Residential Character Study
A study about the elements and features that characterize a neighbourhood or area.
The town initiated a Residential Character Study to gain a better understanding of the elements and qualities that contribute to residential character – the “look and feel” of an area.
The study is intended to inform potential improvements to policy, urban design direction, zoning and other processes. The study looks at the residential areas south of Dundas Street, excluding growth areas and heritage districts.
Residential Character Study (final)
What is residential character?
Livable Oakville defines character as “the collective qualities and characteristics that distinguish a particular area or neighbourhood”. Basically, it’s the look and feel of your neighbourhood.
Residential character is created by a combination of public and private elements and qualities, including, but not limited to:
Private Realm
- Landscaping
- Building heights
- Sidewalks
- Front yards
- Distance between buildings
- Fences
- Garages
Public Realm
- Street trees
- Road profile
- Sidewalks
- Infrastructure (such as power lines)
Final Study
The Residential Character Study was received by Planning and Development Council on January 15, 2018.
Public Engagement
November 23, 2017 - Open House
- The drop-in house was an opportunity for the public to review and provide feedback on the Draft Residential Character Study document before it went to Council in 2018.
- November 23, 2017 Residential Character Study open house materials (pdf)
September 2017 - Online Survey
- Staff received over 500 responses to the online survey and prepared a summary of the feedback.
September 2017 - Open Houses
- Six open houses were held across the town to introduce the study, discuss findings from the background research and analysis and receive feedback from residents.
- Central Branch – Oakville Public Library, September 13, 2017
- River Oaks Community Centre, September 14, 2017
- Glen Abbey Community Centre, September 18, 2017
- Clearview Branch – Oakville Public Library, September 19, 2017
- Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre, September 21, 2017
- Town Hall, September 27, 2017
August 2017 - Residents Association Walking Tours
- Four walking tours were held in August 2017 with residents’ associations to introduce the study, discuss aspects of character in a residential setting, consider their opinions and share knowledge.
Livable Oakville Council Sub-committee
- November 6, 2017 - The Livable Oakville Subcommittee received an update report summarizing feedback received to date and next steps
- June 12, 2017 - The Livable Oakville Subcommittee received the terms of reference for the study