional acceptable to the
Municipality. See plant lists at end of chapter.

In the event that a community trail has been
identified and/or required by the City in the vicinity
or adjacent to a stormwater management pond,
they shall be implemented above the maximum
extended detention level or 5 year storm level,
which ever is greater, in order to prevent frequent
flooding. Trails shall have a minimum width of
3.0m (see Figure 14.5).

To enhance user comfort and safety, a 3.0m zone
on each side of the community trail shall be
Coverage Intensity of Shrub Plantings
Percentage of Density
100
75
50
25
6:1
5:1
4:1
3:1
2.5:1
2:1
Slope Range
Figure 14.1: Required Density of Shrub Plantings

Designed pedestrian access areas shall not
exceed a maximum slope of 6:1.

Fencing of stormwater management facilities shall
be discouraged; however it may be required as
determined by the City.

Notwithstanding the above criteria in the case of
headwall designs, the depth of water related to
adjoining side slopes may vary and fencing may
be required for safety purposes.
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designed in such a way that sightlines are
preserved. If barriers are required, they must not
interfere with visibility or create entrapment areas.
In situations where a community trail is designed
within the maximum peak flow depth zone, the
3.0m separation above the trail shall have a
maximum slope of 3:1. Below the trail, the 3.0m
separation shall have a maximum slope of 6:1.
This zone shall be planted with low ground covers
(see Figure 14.5).



Deciduous trees should be planted at a minimum
distance of 1.5m from the edge of the trail.
Maintenance is required to ensure that tree
canopies are raised to a minimum of 2.2m and
shrubs must be regularly prevented from
naturalizing this zone. The planting of coniferous
trees within this zone is not permitted.
Maintenance access requirements are to be
determined on a site-by-site basis, however, the
following general criteria are recommended.
Controlled maintenance access routes shall be
provided to both inlet and outlet structures and
forebays. A minimum 3.0m wide surface to
accommodate maintenance vehicles with a
minimum 10m turning radius (inside radius) and a
flat 10m loading area is required. Maintenance
access routes shall not exceed a maximum slope
of 10:1. The design of maintenance routes and
loading areas shall be to the approval of the
Engineering Division.

In order to prevent surcharging of storm sewers
upstream, pond inlet inverts shall not be lower
than the maximum extended detention level (see
Figure 14.6).

Minimize the number of inlets / forebays to one (1)
where possible.
For Site Plans Only:
In addition to initial clauses applying to both
subdivisions and site plans the following principles
shall apply to site plans only:

Children’s play equipment shall not be permitted
within stormwater management facilities.

Stormwater QUANTITY management strategies
can be accommodated within parking areas to a
limit of 0.3m in depth.

Stormwater QUALITY management strategies
may be accommodated within parking areas
using, fore example oil grit for water quality
management.

In cases where stormwater management facilities
can not be aesthetically accommodated at grade,
underground and roof top storage shall be
considered as alternatives.

