City of Kitchener launches online tool to encourage additional housing units
Posted Sep 20, 2024 06:46:33 AM.
Last Updated Sep 20, 2024 12:27:54 PM.
In its efforts to address the housing supply shortage, the City of Kitchener has launched a new guide designed to help answer questions around additional housing units (ADU).
Earlier this year, council passed amendments to the zoning by-law to allow the construction of tiny homes, backyard homes, secondary suites, duplexes, triplexes and fourplexes on single home or townhome properties.
Recently, the city also launched Building Kitchener Together: a group of projects intended to advance its Housing for All strategy.
The city is hoping the addition of tiny and backyard homes in Kitchener’s sprawling single-family home neighbourhoods will be the gentle density needed to increase the housing supply.
“Additional dwelling units or ADUs are a powerful tool for adding unique and varied housing in our neighbourhoods that meet the needs of homeowners at various stages in their lives,” said Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic in a press release. “ADUs are not a one-size-fits-all solution, so I encourage anyone who is curious about what’s possible on your property to reach out to our city planning team to discuss your opportunities and explore the possibilities.”
The new online Guide to Additional Dwelling Units contains answers to many of the most commonly asked questions homeowner have when it comes to adding to their properties. Primarily, it will help determine if a property is suitable for ADU.
The city says if you still have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to city planning staff by phone, email or in person at City Hall.
