Infill Development

Learn about infill development in Canadian real estate — what it is, its benefits, and how it supports sustainable urban growth.

Infill Development

July 29, 2025


What is Infill Development?

Infill development is the process of building new housing, commercial buildings, or amenities on vacant or underutilized land within existing urban areas.

Why Infill Development Matters in Real Estate

In Canadian urban planning, infill development supports smart growth by making efficient use of existing infrastructure and reducing urban sprawl.



Key benefits:
  • Revitalizes older neighbourhoods
  • Supports transit-oriented communities
  • Reduces pressure on agricultural or natural lands



Understanding infill development helps municipalities, developers, and residents balance growth and community character.

Example of Infill Development in Action

The city encouraged infill development by offering incentives for building new townhouses on a former industrial site.

Key Takeaways

  • Builds on vacant or underused urban land
  • Promotes efficient infrastructure use
  • Helps revitalize established areas
  • Reduces urban sprawl
  • Requires careful community consultation

Related Terms

Additional Terms

Public Realm Improvements

Public realm improvements are enhancements to public spaces such as sidewalks, parks, plazas, and streetscapes, often funded or contributed by. more

Mortgagee in Possession

A mortgagee in possession is a lender who takes control of a property after borrower default, but before foreclosure or power of sale. The lender. more

Lease Surrender Agreement

A lease surrender agreement is a negotiated contract between a landlord and tenant that ends a lease before its scheduled expiration. Terms may. more

Green Infrastructure

Green infrastructure refers to natural or engineered systems that manage stormwater, reduce heat, and improve sustainability in developments.. more

Escrow Holdback

An escrow holdback is a portion of funds withheld at closing and held in escrow until specific conditions are met, such as completion of repairs,. more

Underused Housing Tax

The Underused Housing Tax (UHT) is a federal annual 1% tax on the value of vacant or underused residential property owned by non-resident,. more

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