Garden Suite Builders in Toronto: Design, Permits & Construction

A garden suite is a self-contained home built in the rear yard of a residential lot, detached from the main house and not on a public lane. In Toronto it is the backyard option for lots that don’t qualify for a laneway suite. Novacon Construction designs and builds garden suites as a full design-build service: feasibility, design, permits and construction under one team.

Garden Suites in Toronto at a Glance

  • Who we are: a licensed, bonded and insured Toronto design-build company based in Scarborough, building custom homes, major additions and ADUs since 2004, with over 500 projects completed. Best of Houzz 2025 award recipient.
  • Built by a custom home builder: a garden suite is a small, fully serviced house in your back yard. We bring the same zoning review, structural engineering, permitting and construction management we use on our Tarion-registered custom homes and second-storey additions.
  • Firm fixed price: every Novacon contract is firm fixed price, so you know your construction cost before work begins.
  • A boutique builder: we take on a limited number of major projects each year, typically 6 to 10, so we can give each one the attention it needs from planning to handover.
  • Fire access decides most lots: the City requires firefighting access from the street the house faces, with a maximum 45-metre travel distance from the street to the suite entrance (with the fire truck within 45 metres of a hydrant) and a clear path at least 1.0 metre wide with 2.1 metres of vertical clearance.
  • Other feasibility checks: size, height and setback limits in the zoning by-law for your lot, protection of nearby trees, separate plumbing services required by the Ontario Building Code, and lot grading.
  • Costs on top of construction: City building permit fees in 2026 are $18.56 per square metre plus $56.33 per new unit, and eligible owners can apply to defer development charges through the City’s laneway and garden suite deferral program. We confirm a project-specific budget during feasibility.
  • What we handle: feasibility review, architectural design, structural engineering coordination, permit drawings and applications, construction and City inspections, with a dedicated project manager, $5 million liability insurance, WSIB coverage and a 2-year warranty.
  • Related: laneway suites, in-law suite additions and all of our ADU services.

Last updated October 2026.

Garden suites are commonly used for guest housing and multi-generational living. This is due to the current market conditions, in which more young people are choosing to live at home longer than ever before. Sometimes this affects family dynamics; a new generation can be added to the household as a result.

Garden suites are a viable option for new parents who want to avoid taking on too much debt and for seniors who wish to remain independent but still receive support from their families.

Novacon Construction is a design build contractor in Toronto specializing in building custom garden suites in Toronto and the GTA. With our award winning designs we will help design and build the perfect garden suite home for your family.

If you want to learn more about the new laws and regulations surrounding garden suites in Toronto, contact us today to see if building a garden suite home is right for you.

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What Are Garden Suite Homes

The City of Toronto defines a garden suite as additional self-contained living accommodation, usually in the rear yard but not on a public lane, that is separate from the main house on a residential lot. It needs a City of Toronto building permit, along with mechanical and plumbing permits. Garden suites are used for family members, such as aging parents or adult children, and as long-term rental housing.

Our garden suite design-build process

  1. Feasibility review: fire access path and travel distance, zoning limits, trees, servicing and grading for your lot, plus a preliminary budget.
  2. Design: layout, elevations and finishes designed around the buildable envelope and how the suite will be used.
  3. Permit drawings: site plan, lot grading plan, floor and roof plans, elevations, sections and construction details, with the energy efficiency, tree declaration and plumbing forms the City requires.
  4. Approvals: building, mechanical and plumbing permits, and a Committee of Adjustment application only if the design needs a variance.
  5. Construction: managed by a dedicated project manager, with servicing connections, City inspections and a 24/7 client portal.
  6. Handover: final inspection and a 2-year warranty.

Building a garden suite offers a practical alternative for homeowners who desire to add a rental suite to their property. This could be achieved either by converting an existing accessory structure, provided it aligns with the established guidelines, or by initiating a brand new construction.

Excellent company! Amazing people! Great communication! Exceptionally conscientious and high-quality work! Would absolutely recommend them for big or small reno’s!

