A Secondary Suite or ARU is a self-contained living space either:

• Inside an existing home (like a basement apartment or seperate in-law suite), or
• In a separate building on the same property (like a tiny house or converted garage)

The Zoning By-Law (2965-2012) defines it as:

“a self-contained accessory unit having cooking and sanitary facilities which is located within a single detached, semi-detached, townhouse dwelling unit or located in a separate individual dwelling unit on the same lot or located within an accessory building on the same lot as the main residential use.”

These units must be independent living spaces, with their own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance.

Permitted in:

• Single detached, semi-detached, or townhouse dwellings
• Detached accessory buildings on the same lot as the main residential unit

Not permitted in:

• Multi-unit dwellings (e.g., apartment buildings)
• Properties zoned as Floodplain (FP)
• Dwellings used as:
  • A private home daycare
  • A bed and breakfast
  • A group home

• Must comply with the Ontario Building Code, Ontario Fire Code, and Zoning By-Law 2965-2012

• Only one secondary suite/ARU is permitted per residential lot (whether within the main dwelling or in a detached building. Please consult with the Planning Department on additional Secondary Suite opportunity on prime agricultural areas)

• The secondary suite must not exceed 45% of the gross floor area of the main dwelling

• New entrances for a suite within the primary home are not permitted on the front wall facing a public road

• New entrances for a suite in an accessory building must be accessible by driveway or walkway

• If an existing accessory building is used, it must meet the Ontario Building Code and follow accessory structure setback requirements

• If a new accessory building is constructed for the unit, it must meet the primary residential setback standards

• A minimum of one additional parking space is required for the secondary unit

• Approval is required for any modifications or connections to the sewage system

• Sewage and servicing capacity must be confirmed prior to occupancy or construction

• Please consult South Nation Conservation for planning or permitting guidance related to sewage and servicing in Augusta Township.

If you are unable to meet the requirements outlined in the Zoning By-Law, a minor variance may be an option.

Please contact the Township of Augusta Planning Department to discuss your proposal and determine the appropriate application process.

• Applicable building permit fees apply for any construction or renovation related to a secondary suite

• Additional fees may be charged by the relevant Conservation Authority (South Nation or Rideau Valley), and/or by the Sewage System Approval Authority

• All fees are subject to change without notice

Forgivable loan funding is available through the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville to support the development of new secondary suite rental units by:

• Low- to moderate-income homeowners
• Small landlords

The goal of this program is to increase the availability of affordable rental housing in the region.

To be eligible, projects must be shovel-ready, with building permits in place at the time of application.

Visit the United Counties of Leeds & Grenville website for full program details and application forms.