Overview
What Is a Garden Suite?
A garden suite is a self-contained residential unit built in the rear yard of an existing property. Sometimes called a laneway house, backyard house, or accessory dwelling unit (ADU), garden suites are fully independent homes with their own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
In 2022, the City of Toronto amended its zoning bylaws to permit garden suites on most residential properties city-wide. This means homeowners can now build a secondary dwelling in their backyard without requiring a rezoning application or minor variance.
Rental Income
Generate steady revenue from your existing property
Multi-Generational Living
Keep family close while maintaining independence
Property Value
Increase the value of your property with a second unit
Aging in Place
An accessible, ground-level home for every stage of life
Your Options
Choose Your Configuration
Studio / 1-Bedroom
350–500 sq ft
- ▶Open-concept living with full kitchen and bath
- ▶Ideal for rental or single occupant
- ▶Custom architectural design to match your main home
- ▶Energy-efficient construction and insulation
1-Bedroom + Den
450–600 sq ft
- ▶Separate bedroom with flexible den space
- ▶Home office or guest area
- ▶In-floor heating, mini-split HVAC, or ducted systems
- ▶Full kitchen with premium appliances and finishes
2-Bedroom
500–645 sq ft
- ▶Two bedrooms and full bath
- ▶Perfect for families or multi-generational living
- ▶Accessible and aging-in-place options available
- ▶Private entrance and outdoor living integration
Our Process
How We Build Your Garden Suite
01
Site Assessment
We visit your property to evaluate lot size, setbacks, access, grading, and utility connections.
02
Feasibility & Zoning
Confirm what's permitted on your lot under current Toronto zoning bylaws.
03
Concept Design
Architectural plans, floor layouts, and 3D renderings tailored to your lot and lifestyle.
04
Engineering & Permits
Structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering plus full building permit submission.
05
Detailed Proposal
Fixed scope, itemized budget, material selections, and milestone-based payment schedule.
06
Site Preparation
Excavation, foundation, and utility rough-ins.
07
Construction
Framing, mechanical, insulation, drywall, and finishes with regular progress updates.
08
Handover
Municipal inspections, occupancy permit, walkthrough, and warranty documentation.
What to Expect
Timeline & Investment
Typical Timeline
4–6 wks
Design + Engineering
8–16 wks
Permits
16–24 wks
Construction
8–12 mo
Total
Investment Ranges
$250K–$350K
Studio (350–500 sf)
$300K–$400K
1-Bed + Den (450–600 sf)
$375K–$450K+
2-Bedroom (500–645 sf)
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In most cases, no. Toronto's 2022 zoning amendments allow garden suites as-of-right on most residential lots. We confirm eligibility during our initial site assessment.
Yes. Garden suites can be rented as long-term rentals. Short-term rental regulations (Airbnb) vary by municipality. We can advise on current rules during the planning phase.
Maximum size depends on your lot dimensions, but most Toronto lots allow up to 60 sq m (645 sq ft). Height is typically limited to 4m (one storey) or 6m (two storeys) depending on zoning.
Toronto has eliminated minimum parking requirements for garden suites, so you are not required to add additional parking spaces.
Typically 8–16 weeks for a building permit once drawings are submitted. We manage the entire permit process on your behalf, including any revisions requested by the municipality.
Adding a garden suite may increase your property's assessed value and therefore your property taxes. However, the rental income potential typically far exceeds the tax increase. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.