A “garden suite” refers to a type of Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) that is detached from the primary residence and located within the rear yard or garden area of a residential property. These garden suites are self-contained living units with their own living space, kitchen and bathroom, designed to accommodate additional occupants separate from the main house.
Building your garden suite should not be challenging.
In Toronto, the regulations and guidelines governing garden homes are outlined in the city’s zoning bylaws and official plan. These regulations specify requirements related to unit size, setbacks, parking, access, and other aspects that are outlined by the Ontario Building Code, Zoning Bylaws and Fire Code.
Key features of garden homes in Toronto are:
- Detached Garden Suites: These are standalone structures separate from the main house, and are located in the backyard of residential properties. They have their own utilities and are designed for independent living. Garden homes are usually low-rise buildings, typically consisting of two or three stories, although there can be variations.
- Design- Various factors need to be accounted for prior to designing a garden home. Some of these factors include: lot size, emergency access for fire trucks along with distance from fire hydrant, travel path for the Toronto Fire Services, Garden Homes are required to be smaller than the main home according to the City of Toronto zoning bylaw. The footprint of a garden home can be up to 60 square meters on one floor level. An application to Committee of Adjustment can be made for variances (minor relief) from the applicable zoning bylaws only.
- Ownership: In most cases, residents of garden homes own their individual units, including the land they sit on.
Rendering of Garden Home Design in Toronto
Another Rendering of a Garden Home design by FA Engineering.
4. Garden suites have gained attention as a means of increasing housing options in Toronto while still preserving the character of residential neighborhoods. They offer opportunities for homeowners to generate rental income or provide housing for family members while maintaining privacy and independence.
5. In December 2019, the City of Toronto approved a bylaw allowing for the construction of garden suites on eligible residential properties, subject to certain regulations and requirements. These regulations govern aspects such as the size, height, setback, and design of garden suites to ensure compatibility with existing neighborhoods and minimize potential negative impacts on neighboring properties.
6. The introduction of garden suites reflects Toronto’s efforts to address housing affordability and supply challenges by encouraging the development of diverse housing options within established communities.