Montreal and Longueuil Adopt More Tolerant Protocols for Homeless Encampments

MONTREAL — Cities of Montreal and Longueuil are shifting their approach to addressing homelessness, announcing new protocols that prioritize tolerance of encampments over immediate dismantling. The changes, unveiled on Friday, February 20, 2026, aim to balance the rights of unhoused individuals with public safety concerns.

Balancing Rights and Public Safety

Montreal Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada emphasized that while encampments are not a long-term solution, dismantling them can be traumatic and often simply displaces the problem. “Dismantling as we have seen in the past does not function,” Martinez Ferrada stated. “You are not creating a path or a road map out of homelessness.”

The new policy establishes “tolerance zones” on city-owned land where encampments will be permitted, provided they adhere to specific safety regulations. This framework underscores a commitment to dignity and respect for the rights of those experiencing homelessness. Martinez Ferrada added, “we agree that the road map is to get people out of the camps,” but acknowledged that building transitional housing and emergency shelters requires time.

Relocation as a Last Resort

While the city aims to tolerate encampments, relocation will be considered in cases of security or nuisance issues. Martinez Ferrada explained the need for a balanced approach: “We have a humanitarian crisis on our hands, we must be tolerant, but we must be tolerant within a framework that as well respects the real security issues of local residents.”

Longueuil’s Established Approach

Longueuil Mayor Catherine Fournier noted that her city has been informally applying a similar approach for several years and is now formalizing the guidelines. “Making these guidelines public is essential: it allows everyone to know the rules and roles of each party, builds trust, and promotes harmonious coexistence,” Fournier said.

Longueuil’s existing rules limit encampments to a maximum of five tents and prohibit their establishment within 250 meters of schools, daycares, seniors’ residences, or women’s shelters. CityNews Montreal

A New Approach to a Complex Issue

The announcement reflects a growing recognition that simply removing encampments does not address the root causes of homelessness. The cities are working to increase access to housing, psychosocial support, and other services for those in need. The Star

Mayor Martinez Ferrada, after her first 100 days in office, highlighted efforts to help unhoused people as a key achievement, noting the opening of over 500 spaces in warming centers and emergency shelters this winter. Montreal Gazette