KitchenerBuilding PermitsAdditional Residential Units

Guide to Additional Dwelling Units

Published by City of Kitchener

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This is the City of Kitchener’s document, as published on its website on 23 October 2026. The municipality may have changed it since: check the current version at the source. Legal notice

Overview

The City of Kitchener's Guide to Additional Dwelling Units, the March 2026 edition, a 42-page step-by-step guide to adding a second, third or fourth dwelling unit on a residential lot. Five steps run from design inspiration and CMHC Housing Catalogue designs through zoning highlights, the Ontario Building Code, budget, the ADU Grant Program, permits and inspections, with FAQs, sample plans and a checklist. It replaces the February 2025 edition and links Kitchener's zoning and building permit documents.

What it covers

Step 1: Discover the Possibilities
Step 2: Getting Started
Understanding ADUs
Understand the Property
Understand the Rules: the Zoning By-law
Zoning Highlights
Understand the Rules: Ontario Building Code
Step 3: Plan Your Project
Build your Team
Develop a Budget
ADU Grant Program
Protect Trees & the Environment
Draft your Plans
Step 4: Approvals & Permits
Overview of Permits
Step 5: Build Your ADU
Schedule Inspections
Design Inspiration
CMHC Housing Catalogue Designs
Communicate with your Neighbours
More Information
Questions? Reach out!
Frequently Asked Questions
Sample Architectural Plans
Progress Checklist

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