Pavel and his team are excellent people to work with. Attention is paid to every detail and suggestions and preferences listened to and acted upon. Their word is their seal. A quality build in a timely and very professional manner.

Novacon was not only very competent construction team who did great work but they were a pleasure to have in my home.

Benefits of Building a Garden Suite

Garden suites provide homeowners and tenants with increased privacy and can make for a great investment in your property.  Since the suite is separate from the primary house, there are no shared entrances or walls that can make noise carry through. Even if the suite isn’t used for additional income, having one will add extra value to your home on the market. Potential buyers would be just as interested in a garden suite as they would any other type of property, giving you an edge over others when selling your home.

Garden suites are a great option for renters who want an independent detached unit. They provide space that is separate from other tenants, which helps to maintain privacy and avoid conflicts. Garden suites can also be used as community spaces by supporting grandparents or adult children moving in or out of the home. Because they have such versatile uses, garden suites make them an affordable investment regardless of market conditions.

Bathroom Suite Toronto

Excellent company! Amazing people! Great communication! Exceptionally conscientious and high-quality work! Would absolutely recommend them for big or small reno’s!

Pavel and his team are excellent people to work with. Attention is paid to every detail and suggestions and preferences listened to and acted upon. Their word is their seal. A quality build in a timely and very professional manner.

Novacon was not only very competent construction team who did great work but they were a pleasure to have in my home.

Home Remodeling project Torontoin Toronto Gallery (59)

Garden Suite Designs

At Novacon Construction, our expertise lies in crafting accessible and flexible home designs that accommodate your long-term needs. We can guide you through the process of creating garden suite plans that are tailored to your unique requirements. Our distinguished design-build team offers impeccable solutions for constructing beautiful yet practical garden suites in Toronto.

An increasing number of our clients are choosing to house multiple generations of their family on the same property – either providing a home for their parents or for their adult children and grandchildren. Garden suite construction offers an excellent solution for this multi-generational living, allowing family members to stay in a familiar environment while enjoying the advantages of close familial bonds.

Alternatively, some clients choose to construct a garden suite in Toronto as a strategic investment, creating a separate living area for rental purposes. This not only generates an income but also enhances the future resale value of their property.

Why Choose Novacon Construction For Your Garden Suite

Choosing Novacon Construction for your garden suite addition presents numerous benefits for Toronto homeowners. Our skilled project management team ensures that every aspect of your suite construction is handled with the utmost professionalism, from the initial design phase to the completion of the project.

Our dedicated team understands the unique needs of Toronto homeowners and works tirelessly to create living spaces that are not only beautiful but also practical and comfortable. As we focus on creating garden suites that truly enhance the value and functionality of your property, Novacon Construction remains the go-to choice for those seeking to add a tasteful, functional garden suite to their home.

Home Remodeling project in Toronto Gallery (46)

Learn More About Garden Suite Homes in Toronto, Contact Novacon Construction Today

As a leading garden suite home builder in Toronto and the GTA, Novacon Construction has had the distinct pleasure of assisting our clients’ create the garden suite home of their dreams. We can handle all of your home building needs, whether you are looking for a sophisticated design or a cozy open concept addition.

Call us today at 416-750-7555 or contact us below to schedule your consultation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Definitely! Obtaining a permit makes sure your project is in compliance with Ontario Building Code. Inspections of the project insure your safety!

No. Novacon Construction Inc. will get all relevant permits required on your behalf.

Yes we are a full service DESIGN – BUILD company. We can provide full interior designs and architectural/engineer drawings to suit every type of project.

Yes, we carry $5,000,000 liability insurance and have WSIB. We will provide all clients with copies of our certificates.

Yes. All standard renovation or remodeling projects come with a 2-year warranty.

Novacon Construction has been in business since 2004, more than 20 years of design-build work on Toronto homes, with over 500 projects completed. Today we take on a limited number of major projects each year, typically 6 to 10, and every contract is firm fixed price.

Yes. Please see our reviews. We will also provide a list of previous clients when requested. You can also view our project gallery here.

