Where in Ontario, are Granny Suites allowed?

Several cities in Ontario allow granny suites, also known as additional residential units (ARUs). ARUs are self-contained residential dwelling units with separate kitchen and bathroom facilities. They can be located within the main building or in an accessory building or structure on the same lot.

• Cambridge – Allows up to two ARUs on a lot with a single detached, semi-detached, or townhouse dwelling
• Toronto -Allows garden suites in the rear yards of residential properties that are not next to a public laneway
• Barrie – Allows up to four ARUs on residentially zoned parcels of land
• Sarnia – Allows one secondary dwelling unit in certain zones within a single detached dwelling, and in certain zones within a semi-detached, multiple attached, or street multiple attached dwelling unit
• Richmond Hill –Allows ARUs in a main residential building or in a separate building on the same property, subject to zoning requirements and restrictions
• Peterborough – Allows ARUs to provide housing for aging family members, adult children, caregivers, and others

Additional Dwelling Units: Ontario Guide 2024