In a revealing examination of Toronto's urban development policies, journalist Chris Selley exposes the city's contradictory relationship with small neighbourhood businesses. While nearly everyone claims to support the concept of local retail, the reality tells a different story.
The Great Toronto Contradiction
Living in Toronto means witnessing a recurring pattern where perfectionism consistently undermines practical progress. This dynamic has played out dramatically in what was touted as a major policy shift: the recent legalization of neighbourhood retail in residential areas.
The change, while theoretically positive, comes with so many restrictions that it barely qualifies as progress. After decades of prohibiting small retail establishments in residential neighbourhoods since the 1950s, Toronto has finally allowed corner stores, cafes, and small shops to return - but with conditions that make successful operation nearly impossible.
Restrictions That Strangle Small Business
The new regulations reveal the city's true attitude toward small entrepreneurship. Businesses face a labyrinth of constraints including location requirements that limit operations to corner lots or properties adjacent to parks, schools, or commercial zones.
The interior space cannot exceed 110 square metres, with additional confusing calculations that even experienced journalists struggle to interpret. Outdoor displays face strict limitations of 10 square metres and must maintain a 7.5-metre distance from any private property lines.
Perhaps most absurdly, any food served on-site must be prepared elsewhere - a requirement that directly contradicts the concept of quality neighbourhood cafes and restaurants.
Neighbourhood Opposition and Enforcement
According to Selley, the regulations have created an environment where opponents of local businesses are eagerly awaiting opportunities to enforce every technicality. These neighbours are described as polishing their tape measures, just salivating at the prospect of enforcing the letter of the rules to make some entrepreneur's life difficult.
This hostile environment raises questions about whether Toronto truly wants vibrant neighbourhood retail or simply wants to maintain the appearance of supporting small business while ensuring its failure through bureaucratic obstacles.
The situation highlights the city's ongoing struggle between progressive urban ideals and practical implementation, leaving aspiring small business owners caught in a web of regulations that undermine the very concept of neighbourhood convenience and community gathering spaces.