The main requirements are:

  1. Zoning: the size, height and setbacks of the suite must fit the garden suite provisions of Toronto’s zoning by-law for your lot. If they don’t, a minor variance from the Committee of Adjustment may be possible.
  2. Fire access: a path from the street the house faces, at least 1.0 metre wide with 2.1 metres of vertical clearance, and a maximum 45-metre travel distance from the street to the suite entrance.
  3. Trees: the design must protect healthy private and City trees, and a tree declaration is part of the permit application.
  4. Building Code: the suite needs its own principal and fire access and separate plumbing services under the Ontario Building Code.
  5. Permits: a City of Toronto building permit, plus mechanical and plumbing permits.

We check all of these during the feasibility review, before any design work is paid for.

Both are detached homes in the back yard. A laneway suite sits on a lot that shares a property line with a public lane; a garden suite is for lots without a lane, so its fire access has to come from the street the house faces. Each has its own zoning provisions and permit requirements.

Eligible owners can apply to the City of Toronto’s laneway and garden suite development charges deferral program. We flag this during feasibility so it is factored into your budget.

Adding a garden suite to your property in Toronto presents several distinct advantages:

  1. Additional Income: Garden suites can serve as rental properties, providing a steady stream of income for homeowners. This can help offset mortgage payments or serve as a source of savings.
  2. Increased Property Value: Garden suites can add considerable value to your property. If you decide to sell your property in the future, a garden suite could make it more attractive to potential buyers, increasing its market value.
  3. Multi-generational Living: Garden suites can offer a perfect solution for multi-generational families. They can provide a separate living space for aging parents or adult children, fostering familial closeness while maintaining a level of privacy.
  4. Aging in Place: For those intending to remain in their homes as they age, a garden suite can provide a downsizing option without having to leave the community or the familiar home environment.
  5. Cost-effective Expansion: Building a garden suite can be more cost-effective than buying a larger property. It’s a practical solution if you need more space but don’t want to move or can’t afford a larger home in Toronto’s real estate market.
  6. Community Development: Garden suites can help increase the density of the neighborhood without drastically changing its character, supporting the local community’s growth and sustainability.
  7. Housing Flexibility: Garden suites can offer flexible living arrangements, serving as a guest house, home office, or hobby space, depending on your needs.
  8. Sustainability: If designed with eco-friendly principles, garden suites can be a more sustainable housing option, reducing the overall environmental impact.

Please note that while these are general advantages, the specific benefits may vary depending on your property’s characteristics and your individual needs and circumstances.

Yes, homeowners in Toronto can rent out garden suites. Garden suites are typically designed to serve as secondary dwelling units, making them ideal for long-term rental purposes. Renting out a garden suite can provide a steady source of income and can also assist in addressing housing affordability issues in the city by increasing the rental housing supply.

However, while garden suites can generally be used for long-term rentals, they may not be used for short-term rentals in some jurisdictions (like Airbnb) depending on the local bylaws. It’s also crucial to note that, as a landlord, you would be responsible for ensuring that the suite meets all health, safety, and maintenance standards under the Residential Tenancies Act.

Please ensure to verify the most recent and relevant laws and regulations regarding renting out a garden suite in Toronto, as regulations can change.. Always consult with a local planning department or legal professional when considering renting out a garden suite.

A garden suite in Toronto can include various utilities and amenities, similar to those found in a conventional home, subject to compliance with local regulations and codes. Here are some common examples:

  1. Kitchen Facilities: A garden suite can typically include a full kitchen with appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, and dishwasher.
  2. Bathroom Facilities: Most garden suites contain at least one full bathroom, including a toilet, sink, and shower or bathtub.
  3. Heating and Air Conditioning: Garden suites can include systems for heating and cooling. This could be through a standalone HVAC system or potentially tied to the main home’s system, depending on local regulations and the specifics of the property.
  4. Electricity and Lighting: A garden suite will have its own electrical system, including outlets, switches, and lighting fixtures.
  5. Plumbing: Plumbing systems in a garden suite typically include hot and cold water supply, and waste and vent systems.
  6. Internet and Cable: These services can typically be extended to a garden suite from the main house or set up separately.
  7. Laundry Facilities: Some garden suites may include their own laundry facilities, such as a washer and dryer, though this can depend on the size of the suite and local regulations.
  8. Outdoor Spaces: Depending on the size and layout of the property, a garden suite may include private outdoor spaces such as a patio or garden.

