Garden suites in Toronto are detached secondary structures built in the rear yard of a main residence. Though they are designed to be a modest-scale separate housing unit, they can contain their entirely own kitchen, bedroom, living room, and bathroom.

By implementing a garden suite plans, homeowners are able to maintain, and where feasible, increase the amount of permeable space on a property. This added space is particularly of interest for relatives or work-from-home occupants looking for a more affordable housing option, but also for homeowners of the main residence to seize the rental income potential with the additional dwelling attached. 

We are custom home builders in Toronto and since the legalization of garden suites in 2022, we are here to help. Whether you need to build a garden suite to increase property value, earn additional rental income or need a mother-in-law suite, Artycon is your top garden suite builder.

Our Process for Garden Suites Toronto

Garden Suite Sizes in Toronto

Garden Suite Size

The maximum size allowed for a garden suite in Toronto is 650 sq ft per floor.

These dimensions should easily allow for, at minimum, 1 fully functional bedroom unit, and in some cases, may be able to fit 2 bedrooms.

The average living space size for a garden suite is anywhere between 950 to 1100 sq ft. It is possible however to construct a full basement and above-ground space of 1300 sq ft if the property size and ease of access is feasible for construction.

Height Clearance

The minimum height of your building in Toronto must start from 4 meters or be just above 13 feet for a garden suite to be built.

This requirement ensures there will be enough room for a slightly raised floor, a properly sloped roof, and at least a 9-foot ceiling height.

Garden suite structures only allow a maximum height of just above 19 feet and 8 inches, or 6 meters, and there is a set of additional requirements for building it to maximum height.

garden suite plans

Construction Setbacks

When understanding what setbacks are for garden suites in Toronto, they are the mandatory space required between the property line and the building structure.

  • Side Setbacks – depending on the size of the lot and frontage, the range is between 2 and 10 feet.
  • Rear Setbacks – minimum 5 feet or 1.5 meters. Larger lots and garden homes with parking space need up to 20 feet or a 6-meter setback. 
  • Front Setbacks – minimum distance from the garden suite and your main house must be 16 feet 4 inches, or 5 meters. Structures with a maximum height require 24 feet 6 inches, or 7.5 meters of distance between your main house and your garden suite.

Shapes and Angular Planes

Garden suites in Toronto below 4 meters in height have no restrictions or limits on the shape and type of roof.

If construction is higher than 4 meters, however, the city of Toronto mandates angular planes to not exceed 45 degrees and be installed on all four sides of the house.

To learn more about angular planes, click this helpful link here.

Our Promise to You

Clear Communication

Starts at the very beginning during the initial consultation, and we continue the discussion with the client throughout to ensure they are informed every step of the way. Our process is streamlined while keeping you engaged and in control.

100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

A job is not complete until the client is happy with the finished project. You have entrusted us with your home, so the least we can do is make sure we meet and exceed your expectations.

Skilled Tradesmen

With over 20 years of experience in construction, Artycon only works with the best team from tradespeople to designers, architects, contractors, plumbers, electricians, and more to provide you with the very best service possible.

High-Quality Materials

The team at Artycon takes pride in our workmanship thus, we use only the highest quality materials to construct each garden suite.

Licensed and Insured

Every member of Artycon’s Toronto garden suite builders is insured and up to date with the latest licenses and training offered in the industry.

Warranty & Extended Liability

We offer a 1-year warranty on labour, 1-year warranty on materials through the manufacturer warranty, and an extended liability of up to $5 million.

Let’s Build Your
Toronto Garden Suite

If your Toronto residence permits a garden suite and you are interested in benefiting from additional living space, receiving a city rebate, increasing your home’s value, and potentially generating extra income from offering rent, please contact us to get the process started. Artycon and our team full of professional custom home builders are happy to meet with you to discuss your ideas, and we are dedicated to making sure your dream Toronto garden suite is met with full satisfaction.

Our Garden Suites Latest Projects

FAQ 

What is a garden suite and how is it different from a laneway suite?

A garden suite is a self-contained residential unit built in the backyard of a home, separate from the main house. Unlike laneway suites, garden suites can be built on properties that do not have access to a public laneway, making them an option for more Toronto homeowners.

Can I build a garden suite in Toronto on my property?

Yes, many residential lots in Toronto are eligible for building garden suites. Our team at Artycon conducts an on-site assessment to determine zoning compliance, size feasibility, and access requirements for your specific property.

How big can a garden suite be in Toronto?

In Toronto, garden suites can be up to 650 square feet per floor. Some properties may allow for up to 1,100 sq ft or even 1,300 sq ft if a basement is included. We tailor each garden suite design to meet local bylaws and your needs.

What is the average cost to build a garden suite?

The cost of building a garden suite in Toronto varies based on size, materials, and design complexity. On average, it ranges from $250,000 to $350,000. Our preliminary design process includes a detailed cost estimate and rental income forecast.

Do you offer prefab or modular garden suites in Toronto?

We specialize in custom-built garden suites but can integrate modular or prefab elements where appropriate. Prefab garden suites in Ontario are gaining popularity for faster construction and potential cost savings.

Do I need a garden suite permit before starting construction?

Yes, a building permit is required before construction can begin. At Artycon, we handle all permit applications, ensuring your garden suite project complies with Toronto’s zoning bylaws and safety codes.

Can a garden suite be used as a rental property?

Absolutely. Garden suites are ideal for generating rental income in Toronto. Whether you’re housing aging parents, adult children, or tenants, we design garden homes that maximize livability and privacy.

How long does it take to complete a garden suite project?

From design to final inspections, building garden suites in Toronto typically takes 6 to 9 months. This timeline includes permit approval, construction, and post-build inspections. We provide transparent project schedules from the beginning.

Can I see photos or examples of past garden suites in Toronto?

Yes! Visit our portfolio to see real examples of completed garden suites in Toronto. These garden suites showcase our quality craftsmanship, modern layouts, and thoughtful design choices.