Understanding Backyard Housing in Edmonton
Edmonton is exploring a new evolution in urban living: Backyard Housing. Understanding what is Backyard Housing and its possibilities is becoming increasingly important for homeowners and potential residents.
What is Backyard Housing?
Backyard Housing is a self-contained home located in the rear yard of a residential property. To qualify as Backyard Housing, the dwelling unit must include its own kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and living space. This term, which now broadly encompasses options previously known as garage suites or garden suites, reflects the expanded housing possibilities enabled by updated regulations like the City of Edmonton's Zoning Bylaw.
Types of Backyard Homes in Edmonton: Many Names, Similar Concepts
The world of Backyard Homes in Edmonton can seem like a jumble of terms, but essentially, we're talking about adding additional housing on the same lot as the main house. Think of Backyard House as the umbrella term for a variety of these options, which often share similar configurations but might be known by different names based on specific features.
Here's a breakdown of the common terms you'll encounter:
Garden Suites: This is a very common term in Edmonton and often refers to any detached backyard house. They are self-contained dwellings located in the backyard, and can be at ground level or above a garage.
Garage Suites: Specifically for those above a garage, which would encompass what some might call a "carriage home."
Laneway Homes: These are garden suites that have access to a public laneway at the rear of the property. The laneway access often influences their design and orientation.
Backyard Suites: This is another general term often used interchangeably with garden suites or to describe any self-contained dwelling in the backyard.
Backyard Tiny Houses: These are essentially smaller, more compact versions of detached backyard suites or garden suites, designed for efficient living while still meeting Edmonton's minimum dwelling unit size requirements.
The Underlying Reality:
In January 2024, the City of Edmonton removed parking requirements for these developments. This has allowed for a variety of unique solutions to bring more housing to market by increasing options for Backyard Housing. The common garage suite has been a predominant option as it offers both additional suite and parking for the property. Whereas, today you’ll find a lot more variety. Some of these more unique options might include the following:
Backyard Fourplex
Backyard Twoplex
Backyard Duplex
Backyard Basement Suites Under Garden Suites
Benefits of Backyard Housing in Edmonton
Backyard housing can offer a number of benefits:
Increased Housing Options: Provides more homes in established areas.
Rental Income Potential: Generates income for homeowners.
Multi-Generational Living: Offers independent space for family.
Aging in Place: Allows homeowners to downsize on their property.
Efficient Land Use: Maximizes the use of existing residential land.
Zoning Considerations in Edmonton
Understanding zoning considerations is crucial when planning backyard housing. Key aspects you'll need to consider include:
Zoning Type: In Edmonton, the most common zoning in mature neighbourhoods is now the RS - Small Scale Residential Zone, which permits Backyard Housing. This new zone was introduced with the City's updated Zoning Bylaw in January 2024, consolidating previous residential designations. To determine your property's specific zoning, you can use the City of Edmonton's online map tool here: https://maps.edmonton.ca/
Lot Size and Dimensions: There are minimum lot requirements to accommodate both the primary dwelling and the backyard home. For instance, the maximum site coverage permitted on a property in many residential zones is 45%.
Maximum Number of Units: The overall size of your lot will dictate the maximum number of allowable homes on the property. Current regulations generally require a minimum of 75 sq. m. of land per dwelling unit.
Building Height: Maximum building heights for backyard homes can vary. Factors like whether you're building a laneway home or what your property backs onto will influence the permitted height of the structure.
Separation Requirements: You will also need to adhere to minimum distances, known as setbacks, between the existing main home, property lines, and any public laneways.
For Edmonton homeowners, Backyard Housing offers a significant opportunity right on your property. By understanding the types, zoning, and benefits, you can unlock incredible potential within your own backyard.
Learn more about how you can get started with Backyard Housing.
