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Accessory Dwelling Unit Streamlining

This page was last reviewed on November 30, 2023.

To simplify the approval process for an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), as of October 3, 2022, a development permit is no longer required. If the plans comply with the regulations in the Zoning Bylaw, only a building permit is required.

The Village is also developing an ADU How-to Guide, to assist applicants with designing a building that fits the character of the existing neighbourhood and meets the regulations. This page provides background and updates on the project.

ADUs help to increase the diversity and supply of rental housing in the community. Near the downtown core, they allow for the creation of more homes within a short walk to shops and services, while integrating with the established historic neighbourhoods. Effective ADU planning considers accessibility, sustainability, and neighbourhood character into their designs.

Amendment Bylaws

Council adopted amendment Bylaws 1174 and 1175 on October 3, 2022. The Official Community Plan and Zoning Bylaw will be updated with the changes in the coming days.

Accessory Dwelling Unit How-to Guide

The Village published user-friendly guide to walk residents through the process of building an ADU. View the Guide on the Building permits page.

Background

In the Village of Cumberland, an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) is a small, stand-alone house located on an existing lot with the main house. An ADU can have one or two storeys and can be above a detached garage. ADUs must meet the zoning regulations and building code, and they must receive a building permit before construction.

ADUs are permitted in the back yard or side yard of the following zones:

  • R-1A Infill Residential Infill
  • R-2A Medium Lot Residential
  • R-3 Large Lot Residential
  • R-4 Carlisle Lane

ADUs are also permitted in the Forest Stewardship Greenway Zone (FSG) and the following Interchange zones: IMU-3, IHR-1, and ICR-1

Homeowners can add an ADU while keeping their existing house or can build an ADU along with a new main house.

An ADU is different from a secondary suite, which is contained within the main house and may also be permitted in some zones.

For reference, the Village of Cumberland Zoning Map can be found here: Village Boundary Zoning Map (Schedule A)

Resources

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