Privately owned publicly accessible spaces (POPS)

Privately owned publicly accessible spaces, known as POPS, are spaces that are privately owned but open to the public. 

On this page:

  1. Why POPS are important
  2. How POPS are created
  3. Examples of POPS
  4. Read the POPS guidelines

Why POPS are important

POPS strengthen Waterloo’s network of public spaces:

  • create value and support social well-being
  • bridge publicly owned spaces with private buildings and sites
  • support place-making
  • benefits residents, employees and visitors

POPs are meant to extend or complement public spaces like parks and plazas, not replace them.

How POPS are created

POPS are negotiated with developers during the development review process, using tools available through the Planning Act. 

Examples of POPS

POPS can include:

  • forecourts and front yards
  • courtyards
  • enhanced walkways
  • plazas
  • gardens
A landscaped courtyard with open lawn, young trees, circular seating areas and paved walkways, located between modern glass buildings.
A narrow pedestrian walkway between two brick buildings with raised planters, small trees, outdoor seating and storefronts, creating a publicly accessible space.
An outdoor plaza between residential towers with paved walkways, seating areas, young trees and lighting posts, creating a shared public space.

Read the POPS guidelines

For full requirements and design expectations, read the Privately Owned Publicly Accessible Spaces guidelines.

Download POPS guidelines (PDF)

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