Thinking About a Garden Suite or Basement Rental?

What Homeowners in The Blue Mountains, Collingwood, Meaford Should Know About ARUs

You’ve probably heard the term “ARU” pop up in housing conversations lately—especially if you’re thinking about making the most of your property, adding space for family, or even creating a rental suite for extra income. But what exactly is an ARU, and is it something that makes sense for homeowners in places like Thornbury, Collingwood, Meaford, and the Grey Highlands?

What's an ARU?

ARU stands for Additional Residential Unit, also sometimes called a garden suite, coach house, or in-law suite. It’s a self-contained living space that can be added to your property—either inside your existing home (like a basement apartment), attached to it, or as a separate standalone unit in your backyard.

Ontario has been actively encouraging homeowners to consider ARUs as part of a broader strategy to add more housing options—especially for renters, seniors, and adult children living at home. But before you start dreaming of converting the shed, there are a few key things to consider.

Is This a Real Solution to the Housing Crisis?

In many ways, yes—but with a few caveats.

While ARUs are a great solution in rural and suburban areas with more land (like our Southern Georgian Bay communities), they’re a bit trickier in urban areas where lots are smaller, and zoning rules are tighter. For example, if your home already hits the max square footage allowed on your lot—as is often the case in the subdivisions in Collingwood, Thornbury and Meaford—you might not be able to add a detached ARU without applying for a variance.

That said, an interior ARU, such as a finished basement suite, is often easier to make happen. It’s a great way to create multigenerational space or generate income—and in many cases, it can also boost your home’s value.

Garden Suite and ARUs

If you’re even thinking about building an ARU, here’s what I recommend:

  • Start with your local zoning rules. Lot coverage, setbacks, servicing, and square footage all come into play.

  • Consider your long-term goals—are you planning to rent it? Age in place? Have adult children or aging parents move in?

  • Speak with your municipality or a local planning consultant early in the process.

 

Here are links to help you dive deeper into ARU rules in your town:

Town of The Blue Mountains Zoning By-law (PDF) (Section 4)
 Town of Collingwood ARU Guide
 Municipality of Meaford ARU Info

Should You Build One?

If your lot and goals align—and you’re willing to do the homework—yes, it can absolutely be worth it. ARUs add flexibility, value, and housing options that our communities really need. And if you’re unsure where to start? I’m here for that. Let’s chat about your property, your ideas, and what’s possible.

📩 DM me or reach out anytime—because I’m as invested in you as you are in your home.

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