Toronto Garden Suite By-Laws

Hey, Toronto! In our bustling city affordable housing can be a challenge, but garden suites offer hope for many looking for a reasonable (dare we say, normal) priced home. Tucked-away in backyards across the city, garden suites provide homeowners with extra living space, rental income opportunities, and a chance for family members to live in their own affordable space. From cozy cottage styles, to sleek modern dwellings, garden suites not only enhance urban living but also promote sustainable housing. Whether you're looking to expand your space or embrace green living, garden suites in Toronto are worth exploring.

Before embarking on the journey of building a garden suite, it's essential to understand the specific city by-laws governing these developments in Toronto.

Understanding Toronto's Regulations:

In Toronto, garden suites are primarily permitted in Residential Detached (RD), Residential Semi-Detached (RS), and Residential (R) zoning districts. The regulations vary across these zones:

• RD and RS zoning allow for one attached unit and one detached unit.
• R zoning permits two attached units and one detached unit.

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Key Toronto By-Laws to Consider:‍

• Footprint Limits: Initially restricted to 60 square meters (645 square feet), expansion up to 120 square meters is permissible with the addition of a second story. However, the total floor area must not exceed 40% of the rear yard, and the interior floor area must remain less than the gross floor area of the main house and all ancillary units.

• Space and Setbacks: Garden suites in Toronto must maintain a 1.5-meter setback from all property lines.

• Height Restrictions: Proximity to the main house determines height limitations, with a maximum of 4 meters within 5 meters of the main house and 6 meters if located at least 7.5 meters away.

• Parking and Accessibility: While additional car parking is not obligatory, providing at least two bike parking spaces is required. Garden suites must be accessible for emergency services, with specific distance requirements from the street and primary residence.

By adhering to these regulations while embracing thoughtful design and sustainability, homeowners can unlock the full potential of garden suites, contributing to the vitality and resilience of Toronto's urban communities.

Once more, here are the key by-laws governing the construction of garden suites in Toronto:

• Permitted in RD, RS, and R zoning districts.

• Setback requirement: 1.5 meters from all property lines.

• Footprint: Initially limited to 60 square meters, expandable to 120 square meters with restrictions.

• Height restrictions based on proximity to the main house.

• Parking: At least two bike parking spaces required; additional car parking not mandatory.

• Accessibility requirements for emergency services.

With these guidelines in mind, you can confidently embark on the journey of building garden suites in Toronto, enriching their lives and their communities.

Book a free consultation with us today to learn more.