Acessory Apartments

Accessory Apartments

An accessory apartment (in-law suite, basement apartment, granny flat or nanny suite) is defined as a separate dwelling unit that is located within the structure of a principle dwelling unit and which is secondary to the principle dwelling. Home owners can benefit from the income generated from the accessory apartments as well as provide an affordable housing option within the town. An accessory apartment comprises of living area, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. All accessory apartments both new and existing require a building permit.

Accessory apartments are required to be legally registered, they must comply with the Ontario Building Code and your local zoning by-laws. By-laws differ from town to town so be sure to consult a registered building code designer or the local building department.

Some things to keep in mind when considering an accessory apartment:

Ceiling heights.
Bedroom windows for natural light and egress.
Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
Living room windows for natural light.
Fire and sound separation between suites. (ceilings and walls)
Separate entrance.
Laundry & kitchen facilities.
Washroom facilities.

General Zoning bylaws will differ, but take into consideration similar requirements

Adequate parking for both units
Minimum lot frontage
Minimum front yard landscaped space