Ontario Update Regulations to Support Laneway and Garden Suites

Written By Creative Union Network .

Ontario is taking significant steps to streamline the creation of residential units by amending Regulation 462/24 under the Planning Act. These changes are designed to make it easier for homeowners and developers to add laneway and garden suites in urban areas.

How Can These Changes Impact Your Residential Unit Plans?

  • No more angular plane requirements for Additional Residential Units (ARUs).

    Greater flexibility to build larger and more livable ARUs, like garden and laneway suites.

  • Up to 45% lot coverage is now allowed for properties with ARUs.

    This total includes all buildings and structures on site, but will not effect lands in the zones without land coverage restriction.

  • No FSI limits for parcels with ARUs. 

    Allows for more spacious designs tailored to homeowner needs.

  • No minimum lot size requirements for ARUs.

    Expands eligibility for smaller lots, making ARUs accessible to more homeowners.

  •  Minimum 4m separation distance between main house and ARUs.

    Facilitates easier addition of laneway and garden suites, even on compact properties

Dovercourt Village Garden Suite

Davisville Village Garden Suite

While these changes simplify the process and broaden opportunities, we also acknowledge the distinct character that the previous rules allowed us to create. Projects like Dovercourt Village Garden and Davisville Village Laneway Suite are unique examples of designs shaped by angular plane constraints—a product of a brief moment in history.

Creative Union Network .