What is a secondary suite?
A secondary suite is a self-contained living space inside your home. It has its own kitchen, bathroom, and separate entrance. It can share an entrance with the main house, but it must follow all city rules. You can only have one secondary suite per single detached house or duplex. Secondary suites cannot be sold separately or strata-titled.
How to apply
- Check your zoning: Make sure secondary suites are allowed on your property. Review the zoning bylaw map or contact us for help.
- Prepare your plans: You must submit floor plans and site plans drawn to scale. They must show all rooms, stairs, windows, doors, and fixtures. You also need a signed landowner authorization form.
- Submit your application: Bring your completed application form, owner's undertaking letter, and plans to Room 201, Wrenford City Hall, or submit them through the Wrenford Permit Portal.
- Pay your fees: Pay by credit card online, or in person at City Hall with cash, cheque, or card.
- Get your permit: Once approved, you can start construction. Keep a copy of the approved permit and drawings at the jobsite for inspections.
Fees and timelines
Processing times depend on how complete your application is. Timelines are not a guarantee.
| Application type | Permit fee | Safety codes fee (4%) | Total | Processing time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Legalize an existing suite | $1,450.00 | $58.00 | $1,508.00 | 15 to 25 business days |
| Build a new suite | $1,800.00 | $72.00 | $1,872.00 | 15 to 25 business days |
| Fire safety plan | $250.00 | $10.00 | $260.00 | 5 to 10 business days |
| Trade permits (electrical or plumbing) | $140.00 | $5.60 | $145.60 | 5 to 10 business days |
Important rules
- Fire safety plan: You must submit a fire safety plan to ensure life safety compliance. This is mandatory for all secondary suite applications.
- Parking: You need at least one on-site parking space for the suite.
- Water meter: Properties with a secondary suite must have a separate water meter installed for fair utility billing.
- Business licence: If you rent out the suite long-term, you need a business licence. If your family lives there, you do not need one.
- Owner-occupier declaration: If you live in the home and do not rent the suite, you can sign a Secondary Suite Non-Rental Declaration to adjust your utility billing.
Need help?
For questions about creating or legalizing a secondary suite, contact the Planning & Development team. You can also book an optional special inspection for existing suites before submitting your plans.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 519-555-0100
In person: Room 201, Wrenford City Hall, 100 Mercer Street, Wrenford, ON N4Q 1A1
Chief Wendy Szabo oversees secondary suite compliance and building safety standards for the city.