Please remember to consult with a professional or the City of Toronto to ensure compliance with all relevant regulations when planning the utilities and amenities in a garden suite. Regulations can change, and each individual property may have unique requirements or challenges. Novacon Construction can answer any questions you have concerning building a garden suite.

A garden suite can increase the value of your property in Toronto in several significant ways:

  1. Additional Living Space: A garden suite provides additional living space, making your property more appealing to potential buyers who require more room or are interested in multi-generational living options.
  2. Potential Rental Income: A garden suite can generate additional income if rented out. This rental potential can make your property more attractive to investors or buyers interested in income-generating properties.
  3. Flexibility and Versatility: The additional separate space a garden suite provides adds versatility to your property. It can serve various purposes, such as housing for extended family, a home office, or a guest suite, making your property more attractive to a wider range of potential buyers.
  4. Appeal to Changing Lifestyles: With changing lifestyles and an increased emphasis on flexible living arrangements and work-from-home opportunities, properties with garden suites are becoming more popular and sought after.
  5. Increased Property Size: Simply put, more square footage usually equates to higher property value, and a garden suite adds to your property’s overall square footage.
  6. Helping Address Housing Shortages: In cities like Toronto, where there’s a demand for more housing, properties with additional living units like garden suites can command a premium.

While these factors can contribute to increased property value, it’s important to remember that the actual increase will depend on various elements, including the size and quality of the garden suite, the local real estate market, and specific buyer interests. Always consult with a real estate professional to understand the potential impact on your property’s value.

The City of Toronto has regulations governing short-term rentals which apply to all types of dwellings, and these could potentially affect garden suites.

In general, homeowners are required to register with the city to legally operate a short-term rental. The primary residence rule is also typically applicable, meaning short-term rentals are only allowed in the homeowner’s principal residence – this could be the entire home or up to three rooms within it, for a period of less than 28 consecutive days.

Therefore, if the garden suite is not the homeowner’s primary residence, it may not be allowed to be used for short-term rentals under these regulations. However, regulations can change, and there could be specific conditions or exceptions that apply.

It’s always recommended to check the most current local regulations directly from the city’s official resources or consult with a legal professional to understand the rules applicable to your specific situation.

Absolutely, there are numerous eco-friendly options for building a garden suite in Toronto, and Novacon Construction specializes in creating net-zero homes, which are designed to generate as much energy as they consume over the course of a year. Here are some eco-friendly strategies that can be employed when building a garden suite:

  1. Energy Efficiency: Employing high-efficiency appliances, LED lighting, and superior insulation can drastically reduce the energy consumption of the garden suite.
  2. Solar Power: Incorporating solar panels can allow the suite to generate its own electricity, reducing reliance on the grid and possibly reaching a net-zero energy state.
  3. Water Efficiency: Utilizing water-efficient appliances and fixtures, and possibly rainwater harvesting systems, can minimize water usage.
  4. Sustainable Materials: Choosing materials that are sustainably sourced, have low embodied energy, or are made of recycled content can reduce the environmental impact of the construction process.
  5. Thermal Design: Optimizing the design of the suite for natural heating and cooling can reduce the need for mechanical climate control.
  6. Green Roofs and Walls: These features can provide insulation, absorb rainwater, and create habitats for local wildlife.
  7. Low-VOC Materials: Selecting materials and finishes with low volatile organic compounds (VOCs) can improve indoor air quality.

Phone:
416-750-7555

121 Lebovic Ave, Suite C01
Scarborough, ON M1L 4T7

E-mail:
info@novacon.ca

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