Rooftop runoff shall be considered as clean
stormwater and shall be infiltrated as appropriate.
A geotechnical report with infiltration assessment
should accompany site application.
Prior to the City accepting the stormwater
management pond as shown on the approved
landscape plan, the Subdivider agrees to erect
one or more information signs at (a) public access
point(s) detailing the purpose of the pond, phone
number for further information and any other
relevant information, to be approved by the
Manager of Site Development and Customer
Services in Community Services Department and
the Supervisor of Design and Development in
Community Services, all at the cost of the
Subdivider.
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Figure 14.2: Stormwater Management Pond Configuration
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Figure 14.3 Micropool Detail
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Figure 14.4 Forebay Detail
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Figure 14.5 Community Trails at Storm Water Management Ponds
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Figure 14.6 Preferred Pond Inlet Detail
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Figure 14.7: Example of Storm Water Pond Signage
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Stormwater Management (SWM) Facilities:
SWM facility design should match ecosystems and
“ecoregions” (ecosections, Ontario Land Inventory
Units). Guelph, Elmira, New Hamburg, and the tri-city
area of Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge are all
located in different “ecoregions”. For example, in
Kitchener, SWM wetlands should resemble those in
the Borden-Laurentian complex. In fact, seed and
plant materials could be selectively taken from those
wetlands and used locally. But, for design and
construction in Guelph, wetlands in that area would be
used.
The plant species listed should be considered as to
the performance and functionality of those chosen for
a specific site. The amount of planting stock of
species we depend upon for shade, erosion control,
and filtering should always be greater than that
providing colour and food for wildlife.
Native Shrubs and Trees of Waterloo Region:
The committee established for the Stormwater
Management Facilities Design Principles supported
the general concept of creating a policy to encourage
the planting of native shrubs and trees surrounding
SWM ponds of Waterloo Region. In doing this, the
area’s natural integrity will be preserved and SWM
areas will be protected from the general encroachment
of alien species.
On April 1, 1992, Regional staff in association with
Larry Lamb of the University of Waterloo, prepared a
list of native trees and shrubs which could be used as
a guide for planting in and around ESPAs. This list
can also be used as a guide for plantings in and
around SWM ponds. (A list of Invasive Alien species
is also provided which should not be planted).
The species making up the preferred list are all
indigenous to the Waterloo Region and some are
Regionally Significant. Species restricted to the
Carolinian Forest Zone have been noted.
Although most Carolinian species are only found in
North Dumfries Township some do occur north of this
area. Also noted are those species which are found,
and should only be used in North Dumfries Township.
should be used for all species unless otherwise
indicated.
The desired/required performance of each plant
species to be planted or allowed to invade the facility
must be considered. Sizes of planting stock, growth
rates, and maintenance requirements of species must
be compared with desired functions and effects; and,
the desired functions must be prioritized. For
example, where shading is required as soon as
possible to keep water temperatures low, a native fast
growing species is preferable. A number of large
caliper shade trees could be planted in the appropriate
locations. Biodiversity, leaf colour, and blossom would
be secondary functions and would be provided by
other species possibly planted farther away from the
water. Similarly, where erosion control is required, the
right species for that job should be planted. In some
situations, planting of non-native plants may be
necessary to establish cover and native plants with
lower performance ratings in erosion control, but
higher in terms of biodiversity, wildlife food and cover
and aesthetics be included in the overall strategy.
Key to Numbers:
1-Regionally Significant to Waterloo
2-Mainly restricted to Carolinian Forest Zone
3-Use only in North Dumfries Township (removed from
following list for Kitchener)
4-Use local genotypes only
For species where the local genotypes are considered
relatively pure, it is preferable to use these local
genotypes only to avoid importing genetic material
from other areas. By using stock which originated in
Waterloo Region, the integrity of Regional populations
will be preserved. The closest genotype available
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SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
Trees
Pinaceae
Pine Family
Rosaceae
Amelanchier laevis
Rose Family
Smooth juneberry or
serviceberry
Amelanchier arborea
Juneberry, serviceberry
Crataegus chrysocarpa Golden-fruited hawthorn
Crataegus holmesiana Holmes’ hawthorn
Crataegus pruinosa
Frosty hawthorn
Crataegus punctata
Dotted hawthorn
Prunus nigra
Canada plum
Prunus pensylvanica
Pin cherry
Prunus serotina
Black cherry
Prunus virginiana
Chokecherry
Abies balsamea
Larix laricina
Pinus strobus
Picea mariana
Tsuga canadensis
Balsam fir 4
Tamarack
Eastern white pine
Black spruce 1
Eastern hemlock
Cupressaceae
Juniperus virginiana
Thuja occidentalis
Cypress Family
Eastern red cedar 1,2,4
Eastern white cedar
Salicaceae
Populus balsamifera
Populus grandidentata
Populus tremuloides
Salix amygdaloides
Salix bebbiana
Salix discolor
Salix lucida
Salix nigra
Willow Family
Balsam poplar
Largetooth aspen
Trembling aspen
Peach-leaved willow
Bebbs’ willow
Pussy willow
Shining willow
Black willow
Juglandaceae
Carya cordiformis
Juglans cinerea
Walnut Family
Bitternut hickory
Butternut
Betulaceae
Betula lutea
Betula papyrifera
Carpinus caroliniana
Ostrya virginiana
Birch Family
Yellow birch
White birch
Blue-beech
Hop-hornbeam
Fagaceae
Fagus grandifolia
Quercus alba
Quercus macrocarpa
Quercus rubra
Beech Family
American Beech
White oak
Bur oak
Red oak
Ulmaceae
Celtis occidentalis
Ulmus americana
Ulmus rubra
Ulmus thomasii
Elm Family
Hackberry 1,4
White elm
Red or Slippery elm
Rock elm
Hamamelidaceae
Hamamelis virginiana
Witch-hazel Family
Witch hazel
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Anacardiaceae
Rhus typhina
Cashew Family
Staghorn sumac
Aceraceae
Acer negundo
Maple Family
Box-Elder or Manitoba
maple
Red maple
Silver maple
Black maple 4
Acer rubrum
Acer saccharinum
Acer saccharum
ssp. nigrum
Acer saccharum
ssp. saccharum
Acer spicatum
Sugar maple
Mountain maple
Tiliaceae
Tilia americana
Linden Family
Basswood
Cornaceae
Cornus alternifolia
Dogwood Family
Alternate-leaved dogwood
Oleaceae
Fraxinus americana
Fraxinus nigra
Fraxinus pennsylvanica
Olive Family
White ash
Black ash
Red ash, green ash
Caprifoliaceae
Vibumum lentago
Honeysuckle Family
Nannyberry
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
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Shrubs
Taxaceae
Yew Family
Taxus canadensis
American yew
Cupressaceae
Juniperus communis
Cypress Family
Common juniper 1,4
Smilacaceae
Smilax hispida
Greenbrier Family
Bristly greenbrier
Salicaceae
Salix exigua
Salix myricoides
Salix rigida
Salix pedicellaris
Salix petiolaris
Salix serissima
Willow Family
Sandbar willow
Blue-leaf willow 1
Willow
Bog willow
Slender willow
Autumn willow
Betulaceae
Corylus americana
Corylus cornuta
Birch Family
Hazelnut, American hazel
Beaked hazel 1
Ranunculaceae
Clematis virginiana
Buttercup Family
Virgin’s-bower
Rosaceae
Aronia melanocarpa
Physocarpus opulifolius
Potentilla fruticosa
Rosa blanda
Rosa carolina
Rosa palustris
Rubus allegheniensis
Rubus canadensis
Rubus idaeus
Rubus occidentalis
Rubus pubescens
Rubus setosus
Spiraea alba
Rose Family
Chokeberry
Ninebark
Shrubby cinquefoil
Smooth wild rose
Pasture rose
Swamp rose
Common blackberry
Smooth blackberry
Red raspberry
Black raspberry
Dwarf raspberry
Bristly blackberry
Narrow-leaved
meadowsweet
SCIENTIFIC NAME
2010
COMMON NAME
Rutaceae
Zanthoxylum
americanum
Rue Family
Prickly ash 1
Aquifoliaceae
Ilex verticillata
Nemopanthus
mucronatus
Holly Family
Winterberry
Mountain holly 1
Celastraceae
Celastrus scandens
Euonymus
atropurpurea
Euonymus obovata
Bittersweet Family
Climbing Bittersweet
Burning bush 1,2,4
Staphyleaceae
Staphylea trifolia
Bladdernut Family
Bladdernut 1
Rhamnaceae
Ceanothus americanus
Rhamnus alnifolia
Buckthorn Family
New Jersey tea
Alder-leaved buckthorn
Vitaceae
Vitis riparia
Grape Family
Riverbank grape
Thymelaeaceae
Dirca palustris
Mezereum Family
Leatherwood
Cornaceae
Cornus amomum
ssp. obliqua
Cornus canadensis
Cornus foemina
ssp. racemosa
Cornus rugosa
Cornus stolonifera
Dogwood Family
Silky dogwood
Running strawberry-bush 2
Bunchberry
Grey dogwood
Round-leaved dogwood
Red-osier dogwood
Ericaceae
Heath Family
Vaccinium angustifolium Lowbush blueberry
Vaccinium myrtilloides
Velvet-leaved blueberry
