Second Unit Permit Plan Drawings, in Toronto, Markham, Aurora, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Bradford, Brampton, Oakville, Oshawa, Etobicoke, Mississauga and Hamilton

We do second unit plans to obtain a building permit in Toronto, Markham, Aurora, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Bradford, Brampton, Oakville, Oshawa, Newmarket, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Hamilton and all over GTA.

What is the defining a second unit, in Ontario?

A second unit, also called ARU or ADU, refers to a self-contained living space featuring private kitchen, bathroom facilities, and sleeping quarters. It can be situated within your house or on your property, either above a laneway garage or inside a coach house.

This document primarily focuses on Building Code requirements for second units inside houses, although some rules may also apply to second units in garages or coach houses. Incorporating a second unit can offer independent living arrangements for family members or generate additional income to help pay off your mortgage. However, it is essential to consider several factors as you contemplate adding a second unit.

Is your home a detached, semi-detached, or rowhouse that is over five years old? Are you thinking of renovating your home to include a second unit? If your answers are affirmative, this guide can be a valuable resource. This document delivers on a promise made in Ontario's Housing Supply Action Plan to supply homeowners with an easy-to-understand guide and checklist for legally constructing second units. If your house is less than five years old, different Building Code regulations apply. For more information, consult your local building department.

First step

Before proceeding with the addition of a second unit, it is crucial to take into account several key aspects, such as: adhering to relevant municipal zoning regulations, obtaining the required building permits, designing the unit to comply with the Building Code, and scheduling mandatory building inspections throughout the construction process.

Fulfilling planning and Building Code requirements is of paramount importance. By doing so, you will help guarantee that both your house and the second unit are legally compliant, secure, and conducive to healthy living conditions.

Familiarize yourself with your municipality's zoning by-laws.

These regulations significantly impact the construction of your second unit. Therefore, it is vital to conduct an assessment by us concerning:

The specific zoning requirements and standards for second units applicable to your property, including rules about parking provisions, exits and entrances, servicing, and minimum or maximum unit dimensions.
Whether rezoning or a minor variance application is necessary.
Any additional agreements and approvals required before you can proceed with adding a second unit.
Whether your second unit must be licensed or registered with your municipality.

If you are unable to comply with your municipality’s by-laws, it will not be possible to construct a second unit on your property.

Building Inspections

Upon issuance of your building permit, municipal building inspectors are required to examine the work at various stages throughout the construction process. Inspections will cover aspects such as framing, insulation, plumbing, interior finishes, and other elements as specified in the Building Code. It is essential to consult with your inspector to determine which components need to be inspected.

You or your designated agent bear the responsibility of notifying the building department when different construction phases are ready for inspection.

The safety of any second unit, whether newly constructed or pre-existing, is of utmost importance. If you have an existing second unit in your house and are concerned about its design, it is highly recommended that you reach out to your local building department for guidance.

How long does it takes de get the second unit permit from the City of Toronto?

The timeframe for obtaining a permit from the City of Toronto can differ based on various factors, including the project's complexity, the thoroughness and accuracy of the submitted drawings and documents, and the workload of the city's building department at the time. Typically, the review and approval process for a residential basement permit application can range from 2 to 6 weeks.

To ensure accurate and current information regarding processing times and requirements, it is essential to refer to the City of Toronto's website or directly contact their building department. They can provide the most up-to-date details as these timelines and requirements may change periodically or be influenced by specific circumstances.