MPP Stevens calls to ban predatory paid visitor parking in rental buildings

QUEEN’S PARK — Ontario NDP MPP Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines), joined by NDP MPP Jessica Bell, is introducing a motion to ban corporate landlords from charging for visitor parking at multi-unit residential buildings—a growing issue affecting seniors, families, and people relying on home care across Ontario.

“This is about more than just parking,” said Stevens. “It’s about dignity, affordability, and access to care. No one should be penalized for visiting their loved ones, it’s wrong and it’s hurting seniors the most.

The visitor parking meters, installed by landlords like Homestead Land Holdings, have made it harder for seniors to receive home care and have placed financial pressure on residents already grappling with affordability challenges. In some cases, PSWs have had to pay out-of-pocket, turn down patients, or skip visits entirely, putting residents at risk.

“It’s not only a financial burden, it’s the social isolation for these residents, particularly the seniors telling me how their friends and families no longer visit,” said Steve Walton, a St. Catharines resident, parking advocate, and constituent of MPP Stevens who spearheaded a local petition. “These buildings are their personal residences... their homes. It’s no different than having a parking meter installed in your driveway as a means of financial gain for corporations. It’s nothing but corporate greed and it has to end now.”

Stevens is calling on the provincial government to amend the Residential Tenancies Act to prohibit this predatory practice—one that disproportionately impacts seniors and low-income renters.

“Doug Ford has the power to stop this, and it’s time they use it,” said Stevens.