SCIENTIFIC NAME
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Rubiaceae
Cephalanthus
occidentalis
Mitchella repens
Madder Family
Buttonbush
Caprifoliaceae
Diervilla lonicera
Linnaea borealis
Lonicera canadensis
Lonicera dioica
Sambucus canadensis
Sambucus racemosa
ssp. pubens
Symphoricarpos albus
Viburnum acerifolium
Viburnum cassinoides
Viburnum lentago
Viburnum
rafinesquianum
Viburnum trilobum
Honeysuckle Family
Bush-honeysuckle
Twinflower
Fly-honeysuckle
Smooth honeysuckle
Elderberry, Common elder
Red-berried elder
Potamogeton pectinatus Sago Pondweed
Others:
Partridgeberry
Ceratophyllum
demersum
Elodea canadensis
Heteranthera dubia
Lemna minor
Lemna trisulca
Nuphar variegatum
Nymphaea odorata
Coontail
Canada Waterweed
Water Stargrass
Lesser Duckweed
Star Duckweed
Yellow or Bullhead Lily
Fragrant White Waterlily
Emergent Species:
Snowberry
Maple-leaved viburnum
Wild raisin, Witherod1
Nannyberry
Downy arrow-wood
Highbush cranberry
Typha latifolia
Scirpus pungens
Sagittaria latifolia
Pontederia cordata
Scirpus validus
Sparganuim
eurycarpum
Common Cattail
American Bulrush
Common Arrowhead
Pickerelweed
Softstem Bulrush
Giant Burreed
Aquatic Plant Species List
Sedges:
The following plant species are recommended by MOE
for use in stormwater management ponds; not all
species are native to Waterloo Region.
Carex pseudocyperus
Carex retrorsa
Carex utriculata
Deep Water Areas (1m < depth < 3m)
Pond Weeds:
Shoreline Fringe (near permanent pool)
Hydric Grasses:
Potamogeton pectinatus Sago pondweed
Potamogeton natans
Floating-leaved pondweed
Potamogeton amplifolius Large-leaved pondweed
Calamagrostis
canadensis
Leersia oryzoides
Festuca rubra
Others:
Heteranthera dubia
Elodea canadensis
Ceratophyllum
demersum
Vallisneria americana
Water Stargrass
Canada Waterweed
Coontail
Tapegrass
SHALLOW WATER AREAS (< 0.5m)
Pond Weeds:
Potamogeton natans
SCIENTIFIC NAME
2010
Cyperus-like Sedge
Retrorse Sedge
Beaked Sedge
Canada Bluejoint
Rice-cut Grass
Red Fescue (non-native)
Others:
Chelone glabra
Asclepias incarnata
Verbena hastata
Bidens cernua
Bidens frondosa
Alisma plantagoaquatica
Turtlehead
Swamp Milkweed
Blue Vervain
Nodding Beggarticks
Devil’s Beggarticks
Water-plantain
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
Floating-leaved pondweed
COMMON NAME
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Pond Berming Areas:
Nymphaea odorata
Scirpus pungens
Scirpus validus
Fragrant White Waterlily
American Bulrush
Softstem
Filter Strips:
Festuca rubra
Agrostis alba
Aster novae-angliae
Aster lanceolatus ssp.
lanceolatus
Aster puniceus
Solidago canadensis
Solidago rugosa
Solidago altissima
Red Fescue
Redtop
New England Aster
Tall White Aster
Purple-stemmed Aster
Canada Goldenrod
Rough Goldenrod
Tall Goldenrod
The following dependable species should usually be
planted in larger quantities:
The following species are not suitable for restoration
and landscaping within and adjacent to Stormwater
Management Areas, woodlands and natural areas
because they are alien and highly invasive.
Other species may be added to this list as their
existence as an invasive problem becomes known.
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Woody Species:
COMMON NAME
Salicaceae
Populus alba
Willow Family
White Poplar
Betulaceae
Betula pendula
Birch Family
European birch
Berberidaceae
Berberis spp.
Barberry Family
Barberry species
Rosaceae
Rosa multiflora
Rose Family
Multiflora rose
Leguminosae
Pueraria lobata
Pea Family
Kudzu
Celastraceae
Celastrus orbiculata
Bittersweet Family
Oriental Bittersweet
Aceraceae
Acer platanoides
Acer pseudoplatanus
Maple Family
Norway Maple
Sycamore maple
Rhamnaceae
Rhamnus cathartica
Rhamnus frangula
Buckthorn Family
Common Buckthorn
Glossy Buckthorn
Vitaceae
Ampelopsis
brevipedunculata
Grape or Vine Family
Porcelainberry
Elaeagnaceae
Elaeagnus angustifolia
Oleaster Family
Russian-olive
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
Trees:
Eastern White Cedar
Red Ash
Eastern White Pine
White Ash
Trembling Aspen
Balsam Poplar
Alternate-leaved Dog- wood
Sugar Maple
Silver Maple
Peach-leaved Willow
Red Maple
Bebb’s Willow
Chokecherry
Bur Oak
Nannyberry
Smooth Serviceberry
Shrubs and Vines:
Slender Willow
Common Elder
Ninebark
Red-osier Dogwood
Winterberry
Grey Dogwood
Virginia Creeper
Riverbank Grape
Narrow-leaved Meadowsweet
Aquatic Plants:
Common Cattail
Softstem Bulrush
Sago Pondweed
Common Arrowhead
Water-plantain
Canada Bluejoint
Sedges (Carex stipata, C.pensylvanica)
INVASIVE SPECIES
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Elaeagnus umbellata
Autumn-olive
Caprifoliaceae
Lonicera japonica
Lonicera tatarica
Viburnum opulus
Honeysuckle Family
Japanese honeysuckle
Tartarian honeysuckle
Guelder-rose (or
European Highbush
cranberry)
Herbaceous Species:
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
Euphorbiaceae
Euphorbia cyparissias
Euphorbia esula
Spurge Family
Cypress spurge
Leafy spurge
Balsaminaceae
Impatiens glandulifera
Touch-me-not Family
Pink Touch-me-not
Malvaceae
Malva moschata
Mallow Family
Musk mallow
Violaceae
Viola odorata
Violet Family
Sweet violet
Lythraceae
Lythrum salicaria
Loosestrife Family
Purple Loosestrife
Gramineae
Miscanthus sinensis
Phragmites australis
Grass Family
Feather grass
Common Reed
Liliaceae
Convallaria majallis
Hemerocallis spp.
Lily Family
Lily-of-the-valley
Daylily
Iridaceae
Iris pseudacorus
Iris Family
Yellow Flag
Umbelliferae
Carrot or Parsley Family
Aegopodium podagraria Goutweed
Pastinaca sativa
Wild parsnip
Polygonaceae
Polygonum cuspidatum
Buckwheat Family
Japanese Knotweed
Primulaceae
Primrose Family
Lysimachia nummularia Moneywort
Papaveraceae
Chelidonium majus
Poppy Family
Greater Celandine
Apocynaceae
Vinca minor
Dogbane Family
Periwinkle
Cruciferae
Alliaria petiolata
Cheiranthus cheiri
Hesperis matronalis
Mustard Family
Garlic mustard
Wallflower
Dame’s rocket
Boraginaceae
Myosotis scorpioides
Borage Family
True Forget-me-not
Leguminosae
Coronilla varia
Lotus corniculatus
Lathyrus latifolius
Melilotus alba
Melilotus officinalis
Trifolium hybridum
Trifolium pratense
Trifolium repens
Vicia cracca
Pea Family
Crownvetch
Birdsfoot-trefoil
Everlasting or perennial pea
White sweet clover
Yellow sweet clover
Alsike clover
Red clover
White clover
Tufted-vetch
Labiatae
Ajuga reptans
Glechoma hederacea
Mint Family
Bugleweed
Ground-ivy
Rubiaceae
Galium mollugo
Madder Family
Wild madder
Campanulaceae
Campanula
rapunculoides
Bluebell Family
Creeping bellflower
Compositae
Achillea millefolium
Centaurea maculosa
Aster Family
Common yarrow
Spotted Knapweed
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SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
Chrysanthemum
leucanthemum
Senecio jacobaea
Tanacetum vulgare
Tussilago farfara
Ox-eye daisy
Stinking willie
Tansy
Coltsfoot
Native Trees and Shrubs of the Waterloo Region NOT
Suitable for General Use in Natural Areas:
The following native species are not recommended for
general use as they are highly restricted to specific
habitats in the Waterloo Region. They should be
planted only in the immediate vicinity of areas where
they now exist or have been reliably documented in
the past. This list has been adapted from lists
authored by the Region of Waterloo and the
Federation of Ontario Naturalists.
Key to Numbers:
1-Regionally Significant to Waterloo
2-Mainly restricted to Carolinian Forest Zone
3-Use only in North Dumfries Township (removed from
following list for Kitchener)
4-Use local genotypes only
SCIENTIFIC NAME
Trees:
COMMON NAME
Pinaceae
Picea glauca
Betulaceae
Alnus incana
ssp. rugosa
Betula populifolia
Fagaceae
Quercus ellipsoidalis
Rosaceae
Sorbus americana
Pine Family
White spruce 1
Birch Family
Speckled Alder 4
Grey birch1
Beech Family
Hill’s oak 1,4
Rose Family
Mountain-ash
Shrubs:
Betula pumila
Rosaceae
Amelanchier humilis
Amelanchier sanguinea
Amelanchier spicata
var. stolonifera
Rubus flagellaris
Rubus hispidus
Rubus odoratus
Swamp birch 1
Rose Family
Service-, Juneberry
Dwarf Juneberry
Serviceberry 1
Anacardiaceae
Rhus aromatica
Cashew Family
Fragrant sumac 1
Elaeagnaceae
Shepherdia canadensis
Oleaster Family
Soapberry 1
Araliaceae
Aralia hispida
Ginseng Family
Bristly sarsaparilla 1
Pyrolaceae
Chimaphila umbellata
Ericaceae
Andromeda polifolia
ssp. glaucophylla
Arctostaphylos uva-ursi
Chamaedaphne
calyculata
Epigaea repens
Gaultheria hispidula
Gaultheria procumbens
Gaylussacia baccata
Kalmia polifolia
Ledum groenlandicum
Vaccinium corymbosum
Vaccinium macrocarpon
Vaccinium oxycoccos
Vaccinium pallidum
Wintergreen Family
Pipsissewa 1,3
Heath Family
Bog-rosemary 1,4
Caprifoliaceae
Lonicera hirsuta
Lonicera oblongifolia
Viburnum alnifolium
Honeysuckle Family
Hairy honeysuckle 1,4
Swamp fly-honeysuckle 1,4
Hobble-bush 1,4
Myricaceae
Comptonia peregrina
Myrica gale
Betulaceae
Bayberry Family
Sweet-fern 1
Sweet gale 1
Birch Family
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Northern dewberry
Swamp dewberry
Purple-flowering
raspberry 1
Bearberry 4
Leatherleaf 4
Trailing arbutus 1,4
Creeping snowberry 1,4
Wintergreen 4
Black huckleberry 4
Bog-laurel
Labrador-tea 1,4
High-bush blueberry 1,4
Large cranberry 1,4
Small cranberry 1,4
Dryland blueberry 4
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15.0
Minimum acceptable sizes for plant material:
LANDSCAPE DESIGN

