The City of Wrenford has updated its housing design standards to make laneway homes easier to build. The changes, rolled out on July 16, 2026, update the rules under Zoning By-law 2016-040 and provide clearer guidance for property owners looking to add a secondary dwelling to their backyard.
The updated standards focus on safety, neighbourhood character, and practical construction steps. They cover important details like fence height, driveway access, and required backyard space. The City also released a step-by-step checklist to help homeowners navigate the process from initial idea to final permit.
"We wanted to remove the guesswork," said Elena Petrova, Senior Planner. "These updates give you a clear picture of what works in Wrenford's backyards and how to keep your new home a good fit for the street."
If you own a single detached home and want to build a laneway home, you can now review the updated design standards online. You will still need to apply for a development permit and a building permit through the Wrenford ePermits portal. The City has also set up a dedicated email address for design questions and permit support. Residents with zoning or parking questions should check the official planning pages before starting their project.
For more information on how to build a laneway home, visit the Build a laneway house page. You can also find general information on the Housing section.