Ontario Design Studio specializes in permit drawings for garden suites and laneway houses across Ontario. Since the province-wide permission for additional residential units, garden suites have become one of the most popular building projects in the GTA - offering homeowners rental income, multi-generational living options, and increased property value.
What Is a Garden Suite?
A garden suite (also called a backyard house, granny flat, or accessory dwelling unit) is a self-contained residential unit located in the backyard of an existing home. These standalone structures include their own kitchen, bathroom, living, and sleeping areas. Unlike basement apartments, garden suites are completely separate buildings.
Types of Garden Suites We Design
- Detached backyard garden suites on slab, pier, or full foundations
- Laneway houses in Toronto and eligible municipalities
- Coach houses and carriage houses above detached garages
- Prefabricated and modular garden suite permit submissions
Ready to start your project?
Ontario Design Studio delivers BCIN-certified, OBC-compliant building permit drawings across Ontario and the GTA. Call 416-558-9607 or request your free quote.
Our Drawing Package
Includes site plan with garden suite location and all setbacks, floor plans with room dimensions, exterior elevations, foundation plan (slab-on-grade, helical piles, or full foundation), cross-sections, energy compliance (SB-10), zoning summary, and Schedule 1 designer information form. We coordinate with structural engineers when required for larger or multi-storey suites.
Key Considerations
- Setbacks: Vary by municipality - typically 0.6m to 1.5m from property lines for garden suites
- Utility connections: Water, sewer, hydro, and gas need coordination with local utilities
- Site access: Construction access to the backyard must be planned for delivery of materials and equipment
- Tree preservation: Some municipalities require arborist reports for protected trees near the building footprint
Related Services
- Secondary Suite Permits (all types)
- Multiplex Permits - Combine with garden suite for maximum units
- Building Permit Drawing Cost Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a garden suite in Ontario?
A garden suite (also called a backyard house, granny flat, or accessory dwelling unit) is a self-contained residential unit located in the backyard of an existing home. These standalone structures include their own kitchen, bathroom, living, and sleeping areas, and are permitted province-wide since Ontario's 2023 housing policy changes.
What is the maximum size of a garden suite in Ontario?
Garden suite size limits vary by municipality. In Toronto, laneway suites can be up to the lesser of 10% of lot area or the footprint of the main house. Other municipalities set different maximums. Contact us to check the specific limits for your property.