Deciduous Trees: 50 mm caliper for all land uses
except for Residential High Rise where 70 mm
caliper will be required

Coniferous Trees: 1.8 m high

Shrubs: 35-50 cm high minimum depending on
species.
Landscape Standards:
Appropriate landscaping is required to achieve the
following:

Provide seasonal colour, texture and variety.

Add visual interest to open spaces, blank facades
and enhance the appearance of building setbacks
and yard areas.

Soften dominant building mass and provide human
scale for the pedestrian.

Provide definition of public walkways, open areas
and private spaces.

Provide a consistent visual image between
adjacent properties and streetscape.

Screen unsightly areas and provide protection
from excessive wind, sun, rain and snow.

Stabilize steep embankments.

Mitigate or minimize the visual impact of parking
and service facilities from adjacent properties and
streets.

Achieve energy conservation and water efficiency.

Implement design practices which contribute to
successful long-term maintenance.

Protect natural features and promote tree
conservation.

Create safe urban environments.
Planting Standards for all Land Uses:
Planting Material Specifications
Figure 15.1 indicates the minimum landscape
standards for various types of development. These
features should be incorporated into the site plan and
later detailed on the landscape plan.
2010
The spacing of plant material should account for the
ultimate size and form of the selected species as well
as intention e.g. screening, shade, aesthetics,
naturalizing, rehabilitation, etc.
Sod / seed planting areas shall have a minimum
topsoil depth of 150mm. Shrub planting areas shall
have a minimum topsoil depth of 300mm. Areas
accommodating trees are required to have a minimum
of 1.0m continuous soil depth or a minimum of 20m3
of soil volume per tree (all depth measurements are
taken from base of root ball or container). Adequate
soil volume should be provided to allow for the
expected mature size of a tree, and, where necessary
this should go beyond the specified minimum of 20
cubic meters of soil. Project Landscape Architect to
provide written confirmation to City of Kitchener staff
that soil volumes noted have been achieved prior to
commencement of final planting.
For final acceptance of a project and release of the
Letter of Credit, all required plant material must be in
good health and actively growing. Seeded areas
should be well germinated with a minimum of 70%
coverage.
Tree Spacing
High branching deciduous trees (shade trees) are
required along property lines according to Figure 15.2.
These trees should have a mature height that is
expected to exceed eleven (11) metres and have an
expected crown spread of nine (9) metres or greater.
These perimeter planting requirements are in addition
to other landscape planting requirements that may be
necessary for a particular development.
Landscape plantings along property lines serve
numerous aesthetic, environmental and social
functions and in order for these plantings to thrive,
minimum soil depth/volume requirements and a
minimum bed-width to property line are required based
on proposed and adjacent land uses.
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LANDSCAPE SITE STANDARDS
Indus
Com
High
Rise
Res’al
Vehicular access to the site is to be defined by accent planting
Main building entrances to be identified by a landscape area (accent
and/or foundation planting)
Pedestrian walkways to building entrances to be provided from the
parking area
Walkways, flush curb & ramps to be provided and designed for people
with disabilities
Landscaping screening required for parking storage and service areas
Air vents and underground storage tanks are not to be located in the
landscaped area
Children’s recreation facilities c/w walkway connections from the
building to the recreational facilities
Where landscaping will be placed on a roof structure, the following
depths of materials are required:
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
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x
x
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x
x
x
x
x
x
x
• 15 cm of drainage gravel plus 40 cm topsoil for sod
• 15 cm of drainage gravel plus 60 cm topsoil for shrubs
• 15 cm of drainage gravel plus 90 cm topsoil for trees
x
Standard
x
Landscape screening of privacy areas required from adjacent
pedestrian walkways, internal roadways, recreational amenities &
service areas
Landscape screening and/or fencing required for all exposed parking,
ground-level units, service & garbage areas adjacent to other uses
Streetscape along internal roads
Landscape screening of rear yard setbacks between privacy areas of
townhouse blocks
Patios which may include wood decks required to be a minimum of
11m2 (not including steps)
Privacy screens (1.8m high wood screen fence required between rear
privacy areas of units
Privacy screen returns may be required depending upon layout of
townhouse blocks
For large and/or high profile sites, establish focal points or areas of
greater interest. For example, a sculpture, flower garden, pool
fountain, patio, naturalized areas, etc.
Incorporate landscape features into rest areas to provide protection
from environmental elements such as wind, sun, street noise, etc.
Construction of berms or grade changes is encouraged to provide
topographical relief
Bicycle racks
Intensive landscape treatment required at intersection of municipal
roadways
Pedestrian walkways to be minimum of 1.5m wide; walkways abutting
parking stalls a minimum of 1.8m . Walkways through the drive aisle
should be in an alternate, high-contrast material.
Emergency fire routes, other than vehicular routes, shall conform to
the to the satisfaction of the Deputy CAO Community Services
Division
Retaining walls over 1.0m high require a guard rail at top of the wall
2010
Low Rise
Res’al
Instit
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
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x
x
x
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x
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x
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LANDSCAPE SITE STANDARDS
Standard
Drainage swales shall be graded with gradually sloping banks and
sodded for stabilization and ease of maintenance
Landscaped portable sign locations
Recycling and garbage collection areas. For industrial sites,
enclosures are only required if the recycling and garbage
collection area is visible from street.
Curbed traffic islands defining major internal routes to be
minimum of 2.6m wide (measured from back face of curb to back
face of curb) for plant material installation
Ground supported and portable sign locations
Community Garden
Minimum required soil: sod/seed (150mm depth); shrub beds
(300mm depth) ; trees (1000mm continuous soil depth or 20m3
per tree).
Indus
Com
High
Rise
Res’al
Low Rise
Res’al
Instit
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
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x
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Figure 15.1 Landscape Requirements for Various Land Uses
Tree Spacing Requirements
Between Proposed and Adjacent Land Uses
Adjacent
Commercial
Adjacent
Industrial
Adjacent
Institutional
Adjacent
Residential /
Mixed Use
Adjacent
Municipal
Street
Adjacent
Green Belt/
Park
Commercial
12 m
9m
9m
6m
7.5 m
9m
Industrial
9m
12m
6m
6m
7.5 m
9m
Institutional
9m
9m
9m
6m
7.5 m
9m
6m
6m
6m
6m
7.5 m
9m
Municipal Street
7.5 m
7.5 m
7.5 m
N/A
N/A
Green Belt/Park
9m
9m
9m
N/A
N/A
Proposed
Land Use
Residential / Mixed
Use
7.5 m
9m
Note:
1. All plant material shall be nursery grown in accordance with C.N.L.A.
2. Minimum bed width for landscaped areas along property lines in industrial or commercial land uses adjacent to residential
or institutional land uses is 3m. For all other land uses 1.5m bed width is required.
3
3. Minimum 1.0m continuous soil depth or minimum 20m of soil volume per tree for all tree planting areas within medians
adjacent to road ways and islands within parking area.
Figure 15.2: Tree Spacing Requirements Between Proposed and Adjacent Land Uses
2010
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Signage within the Landscape:
All building and ground-based signage is subject
to the City of Kitchener Sign By-law. Sign permits
are required for all permanent and temporary
signage including contractor’s signs for new
construction. The City of Kitchener Sign By-law
can be found on-line at:
http://code.municipalworld.com/kitchener/680.pdf

Signage should not clutter the streetscape by way
of graphic overload or too much information.

Signage should compliment the architectural
design and materials of the building(s) found on
site.

Signage should be integrated into the landscape
design for the development and be illustrated on
the approved Landscape Plan.

Signage shall not obstruct drivers’ views of
approaching pedestrians or vehicular traffic.
Portable Signs
The key requirements of portable signs are:



To keep portable sign locations out of the road
right-of-way and improve the quality of the
streetscape, specific areas must be selected for
the placement of portable signs. Conceptual
layout and landscaping requirements for portable
signs are found in Figure 15.3.
To be placed in such defined locations as shown
on a landscape plan approved by the Director of
Planning, or designate, for all new development or
redevelopment sites. Landscape plantings are to
skirt the base of the lowest level of the trailer/sign
bed while still providing adequate access to the
portable sign.
Portable signs are prohibited within 0.6m of any lot
line, within 10m of any traffic light, within the
4.57m visibility triangle at an entrance or exit to a
site, or within the 4.57 visibility triangle where two
lots abut at a street line.
Ground Supported Signs
All ground supported signs are subject to the
requirements outlined in the City of Kitchener Sign Bylaw and should be designed and located to achieve
the following:

Signage should not impact or interfere with the
growth of either municipal street trees or on-site
trees. Removal or significant pruning of trees to
accommodate signage is not acceptable. A
minimum separation distance of 10 metres from
any existing or proposed tree trunk for signs
greater than 2.5 metres in height is required.
2010
Parking Lots:
Landscape plantings, including trees, are required
both around the perimeter of parking lots and on
parking lot islands internally on the site.
Landscaping of parking lots shall:

Provide an aesthetically pleasing view from the
street.

Break up the monotony of large expansive parking
surfaces.

Reduce summer pavement temperatures.

Unify, through landscaping, the appearance of the
subject site and co-ordinate it with the surrounding
development.

Screen adjacent areas from headlights, and the
view of cars.

Define access aisles to and from parking facilities.

Attractively and efficiently separate adjacent
parking lots under separate ownership and serving
separate developments (except in cases of joint
legal access).

Counter balance the ecological deterioration
caused by extensive pavement area and exhaust
emissions from automobiles.

