There are many terms to describe additional dwelling units within a primary residence, including: Additional Dwelling Units (ADU's), Second Dwelling Units, accessory or basement apartments, secondary suites, carriage houses, laneway suites, in-law flats and Two-Unit Dwellings.

While the separate living space (unit) may be used by a family member or on an infrequent basis,  it is considered a separate dwelling unit for building code and zoning purposes if it contains all of the following elements:

Sleeping facilities i.e. an area designed as a bedroom, combination bedroom living room or a sleeping area.

• Sanitary facilities, i.e. 2 pc or 3 pc bathroom
• Cooking facilities i.e. stove/and or oven

In addition, the rooms above are designed for exclusive use by the occupant (i.e. not shared with the rest of the house). This is usually indicated by:

• Doors or partitions separating the suite from other areas of the house
• A separate entrance from the exterior to the suite.

The second self-contained unit may be located in various locations including a main or second floor, in the basement, or in an accessory building like a garage.

There are a variety of dwelling types that can be applied for to accommodate a Two Dwelling unit, depending on the neighbourhood where they are located.  Please contact City staff directly to determine if your dwelling qualifies.

• Registration of Two-Unit Dwellings is mandatory under City of Pickering Municipal By-law 7579/17.
• Registration allows City staff to inspect a residence and confirm that the second dwelling unit is safe for a tenant to occupy.
• The knowledge of where Two-Dwelling Unit residences are located will assist the City in providing emergency response and community services.
• Registration provides the property owner with a registration certificate, officially recognizing the property as being approved for a legal Two-Dwelling Unit. Possession of the registration certificate may assist in future real estate transactions and insurance coverage.