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Garden Suites

In 2022, the City of Toronto finalized an as-of-right zoning by-law for ‘garden suites’ on properties in residential neighbourhoods. This policy extends the current permissions for laneway suites to residential properties that do not benefit from abutting a publicly designated laneway, providing improved housing flexibility for Torontonians across the city.

Toronto Laneway Housing Project

WHAT ARE GARDEN SUITES?

Garden suites are detached secondary dwellings located in the rear yard of a principal residence. They are intended to be a modest-scale separate housing unit that integrates sensitively within existing residential neighbourhoods. The garden suites by-law extends the current detached secondary suites permissions to properties across the city. Garden suites promise to be a perfect solution to housing loved ones, generating rental income, or gaining additional live-work space, while increasing housing flexibility and value on your property. Read our blog for information on the bylaw requirements.

Diagram

Garden Dormers

A dormer facing the main home may extend beyond the required angular plane. The total dormer width may not be wider than 30% of the total width of the garden suite’s front main wall measured at 4.0m above grade.

Building Size

All main walls of the garden suite may not penetrate a 45 degree angular plane projected towards the lot lines starting at a height of 4.0m. The suite must not be taller than 6m in height.

Landscaping & ACCESS

50% of the rear yard must be soft landscaping and a minimum 1m wide path of travel is required for emergency access. Rooftop equipment must be less than 30% of the roof area and be setback by a minimum 1m.
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Unsure if your property qualifies? Contact us for your free property review!