What is a secondary suite?
A secondary suite is a self-contained home inside a larger house or duplex. It has its own kitchen, sleeping area, and bathroom. You can share an entryway or stairwell with the main house, but each unit needs its own private entrance from the outside.
Rules and limits
- Only one secondary suite is allowed per primary dwelling unit.
- A secondary suite cannot be strata titled.
- Secondary suites are not allowed in every zone. Check the Zoning bylaw to see if your area allows them.
- If you plan to rent the suite, you must get a business licence. You cannot use it for short-term rentals unless you live in the main house.
Steps to create or legalize a suite
1. Check your zoning
Visit the Find land use bylaw maps or call Contact planning and development to confirm that secondary suites are allowed on your property. If your property is a duplex or two-family home, make sure the zone permits them.
2. Prepare your plans
You will need a qualified designer or contractor to draw floor plans and site plans. Plans must be drawn to scale and show:
- Room dimensions, stairs, windows, and doors
- Plumbing and gas fixture locations
- Ceiling heights
- Parking spaces and the path from the street to the suite entrance
- Finished floor elevation and grade levels at the four corners of the site
3. Submit your application
Fill out the Secondary suite permits. Upload your plans and pay the required fees online or at City Hall. Staff will review your application and may ask for changes or extra documents.
4. Book inspections
Once your permit is issued, you can start work. You must book inspections for rough-in wiring, plumbing, and framing. A final inspection is required before the suite is considered legal.
5. Register your suite
All legal secondary suites must be registered with the City through the Secondary suites. This keeps a record of your unit for safety and tax purposes.
Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Secondary suite registration | $100.00 |
| Rough-in inspection | $130.00 |
| Water meter installation | $450.00 |
Renting and business licences
If your family will live in the suite, you do not need a business licence. If you plan to rent it out long-term, you must get a Business Licences. The annual fee is $225.00. Short-term rentals are not allowed unless you are the principal resident living in the main house.
Questions?
Send your questions to [email protected] or call 519-555-0100. For information on property standards and maintenance, see the Property standards bylaw.