Garden Suite Construction in Ontario
Smart, modern, and fully legal living spaces built with quality and care.
Benefits of a Garden Suite
Garden suites, also known as backyard homes or coach houses, are becoming one of the most popular housing solutions in Ontario. They provide a fully independent living space located in the backyard of an existing property, complete with a kitchen, bathroom, and private entrance.
At GWC General Contractors, we specialize in designing and building legal garden suites that meet all Ontario Building Code requirements and local municipal zoning bylaws. Whether you’re looking to create a rental unit, provide housing for family members, or simply add more usable space to your property, we handle the entire process—from design and permits to construction and final inspections. Our goal is to make building a garden suite a stress-free experience that adds long-term value to your home.
- Generate steady rental income
- Provide a safe, independent space for family members
- Increase the resale value of your property
- Stay compliant with Ontario’s housing regulations
Our Garden Suite Process
Consultation & Feasibility Study
We evaluate your property and discuss design options.
Permits & Approvals
All drawings, applications, and city permits handled by our team.
Construction & Inspections
Quality craftsmanship delivered with all required inspections.
Final Handover
A fully finished, move-in ready garden suite.
FAQ
A Garden Suite is a detached residential unit located in the backyard of a primary dwelling. It functions as an independent living space and is permanent, unlike mobile homes or trailers.
Also known as:
- Coach house
- Laneway suite (if accessed by rear laneway)
- Backyard home
- Secondary unit / additional residential unit (ARU)/ additional dwelling unit(ADU)
Yes. Ontario has enabled municipalities to permit two residential units per lot, even in low-density zones.
✅ Most municipalities now allow garden suites — including:
- Toronto
- Brampton
- Ottawa
- Hamilton
- Mississauga
⚠️ Each city has its own zoning by-laws and lot size rules.
Yes. You must apply for:
- Zoning review
- Site plan approval
- Building permit
- Plumbing and electrical permits
- ESA inspection (electrical)
Some cities may also require a grading and servicing plan.
Varies by municipality:
Approximately 70% of the main dwelling unit floor area, 10% of the lot area etc.
Also subject to:
- Lot size
- Rear yard area
- Distance from house and lot lines
Yes. A legal garden suite can be used for:
- Long-term rental (1+ month lease)
- Housing for family (multi-generational)
- Home office or guest house
⚠️ Short-term rentals (Airbnb) may be restricted or banned depending on your municipality.
Often no. Many cities have removed minimum parking requirements for ARUs.
Still, check:
- Zoning regulations
- Whether street parking or laneway access is available
- Fire route accessibility
Estimated construction cost: $120,000 – $300,000+
Factors include:
- Size and finishes
- Site access
- Utility servicing (water, sewer, hydro)
- Foundation vs. slab-on-grade
- Permit and development fees
💡 Financing tip: You may be able to use refinancing or a second mortgage for funding.
Yes, in many cities — but only if:
- It complies with setback, height, and size rules
- You obtain permits to convert it from storage to residential use
- You meet fire safety and building code standards
Most cities require:
- 4–7.5 m separation from main house
- Max height: 4 to 6 metres
- Privacy protection: frosted or limited rear windows
- Tree protection and grading plan
- Separate entrance (not facing rear neighbour)
- Design + permit approval: 2–4 months
- Construction: 2–4 months
- Total project time: 4–8 months
- Architects or BCIN designers
- Garden suite contractors
- Permit consultants
- Planning consultants for variances
You’ll also need licensed plumbers, electricians, and general trades.
✅ Brampton: Yes – partial development charges apply
✅ Toronto: Often exempt from development charges under specific conditions
Always confirm with your local building department or planning office.
Features of Our Garden Suites
Garden Suite Completed
0
+
- Private entrance and full privacy from the main home
- Independent kitchen, bathroom, and living areas
- Energy-efficient designs and high-quality materials
- Modern layouts tailored to your property size
- Fully compliant with Ontario Building Code and zoning bylaws