Accessory Dwelling Units – What You Need to Know
Accessory Dwelling Units
Coach Houses, Laneway House, & Granny Suites
Accessorry dwelling units allow property owners to increase livable or leasable space on their properties. Zoning rules in most municipalities in Ontario have changed to allow for 3 separate units without a zoning change. Property owners can have a main dwelling, secondary suite, and an accessoy dwelling unit.Â
Step 1: Land Survey
The first step to your project is to get a survey completed of the property to determine property lines, setbacks, and existing structures. This will create a site plan of the property and ensure you have the building envelope for the accessory dwelling unit.Â
Step 2: Land Planning
With the existing information gathered we can create a proposed site plan and check zoning requirements such as lot coverage, environmental setbacks and file any minor variances.Â
Step 3: DesignÂ
With the site plan and existing conditions determined, the actual building can be designed, engineered. Once the drawing package is created the permitting and construction process can start.Â
Contact Us
Our team has integrated surveyors, planners and designers that can help you with your project. Contact us about your accessory dwelling unit or secondary suite today.Â
Land Surveying
Land Use Planning
Design & Engineering
Construction
Accessory Dwelling Units and Secondary Suites
Accessory Dwelling Units and Secondary suites vary slighty. A secondary suite is usually a basement or attic apartment attached to a primary dwelling, where as an accessory dwelling unit is detached such as a granny suite, laneway house or granny suite.Â
At a minimum an accessory dwelling unit needs to contain a living space on it’s own including a kitchen, bathroom and sleeping area. An accessory dwelling unit cannot be severed from a lot and will always be part of the property.Â
The provincial leglislation in Ontario called The Planning Act was changed to allow for 3 separate units on a single property. Any property can contain a primary dwelling, accessory dwelling unit and a secondary suite.Â
- One ADU within the principal dwelling, or
- Two ADUs within the principal dwelling, or
- One detached ADU in the yard, or
- One ADU within the principal dwelling and one detached ADU in the yard.Â
The property is still subject to other zoning provisions such as lot coverage, frontage and setbacks.Â
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How Big Can My ADU be?
The ADU will be the lesser of the following:
- Maximum Lot Coverage
- 50% of the area of the principal building
- Maximum Floor Area of 150 sq.m. (1,615 sq.ft.)
The maximum lot coverage will be dependent on local zoning provisions which is usually 35%. The ADU is still subject to setbacks, rear yard and side yard setbacks are usually 1.2m (4′-0″). Ensuring the building will fit on the property is a key consideration for an ADU project.Â
We can help you with your ADU project.Â
Solving Housing Shortages
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), also known as granny flats, in-law suites, or secondary dwellings, have gained increasing popularity as a versatile solution to housing needs. These compact living spaces are typically situated on the same property as a primary residence and come in various forms, including converted garages, standalone cottages, or additions to existing structures. From an architectural perspective, ADUs embody flexibility, allowing homeowners to optimize their property while addressing changing demographics and lifestyle preferences. Designs often focus on maximizing space efficiency, incorporating modern amenities, and ensuring a seamless integration with the main residence. Architects and homeowners alike appreciate the challenge of balancing functionality and aesthetics in ADU design, often resulting in spaces that feel both contemporary and complementary to the overall property.
Beyond their architectural significance, ADUs play a crucial role in addressing housing shortages, providing affordable housing options for extended family members, renters, or homeowners seeking additional income. The rise of ADUs reflects a shift toward more sustainable and community-oriented living arrangements, fostering a sense of inclusivity and adaptability within residential neighborhoods. As local regulations evolve to accommodate these structures, ADUs continue to shape the landscape of urban and suburban living, offering a dynamic solution to the ever-changing demands of the modern housing market.
IN Design + Construction
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designs@ineng.ca
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Brockville, Ontario
