Garden Suites & ADU Builder in Ottawa

Garden Suites & ADUs in Ottawa

Ottawa homeowners are adding backyard homes at a record pace, and the 2026 zoning changes have made it easier than ever. A garden suite is a fully self contained, detached home built in the rear yard of a lot that already has a main house, with its own kitchen, bathroom, and entrance.

Whether you want rental income, a space for aging parents, or a private home office, we handle the entire project: feasibility, design, permits, and construction.

Key Takeaways

• A garden suite is a detached, self contained home in your backyard.
• Under Ottawa Zoning By-law 2026-50, a detached ADU is permitted as of right on most lots.
• Fully serviced N1 lots can have up to four units as of right.
• Garden suites typically cost $120,000 to $250,000 to build.
• Most as of right projects need a building permit, not a rezoning application.

Garden Suite, Coach House, or Secondary Suite?

• Garden suite: a detached unit in the rear yard, separate from the main home.
• Coach house or laneway home: a detached unit with access from a public laneway.
• Secondary suite: a self contained unit inside the main home, such as a basement apartment.

Ottawa Zoning Rules for Backyard Homes (2026)

Ottawa Zoning By-law 2026-50 permits a detached accessory dwelling unit in the rear yard as of right on most lots, and fully serviced N1 lots can hold up to four units. Because most projects are as of right, you generally need a building permit rather than a rezoning. We manage the permit process and ensure your suite meets the Ontario Building Code.

How We Build Your Garden Suite

• Lot feasibility: we confirm your zoning, setbacks, servicing, and access.
• Design: we create a suite that suits your yard, budget, and use.
• Permits: we prepare drawings and handle the building permit.
• Construction: we build a durable, code compliant, four season home.

Building on a larger scale? See our custom home service or design build approach.

Frequently Asked Questions