Introduction: The Rise of Additional Dwellings in Surrey
In Surrey, British Columbia, there has been a significant surge in the popularity of alternative housing options such as secondary suites, garden suites, laneway houses, granny suites, and coach houses. These Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are becoming increasingly popular as they offer a range of benefits, from providing additional income for homeowners to increasing the availability of affordable housing in the area. But what are the rules and regulations around these ADUs? Let’s delve into that.
Decoding the Zoning for ADUs in Surrey
Before you decide to add an ADU to your property, it’s crucial to understand the zoning laws. In Surrey, you can have a secondary suite, laneway house, coach house, or other ADU in the Single Family Residential Coach House Zone (RF-12C) and the Single Family Residential Coach House Zone (RF-9C). These zones are explicitly designed to accommodate these types of dwellings.
Design Considerations for ADUs
When designing your ADU or secondary suite, there are several factors to consider. These include:
- The ADU should not exceed 90 square meters in floor area.
- It should occupy less than 40% of the habitable floor area of the building.
- Basement access and basement wells are permitted only between the principal building and the rear lot line and must not exceed a maximum area of 28 square meters, including the stairs.
- Outdoor parking and storage for the ADU should be adequately screened from view.
- Lot sizes created through subdivisions for the ADU should meet specific minimum standards, such as lot area, lot width, and lot depth.
Parking and Access Rules
Parking can be a contentious issue in residential neighbourhoods, especially when adding an ADU. The rules specify that one additional parking space must be provided where a secondary suite is constructed on the lot. This space may be provided either outside on a parking pad on the lot or enclosed in a garage or carport.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for ADUs in Surrey
In conclusion, the rise of secondary suites, garden suites, ADUs, and other additional dwellings in Surrey is a response to the growing need for diverse and affordable housing options. While there are specific rules and regulations to adhere to, the benefits of these dwellings are manifold, from providing extra income to homeowners to contributing to Surrey’s vibrant and diverse housing landscape.
So, if you are a Surrey homeowner considering adding an ADU to your property or a potential renter looking for an affordable housing option, navigating the rules around secondary suites and other additional dwellings is an essential first step. Your next step? Start planning your ADU today!