Rural Secondary Dwelling Units (SDU) Survey

The City is revising the existing Zoning By-law 05-200  regulations for second dwelling units (SDUs).

A second dwelling unit is a separate and self-contained dwelling unit that is accessory to and located on the same lot as the main house. It can be physically located within the principal dwelling or located within an accessory building to the principal dwelling.

A SDU cannot be severed into a separate lot and is serviced from the same water supply and well as the existing dwelling.

The current regulations in the Rural area allow:

• expansion to an existing home for a farm help unit only; and,
• a granny suite (detached second dwelling unit) for a maximum of 20 years.

There are 3 types of SDUs and separate zoning by-law regulations will be developed for  each type.

1. Within an existing Single detached (e.g. a basement apartment)
2. Detached Second Dwelling Unit (newly built accessory building)
3. Detached Second Dwelling Unit (conversion of an existing building – e.g, an existing shed or garage)

Why do we need any Regulations 

• There are certain regulations that are required to ensure neighbourhood compatibility ,   maintain privacy as well as address safety, servicing and environmental issues.  
• Before you answer the survey please take a look at the brochure, the planning options map or the Discussion Paper.
• Below are series of questions to get your thoughts on these proposed regulations for the three different types of SDU’s.

If you know a family member, relative, neighbour, co-worker, or friend who do not have access to a computer or internet, please contact us at residentialzoning@hamilton.ca with the name, telephone number, and full address so we can send printed versions so they too can participate in the consultation