Promote the safety and orientation of users.
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Figure 15.3: Conceptual Layout and Landscape Requirements for Portable Signs
2010
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Figure 15.4: Site Plan Illustrating Sign Restrictions for Sight Visibility
Figure 15.5: Planting Areas for Parking Lots
2010
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Landscape Development External to the Parking
Lot:
When a parking lot is located adjacent to a public rightof-way, a landscaped strip shall be provided on the
property between the parking lot and the right-of-way.
The landscaped strip may not include any paved area
except pedestrian walkways and parking lot and
loading zone driveways which cross the landscaped
strip.
Any of the following landscaped strip treatments may
be used alone or in combination:
Plant with a minimum of one (1) shade tree per 7.5
linear metres of frontage and four (4) square
metres of shrub beds abutting the wall per 7.5
linear metres of frontage undisturbed.
The equivalent number of trees and combining of
shrub beds can be provided in a group or groupings
along the landscaped strip. No shrub shall be more
than 0.6 metres high within the first metre parallel to
the property line. The remaining shrubs are to be
maintained at a maximum height of 1.2 metres, for
safety reasons and 1 metre maximum height within a
visibility triangle.

Provide a minimum 3 metre wide landscaped strip
between the right-of-way and the parking lot which
is to be planted with a minimum of one (1) shade
tree and twelve (12) square metres of shrub bed
per 7.5 metres of frontage.
The above noted groupings will provide opportunities
for visibility windows, mass shrub bed plantings, and
pedestrian access points. The use of these groupings
will discourage monotonous linear planting and
encourage imagination in design and layout.

Provide a minimum three (3) metre wide
landscaped strip and a maximum one (1) metre
grade drop from the right-of-way line to the
adjacent parking lot pavement. Plant the resulting
embankment with a minimum of one (1) shade
tree and eight (8) square metres of shrub bed per
7.5 linear metres of frontage, excluding driveway
openings
Landscape Requirements Around the Edge of
Parking Lots for Vehicular Sales Facilities:


Provide a minimum three (3) metre wide
landscaped strip and a berm, the top of which is at
least 0.75 metres higher than the elevation of the
adjacent parking lot pavement. The slope of the
berm shall not exceed 33% (3:1) for lawn areas.
Berms planted with ground covers and shrubs may
be steeper. However, no slope shall exceed 50%
(2:1). Berms should be graded to appear as
smooth, rounded, naturalistic forms. Avoid narrow
bumps, which result from creating too much height
for the width of the space. Plant with a minimum of
one (1) shade tree and eight (8) square metres of
shrub bed per 7.5 linear metres of frontage,
excluding driveway openings
Provide a minimum three (3) metre wide
landscaped strip between the right-of-way line and
the parking lot, with a 0.91 metre high brick, stone
or finished concrete wall to screen the parking lot.
2010
When a vehicular sales facility is located adjacent to a
public right-of-way, a three (3) metre wide landscape
strip shall be provided as per the requirements
contained in “Landscape Development External to the
Parking Lot”. The parking lot area landscape strip
requirements for vehicular sales facilities will allow for
the creation of picture frame(s) along streets for
vehicular sales display.
The following formula shall be used to determine the
display area allowed per street frontage: Linear
Distance of Street Frontage (from lot line to lot line or
from lot line to corner in metres) x 0.25 = Display area
(in metres). Vehicles in the display area shall be
located behind a continuous 30 cm height planting and
all vehicles shall be parked at grade.
Landscape Requirements for Development Internal
to a Parking Lot:

Divide lot into smaller sections by the use of
curbed, landscaped islands and peninsulas.

Islands (and circulation aisles) should be oriented
in the direction of pedestrian movement.

Islands or peninsulas are required at the end of
the parking aisles.
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
Landscaped planting areas, measured from
backside of curb, shall have a minimum dimension
of 2.6 m.


Islands and peninsulas are to be 1 m shorter (face
of curb) than the length of the adjacent parking
stall.
Irrigation Systems:

Planting area shall contain no more than one
shade tree per 11.5 square metres, minimum 50
mm caliper shade tree and suitable ground cover;
not pavement or turf.

No vehicular parking space shall be located farther
than twenty five metres (25m) from an interior
shade tree planting area. In addition, the
maximum number of parking stalls in a
consecutive row is 20 with a planting island
separating the next 20 stalls or drive aisle.




Planting islands are to be designed to hold 1
shade tree, minimum 50mm caliper, or 2
ornamental single stem trees (e.g. Serviceberry,
Crabapple, Silk Lilac, etc.) and a minimum one
half of the island area to be covered with shrubs or
perennial plantings. (Note: materials other than
trees should be specified to be 0.9m high or less)
and trees must be limbed up with no branches
between 0.9m and 1.6m high.
All interior landscaped planting areas must be
protected from the encroachment of automobile
traffic by continuous concrete curbing.
The City requires the installation of underground
irrigation systems for commercial properties and
prestigious industrial sites (i.e. Lancaster Corporate
Centre, sites zoned B-3, sites adjacent to Regional
roads). This requirement applies to ornamental
plantings within the streetscape. It is also highly
encouraged to install underground irrigation systems
for areas of high stress such as interior landscaped
planting areas in parking lots. The City also highly
recommends underground irrigation systems for
industrial, multi-residential and institutional sites.
Irrigation Design Criteria are as follows:

Commercial properties require irrigation
everywhere, including parking islands.

Cultivated landscaped areas shall be watered with
an irrigation system.

Irrigation sprinkler layouts shall be designed to
minimize the amount of spray that will fall on
sidewalks, neighbouring properties, and adjacent
buildings.

Back flow prevention devices shall be placed per
Ontario Regulation 815/84, plumbing code under
Ontario Water Resources Act.

The City encourages the use of water efficiency
system design and materials and the use of drip
irrigation where appropriate, depending on site
conditions (i.e. soil type, etc.).

All underground irrigation systems shall be
designed and certified by a Landscape Architect or
a certified irrigation designer.

Specifications for the irrigation system shall
include a watering schedule with amendments for
seasonal changes. Water used for irrigation shall
be minimized to the amount needed to maintain
adequate plant health and growth.
Plant material should be carefully chosen for
parking lot treatments having such qualities as:

Pollution, salt and drought tolerant.

Easily maintained.

Free of nuisance fruit or berries.

Hardy and strongly branched.

Ground cover rather than turf under trees.
Plant material at intersections shall not obstruct
drivers’ views of approaching pedestrians or
vehicular traffic and must be less than 0.9m in
height.
2010
Consideration must be given in the landscape
design for winter maintenance/snow plowing and
snow storage.
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
Install separate control valves for turf and non-turf
areas and to accommodate different water use
requirements within each control valve circuit.

If a system is found to have overspray resulting in
water wasted on paved or street areas, then
system modifications to prevent overspray will be
required before the release of the letter of credit.


In some areas, low angle trajectory sprinklers with
pressure compensating devices, bubblers, or drip
irrigation should be used to prevent excessive loss
of water due to dissipation from winds and surface
runoff.
The following irrigation system information should
be included:

Supply a hose bib for watering within a 30 m
radius of any garden plot.

Supply a location (room at ground floor with an
outside door or a garden shed) for the storage of
tenants’ rakes, shovels, hoses, etc.

Ensure that the community garden location
receives sufficient sunlight.
Invasive Non-Native Species:
The planting of aggressive non-native species within
or adjacent to woodlands or natural areas is
discouraged in order to help safeguard the long term
ecological integrity of these areas. Section 14
contains a list of trees and shrubs native to the
Waterloo Region and a list of aggressive alien species
which are not to be planted in the vicinity of woodlands
and natural areas.

Location and type of all sprinkler heads.

Size of mainline and irrigation piping.
Native Trees and Shrubs in Waterloo Region:

Location and size of water meter.

Location of backflow prevention device.

Location, size and circuit numbers of all
valves.

Location of irrigation controller.

A table showing the manufacturer and model
number of all parts used in the irrigation plan.
The species making up this list are indigenous to the
Waterloo Region and some are Regionally Significant.
Species restricted to the Carolinian Forest Zone have
been highlighted. Although most Carolinian species
are only found in North Dumfries Township some do
occur north of this area (e.g. Juniperus virginiana,
Eastern Red Cedar). A complete listing of the Native
Trees and Shrubs of Waterloo Region is located in
Section 14.

Location of rain sensors and/or tensiometer (a
sensor which measures soil moisture and
salinity) to avoid over watering.
Community Garden:
The following are standards for the development of a
community garden within a high rise or multiresidential development:
 Supply a minimum of one garden plot per every 18
units within the development.

Supply a minimum of 2.35 sq. m of garden area
per unit.

