Saanich Council has announced that it is now legal to construct a garden suite on most single family residences within the municipality.
Garden suites are defined as being detached, ground-oriented dwellings located in the rear yard of a property with a single family house as its principal use. Anyone with a property that meets the basic eligibility requirements – outlined on the District of Saanich’s website – is now able to apply.
Saanich highlights that the new garden suite regulations will contribute to the diversity of rental housing available in the area.
“As housing in our region becomes increasingly difficult to find or afford, looking for ways to increase options is key,” said Mayor Fred Haynes.
“Garden suites will allow our growing families and others to adapt to changing living arrangements, loved ones to age in place, and provide opportunities for new residents while gently increasing the amount and diversity of rental housing in the region.”
Saanich Council says that garden suites can be used for family or as rental units, however, an owner must live on property with the garden suite in either the single family dwelling or the suite itself.
In a press release from Saanich Council, it emphasizes that garden suites cannot be strata-titled, sold or used for short-term rentals, such as Airbnb. It also indicates that the properties in the Broadmead area have pre-existing covenants on title that do not permit garden suites.
For residence interested in learning more about adding a garden suite, Saanich is recommending for homeowners to spend some time investigating the pre-application questions.
“The information gathered will help you identify potential issues and prepare your submission,” reads a statement in regards to the pre-application questions.
For information about properties (e.g. location, zoning, lot size and width) visit SaanichMap.
Additional information on the consultation process to date and the application process for garden suites can be found at saanich.ca/gardensuites.
Graham Cox
