Richmond Hill considers allowing granny flats to ‘gently increase density’

Up to three self-contained units could be allowed within single detached, semi-detached homes and townhouses

Yorkregion.com
Dec. 14, 2020

Additional dwelling units are expected to be allowed in people’s backyards or above their garages across Richmond Hill, as the city works to lay down rules before giving the go-ahead.

City council received a report from staff at the Dec. 2 public meeting about permitting up to three residential units on the same lot as allowed by the government of Ontario through Bill 108, the More Homes, More Choices Act.

If approved, two self-contained units could be added within single detached and semi-detached houses and townhouses and also within accessory structures, according to the report.

The additional units, also known as secondary suites, granny suites, laneway housing, or coach houses, are considered a way of “gently increasing density,” with minimal impact on neighbourhood character and infrastructure, the report says.

It also says that these units would provide for flexible arrangement of independent living for families, caregivers and seniors.

Councillors agreed that the new policy --if done properly -- would benefit the community, and they made comments on associated issues such as parking and garbage collection.

Members of the public are welcome to take a survey and have their say about additional suites.

Staff said they have received limited responses from the residents and encouraged the public to participate in the survey in order to help guide the amendments to the city’s official plan and zoning bylaw.

The permission would not apply to existing ground-related dwellings located in hazard lands and hazardous sites, lands within the Greenbelt Plan natural heritage system, and lands within the Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Plan’s natural core and natural linkage areas.

Meanwhile, not all ground-related residential lots will be eligible to add additional units as there are criteria to be met, according to Kelvin Kwan, commissioner, Planning and Regulatory Services.

The public may can take the online survey on the city's website under Affordable Housing Strategy.