Gardens are suggested to be 4.6 m x 4.6 m with a
minimum of 1.5 m walkway around each garden to
allow access to each side of a garden plot.
2010
Landscape Plan Submission Requirements:
All landscape plans are to bear the Landscape
Architect’s “Ontario Association of Landscape
Architects” membership stamp and signature.
Where it has been determined by the City’s Director of
Planning that the proposed development will require
limited landscaping, the requirement above will be
waived with the provision that it will be reinstated if
satisfactory landscape plans have not been produced
after two formal submissions.
Landscape plan(s) submissions are to conform to the
City’s approved Site Plan. The grading is to conform to
the Site Grading, Drainage and Siltation Erosion
Control Plan and Storm Water Management Plans for
this project as submitted by the Professional Engineer
(s) for the project.
Landscape Plan(s) submissions are to be final design
and working drawings. All landscape plan(s)
submissions are to be FOLDED to letter or legal size.
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All landscape plan(s) submissions are to be submitted
at a maximum scale of 1:250.
Landscape plans are to include the following
information and drawing instructions:

A Key Plan at a scale of approximately 1:10,000
indicating the exact location of the site with a north
arrow.

Plant material is to be clearly located and labeled
with a key system. A plant list is to include the full
botanical name, common name, quantity, caliper,
height, spread and special remarks.

Planting details - coniferous and deciduous trees
and shrubs (stalking, guying, installation, etc.).

Soil depth/volume, types and additives (fertilizers,
peat moss, mulch etc.).

Natural features which are existing and those
which the developer has designated for
preservation, shall be indicated.

Landscape structures - benches, play structures,
fences, walkways, garbage enclosure, retaining
walls, planters, stairs, ramps, etc.

Existing and proposed contours.


Top and bottom of bank contours of all water
courses within the property.
Playground structure details and CSA design
standard certification

Adjacent roads and properties surrounding the
subject lands are to be adequately marked with
spot elevations to show the slope of the land.
Surface materials should be specified and
installation details provided e.g.paving, sodding,
seeding, etc.

All existing trees to be either preserved or
removed are to be accurately located and clearly
identified as to the species, diameter and condition
on the plan. If these trees are large, they should
be dealt with on an individual basis, otherwise,
general areas of small trees or shrub growth may
be shown. Trees on adjacent properties that will
be impacted by the proposed development should
also be noted.


Proposed walls within the project boundaries are
to be marked with “top of wall” and “bottom of wall”
elevations.

Steps shall be shown indicating their number and
size. Spot elevations are to be shown at the top
and bottom of the steps - drainage and flow arrows
to indicate direction of drainage.

All catch basins and sub-drains shall be clearly
marked with proposed spot elevations.

Type and location of all easements, sight triangles
and road widenings.

Building entrances and spot elevations at each
entrance (door and garages) and show the
finished ground floor elevations of all buildings.

Adult’s and children’s amenity areas should be
illustrated and fully dimensioned.


Snow storage areas or methods of snow disposal.
Location and elevation of underground structures.


Location of walkways, parking lots, screens,
garbage enclosures, protective fencing, exterior
lighting, street furniture, hydrants, curbs, ground
supported and portable signs, and all other
existing and proposed features.
The following declarations should be included on
all Landscape Plans:

Location of all temporary contractor signs,
development notices, zone change notices, etc.
must be indicated on landscape and site plans.
2010
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We agree to implement the approved landscape
plans within one year of the date of first
occupancy and will retain the Landscape
Architect/Designer to make periodic site
inspections and on completion of the landscape
works, we will forward to you a copy of the Site
Development Works Notification Form from the
Landscape Architect/Designer.
Any revision to the landscape plans will be
submitted to the Urban Designer, City of
Kitchener, before commencement of the works,
for review and approval.
We hereby authorize the City, its employees,
agents or contractors to enter upon our land to
which these drawings apply, to complete the
required site development works and agree to
indemnify the City and its authorized agents and
save them harmless from any and all actions
arising out of the exercises by the City, its
employees, agents or contractors of the rights
hereby given to them. And we further undertake
to notify the City forthwith of any change of
ownership of the said lands.
I hereby certify that the Landscape Plans and the
Site Grading, Drainage and Erosion Control, and
Storm Water Management Plans for this project are
coordinated with respect to proposed works and site
conditions.
_________________________________________
Signature and stamp (if applicable) of Landscape
Architect/Designer:
__________________________________________
Date
___________________________________________
Signature and optional stamp of the Professional
Consultant(s) for Site Grading, Drainage and
Siltation Control, and Storm Water Management.
__________________________________________
Date
Fencing Requirements:
Wood Fencing
_______________________________________
Signature of Owner
The following are standards for typical solid screen
fencing:
_______________________________________
Name of Owner

Height to be 1.8 m unless otherwise noted on the
approved site plan.
_______________________________________
Address

Footings minimum 1.2 m deep poured concrete in
sonotubes.
_______________________________________
Date

Posts maximum of 2.4 m on centre.

Fasteners are to be non-corrosive (e.g. galvanized
rail hangers or brackets).
______________________________________________
Telephone
Chain Link Fence
Galvanized chain link fencing is to be detailed and
installed in a manner conforming to the detail found in
Figure 15.6.
Acoustical Walls
The design and structure of acoustical walls are to be
certified by the Consulting Engineer for the project and
approved by the Regional Municipality of Waterloo and
the Manager of Site Development and Customer
Services in Community Services Department City of
Kitchener.
2010
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Figure 15.6: Chain link Fence Details
2010
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Cycling Facilities
The design of our urban areas has a significant impact
on people’s ability/willingness to cycle. The bikeway
and trail network recommended in the City’s Bikeways
Study and the Regional Cycling Master Plan identifies
a network of routes and design specifications intended
to make cycling a comfortable, safe and viable mode
of transportation. Development in all land uses will
provide bicycle parking according to the appropriate
rate noted below and be designed and located to
achieve the following criteria.
Bicycle racks must be designed so that they:

Do not bend wheels or damage other bicycle
parts.

Have two points of contact with the bike.

Accommodate U-shape locks which secure the
frame and both wheels.

Are separated from motor vehicles.

Do not interfere with pedestrians.

Are covered where users will leave their bikes for
longer periods of time.

Are easily accessible from the street.

Are securely anchored to a hard surface or a
structure.
cycling in inclement weather. To promote
transportation based on cycling, sheltered bicycle
parking should be provided to encourage cycling in all
weather conditions.
Covered parking is necessary for land uses where
long-term bicycle parking is anticipated, for example,
some residential, institutional, commercial and
industrial uses having concentrated numbers of users.
For customers, visitors and other occasional shortterm users, covered parking is also beneficial.
Covered spaces can be building or roof overhangs,
awnings, lockers or bicycle storage spaces within
buildings.
The effectiveness of bicycle parking is often
determined by location. To reduce theft, a highly
visible location with pedestrian traffic is preferable to
obscure and dark corners. Because of its smaller size,
the bicycle can be parked closer to the rider’s
destination than a car.
Bicycle parking should be located in well lit, secure
locations within 15 metres of the main entrance to a
building, but not further from the entrance than the
closest automobile parking space, but in no case
further than 15 metres from an entrance where several
entrances are involved. Curb cuts at the rack location
discourage users from riding on the sidewalk to access
the racks.
Bicycle Parking Requirements
Land Use
Required Number of
Spaces
All land uses except
school-related
Institutional
10% of the number of
automobile spaces required
by the zoning by-law
College or University
6% of the number of
students plus 10% of
required parking spaces
Primary or Secondary
School
10% of the number of
students plus 10% of
required parking spaces
Bicycle Parking:
Dimensions


Bicycle parking spaces should be at least 1.8
metres long and 0.6 metres wide, and overhead
clearance in covered spaces should be at least 2.1
metres.
A 1.5 metre aisle for bicycle maneuvering should
be provided and maintained beside or between
each row of bicycle parking.
Covered Parking
The Canadian climate permits cycling virtually year
round. Leaving bicycles parked and exposed to
precipitation for longer periods of time is a deterrent to
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Garbage/Recycling Collection Structures:
A structure to accommodate garbage and recycling complete with roof, walls and a solid door – is required
for all multi-residential, institutional and commercial
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developments. Enclosures must be constructed of
material that is similar to or compatible with the
architecture of the main buildings.
Additional storage for materials that relate to the
proposed development may be required e.g. storage
of oil/grease recycling, coffee grounds or auto parts.
Collection facilities associated with restaurants,
grocery stores, etc. contain a higher percentage of
food waste. It is preferred that such uses integrate
garbage/recycling storage within the main building and
incorporate adequate ventilation and seals to ensure
rodent resistance and odor prevention. If HVAC
equipment is utilized for garbage/recycling enclosures
it must be screened in accordance with the provisions
of Section 7.0.
Garbage/recycling storage facilities shall not be
situated next to a rear or side lot line that abuts
existing or potential residential uses.
Industrial developments are required to have complete
enclosures only when visible from a public street.
Required building setbacks will apply to all structures.
Although stand alone facilities may be used for
facilities associated with any form of medical or dental
use, waste storage should, preferably, be located
within the main building. All medical waste storage
facilities must contain an effective locking mechanism
for security purposes.
As an alternative to a full enclosure, deep well
collection systems may be used for any commercial
institutional or multi-residential development.
All garbage/recycling storage areas are to be designed
such that they are easily accessible by service
vehicles and do not require the collection vehicle to
reverse out onto a public street.
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COMMUNITY TRAILS
Trail Grading Requirements:
Definitions
Grade:
Community Trails are both a recreational facility and a
non-vehicular traffic route. Community trails provide for
a variety of recreational experiences, are universally
accessible and are included in all land use
designations throughout the city.

