Two questions about the application period for residence for upper years:

1) Is it the same time every year? (At least the same month?)

2) When will it be for the 2012-2013 fall-winter (i.e. Sept.-Apr.) term?

I believe they will make applications for upper year students available around February up until early March. I think the dates change year to year but only slightly. After the deadline, Res Admissions will send you an email within the next month if you are on the guaranteed list.
If you are concerned about the actual dates, I would email the admissions office: [email protected] r.ca

It's still VERY early. From what I remember it came out Feb 1st and was due on Feb 28th last year. Can't remember if it was the same the year before or not though :/