Exclusionary Zoning
Exclusionary zoning limits housing types and density, reducing affordability and diversity in communities.
September 30, 2025
What is Exclusionary Zoning?
Exclusionary zoning refers to land use policies that limit housing types or density, often by requiring large lot sizes, single-family homes, or restrictive conditions. These practices reduce affordability and restrict diverse housing supply.
Why Exclusionary Zoning Matters in Real Estate
Exclusionary zoning matters in real estate because it influences who can live in certain areas, often reinforcing socioeconomic or racial segregation. Reforming exclusionary practices is a key focus in housing policy debates.
Example of Exclusionary Zoning in Action
A municipality mandates single-family zoning on most residential land, preventing construction of duplexes or apartments and limiting affordable housing supply.
Key Takeaways
- Restricts housing types or density through zoning.
- Contributes to affordability and supply challenges.
- Can reinforce socioeconomic segregation.
- Reform is a focus of housing affordability efforts.
- Contrasts with inclusionary zoning policies.
Related Terms
- Inclusionary Zoning
- Density Study
- Land Use Bylaws
- Urban Planning
- Housing Affordability


Canada residential unit sales by month, actual, 2019 and 2024-2026. Data through June 2026. Source:
Canada residential sales-to-new-listings ratio, actual, January 2025 to June 2026. Source:
Canada residential months of inventory, actual, January 2025 to June 2026. Source: Source:
Year-over-year change in residential average sale price for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2022 to June 2026. Average price is shown here as a regional mix measure, not a substitute for HPI or local comparable sales. Source:
Year-over-year change in residential unit sales for Canada, Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta, January 2024 to June 2026. Source: 






15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)
Renderings of the tower proposed for 15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)

Goldberg Group 
10-storey apartment building currently occupying 525 Eglinton Avenue East/WND Associates
Rendering of 525 Eglinton Avenue East/Wallman Architects
The Mayfair West site and its surrounding context. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
Renderings of Mayfair West. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
