Access Requirements for Laneway Suites

Access Requirements for Laneway Suites

1. Access from Municipal Street:
• Main Entrance Distance: The main entrance of the laneway suite must be a maximum of 45 metres from the municipal street (e.g., Main Street).
• Hydrant Proximity: A fire hydrant must be located within 90 metres of the main entrance of the laneway suite, with an unobstructed path to it.
2. Access Path Specifications:
• Dimensions: The access path must be at least 0.9 metres wide and 2.1 metres high within the property.
• Surface Requirements: The access path must be surfaced to ensure it is accessible under all climatic conditions

Access Requirements for Laneway Suites with Laneway-Only Access

1. Main Entrance Distance:
• The main entrance of the laneway suite must be a maximum of 45 metres from the municipal street, with an unobstructed path.
2. Hydrant Proximity:
• A fire hydrant must be located within 90 metres of the main entrance of the laneway suite, with an unobstructed path.
3. Fire Department Access:
• Toronto Fire Service apparatus cannot use the laneway as a fire department access route.
4. Main Entrance Location:
• The main entrance of the laneway suite must be on the laneway side.

Access Requirements for Laneway Suites with Shared Property Access Pathway

1. Access Pathway:
• Dimensions: The access pathway must be 0.9 metres wide.
• Shared Properties: The pathway will pass through two properties to achieve the required width.
2. Requirements:
• Prescriptive Option 1: All requirements of Prescriptive Option 1 must be met. This includes:
• The main entrance of the laneway suite must be a maximum of 45 metres from the municipal street (unobstructed).
• A fire hydrant must be within 90 metres of the main entrance of the laneway suite (unobstructed).
• Toronto Fire Service apparatus cannot use the laneway as a fire department access route.
• The main entrance must be on the laneway side.
3. Limiting Distance Agreement:
• Purpose: A Limiting Distance Agreement is required to provide a portion of the access pathway on the adjacent property.
• Fire Access Agreement: A "Laneway House Fire Access Agreement" between property owners and the City is necessary. This agreement must be registered on the property title.