When planning a garden suite or garden suite in Toronto, many homeowners ask: Do I need to provide parking? Unlike traditional houses, Toronto has special parking rules for these secondary units that encourage flexibility, walkability, and sustainable design.
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At Land Signal, we assist with construction and renovation permits, as well as Garden House and Laneway Suite designs. Let our experts guide you through every step.
Car Parking Requirements
Good news: no car parking spaces are required for lots with a garden suite or garden suite.
• This exemption applies to both the Garden suite and the main house on the lot.
• It covers all property types, including detached, semi-detached, townhouses, duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes.
• The rule is outlined in By-law 810-2018.
Example: If you add a garden suite to your property, you don’t need to carve out extra space for a garage or driveway.
Bicycle Parking Requirements
While car parking is not required, Toronto does require bicycle parking for garden and garden suites:
• At least two bicycle parking spaces must be provided for every unit.
• Bicycle parking can be located:
o Inside the garden suite
o Within the required separation space between buildings
o In side or rear yard setbacks
This requirement, added under By-law 1107-2021, ensures residents have access to sustainable transportation options.
Example: A garden suite can include indoor bike storage or designate a section of the yard for secure bicycle parking.
Why These Rules Matter
Toronto’s parking approach:
• Removes barriers to building secondary units on small lots
• Frees up space that would otherwise be taken by car parking
• Supports walkable, sustainable neighborhoods
• Encourages eco-friendly transportation options like biking
Instead of worrying about garages or driveways, homeowners can focus on maximizing living space and good design.
How Land Signal Can Help
At Land Signal, we help property owners navigate every detail of zoning including parking requirements. Our team:
• Confirms your project complies with parking and bicycle rules
• Optimizes layouts to integrate bicycle storage without wasting space
• Prepares and submits zoning-compliant permit applications
• Guides your project from design to approval, saving time and avoiding delays
Use our construction cost calculator Toronto or home building cost calculator Ontario to see how parking rules may influence your project budget.
Bottom Line
When building a garden suite in Toronto:
• No car parking spaces are required.
• Two bicycle parking spaces are mandatory.
With Land Signal, you’ll have expert guidance to design smarter, stay compliant, and maximize every square metre of your property.
