New Ontario Legislation Makes Creating Legal Secondary Units Easier

Ontario has taken a bold step to address its housing shortage with new legislation that simplifies and reduces the cost of creating legal, self-contained units in homes. Whether you’re envisioning a basement rental apartment or an independent living space for family, these changes make the process more accessible than ever.

This isn’t just about building—it’s about transforming your property into a financial and functional asset while contributing to the community’s housing needs.

Why Consider a Legal Secondary Unit?

Here’s why so many Ontario homeowners are seizing this opportunity:

• Rental Income: Turn your basement and/or any other auxiliary structure into a consistent source of income. With high demand in the rental market, a legal unit offers security for both you and your tenants.

  
  

• Boosted Property Value: Homes with legal, well-designed secondary units are highly attractive to buyers, offering income potential and versatility.

  
  

• Support the Community: Help ease Ontario’s housing crisis by adding affordable, safe rental units to the market.

  
  

What’s New? Understanding the Legislation

Ontario’s updated rules pave the way for creating legal secondary suites with less hassle and more affordability. Here are the highlights:

1. Zoning and Permitting Simplified

Homeowners can now create up to three units on a single residential lot. You can configure these as:

• Three units within the main home (e.g., upper-level apartment, ground-floor suite, and a basement unit).

• Two units within the home plus one in a separate structure like a garden suite or garage apartment.

  
  

Each unit must be fully self-contained, with its own kitchen, bathroom, and living space.

2. Lower Costs with Fee Reductions

• Parking Requirements: Only one parking space is required per secondary unit, easing restrictions for homeowners with limited space.

• Fee Exemptions: Development charges, parkland fees, and cash-in-lieu fees no longer apply to secondary units, drastically reducing the financial burden.

  
  

3. Compliance with Safety and Building Codes

Safety is non-negotiable when it comes to legal units. Key requirements include:

• Fire alarms and egress windows.

• Fire separations between units.

• Adequate ventilation, ceiling heights, and square footage to meet building codes.

  
  

4. Municipal Rules to Keep in Mind

Although the provincial rules set the foundation, municipalities may impose additional bylaws, such as:

• Limits on the number of unrelated individuals living in a unit.

• Minimum room sizes or living space requirements.

  
  

How to Get Started

Creating a legal secondary unit is easier than ever, but the process requires careful planning. Here’s how to begin:

1. Evaluate Your Space: Determine if your home is suitable for a secondary unit.

2. Understand Local Requirements: Check with your municipality for zoning, permit, and bylaw rules.

3. Work with Professionals: Team up with experts to design, plan, and build your suite while ensuring compliance with safety and building codes.

Let Us Simplify the Process for You

At Mezza Studio, we take care of all of the above so you don't have to!

Why Wait? Unlock the Potential of Your Home Today!

Ontario’s new legislation is your chance to transform unused space into a thriving asset. With reduced costs and simplified rules, now is the perfect time to take the leap.

Schedule a Free Consultation with us today and learn how we can help you create a legal, compliant, and profitable secondary unit. Together, we’ll unlock the full potential of your home.

📞 Contact Us Now: 647-885-0030

📧 Email Us: info@mezzastudio.ca

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Your property is your opportunity—let us help you make the most of it!