Short answer: Yes, on many Burlington lots. The City allows up to three ARUs, including a detached one. You start with a Pre-Building Approval application, then apply for the building permit, which the City says it issues within ten business days once complete. ARU zoning and building permit fees are currently waived (City of Burlington).
Key takeaways
| Question | Short answer | Source |
|---|---|---|
| How many ARUs | One, two or three, inside, attached or detached | City of Burlington |
| First step | Pre-Building Approval (zoning, engineering, forestry pre-screen) | City of Burlington |
| PBA timing | About 3–4 weeks with exterior work; up to 4–6 weeks at current volumes | Steps guide; PBA page |
| Permit timing | Issued within 10 business days once complete | City of Burlington |
| Fees | ARU zoning and building permit fees currently waived | City of Burlington |
| Parking | 2 for the house; 0 for the first ARU; 1 for a second or third | City of Burlington |
What Burlington allows
Burlington defines ARUs as self-contained units with their own kitchen, bathroom and sleeping areas, on the same property as a detached, semi-detached or townhouse dwelling. They can be inside or attached to the house, or in a separate accessory building such as a detached garage or coach house (City of Burlington). The City's ARU look-up tool shows which detached ARU types may be permitted on your property, with zoning staff confirmation required.
Permit steps
- Check the lot. You must be the registered owner to apply. Use the look-up tool and zoning map, or start with our free feasibility check.
- Pre-Building Approval. Submit drawings (especially for exterior work or modular units), a tree permit if trees come out, and a grading and drainage certificate. Staff check completeness within about six business days, then coordinate Zoning, Engineering and Forestry review: about three to four weeks with exterior work per the steps guide, or up to 4–6 weeks at current volumes per the Pre-Building Approval page.
- Building permit. For an ARU in an accessory building you may apply before the Zoning Clearance Certificate is issued (since January 1, 2025); the permit is issued after the Grading and Drainage Certificate, and construction starts once any Tree Permit is issued. Submit the building permit application. The City screens it within two business days and issues within ten business days once complete.
- Build and inspect. Start within six months or the permit expires. The City schedules inspections within two business days and issues an Occupancy Permit at the end.
Source: City of Burlington — Steps to build an ARU.
Fees and parking
The City says ARU zoning and building permit fees are currently waived; confirm at pre-screening. Parking is two spaces for the main home, none for the first ARU and one for a second or third ARU (City of Burlington).
Local context: garden suites in Burlington.
Related permit guides: Oakville · Milton · Hamilton.
To compare Burlington with other cities, see the GTA garden and laneway suite rules comparison.
FAQs
Sources
- City of Burlington — Additional residential units
- City of Burlington — Steps to build an ARU
- City of Burlington — Pre-Building Approval application
- City of Burlington — ARU look-up tool
Disclaimer: Figures cited are market estimates provided for information only and are not a quote. Municipal rules, fees, and programs change — always verify current requirements with your local authority. Modular X provides exact pricing only after a site-specific feasibility review.