Homeowners Get New Roadmap for Adding Additional Dwelling Units in Scugog

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

SCUGOG: Additional dwelling units are expected to become easier to understand, and safer to build, following the launch of a new Township of Scugog guide and registration framework, designed to help homeowners create legal secondary living spaces.

Approved by Council, on June 22nd, the new Additional Dwelling Unit (ADU) Guide and ADU Registration By-law build on housing policies, first adopted in March of 2025, are intended to simplify the process for residents while ensuring units meet provincial safety standards.

Often referred to as basement apartments, in-law suites or secondary suites, ADUs are self-contained residential units, located within, attached to, or separate from a primary home. Each includes its own entrance, kitchen, washroom and living space.

The Township's new guide outlines four key steps for homeowners: determining whether an ADU is permitted on their property, confirming zoning compliance, preparing the project, and applying for a building permit.

"Additional dwelling units are an important way to create more housing, without changing the character of our neighbourhoods," said Port Perry’s Leanne Hutchinson, who recently explored adding a suite for an aging parent. "Having everything explained in one guide makes the process much less intimidating."

ADUs can provide flexible housing for multi-generational families, aging parents, caregivers, adult children, guests or tenants, while also giving homeowners an opportunity to generate rental income.

The guide also explains, ADUs are not limited to detached backyard buildings. They may be created within an existing home, added as an extension to a house, or built in a detached accessory structure, provided zoning, height and setback requirements are met.

To accompany the guide, Council has enacted an ADU Registration By-law, under the Municipal Act. Property owners will be required to register an ADU, before it is occupied, and demonstrate compliance with municipal zoning requirements as well as Ontario's Building and Fire Codes.

Registration requires a Township application form, proof of zoning compliance, applicable building permit documentation, confirmation the unit meets provincial building and fire safety standards, and, after a six-month grace period, a $50 registration fee.

"I think it's a positive step," said Michael Evans, who converted part of his Greenbank-area home into a rental suite, several years ago. "If everyone is following the same safety standards, it protects both homeowners and tenants."

To encourage existing units to be registered, the Township will waive the $50 fee, during the first six months of the program. After that, the fee will apply, under the Township's 2027 Fees and Charges By-law.

The new by-law also authorizes the Township's Chief Building Official, Chief Fire Official and Municipal Law Enforcement Officers to administer and enforce the registration program.

Municipal officials say, the initiative supports Scugog's broader goal of increasing housing choice, while ensuring additional dwelling units are safe, legal and properly documented.

"Additional dwelling units are an important part of creating more housing choice within our community," said, Chief Administrative Officer, Warren Mar. "They provide flexible living arrangements for families at different stages of life, whether it's supporting aging parents, accommodating adult children, or creating rental opportunities. By introducing a clear guide and registration framework, we're helping residents navigate the process, while ensuring these units are safe, compliant, and contribute positively to Scugog's neighbourhoods."