Edmonton Garden Suites

In Edmonton, "backyard housing" is a broad term encompassing various types of self-contained dwelling units built on the same lot as a primary residence. A garden suite (also known as a laneway home or carriage suite) is a detached accessory building on the same lot as the main house. It is a self-contained dwelling unit, typically with its own entrance, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping area. Garden suites are often built in the backyard, but can be located elsewhere on the property as allowed by Edmonton's zoning bylaws. Carriage suites are a specific type of garden suite built above a detached garage. Laneway homes are garden suites that access a laneway.

Key Clarification: A common misconception is that garden suites must be built above a garage. While this is a popular configuration (often referred to as a "garage suite"), it's not a requirement. A garden suite can be built at ground level, either attached or detached, opening up a wider range of design possibilities.

The Impact of Recent Zoning Changes: Edmonton's updated zoning regulations have removed mandatory off-street parking requirements for secondary suites, including garden suites, laneway homes, and carriage suites. This significant change makes it easier and more feasible to build multiple suites on a single property, maximizing your living space and income potential. You can now explore options like a ground-level garden suite in addition to or instead of a garage suite, creating a truly customized backyard housing solution.