Garden Suite FAQ
Here are some frequently asked Garden Suite questions that we get. If you have a question that is not on this list, feel free to contact us!
When is YEGarden Suites next workshop or tour?
Our next Garden Suite workshop series and tour is going to be happening in the Fall of 2019. Stay updated by subscribing to our mailing list and following us on social media. Tickets go on sale one month in advance of our events.
​
Can I build a Garden Suite if I already have a basement suite?
Not currently. Right now, you are only allowed to have 2 dwellings per lot. You can either have a house plus Garden Suite or house + basement suite. We are advocating for this rule to be changed so that Edmontonians can have more than 2 dwellings per single family lot.
​
What if my utilities connect to the front of the street and not the lane?
Not all utilities in the city connect to the lane. In these instances, Garden Suite owners have told us that alternatives such as directional drilling are a good solution.
​
What is the maximum size of a Garden Suite?
The maximum size of a Garden Suite is 130m2 (1,399sf), inclusive of garage and living space. In mature neighbourhoods, you are allowed a maximum of 50m2 on the second storey. In developing neighbourhoods, you are allowed 60m2 on the second storey. You are also allowed to have 60m2 on the second storey if you build to Inclusive Design Standards (fully accessible).
​
How much does it cost to build a Garden Suite?
The cost to build a Garden Suite in Edmonton ranges from $150,000 to $180,000.
​
What is it like living with renters in your backyard?
From what current Garden Suite owners have told us, issues with renters are minimal. Most owners develop positive relationships with the occupants of their suite.
​
How many Garden Suites are in Edmonton?
As of February 2019, there are close to 300 permitted Garden Suites in Edmonton.
​
Do I need to include a parking space?
Yes. You need to include 1 parking space for your Garden Suite in addition to 1 parking space for your main home. One exception is if your build a fully accessible suite that meets Inclusive Design Standards in which case you need zero parking stalls for your Garden Suite.
​
I don't have a laneway, can I still build a Garden Suite?
Yes, you can, however there are height restriction on how tall your Garden Suite can be compared to lots that have laneways.
​
Can I build a Garden Suite, move into it, and then redevelop my main house?
Yes, you can.
​
Can my neighbours appeal my Garden Suite?
As long as you are within the rules and regulations, no, your Garden Suite cannot be appealed. Your neighbours only have an opportunity to appeal if your Garden Suite has a variance.
​
Is a Garden Suite the same as a tiny home?
Not really. A Garden Suite is a permanent structure and is widely permitted in the City of Edmonton, while tiny homes are typically movable. Currently tiny homes on wheels are only permitted in locations such a trailer parks. That being said, there are no minimum unit size requirements, so you could build a "tiny home", it just wouldn't be portable. ​
​
If you don't see your question here, contact us!