Brampton residents are uniting this Sunday, September 22, at Ken Whillans Square from 12 PM to 2 PM to rally in support of new regulations targeting illegal rooming houses, overcrowded rental units, and excessive subletting. The event aims to raise awareness about the need for enhanced property standards and to protect resident safety.
Brampton City Council is considering stricter regulations, introduced by Councillor Rowena Santos, as part of the city’s ongoing Residential Rental Licensing (RRL) program. The proposed rules would establish occupancy limits, cracking down on unsafe rentals. Since January, the RRL program has inspected over 4,700 units and issued more than $83,500 in fines for non-compliance.
“We must protect our residents from unsafe living conditions,” said Councillor Santos, underscoring the urgency of addressing overcrowded and illegal rentals. Santos highlighted disturbing cases, such as female students being exploited for rent.
Additionally, City Council is exploring a temporary pause on new basement suite developments due to ongoing safety and fire code concerns. A report outlining how to enforce the new occupancy limits and manage illegal subletting is expected soon.
Residents are encouraged to attend the rally to voice their support for safer, more regulated rental environments. Signs with messages like “Pause ARUs,” “Keep Our Neighborhoods Safe,” and “Enforce Property Standards” will be on display.