garden suites: The dEfinitive guide - toronto

Welcome to our guide on garden suites! In recent years, garden suites, also known as backyard suites or granny flats, have been gaining popularity as a versatile housing option. These secondary dwelling units (SDUs) are located within the backyard of a property, offering numerous benefits to homeowners and the community alike. In this blog, we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about garden suites in Toronto and shed light on their legality, construction, benefits, and more. Let's dive in!

Garden suites are self-contained living spaces built within the backyard of a property. They are separate structures from the main house and typically feature their own entrances, kitchen, bathroom, and living areas. Garden suites offer an excellent opportunity for homeowners to maximize their property's potential and cater to various housing needs.
Yes, garden suites are legal in Toronto, but there are specific regulations and bylaws that homeowners must adhere to when constructing or renting them out. As of Feb 2022, the city has implemented guidelines to govern the construction of garden suites, including permit requirements and zoning restrictions. Before proceeding, homeowners must obtain the necessary permits and ensure their property meets the criteria for building a garden suite.
Read the by-law here
A Toronto garden suite can be up to 1,300 sqft depending on the lot size and setbacks from the main house.
It cannot occupy more than 40% of your backyard, however it could be less than that based on other parameters.
Depending on the size of the lot, they can also be 2 stories, up to 7.5m and can also include a basement.
Garden suites offer a range of benefits to homeowners:
a. Rental Income: Homeowners can generate a stable income stream by renting out their garden suites to tenants.
b. Multigenerational Living: Garden suites allow families to accommodate elderly parents or adult children while maintaining privacy.
c. Increased Property Value: The addition of a garden suite can enhance the overall property value, making it an attractive investment for homeowners.
d. Work from home, outside the home.
You should budget $385-$450 per square ft.
Garden suites are usually integrated into the main house services, much like laneway suites. This integration covers essential utilities such as gas, hydro, water, and sewage.
However, certain situations may arise where additional services must be sourced from the street. For instance, properties with multiple units might not have sufficient available power to support a garden suite. In such cases, a new line will need to be installed from the street, resulting in potential cost increments for your garden suite project.
It is advisable to have your contractor assess the current state of your services before proceeding with the project.
Visit the City of Toronto’s website for more information.
Click HERE! to be directed.