Land for People. Community for Generations.
What Is a Community Land Trust?
A Community Land Trust (CLT) is a nonprofit organization that acquires and holds land on behalf of the community.
Rather than selling land to the highest bidder, a CLT:
Removes land from speculative markets
Protects long-term affordability
Ensures community-focused development
Maintains stewardship for future generations
Homes and buildings may be owned, rented, or operated by individuals and organizations — but the land remains permanently held in trust to preserve affordability and community purpose.
This model has been successfully implemented across North America and globally, creating stable housing and resilient communities.
Our Core Values
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We are guided by the people and communities we serve. Members have a voice in shaping priorities and decisions.
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We focus on long-term solutions, not temporary fixes.
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We support diverse, mixed-income communities where everyone belongs.
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Responsible land use and sustainable development are central to our approach.
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We are committed to clear reporting and responsible stewardship of funds and land.
Why Ontario Needs a Community Land Trust
Across Ontario, rising land costs have become one of the primary drivers of housing unaffordability. When land values rise, housing becomes inaccessible for families, seniors, workers, and local businesses.
By separating land ownership from building ownership, OCLT creates a model that:
Stabilizes housing costs long-term
Supports workforce housing
Preserves space for nonprofits and social enterprises
Builds intergenerational community wealth
We are working to create a scalable, province-wide model that municipalities, nonprofits, developers, and community groups can partner with.
Join the Movement
Land shapes the future of our communities. By working together, we can ensure that land in Ontario remains accessible, affordable, and community-serving — permanently.