Ontario releases new guide on how to build or buy tiny homes
By Newinhomes on Dec 03, 2019
In an effort to promote and encourage innovative housing options, the province of Ontario has released a guide on how to legally build a tiny home on your property.
The “Build or buy a tiny home guide” offers advice and guidelines on how you can buy or build a tiny home that complies with the Ontario Building Code. The release of the guide is part of the More Homes, More Choice: Ontario’s Housing Supply Action Plan.
"We know that the demand for alternative, innovative and more affordable types of housing is growing," said Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, in a release. "Our innovation housing guides provide important information about different types of housing, so that people can make well-informed decisions about the type of home that best meets their needs and budget."
There are many benefits of a tiny home, whether you’re living in one or renting it to a tenant. It can be a great way to offset your mortgage payments, and it’s an affordable option for tenants who are able to live in a smaller space.
The tiny home must be built for year-round use and have a living area, a kitchen, a space for dining, a bathroom, and a sleeping area. In all cases, tiny homes can’t be smaller than 188 square feet, but some municipalities may have its own rules. For example, the Guide says that there are some municipalities in Ontario with minimums of 400 square feet.
"We look forward to working with the Minister and the Province on innovative leading ideas to deal with the housing situation in Ontario," said Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter. "This new guide is one of those steps moving us forward as we look to alternative and affordable housing options in our community."
Kitchener recently announced that it is now allowing tiny homes. By allowing tiny homes to be built on qualified properties, Kitchener is going above and beyond provincial requirements. Ontario has determined that all municipalities must allow for up to three suites per property, but there is no rule saying municipalities have to allow tiny homes.
So, if you’re considering buying a tiny home for your large yard and renting it out to help with your mortgage payments, it’s important that you check with your municipality first. There’s a chance that your municipality isn’t caught up yet with the tiny homes trend!