5% preferred

8% maximum

20% maximum over distances of one meter or less
Cross Slope:
Standards
Community Trails shall be located throughout the City
as identified in the Leisure Facilities Strategic Plan,
Community Plans, Greenspace Management Plans,
Kitchener Bikeway Study and Plans of Subdivision.
The primary corridors for Community Trails are
provided by hydro corridors, floodplains, stream
courses, parks, stormwater management areas,
abandoned railway lines, woodlands, wetlands and
other natural areas.
Planning and Engineering:
Community Trails are a component of the urban
infrastructure and are a requirement within all Plans of
Subdivision.
Community Trails and the requirements to implement
these facilities shall be considered in the preparation
of:
 City of Kitchener Subdivision Manual

2% preferred

5% maximum

10% maximum over distances of one meter or less
Width:

Rough grading - 4.0 meters

Trail Surface – 3.0 meters
Excavation:
Existing soil topsoil shall be removed to a depth of 0.3
meters (300mm) to provide for surfacing material
installation. Unsuitable soil shall be removed to
additional depths as required and replaced with
structural fill and compacted to 95% spd.
Excavation may be deleted in woodlands or other
areas where damage to tree roots or other vegetation
would occur. Filling only with trail surfacing is
acceptable in these instances.

Community Plans

Greenspace Management Plans

Environmental Impact Statements for Subdivisions

Draft Plans of Subdivision
Drainage:

Grading Control Plans for Subdivisions

Subdivision Agreements
Concentrated surface runoff shall not be directed
across or along the proposed trail surface. Swales or
culverts shall be provided within the trail corridor.
The planning, design, engineering and final grading of
all Community Trail routes shall be provided by the
developer in all Plans of Subdivision.
Surfacing:
The sub-grade shall be compacted to 95% spd, except
in woodlands. Granular base course of 50mm gravel
to a depth of 200mm. Surface of recycled asphalt to a
depth of 50mm or other surfacing as required for slope
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conditions, including oil and chip, hot laid asphalt and
boardwalks.
Erosion:
Re-vegetation of graded trail corridor shall be provided
to prevent soil Erosion.
Accessibility by the physically challenged shall be
considered in the location and grading of Community
Trails. All trails need not be accessible to the
physically challenged, but a representational
experience of all natural areas must be provided to all
trail users. Alternative routes shall be identified which
are accessible to the physically challenged if the
primary trail is not.
Vehicle Control Barriers:
Bollards and standard park gates are required at all
intersections with roadways or other vehicle routes to
control vehicle access and user safety.
Signage:
Standard post type signage is required at all roadway
intersections.
Details:
Figure 16.1: Community Trail Entrance Sign
Figure 16.2: Community Trail Road Crossing
Figure 16.3: Community Trail Bollard
Figure 16.4: Community Trail Asphalt Paving
Figure 16.5: Community Trail Stonedust Paving
Figure 16.6: Community Trail Metal Gate
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Figure 16.1: Community Trail Entrance Sign
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Figure 16.2: Community Trail Road Crossing
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Figure 16.3: Community Trail Bollard
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Figure 16.4: Community Trail Asphalt Paving
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Figure 16.5: Community Trail Stonedust Paving
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Figure 16.6: Community Trail Metal Gate
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17.0
BUILDING DESIGN
AND SUSTAINABLE
DESIGN ELEMENTS IN
THE RIGHT OF WAY
In January 2007 the Province’s Planning and
Conservation Statute Law Amendment Act (Bill 51)
came into effect and in the spring of 2009 the City of
Kitchener amended its Official Plan and Site Plan
Control By-law to make use of the new legislative
powers afforded by Bill 51 to require and review plans,
elevations and cross sections addressing the exterior
design of buildings and sustainable design elements
within municipal right-of-ways.
Building materials specifications and colour renderings
will be required and samples of proposed materials
may be requested.
The exterior design of all buildings proposed through
site plan as well as proposed sustainable streetscape
design elements shall be consistent with all applicable
Council-approved design policies, guidelines and
design briefs.
These legislative changes enabled the City to
“promote development that is attractive, wellintegrated and environmentally sustainable” and are in
keeping with the City’s vision to further advance its
Urban Design framework.
The Site Plan Review Committee endeavours to
achieve site and building designs of the highest caliber
by evaluating each application on a site-by-site basis.
This Urban Design Manual and the component Design
Briefs serve as guiding documents and reference
points in the review of Site Plan applications and
subordinate plans and documents. The Committee is
cognizant of the fact that each application is different
and therefore flexibility is critical to the interpretation of
the Manual’s design standards. The committee
balances this need for flexibility against the need for
consistency and fairness.
As a condition of Site Plan Approval, all proposals for
either new development or for redevelopment will be
required to submit and have approved drawings
showing plan, elevation and cross-section views for all
buildings to be erected. This includes all buildings to
be used for residential purposes regardless of the
number of units.
Plans should be submitted that are sufficiently detailed
to illustrate the following exterior building design
considerations including, without limitation:
 Character
 Scale
 Appearance
 Design features
 Sustainable design.
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PUBLIC ART
balanced program that can be successfully
integrated with the construction phase of the
development.
Definitions
Public Art is artwork located on sites in publicly
accessible spaces to provide visual stimulation,
cultural enrichment and a sense of place; public art
should be viewed broadly to include visual art, building
elements and landscape design. Artwork creates a
relationship between communities and development.

Public art is to be cited in the request for
proposal of all eligible projects.

Public art should be sited at the more publicly
accessible parts of the site.

Public art should be sited in a manner which
does not jeopardize other design objectives
such as providing clear sight lines, barrier-free
access and personal safety and security.
Standards

The City of Kitchener shall allocate one percent of
the budget for civic building construction or
renovation projects over $100,000 towards the
provision of art to be displayed in public areas, or
as part of the building structure.

The City of Kitchener will encourage new
commercial and institutional construction or
renovations to include the provision for public art
in the construction budget.

Public art may play a functional or decorative
purpose within buildings, on specific development
sites, or strategic community locations. It is
intended that the application of the concept of
Public Art include a wide range of art forms.
Building or landscape elements, such as
fountains, decorative doorways, signage,
architectural features, lobby or other public area
design elements, murals, sculpture or other
graphic expressions of any materials (glass, metal,
concrete, fabric, wood, neon, etc.) are considered
public art and may be used.


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In the development of any project or community
plan, the City may identify and suggest
opportunities for public art within the specific
development or community area.

Public Art competitions are selected by jury
process as facilitated by City staff (Arts & Culture
Coordinator) and members of the Public Art
Working Group. To assist in the development of
site artwork theme and design, the following public
criteria may be considered:

What are the ages and socio-cultural
backgrounds of the community expected to
use this space?

How can an art work pay particular attention to
the needs of children - to stimulate curiosity
and imagination, encourage play and
exploration?

How may the special needs of the elderly be
taken into account - providing seats, shade,
places to talk, places to watch people?

Public art is encouraged to be integrated into
the site and conceived with the historical and
future context in mind.
What is the history of the area or of the site:
what images could be drawn upon to offer a
community memory of the area?

Public art opportunities should be identified in
the conceptual stages in any project or public
work development in order to provide a well-
What are some characteristic traditions,
festivities, celebrations, social events in the
community?

Are there local writers, artists, philosophers,
scientists, community leaders who could be
The following considerations should be taken into
account in determining the location for public art:


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celebrated in an imaginative work of public
art?

What are the occupations or industries that
were originally prevalent in the area, or on
which the community was founded?

Are there any stories or legends associated
with the region?

What historical event took place on the site or recent events that are worthy of
remembrance?

How can the placement of the art work
enhance the way people use the space?

How can access by pedestrians of all ages be
ensured?

How can one ensure that the art work is in a
public space - that is, accessible at all times
and not under private management?

What level of durability and maintenance will
be required given the sites’ weather
conditions?
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REQUIRED
SUPPLEMENTARY
STUDIES
For many development proposals additional studies or
documentation may be required as either part of the
initial site plan application or as a condition of final
approval. The need for and scope of any required
study is generally determined at the pre-application
stage for the proposal. Occasionally, the need for
additional information may not be apparent until the
formal site plan application is reviewed.
Satisfactory completion of all required studies and the
subsequent implementation of all approved
recommendations related to the issue will be included
in the conditions of final approval and the registered
development agreement for the proposal.
Examples of possible supplementary studies could
include but are not limited to:

Angular Plane Analysis

Heritage Impact Assessment

Noise Study

Record of Site Conditions

Snow Deposition Analysis

Transportation Impact Study

Transportation Demand Management (TDM)

Urban Design Brief

Viewshed Analysis

Wind Study

Salt Management Report

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design
(CPTED) Report
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HERTIAGE IMPACT
ASSESSMENT
and/or rehabilitation is usually involved.
Consideration should be given to whether the new
use of the heritage resource renders its
significance invalid.
Standards
Requirements of the Heritage Impact
Assessment:
Incorporation
The following typically make up the minimum required
components of a Heritage Impact Assessment:


Identification and evaluation of the significance of
the heritage resources, including the completion of
a detailed occupational and/or site biography.

Documentation of the heritage resources by way
of photographs and/or measured drawings, and by
mapping the context and setting of the heritage
resources.

An outline of the context of the development
proposal as submitted, including identification of
the potential impact the proposal would have on
the heritage resources identified.

Identification of several conservation options.
Conservation options should be based on the
determination of the significance of the heritage
resources in the area, its importance to the
community, and should take into consideration
existing Federal, Provincial, Regional and
Municipal policies and standards as appropriate.
The ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ of each conservation option
in favour of preserving the integrity and value of
the resource shall be clearly identified and a
preferred option recommended. Examples of
conservation options include but are not limited to
the following:
This is an adaptive re-use strategy that typically
requires significant alteration. An addition may be
incorporated into the heritage resource to provide
more living space or accommodate a new function;
or the heritage resource may itself be incorporated
into a much larger building, leaving all or part of
the original exterior and interior. Where Adaptive
Re-Use and Incorporation strategies are
considered, development may occur around the
heritage resource and create a sympathetic
context where adjacent development would be
compatible in style and form to the resource being
preserved.
Salvage Mitigation:
Where it is not possible to retain the heritage resource
intact, other less preferable options may be considered
such as Salvage Mitigation, recognizing however that
such options should be regarded as “last resorts”,
acceptable only after other options have been
considered and demonstrated not to be viable.
Salvage mitigation strategies for Heritage Resources
listed in order of preference include:
Relocation

Avoidance Mitigation:
This option includes relocating a heritage resource
away from the development to another setting.
Consideration should be given to whether the new
location of the resource renders its significance
invalid.
Preservation/Conservation

This refers to maintaining the heritage resources
without altering it or its setting. Some degree of
restoration and/or rehabilitation work may be
required to properly preserve the resource.
Adaptive Re-Use

Ruinification

Allows the exterior of a heritage resource to stand
as a monument after the interior has been
completely removed.
Symbolic Conservation
This option is used when a heritage resource can
be recycled, often for a new function. Restoration
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
Includes recovering unique or important
components of a heritage resource and
incorporating those components into the
construction of new buildings, or copying
distinctive elements of the lost resource into the
subsequent development.
Conservation options recommending the retention of
all or part of the heritage resources shall identify the
lot(s) or block(s) on which the heritage resources
should be located. In addition, the ‘preferred option’
shall identify recommended mitigative measures that
would minimize adverse or negative impacts to the
heritage resources, including its loss or destruction,
diminishing its heritage significance or preventing its
use or appreciation as a heritage resource. For
heritage resources where impacts cannot be avoided
or otherwise mitigated, demolition may be considered.
A detailed explanation why the application of
conservation options is not possible must be provided.
Heritage Impact Assessments shall be completed by
individuals who are qualified to comment on the
various issues to be addressed in the assessment. To
some extent some of the information to be included in
the assessment is available “in house” from the City
Heritage Planner, Heritage Kitchener (the Local
Architectural Conservation Advisory Committee), and
through the developer or applicant. Other
requirements of the assessment may require the
services of a professional heritage consultant.
STREET LEVEL
WIND/SNOW IMPACT
STUDY
The design and positioning of new buildings shall have
regard for the potential impact that the development
may have on ground level wind conditions both on the
proposed site and adjacent streets, sites and open
space areas. New development should not alter
existing wind conditions to the extent that it creates or
aggravates conditions of wind turbulence and velocity
which hamper pedestrian movement, or which
discourage the use of open space areas.
reduce adverse wind conditions to more acceptable
levels. Where preliminary findings warrant a more
detailed approach, the wind impact statement shall
include a wind tunnel analysis of the project.
The requirements for a wind impact statement may be
imposed at an early stage in the consideration of
applications for rezoning or site plan review. A street
level wind impact study will quantify and compare
existing wind conditions with the estimated conditions
that would occur with the proposed development and
be evaluated against standard appropriate comfort
criteria for the City of Kitchener.
The study should also include recommendations for
reducing any potential negative wind related impacts
from the development proposal including mitigation or
design alteration.
In our region where snow can be a factor, snow
loading and drifting can cause serious problems for
buildings and structures. Snow accumulation
increases structural loads, sometimes to the point of
failure and drifts can obstruct roadways, walkways,
and building entries.
In some instances, a snow deposition study may be
required as part of the site plan approval process.
SHADOW STUDIES AND
ANGULAR PLANE
ANALYSIS
Shadow studies and / or Angular Plane Analysis may
be requested in support of applications for re-zoning or
site plan approval to demonstrate that the height,
massing and/or location of a building will not create
unacceptable impacts on adjacent lands.
These studies may be requested by the City for
buildings greater than 12.0 m in height which may
impact adjacent residential properties, public parkland
or open spaces.
The street level wind impact study shall be sufficient to
describe the predicted street level wind conditions
associated with the proposed development and the
measures or design modifications that may be taken to
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LETTER OF CREDIT
POLICY FOR SITE
DEVELOPMENT
WORKS
Requirements for Cost Estimate and Letter of
Credit:
For development proposals approved under Section
41 of the Planning Act - Site Plan Approval - the City
may require the completion of a cost estimate for
required site development works and the posting of
performance securities to be held against the
completion of such works. This security is most
commonly in the form of a Letter of Credit or certified
cheque.
The cost estimate and required securities must be
submitted prior to final site plan approval.
A guide to the City of Kitchener’s current Letter of
Credit Policy can be found at:
Letter of Credit
A fillable spreadsheet version of the current cost
estimate form is available at:
Cost Estimate Spreadsheet
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CITY POLICIES
RELEVANT TO SITE
PLAN APPROVAL
Site Alteration By-law
The City of Kitchener passed By-law 2010-43
prohibiting or regulating the placing or dumping of fill,
the removal of soil and the alteration of the grade of
land. Under this By-law ‘site alteration’ activities on
properties 0.405 hectares (1 acre) and greater may
require a Site Alteration Permit be obtained. Site
Alteration Permits are administered by the Engineering
Services Department. Additional information can be
found at:
Site Alteration By-law
Tree Conservation By-law
The City of Kitchener passed By-law 2010-42
prohibiting or regulating the destruction or injuring
of tree(s). Under this By-law the destruction or
injuring of a tree(s) on properties 0.405 hectares
(1 acre) and greater may require a Tree
Conservation Permit to be obtained. Tree
Conservation Permits are administered by the
Planning Department. Additional information can
be found at:
Tree Conservation By-law
Telecommunication Tower and Antenna Protocol
The regulation and approval of telecommunication
towers, antennas and related facilities falls under
federal responsibility and is governed by the
Radiocommunication Act administered by Industry
Canada.
Telecommunication tower and antenna protocol
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